2020 Subaru WRX
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Subaru › WRX › 2020
These records cover every 2020 Subaru WRX. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
1 recall names the 2020 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.
Owner complaints
18 complaints1 involved a crash1 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting · Power train
-Flickering head lights -Driver window loose -Windshield wipers did not work on the passenger side (I don't know how it passed inspection) -When shifted into 4th gear the stick was making odd movements and jumping -Mechanical noises like cranking coming from the engine or under the car
- Back over prevention › Sensing system › Camera · Engine · Power train
The contact owns a 2020 Subaru WRX. The contact stated that while the transmission was shifted into neutral (N), the instrument panel displayed that the transmission was shifted in reverse (R), and the rearview camera image was displayed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact…
The contact owns a 2020 Subaru WRX. The contact stated that while the transmission was shifted into neutral (N), the instrument panel displayed that the transmission was shifted in reverse (R), and the rearview camera image was displayed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact shifted the transmission to drive (D), but the instrument panel displayed that the transmission was still in reverse (R), and the rearview camera was displayed while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V522000 (Exterior Lighting); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
- Unknown or other
The head unit started to delaminate and ghost touching
- Power train
2020 WRX: TR690 (CVT) transmission that the car came equipped with, began leaking between the engine and (CVT) transmission, it was noticed during an oil change at 71686 miles but not identified as (CVT) transmission fluid immediately, it was cleaned and assumed to be oil spill. Another oil change…
2020 WRX: TR690 (CVT) transmission that the car came equipped with, began leaking between the engine and (CVT) transmission, it was noticed during an oil change at 71686 miles but not identified as (CVT) transmission fluid immediately, it was cleaned and assumed to be oil spill. Another oil change was done at 77576 miles, and the (CVT) transmission was leaking between engine and (CVT) transmission, it was noted before the oil was even drained. I looked up recalls from NHTSA and found none. Then looked at Subaru Service Bulletins and found Service Bulletin 16-103-16 that only covers 2015 MY through 2019 MY WRX with (CVT) transmission leaking at front pump/chain cover between the engine and (CVT) transmission. The coverage of the Service Bulletin extended the (CVT) transmission warranty to 10 years 100,000 miles, and my vehicle is within the current requirements to receive repairs with only 79000 miles, but is not listed because it is a 2020 WRX, the modle of WRX with the TR690 (CVT) transmission ran from 2015 MY through 2021 MY. My vehicle is also registered through My Subaru app and the Service Bulletins/Service Campaign page says no SBs or SCs are available, help is appreciated, thank you.
- Electrical system
Parasitic battery problem My car battery keeps dying on my Subaru sti 2020 after one day of not driving. I have had the car checked with Subaru dealership and a local shop but no issues were found. This morning I had to get my car jumped again after not driving it for one day. This battery was…
Parasitic battery problem My car battery keeps dying on my Subaru sti 2020 after one day of not driving. I have had the car checked with Subaru dealership and a local shop but no issues were found. This morning I had to get my car jumped again after not driving it for one day. This battery was purchased brand new on nov 2024.At this point I am not sure what to do. I don’t want to keep changing batteries every 3 months. Already contacted Subaru America and they have asked me to go back to the dealership and have them provide a diagnostic assessment.
- Engine
I purchased the vehicle used with 33800 miles and at 34100 the engine stalled and was hard to start, once started it was knocking severely. I have seen a class action law suit based on the same issues but the 2020 model year is not included
- Seat belts
Rear passenger seatbelts fraying. My two children are sitting in the back seat, there is no warning that my seatbelts were frayed putting their life at risk! Took the car to the dealership to have them check what is going on with the seatbelt mechanism, they said “there is no mechanical issue, therefore it is not under warranty.”
- Electrical system
The contact owns a 2020 Subaru WRX. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle would not start. The vehicle was diagnosed by the dealer but no cause for the failure was found. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that telematics…
The contact owns a 2020 Subaru WRX. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle would not start. The vehicle was diagnosed by the dealer but no cause for the failure was found. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that telematics control module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 20,000.
- Unknown or other
Battery drainage occurring often. I have been left stranded at night time in unsafe areas. The car was taken to the dealer twice and both times the battery has been “recharge”. I”ve had the car for less than 3 years. No symptoms occur before this happens. This seems to happen when the car has not need moved for more than a day.
- Electrical system
Have had this car since late 2019 around November and it is now 2022 and I'm at 25k miles in my battery is already failing I have had it tested and the cold cranking amps are why below where they should be causing the car not be able to start at time . I've had other car batteries that lasted long than 2 and a half years.
- Electrical system · Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
The vehicle seems to randomly die and bog out then all of the lights appear on the dash, I myself had to pay out of pocket for a new battery because autonation subaru arapahoe in colorado decided not to check it like I had asked and after getting my car back the issue was still there which is why I…
The vehicle seems to randomly die and bog out then all of the lights appear on the dash, I myself had to pay out of pocket for a new battery because autonation subaru arapahoe in colorado decided not to check it like I had asked and after getting my car back the issue was still there which is why I replaced it today. not only this but they sold me a highly modified vehicle without disclosing any of that info to me in the sale process.
- Visibility/wiper
Got in the car to drive to work and the front windshield just cracked on its own with nothing hitting it.
- Electrical system
I have owned the car for ~15 months and driven it for 2500 miles. The battery has failed four times. Each time Subaru has replaced the battery under warranty and told me that nothing is wrong and that the car simply needs to be driven more. I now see that this is a systemic problem for Subarus…
I have owned the car for ~15 months and driven it for 2500 miles. The battery has failed four times. Each time Subaru has replaced the battery under warranty and told me that nothing is wrong and that the car simply needs to be driven more. I now see that this is a systemic problem for Subarus (e.g. https://www.torquenews.com/1084/subaru-battery-drain-lawsuit-new-claims-now-include-forester-wrx-and-legacy) A recall is needed to force Subaru to address this problem.
- Service brakes
Upon applying parking brake to the maximum extent possible, which IS beyond 11 clicks as stated as required by subaru, and the vehicle IS on an incline greater than 8 degrees, the vehicle will not remain in place. I am also concerned that if the brake IS required in an emergency situation, it will…
Upon applying parking brake to the maximum extent possible, which IS beyond 11 clicks as stated as required by subaru, and the vehicle IS on an incline greater than 8 degrees, the vehicle will not remain in place. I am also concerned that if the brake IS required in an emergency situation, it will not effectively stop the vehicle as the wheels are still allowed to turn more freely than expected given its inability to hold the vehicle on a hill. I took the vehicle to subaru twice expressing the complaint and was summarily denied service. the technician refused to even inspect vehicle even after requesting an inspection. the service technician informed me that you must apply the parking brake to 11 clicks and put the vehicle in gear. the force required to pull the parking brake to 11 clicks IS more than many people are able to apply in a single motion as required by federal law. in addition, air compression IS explicated stated in federal law as not allowed as a mechanism of force for use in a parking brake system. air compression IS what IS used in the engine as a means to prevent the wheels from moving when in gear. further, the parking brake system shall according to federal law, use an accumulation of force independent of other systems for the parking brake, which IS not the case per the instruction from subaru. lastly, subaru also instructed me to put a wheel stop behind the wheel as a standard practice in this common parking scenario, which isn't possible to do if I have to take my foot off the brake to get out of the car to place the wheel stop. as soon as I take my foot off the brake, the vehicle moves so I am unable to safely exit vehicle in order to place the wheel stop. this IS a serious safety issue both for keeping a parked vehicle in place and also in an emergency brake scenario.
- Visibility/wiper
Sitting at a stoplight, a loud pop occurs and when I look back, there IS a hole in the middle of the rear windshield. It IS approximately 2 inches tall and at least 18 inches wide. It was likely an implosion. No objects were found near, on, or in the car. The windshield crumbled after that, as each…
Sitting at a stoplight, a loud pop occurs and when I look back, there IS a hole in the middle of the rear windshield. It IS approximately 2 inches tall and at least 18 inches wide. It was likely an implosion. No objects were found near, on, or in the car. The windshield crumbled after that, as each acceleration dropped more glass inside the car. Nothing prompted it, just sitting stationary at a stoplight. Defroster was not on, temperature was approximately 45 fahrenheit with minimal wind. Had been driving for 10 minutes. My rear facing car seat, with child in it, collected a fair amount of the glass.
- Visibility/wiper
Windshield cracked for no apparent reason. Car was stationary.
- Air bags · Seat belts · Service brakes
TL* the contact owned a 2020 subaru WRX. The contact stated that while he son was driving at 40 mph, he attempted to depress the brake pedal however, the vehicle failed to stop, running a red light, the vehicle was t-boned. The contact stated that the impact caused the vehicle to hit a light post…
TL* the contact owned a 2020 subaru WRX. The contact stated that while he son was driving at 40 mph, he attempted to depress the brake pedal however, the vehicle failed to stop, running a red light, the vehicle was t-boned. The contact stated that the impact caused the vehicle to hit a light post, the air bags failed to deploy and the seat belt failed to lock. The contact stated five days prior her son was driving and the brake pedal failed to engaged while coming to a stop light. The driver had to depress the brake pedal to the floor to stop the vehicle. The driver stated that no warning lights or messages were displayed during either failure. The driver sustained a fractured wrist. The police report was filed. The paramedic came however, the contact was told to call the doctor for x-rays. The driver was seen by his doctor for his fractured wrist. The vehicle was totaled and was towed to a body shop. The contact called heritage subaru ownings mills (9808 reisterstown road owings mills, md 21117) and was told to call the manufacturer. The contact called the manufacturer and filed a complaint. The failure mileage was 2,100. *Dt*jb
- Wheels
I have recently purchased a 2020 subaru WRX limited. I have learned by inspection that the standard oem tire on this vehicle IS a dunlop sport max rt. This IS a high performance summer tire. This class of tire IS not recommended to be used in very cold weather and especially on ice and snow. I have…
I have recently purchased a 2020 subaru WRX limited. I have learned by inspection that the standard oem tire on this vehicle IS a dunlop sport max rt. This IS a high performance summer tire. This class of tire IS not recommended to be used in very cold weather and especially on ice and snow. I have previously owned such tires and they are terrifying on ice, that IS, dangerous. I live in a area of the country where snow and ice are common. Subaru did not inform me of these tires and I am now confronted with purchasing a new set of all season tires so I can safely drive my car. By the way, I have previously worked in tire engineering. IS a less knowledgeable person expected to recognize such a deficiency and take the necessary precautions? Not drive in cold, snowy or icy conditions or purchase new tires?
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.
- 11010919The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed.
- 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.
- 11008275"In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is extending the Warranty coverage time period for the fuel pump impeller to 15 years."
- 11008273Denso low pressure fuel pump warranty extension.
- 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.
- 11006930This bulletin provides information on a new reprogramming procedure (FOTA) to optimize the Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units (H/U) utilized in the models as listed.
- 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.
- 11005605This bulletin addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed.
- 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.
- 11000830This bulletin announces the diagnostic procedures to be followed when encountering cases of the Remote Engine Start (RES) system being the only non-functioning feature with telematics.
- 10252542This bulletin provides information on a new reprogramming procedure (FOTA) to optimize the Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units (H/U) utilized in the models as listed.
- 10252541This bulletin addresses the reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed.
- 10252492This bulletin has been developed for use as a quick reference tool to aid in diagnosing operational concerns of the Gen 2 Telematics systems remote access features.
- 10252491This bulletin addresses an error code 202 and or 204 when attempting to complete the STARLINK telematics subsription process.
- 10252465This bulletin announces the availability of the DCM Bypass Box designed to be used as an alternative replacement part for Data Communication Module (DCM) in vehicles with no active STARLINK subscription.
- 10251102This bulletin announces the availability of a Data Communication Module (DCM) bypass box. This has been designed as an alternative replacement part for vehicles without active STARLINK subscriptions. The bypass box will support audio functions for the infotainment system.
- 10249605This bulletin provides information on a new reprogramming procedure (FOTA) to optimize the Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units (H/U) utilized in the models as listed.
- 10248193The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed.
Every Subaru WRX model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.