2016 Subaru WRX recalls and problems
The 2016 Subaru WRX has 3 safety recalls and 31 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Subaru dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2016 Subaru WRX vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2016 Subaru WRX recalls
Recall 22V-522: Exterior Lighting
Problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2021 WRX vehicles. The backup light switch may corrode and become inoperative, which can result in the backup lights not illuminating and the rearview camera image not displaying when the vehicle is in reverse.
Risk: Inoperative backup lights and an inoperative rearview camera can reduce vehicle visibility and driver awareness, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the backup light switch, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE-22.
Recall 16V-162: Engine and Engine Cooling
Problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 WRX vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 21, 2015, and Forester 2.0XT vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 20, 2015. The turbocharger air intake duct may crack and possibly result in an engine stall.
Risk: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the turbocharger air intake duct, and replace it as necessary, free of charge, depending on the lot number found on the duct. The recall began April 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTA-62.
Recall 15V-366: Forward Collision Avoidance, Exterior Lighting
Problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015 Legacy vehicles manufactured March 10, 2014, to April 16, 2015, Outback vehicles manufactured February 24, 2014, to April 16, 2015, Impreza vehicles manufactured September 9, 2014, to April 14, 2015, XV Crosstrek vehicles manufactured October 16, 2014, to April 15, 2015, and 2016 WRX vehicles manufactured March 23, 2015, and equipped with the Eyesight Driver Assist System. If the switch that activates the brake lights fails, the automatic pre-collision braking component of the driver assist system will not function.
Risk: If the automatic pre-collision braking system does not function as intended, the vehicle will not react to an obstacle in its path, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the driver assist system, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQS-54.
2016 Subaru WRX problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 10 | |
| Engine | 8 | |
| Unknown or Other | 6 | |
| Power Train | 4 | |
| Service Brakes | 2 | |
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | 2 | |
| Steering | 2 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 2 | |
| Visibility | 1 | |
| Tires | 1 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 1 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 30,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2016 Subaru WRX complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Subaru WRX years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2016 Subaru WRX have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2016 Subaru WRX: 22V-522 (exterior lighting), 16V-162 (engine and engine cooling), 15V-366 (forward collision avoidance, exterior lighting). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2016 Subaru WRX?
Owners report electrical system problems most often (10 reports), followed by engine (8). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 30,000 miles.
Are Subaru recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Subaru dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.