2020 Subaru WRX recalls and problems

The 2020 Subaru WRX has 1 safety recall and 18 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Subaru dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
18
Crashes / fires
1 / 0
Injuries / deaths
1 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2020 Subaru WRX vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2020 Subaru WRX recalls

Recall 22V-522: Exterior Lighting

Reported Jul 21, 2022 · 59,934 vehicles affected · Subaru of America, Inc.

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.

2020 Subaru WRX problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Electrical System6
Visibility/Wiper3
Engine3
Power Train3
Seat Belts2
Service Brakes2
Unknown or Other2
Wheels1
Air Bags1
Fuel/Propulsion System1
Back Over Prevention1
Exterior Lighting1

Most reported parts

  • Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 14,000 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 2020 Subaru WRX complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Exterior Lighting · reported Oct 23, 2026
-Flickering head lights -Driver window loose -Windshield wipers did not work on the passenger side (I don't know how it passed inspection) -When shifted into 4th gear the stick was making odd movements and jumping -Mechanical noises like cranking coming from the engine or under the car
Back Over Prevention · at 30,000 miles · reported Oct 17, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Subaru WRX. The contact stated that while the transmission was shifted into neutral (N), the instrument panel displayed that the transmission was shifted in reverse (R), and the rearview camera image was displayed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact shifted the transmission to drive (D), but the instrument panel displayed that the transmission was still in reverse (R), and the rearview camera was displayed while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The vehicle…
Power Train · reported Jul 28, 2025
2020 WRX: TR690 (CVT) transmission that the car came equipped with, began leaking between the engine and (CVT) transmission, it was noticed during an oil change at 71686 miles but not identified as (CVT) transmission fluid immediately, it was cleaned and assumed to be oil spill. Another oil change was done at 77576 miles, and the (CVT) transmission was leaking between engine and (CVT) transmission, it was noted before the oil was even drained. I looked up recalls from NHTSA and found none. Then looked at Subaru Service Bulletins and found Service Bulletin 16-103-16 that only covers 2015 MY…
Electrical System · reported Jan 7, 2025
Parasitic battery problem My car battery keeps dying on my Subaru sti 2020 after one day of not driving. I have had the car checked with Subaru dealership and a local shop but no issues were found. This morning I had to get my car jumped again after not driving it for one day. This battery was purchased brand new on nov 2024.At this point I am not sure what to do. I don’t want to keep changing batteries every 3 months. Already contacted Subaru America and they have asked me to go back to the dealership and have them provide a diagnostic assessment.
Engine · reported Sep 23, 2024
I purchased the vehicle used with 33800 miles and at 34100 the engine stalled and was hard to start, once started it was knocking severely. I have seen a class action law suit based on the same issues but the 2020 model year is not included

Other Subaru WRX years

Compare all Subaru WRX years · All Subaru models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2020 Subaru WRX have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2020 Subaru WRX: 22V-522 (exterior lighting). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2020 Subaru WRX?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (6 reports), followed by visibility/wiper (3). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 14,000 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.