2016 Subaru WRX
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2016 Subaru WRX. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
3 recalls name the 2016 Subaru WRX. Newest first.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2021 WRX vehicles. The backup light switch may corrode and become inoperative, which can result in the backup lights not illuminating and the rearview camera image not displaying when the vehicle is in reverse.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Inoperative backup lights and an inoperative rearview camera can reduce vehicle visibility and driver awareness, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the backup light switch, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE-22.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 WRX vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 21, 2015, and Forester 2.0XT vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 20, 2015. The turbocharger air intake duct may crack and possibly result in an engine stall.
Risk and remedy
Risk
An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the turbocharger air intake duct, and replace it as necessary, free of charge, depending on the lot number found on the duct. The recall began April 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTA-62.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015 Legacy vehicles manufactured March 10, 2014, to April 16, 2015, Outback vehicles manufactured February 24, 2014, to April 16, 2015, Impreza vehicles manufactured September 9, 2014, to April 14, 2015, XV Crosstrek vehicles manufactured October 16, 2014, to April 15, 2015, and 2016 WRX…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the automatic pre-collision braking system does not function as intended, the vehicle will not react to an obstacle in its path, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the driver assist system, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQS-54.
Owner complaints
31 complaints1 involved a crash2 involved a fire
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system
The Seconary Air Injection pump stayed on for days. Burnt a hole in the side, relay possibly damaged, and now setting off other components and computers.
- Unknown or other
Driving and a loud explosion, sound, like a gunshot then a ton of pinging. The sunroof exploded and glass flew down my car and chipped a bunch of paint.
- Power train
While driving, the clutch became stiff and unusable. Ultimately the car could not be shifted resulting in using a lower gear than normal to limp the car to safety. The car had to be towed to a mechanic. During the repair the mechanic identified that the cause of the failure was the clutch fork…
While driving, the clutch became stiff and unusable. Ultimately the car could not be shifted resulting in using a lower gear than normal to limp the car to safety. The car had to be towed to a mechanic. During the repair the mechanic identified that the cause of the failure was the clutch fork pivot ball punched through the stamped steel clutch fork. Looking online this seems to be a common failure since aftermarket re-designed parts are offered. I feel this is a manufacturer defect which resulted in the clutch failure and a 2500.00 repair. This car is only 7 years old with 67K miles on it. The clutch fork should not have failed catastrophically at this point in the car's life.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system · Unknown or other
I purchased a 2016 subaru WRX (premium) used from a subaru dealer in albany, ny with under 26K miles for approximately $25K in 2018. On a drive in december 2022 I experienced hesitation and/or stuttering under load or when attempting to accelerate, and car began getting very hot, and close to…
I purchased a 2016 subaru WRX (premium) used from a subaru dealer in albany, ny with under 26K miles for approximately $25K in 2018. On a drive in december 2022 I experienced hesitation and/or stuttering under load or when attempting to accelerate, and car began getting very hot, and close to overheating, and the engine was knocking loudly. After turning engine off and then restarting, the knocking (intensity) was not as noticeable as the initial incident. Initially I replaced all coil over plugs, as cylinder #4 initially was reporting a misfire code after the check engine light came on. this appeared to relieve the misfire briefly, but the issue immediately returned, this time with piston #3 reporting misfires and also exhibiting signs of a possible failed ringland, with oil seeping past rings (on to / in spark plug) causing the engine to run very poorly. presently upon startup white smoke comes from exhaust out the tailpipe and the engine IS hesitating and/or missing, running poorly and I feel it cannot be driven safely with the diminished permormance or complete lack of ability to accelerate normally like a motor vehicle should. I have engaged a mechanic to inspect the engine, but have not yet proceeded with inspection/repairs due to the class action litigation. Current mileage IS: 73563. This car has an FA20 engine.
- Electrical system
I have faulty rear lights and a faulty rear view camera. According to MotorSafety.org there is currently a recall for this exact issue for WRX’s from 2015-2021. https://www.motorsafety.org/subaru-recalls-wrx-cars-over-faulty-rear-lights-rearview-camera-issue/
- Electrical system
recurring battery drain, which has happened before. subaru dealer replaced the battery for the same reason less than 2 years ago. now it needs it again. car is inoperable as is.
- Engine
Started having issue with the engine making loud rattle noises and oil pressure was not consistent. Upon further investigating I removed the oil pan and removed the oil pickup. The oil pickup screen was full of RTV sealant causing the oil pickup to struggle with maintaining proper oil pressure and…
Started having issue with the engine making loud rattle noises and oil pressure was not consistent. Upon further investigating I removed the oil pan and removed the oil pickup. The oil pickup screen was full of RTV sealant causing the oil pickup to struggle with maintaining proper oil pressure and flow to the engine. I ended up having to change my timing belt tensioners because one went bad. Probably because of low oil pressure or RTV was sucked into oil galleys and caused it to malfunction. My car sounds a little better now but I believe I also have a light amount of rod knocking. If I kept driving the car, This could have led to catastrophic engine damage and caused my car to stall while traveling on public roads. I later researched if others have seen this issue and it appear to be a common issue in with Subaru and Toyota vehicles using the FA20DIT engine. These engine already have small enough rods, they don't need to be robbed of oil and cause engine damage because the manufacturer applied too much RTV sealant in assembly. There needs to be a recall on this.
- Steering
My power steering one day lost all fluid out of no where. I have this awful sound and go buy new power steering fluid. It’s continuing to leak. I joined a Subaru Wrx/STi group on Facebook and found that this is a reoccurring problem for many Subaru sti owners around the year I have. It sounds…
My power steering one day lost all fluid out of no where. I have this awful sound and go buy new power steering fluid. It’s continuing to leak. I joined a Subaru Wrx/STi group on Facebook and found that this is a reoccurring problem for many Subaru sti owners around the year I have. It sounds faulty and defective and sucks that the customer is stuck paying for these issues instead of Subaru fixing their reoccurring issue with many customers. I baby my car to the highest extent and the power steering should not have just gone out after I parked in my drive way. There is a massive stain now due to the leakage, which is fine. But it’s inconvenient knowing I’ll have to fork up hundreds to over a thousand to get this properly fixed instead of a DIY where it has to do with such an important compartment of the car.
- Electrical system · Service brakes · Vehicle speed control
ABS, cruise control, and other driving assistance features are disabled while driving at night. I checked for recalls on Subaru WRXs and noticed a recall was issued for the same problems on 2011-2015 models. My vehicle is a 2016 model and demonstrates all the same failures observed from the recall of the 2011-2015 models.
- Electrical system
Several batteries that have died prematurely, last one only 2 months since last use. Vehicle has refused to start on several occasions, despite the battery being okay. Suspect issues with controller area network.
- Electrical system
The battery on my 2016 Subaru WRX has drained - twice - while parked for a week or less. This has occurred before and after replacing the battery at the dealership. Both times the battery was recharged by AAA and driven for 30-45 minutes to bring the battery back to full charge.
- Exterior lighting
While driving in below zero temperatures I received a warning "Headlights Disabled" and my headlights were inoperable. I was able to use the high beams otherwise, complete darkness causing an immanent safety concern and potential for financial loss in terms of legality and ticketing. The failure…
While driving in below zero temperatures I received a warning "Headlights Disabled" and my headlights were inoperable. I was able to use the high beams otherwise, complete darkness causing an immanent safety concern and potential for financial loss in terms of legality and ticketing. The failure remained in effect for approximately 10 minutes and then the warning disappeared and the light regained full operation. Upon googling, this is a common issue with other owners. Please note, I am in Canada and have provided a state/zip code of the nearest US location. Sorry if not allowed :)
- Electrical system
2016 WRX drains its battery while the vehicle is turned off. After 3 days of being outside in 20-40 degree Fahrenheit weather, the battery was completely flat and would not start. This has happened 2 winters in a row now.
- Tires · Unknown or other
Vehicle did not meet inspection / wheel alignment vehicle was parked near a high voltage power line during which atmospheric / and natural occouranace electric disturbance caused a electric disturbance vehicle IS been recalled homeless at the time of the vehicle was scheduled to be turned…
Vehicle did not meet inspection / wheel alignment vehicle was parked near a high voltage power line during which atmospheric / and natural occouranace electric disturbance caused a electric disturbance vehicle IS been recalled homeless at the time of the vehicle was scheduled to be turned over to dealer ship family and friends have been helpful in storage I believe its safety / not compliant with ntsb further instructions IS needed.
- Engine
The turbo charger intake duct cracked on my car, this IS the new one that replaced my recalled one. But clearly was not a solution. I posted this on a form and a large amount of people commented stating they had the same issue. Ranging from 15 WRX to 18 maybe even newer. Whatever they used to glue…
The turbo charger intake duct cracked on my car, this IS the new one that replaced my recalled one. But clearly was not a solution. I posted this on a form and a large amount of people commented stating they had the same issue. Ranging from 15 WRX to 18 maybe even newer. Whatever they used to glue the air bypass connector to the turbo duct does not hold up. It cracked and completely separated from the part. This allowed dirty air to contaminate my turbo and engine. Possibly causing premature wear in the future. This IS an issue that needs to be addressed because the car can completely stall if it fails.
- Unknown or other
Windshield keeps getting chipped and cracked. Already has gone through one windshield replacement. Now the second one has two chips already and can pretty much crack anytime.
- Engine
"Takata recall" took my car to a local shop because it was lacking power and had low mpg readings. Found a boost leak in the top inter-cooler and expressed that all the 2016 WRX that come in this happens quite often. Forums and online posts verified this problem, the car IS a 2016 so its fairly new this shouldn't be happening.
- Electrical system · Electronic stability control (esc) · Fuel/propulsion system
Recall clutch change brakes electrical and emissions seem to be failing tucson, az subaru palm springs ,ca subaru in motion systems systems failure
- Engine
Front end collision vs deer on interstate at approximately 75 mph. 4-5 minutes after the accident the engine caught on fire. The car IS a total loss. No one was injured. We all were out of the car at the time the fire started.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2016 subaru WRX. The contact stated that the check engine indicator illuminated and the cruise control failed to function. The vehicle was taken to subaru of jacksonville (10800 atlantic blvd, jacksonville, fl 32225) for the failures at least three times and the electrical…
TL* the contact owns a 2016 subaru WRX. The contact stated that the check engine indicator illuminated and the cruise control failed to function. The vehicle was taken to subaru of jacksonville (10800 atlantic blvd, jacksonville, fl 32225) for the failures at least three times and the electrical system was serviced, but the failures persisted. The dealer stated that the sensor failure was due to a faulty computer system that needed replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed. The failure mileage was 36,000.
- Engine
I was driving down the highway and the car lost a little power start to slow down till it eventually stalled out and now it starts but does not stay running.
- Engine
After leaving work and driving less than one mile, the vehicle's engine stalled while approaching a controlled intersection. the vehicle had to be placed into park and restarted. the ambient temperature was 80 degrees; most auxiliary systems were not in use at the time the incident occurred…
After leaving work and driving less than one mile, the vehicle's engine stalled while approaching a controlled intersection. the vehicle had to be placed into park and restarted. the ambient temperature was 80 degrees; most auxiliary systems were not in use at the time the incident occurred except for the radio. the vehicle was not being operated in its optional "paddle shifter" mode--it was in the standard automatic transmission setting. the vehicle IS currently being assessed at a dealership, although preliminary diagnosis from a dealership representative indicates there IS "nothing wrong." however, a simple google search of "2015+ subaru WRX cvt stalling" yields a number of other vehicles that have experienced the same issue--the vehicle stalling while at low speeds. some of the other owners have indicated they have paid for the replacement of oil control valves from their own pocket to resolve the issue. since the vehicle IS prone to stalling, this creates a significant safety issue for WRX operates as well as other motorists.
- Electrical system
Passenger side headlights went out. I kept getting "headlight disabled" message on dash, with condensation building up on the passenger headlight, but the headlight kept working so I gave it a week and now passenger side IS completely out. I took it to subaru and they said they will replace the…
Passenger side headlights went out. I kept getting "headlight disabled" message on dash, with condensation building up on the passenger headlight, but the headlight kept working so I gave it a week and now passenger side IS completely out. I took it to subaru and they said they will replace the bulb. After taking my car in to replace the bulb, they realized my car requires a full replacement of the headlight. It's only been two years and it costs $840 for the headlight and $1000+ with labor just to fix a low beam. I have extended warranty complete package and it wasn't covered. There IS a bad seal and a bad design in these models. Two year old car shouldn't be having these kind of issues.
- Power train
My complaint pertains to my 2016 subaru WRX clutch. the clutch stopped working after approximately 14,000 miles and 15 months of ownership. the dealership and subaru of america have judged this to be regular user wear and tear and are not covering it under warranty. I was told by the service…
My complaint pertains to my 2016 subaru WRX clutch. the clutch stopped working after approximately 14,000 miles and 15 months of ownership. the dealership and subaru of america have judged this to be regular user wear and tear and are not covering it under warranty. I was told by the service manager and the soa that this IS not an unusual occurrence. the clutch failed without warning in december 2016 while I was traveling on the highway at about 60 mph. I had put the vehicle in neutral while coasting down a hill. when I tried to re-enter gear at the base of the hill I found the gear box resisted entering all gears. I was unable to put the car back into gear and was forced to make an emergency exit from the flow of traffic to the shoulder. my car only reengaged into gear when I turned it off, put the car into gear (with some struggle), and then restarted the car. I immediately took the car to a service station. I was exceptionally lucky that I was able to perform the emergency exit from traffic without getting into a crash. some additional notes on issue. first, the car had undergone regularly scheduled maintenance less than 2 months prior. that maintenance schedule includes an inspection of the vehicles transmission. the authorized subaru dealership that performed the maintenance reported no problems with the transmission. second, the vehicle IS primarily used as a highway commuter. It has not been used for any motorsport, track racing, extreme driving. third, for what it's worth ' I know how to drive a manual transmission car. this IS my 6TH manual transmission car in 15 years and this IS my first-ever clutch issue. for a vehicle to fail in such a spectacular fashion with no warning so soon after regular maintenance and at such low mileage IS, in my opinion, a serious hazard.
- Unknown or other
The bluetooth system has a defect. the first time a phone IS connected, the connection works. if that phone IS deleted from the subaru's system, an attempt to reconnect fails. I have tried this with an iphone 5, iphone 6, and blackberry. the service rep at the dealer also confirms the…
The bluetooth system has a defect. the first time a phone IS connected, the connection works. if that phone IS deleted from the subaru's system, an attempt to reconnect fails. I have tried this with an iphone 5, iphone 6, and blackberry. the service rep at the dealer also confirms the re-connect problem. this means that hands-free calling IS impossible, creating a potential safety hazzard for drivers who insist on using the phone even when the bluetooth function IS not available. subaru, to whom I have reported the problem, claims it IS a defect with the phones, even though the dealer and I have replicated the problem with no less than 4 different phones.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11010925This annocement is to inform dealers to the Gen 3.1 Head Unit OTA will be available via Wi-Fi. The update will take place in multiple batches with the first beginneing November 15th and the last being Decemeber 3rd. This update is for approximatelt 714,000 VINs.
- 11009701This bulletin details an important regulation issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which impacts the way some vehicles with accessories are sold. This regulation applies to any automobile retailer installing accessories on a vehicle prior to its first sale.
- 11009685This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11008283This Service Information Bulletin announces the preferred practices to be used when handling vehicles equipped with Gen2 Telematics which are enrolled in the Subaru STARLINK Security Plus Service featuring Stolen Vehicle Recovery Plus with Immobilizer.
- 11008282This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11008281This Service Information Bulletin announces the diagnostic procedures to be followed when diagnosing engine oil leakage on FA and FB type engines.
- 11008280This Service Information bulletin is being released as guidance for proper testing and charging of vehicle batteries.
- 11008279This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
- 11008276The CP1.5 RCs OTA is available for all mid and high grade CP1.5 head units.
- 11008267This bulletin announces availability of the NEW genuine Subaru engine oil filter.
- 11008259This bulletin outlines the judgment criteria to be used when inspecting front transverse link bushings to reduce unnecessary bushing replacement.
- 11006935This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure for 2025MY vehicles.
- 11006934The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
- 11006932This Service Information Bulletin announces important diagnostic information to utilize when the Data Communication Module (DCM) is being tested as a dark current/standby current source.
- 11006931This Bulletin provides additional diagnostics to follow when addressing a Telematics-related DTC B2A16.
- 11005624This annoucement provides parts personnel information about remanufactured transmissions that will no longer be available.
- 11005617This bulletin provides updated parts information and a service procedure to follow for removing accumulated carbon deposits from fuel injectors and internal engine components (e.g. intake valves and / or manifold, and combustion chambers).
- 11005615This announcement provides information for retailers to install the latest infotainment system software for Denso CP 1.5.
- 11005614This bulletin announces important diagnostic information to utilize when testing the Data Communication Module (DCM) as a dark current/standby current source. All models equipped with Telematics except Solterra.
- 11005609This announcement provides information on Takata Recall Escalated Towing Program.
- 11005608This thermo control valve video contains information on the replacement of thermo control valve.
- 11005599This Bulletin provides SOA paint codes to help eliminate possible confusion for 2025 MY vehicles.
- 11005595This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11005593This Bulletin provides guidance for diagnosing a leaking front or rear suspension strut.
- 11002730This information announces reprograming file availability for Gen 4.5 Denso CP1.5 Audio and Navigation systems. Inprovement for CarPlay concerns with hands-free calls when the receiving party is not able to hear the caller.
- 11002725This bulletin provides diagnosis and procedure information to be applied when diagnosing potential fluid leaks on front and rear brake calipers. This information has been developed to reduce unnecessary brake caliper replacement.
- 11000817This bulletin announces a design change to the CVT select lever (shifter) mechanism in response to isolated customer concerns of not being able to remove the key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in Park.
- 10246143In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. is extending the New Car Basic Warranty coverage for the 12 Volt batteries used in the above listed models and model years beyond the original three (3) years or thirty six thousand miles (36,000), whichever comes first.
- 10243372This Bulletin announces additional information regarding error codes 1403- 1407 encountered when attempting an adjustment/calibration of the EyeSight system after body repair procedures have been performed.
- 10241822This bulletin announces a design change to the CVT select lever (shifter) mechanism in response to isolated customer concerns of not being able to remove the key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in Park.
- 10241801The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
- 10240125In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. is extending the New Car Basic Warranty coverage for the 12 Volt batteries used in the above listed models and model years beyond the original three (3) years or thirty six thousand miles (36,000), whichever comes first.
- 10240113This Bulletin provides reference tables and photos to use for determining the infotainment head unit supplier and generation.
- 10240110This bulletin announces the recommended cleaning procedures to followed when encountering vehicles with long time exposure to pollen on painted surfaces on vehicles imported from Japan. This bulletin does not apply to SIA built vehicles.
- 10238471"In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is extending the New Car Limited Warranty coverage for the electronic connector lock tab for the Electric Parking Brake (EPB) assembly used in the listed models."
- 10238465The purpose of this Bulletin is to provide procedures for the diagnosis and repair of oil seepage which may be coming from the timing chain cover, front camshaft cap, camshaft carrier and / or upper oil pan.
- 10237271This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing.
- 10234841Event Data Recorder (EDR) Function of Airbag Module
- 10234286This is the final PDF for the 2016 January TechTIPS, please use and distribute as needed.
- 10233907This Bulletin provides reference tables and photos to use for determining the infotainment head unit supplier and generation.
Every Subaru WRX model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.