repaired · 2024 Q2
Back up lights: switch
Risk. Inoperative backup lights and an inoperative rearview camera can reduce vehicle visibility and driver awareness, increasing the risk of a crash.
2021 Subaru WRXProblems, recalls & complaints
NHTSA has logged 13 owner complaints about the 2021 Subaru WRX, most often about the power train. It is covered by 1 safety recall, and for recall 22V-522 the manufacturer reports only 48% of affected cars repaired.
Source: NHTSA complaints, recalls, investigations and manufacturer recall reports, through May 26, 2026. Updated daily.
Complaints by system
Where the 2021 Subaru WRX has problems
13 complaints grouped by the system owners reported.
6Power train
5Engine
2Electrical system
2Visibility/wiper
1Steering
1Suspension
1Fuel/propulsion system
1Seats
| System | Complaints | Crash, fire or injury |
|---|---|---|
| Power train | 6 | 0 |
| Engine | 5 | 0 |
| Electrical system | 2 | 0 |
| Visibility/wiper | 2 | 0 |
| Steering | 1 | 0 |
| Suspension | 1 | 0 |
| Fuel/propulsion system | 1 | 0 |
| Seats | 1 | 0 |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Complaints are submitted by the public and are not verified by NHTSA.
1 recall
2021 Subaru WRX recalls and how many were fixed
Each ring shows the share of affected cars repaired, from the manufacturer’s latest quarterly report to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.
Recalls apply to specific cars. To see whether a recall is still open on yours, enter the 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or with Subaru.
Best & worst years
2021 vs. every other WRX year
Bars show complaints per model year. Colors show the CarFlaw verdict: complaints weighted for crashes, fires and injuries, adjusted for years on the road and compared with the WRX median. How we score
'02'03'04'05'06'07'08'09'10'11'12'13'14'15'16'17'18'19'20'21'22'23'24'25'26
- Avoid
- Caution
- Solid
- Best
- Not rated
NHTSA crash tests
2021 Subaru WRX safety ratings
2021 Subaru WRX 4 DR AWD in NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program. Photos are from NHTSA's crash tests.
★★★★★
Frontal crash★★★★★
Side barrier★★★★★
Side pole★★★★★
- Rollover: 5 stars (10.1% risk)
- Stability control: Standard
- Forward collision warning: Optional
- Lane departure warning: Optional
In owners' words
What WRX owners report
Recent power train complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. Personal details are removed.
I am filing this complaint to report a serious safety concern involving my 2021 Subaru WRX, which is currently covered under the manufacturer’s powertrain warranty as well as an extended warranty. Subaru of Ontario, an authorized Subaru dealership, failed to properly diagnose or repair ongoing…
NHTSA ID:#10186366 SUBARU TSB #[XXX] This bulletin announces a design change to the clutch release bearing. PRODUCTION CHANGE INFORMATION: The new clutch release bearing was incorporated into production starting with VIN [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA),…
Lifetime Tracking Data Displayed Incorrectly with higher data results. High rev's max speed 131mp. I have never gone over 89 mp. MANUFACTURER COMMUNICATION NUMBER: 09-79-21 Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING NHTSA ID Number: 10201791 Manufacturer Communication Number: 09-79-21…
Own a 2021 WRX?
Decode your VIN to see the recalls for your exact car, then confirm open recalls with NHTSA.