2020 Subaru WRX

The 2020 Subaru WRX is a popular sports sedan known for its turbocharged engine, standard all-wheel drive, and engaging driving experience. It came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer engine, producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners generally appreciate the WRX’s performance and handling, while common complaints often revolve around ride quality, interior refinement, and fuel economy.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Boxer Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warning lights and potentially engine knocking if the oil level becomes critically low.
  • Solution: Monitor oil levels regularly and address leaks if found. In severe cases, the engine may require new piston rings or a short block replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Boost Creep
  • Description/Symptoms: Some drivers report inconsistent boost levels or “boost creep” under certain driving conditions. This can lead to erratic acceleration and potentially over-boosting the engine.
  • Solution: Install aftermarket boost control system to better manage boost levels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Grinding into Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into certain gears, particularly 1st or 2nd, accompanied by a grinding noise. This may worsen when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Replacing the synchros. Replacing the transmission fluid may alleviate the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT

• Harsh Engagement/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience a delay or hesitation when accelerating from a stop or when shifting between drive and reverse. Harsh engagement can also occur.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, a valve body replacement or complete CVT replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Head Unit Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes unexpectedly. This can affect navigation, audio, and other features.
  • Solution: Attempting a system reset or updating the head unit software. In more severe cases, replacing the head unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains quickly, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently. This can lead to difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Test the battery and charging system. If no faults are found, a parasitic draw test can help identify the source of the drain. Common culprits include aftermarket accessories or faulty modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Rattling/Buzzing Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or buzzing noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or rear deck. These noises are often more noticeable on rough roads.
  • Solution: Tightening loose trim pieces, adding sound deadening material, or replacing worn clips or fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Subaru WRX, while a fun and capable car, has some common issues to be aware of. Engine issues like excessive oil consumption can be costly to address if left unchecked. Transmission issues also appear to be a fairly common issue among WRX owners. Electrical issues related to the head unit and battery drain can also be frustrating, though typically less expensive to fix. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect any used WRX before purchasing.