2019 Subaru WRX STI

The 2019 Subaru WRX STI is a performance-oriented sedan known for its turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive system, and sporty handling. It came exclusively with a 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer engine producing 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Owners often praise the car’s engaging driving experience, strong acceleration, and rally-inspired feel. Common complaints revolve around the relatively harsh ride, road noise, and the engine’s fuel economy.

Engine

2.5L Turbocharged Boxer Engine

• Ringland Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine knocking, misfires, loss of power, excessive oil consumption, and potentially catastrophic engine failure. Often diagnosed via compression and leakdown tests.
  • Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement with forged pistons.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent need to add oil between oil changes. Blue smoke from the exhaust may be visible.
  • Solution: Short term - Monitor oil levels and add as needed. Long term - Possible piston ring replacement or engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, coolant mixing with oil.
  • Solution: Head gasket replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of boost pressure, reduced engine power, excessive smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, clutch pedal sticking, burning smell.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Throwout Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or squealing noise when the clutch pedal is depressed.
  • Solution: Throwout bearing replacement, often done in conjunction with a clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Included in the cost of clutch replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking or popping noise from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps at low speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery dies frequently, especially when the car sits for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify parasitic draw, which may be from aftermarket accessories or a faulty module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Cracked Windshield
  • Description/Symptoms: Windshield cracks easily, especially with minor impacts.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software update (if available) or infotainment system replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Subaru WRX STI, while a fun and capable car, has some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The engine is the most significant area of concern, with potential problems like ringland failure and oil consumption leading to costly repairs. Other issues like clutch failure, and electrical problems also contribute to the overall ownership experience. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, major engine or transmission repairs can be quite costly.