2014 Subaru WRX

The 2014 Subaru WRX is a performance-oriented compact car known for its turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and sporty handling. It came equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a Sport Lineartronic CVT. Owners often praise the WRX for its engaging driving experience, practicality, and all-weather capability. Common dislikes include a somewhat stiff ride, road noise, and the relatively high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

2.5L Turbocharged Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 2014 WRX models, particularly those with higher mileage, may experience excessive oil consumption. This can manifest as a need to add oil between oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels closely and using a heavier weight oil may mitigate the issue. More serious cases may require replacing piston rings or even the entire engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $6,000+ (depending on the severity and the chosen repair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbocharger can fail prematurely due to oil starvation or other issues. Symptoms include a loss of power, whistling or grinding noises from the engine bay, and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Though less common than earlier Subaru models, head gasket failure can still occur, leading to coolant leaks, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Head gasket replacement. This often includes machining the cylinder heads to ensure a proper seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchro Wear/Grinding Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported grinding noises or difficulty shifting into certain gears, particularly 2nd and 3rd, indicating synchro wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn synchros or rebuilding the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Sport Lineartronic CVT

• CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The CVT transmission can fail prematurely, exhibiting symptoms such as slipping, shuddering, or complete loss of power.
  • Solution: CVT replacement is often the only viable solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A humming or grinding noise from the rear of the vehicle, which increases with speed. Play or looseness felt when the wheel is moved.
  • Solution: Replacement of the wheel bearing assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent disconnections, difficulty pairing devices, or failure to recognize previously paired devices.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacing the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (update) - $500+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Unit Freezing/Malfunctioning
  • Description/Symptoms: The factory head unit can freeze, become unresponsive, or exhibit other malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacing the head unit or attempting a software update (if available).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (update) - $500+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially in areas with road salt)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and other exposed areas.
  • Solution: Rust repair and prevention measures such as applying rust inhibitors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+, depending on the severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or warping of the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Subaru WRX, while a fun and capable vehicle, does have its share of common issues. Engine problems such as oil consumption and turbo failure can be costly to address. Transmission issues, particularly with the CVT, are also a significant concern. Suspension and electrical problems are less severe but still warrant attention. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and thoroughly inspect any used WRX before purchasing, and budget accordingly for potential repairs.