2013 Subaru WRX STI

The 2013 Subaru WRX STI is a performance-oriented sedan known for its turbocharged engine, all-wheel-drive system, and sporty handling. It came equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission. Owners appreciate its engaging driving experience, strong acceleration, and rally-inspired character. Some common dislikes include the firm ride, relatively low fuel economy, and cabin noise.

Engine

2.5L Turbocharged Engine

• Ringland Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking noises from the engine, loss of power, increased oil consumption, and ultimately engine failure. Often attributed to detonation, pre-ignition, or lean running conditions.
  • Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement with stronger pistons. Ensuring proper tuning and addressing any underlying issues causing detonation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported excessive oil consumption. This may be related to the ringland failure.
  • Solution: Some owners have changed to a heavier oil to try and reduce the oil consumption
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10 - $50
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or screeching noises from the turbocharger, loss of boost pressure, reduced engine power, and potentially smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement. Inspecting oil lines and intake system for blockage or damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting, unusual noises during clutch engagement, and high clutch pedal engagement point.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement, including the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing. Some owners upgrade to aftermarket clutches designed to handle more power.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Gear Grinding
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise during gear changes, especially when shifting quickly or at high RPMs. Most commonly affects 2nd and 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement. Inspecting and replacing worn synchronizers. Some owners opt for aftermarket gear sets with improved synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Worn strut mounts can cause the struts to move excessively.
  • Solution: Strut mount replacement. Replacing struts at the same time is often recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and potential loss of power.
  • Solution: Oxygen sensor replacement. Diagnosing the underlying cause of the failure (e.g., exhaust leaks, contaminated sensors).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

• Radio/Head Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The factory head unit may experience failures such as screen malfunction, inability to read CDs, or loss of sound.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head unit, either with an OEM replacement or an aftermarket unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on replacement chosen.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Subaru WRX STI is a high-performance vehicle that can be rewarding to own, but it is prone to some specific issues. The most serious and potentially expensive concern is engine-related, particularly ringland failure, which can lead to costly engine rebuilds or replacements. Transmission issues, such as clutch failure and gear grinding, are also common and can be expensive to address. Other issues, such as electrical or suspension problems, are generally less severe but still require attention. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs when considering purchasing a used 2013 Subaru WRX STI.