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2021 Subaru WRX recalls and problems

The 2021 Subaru WRX has 1 safety recall and 13 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Subaru dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
13
Crashes / fires
0 / 0
Injuries / deaths
0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2021 Subaru WRX vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2021 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.

2021 Subaru WRX problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Power Train6
Engine5
Visibility/Wiper2
Unknown or Other2
Electrical System2
Steering1
Suspension1
Fuel/Propulsion System1
Seats1

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 2021 Subaru WRX complaints

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

Electrical System · reported May 26, 2026
Car battery keeps dying and is inadequately charged resulting in loss of electronics. The problem is a faulty DCM system.
Seats · reported Jun 22, 2025
Manual (not power) Driver seat is loose-rocking car only has 47000 miles but this hardware failure will get worse over time definitely a safety concern if bolt breaks it appears that the plastic washer is wearing most likely poor material should be polyurethane or something like the form of a grommet that absorbs since vehicle has hard suspension NOTE: I have video however cannot create video < than 10mb
Engine · reported Jun 21, 2025
In October 2024, my vehicle, a 2021 Subaru WRX STI, was purchased from a Toyota dealership (Fort Bend Sterling McCall Toyota). The dealership sold the vehicle with an oil issue and a modified ECM. This issue caused catastrophic engine failure while driving. The vehicle stalled and could not be started. Subaru dealership technicians confirmed the cause as improper service leading to catastrophic oil starvation. The failure put both myself and others at risk, as the engine lost power mid-operation on a busy road. The vehicle was towed to a certified Subaru dealership, where it has been detained…
Power Train · reported Jun 11, 2025
I am filing this complaint to report a serious safety concern involving my 2021 Subaru WRX, which is currently covered under the manufacturer’s powertrain warranty as well as an extended warranty. Subaru of Ontario, an authorized Subaru dealership, failed to properly diagnose or repair ongoing engine issues during multiple service visits. Despite documented problems, the vehicle was released to me in a condition that was unsafe to operate since their location did not have a loaner, fully aware of the issues at hand, exposing me and my family to serious risk while driving. As a result of this…
Fuel/Propulsion System · reported Feb 2, 2025
Excessive blow by contaminating MAP sensors & creating lean/rich conditions. This causes loss of power, stalling and will lead to catastrophic engine failure. EGR system is faulty

Other Subaru WRX years

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Compare all Subaru WRX years · All Subaru models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2021 Subaru WRX have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2021 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 2021 Subaru WRX?

Owners report power train problems most often (6 reports), followed by engine (5).

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.