The Subaru Impreza WRX STI (2008-2014) has long been a favorite among enthusiasts, known for its rally heritage, impressive performance, and all-wheel-drive capabilities. As a high-performance vehicle, it provides thrilling driving experiences, but like all cars, especially performance-oriented ones, the WRX STI has its share of potential issues. If you're considering buying a used model from this generation, it's essential to understand the common problems, what to look for when purchasing one, the overall costs of ownership, and some possible alternatives.
In this comprehensive guide, we will dive deep into the typical problems of the 2008-2014 Subaru Impreza WRX STI, provide detailed information on what to inspect when buying one, and explore the cost of owning such a high-performance vehicle. We will also offer alternatives for those seeking something different but just as exciting.
Common Problems of the Subaru Impreza WRX STI (2008-2014)
1. Turbocharger and Engine Issues
The turbocharged engine in the Subaru Impreza WRX STI is one of its biggest selling points, but it can also be a source of problems, especially if the vehicle has been modified or poorly maintained. The engine is powerful, but turbocharged engines require regular care and attention to avoid long-term damage.
Turbocharger Failure: One of the more significant issues with this generation of WRX STI is the failure of the turbocharger, often due to a lack of proper maintenance or modification. When the turbocharger fails, you might notice a decrease in engine power, increased oil consumption, or unusual turbo whine. Owners who push the car hard or perform frequent aggressive driving may also experience premature turbocharger wear.
Common Causes of Turbo Issues: Overheating, inadequate oil supply, or poor-quality oil can contribute to the premature failure of the turbo. If the turbo isn't adequately cooled after hard driving, it can lead to oil coking and reduced performance.
What to Look For: If you're buying a used WRX STI, ask the owner for records of turbocharger maintenance. During a test drive, listen for any abnormal whistling sounds coming from the turbo, as this could signal wear. Additionally, check the exhaust for any blue smoke or increased oil consumption.
2. Head Gasket Problems
Subaru’s turbocharged engines, particularly in the WRX STI, are known to have potential issues with head gaskets. The head gasket seals the engine’s cylinders and prevents coolant and oil from mixing. Failure of the head gasket can lead to overheating, engine misfires, and internal engine damage.
Symptoms of Head Gasket Failure: If the head gasket fails, you might notice coolant leaking, a loss of engine power, or a rise in engine temperature. In some cases, you could also experience white smoke from the exhaust due to coolant entering the combustion chamber.
What to Look For: Check the engine bay for signs of coolant leakage or stains. If the car has been properly maintained, the issue might be less likely, but higher-mileage or poorly maintained models may be more susceptible. Test the engine temperature during a drive and ensure the engine doesn’t overheat.
3. Transmission and Gearbox Issues
The WRX STI’s 6-speed manual transmission is generally regarded as robust, but like any performance car, it’s not without its issues. The gearbox can experience problems, especially if the vehicle has been driven hard or modified for better performance.
Common Transmission Problems: Some drivers report difficulty shifting gears, grinding sounds, or a stiff clutch pedal. In rare cases, owners have complained of slipping in higher gears or the transmission jumping out of gear under hard acceleration.
What to Look For: During your test drive, ensure that all gears engage smoothly without grinding or hesitation. Listen for any unusual sounds from the gearbox, especially during hard acceleration or high-speed driving. If the clutch feels unusually soft or hard to press, the clutch master/slave cylinders or the flywheel might be worn.
4. Suspension and Handling Problems
The Subaru Impreza WRX STI is well-known for its sharp handling and impressive rally-inspired suspension system. However, this performance-focused setup can experience some wear and tear, especially after years of spirited driving.
Symptoms of Suspension Wear: Over time, the suspension can develop issues such as worn-out shocks or struts, leading to a rougher ride and reduced handling performance. Some owners also report issues with the bushings, which can degrade and affect the car’s steering response and alignment.
What to Look For: During a test drive, pay attention to the car's ride quality and handling. If the car feels excessively bouncy, unstable, or there are abnormal noises when going over bumps, this could be a sign of suspension issues. Additionally, check the tires for uneven wear, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues.
5. Fuel System Problems
Although the WRX STI is designed to be fuel-efficient for a performance car, some owners report issues related to the fuel system. This can include clogged fuel injectors, fuel filter problems, or even fuel pump failures.
Symptoms of Fuel System Problems: A clogged fuel injector can lead to engine misfires, rough idling, or reduced power during acceleration. In some cases, the car may have trouble starting or may stall during driving.
What to Look For: If the car idles roughly or hesitates during acceleration, it could point to fuel system problems. Pay attention to how the car behaves when starting, especially if it struggles to turn over or exhibits any irregular sounds from the fuel pump.
6. Electrical System Issues
Like many modern cars, the Subaru WRX STI is equipped with a complex electrical system. Issues with wiring, sensors, or the ECU (Engine Control Unit) can crop up, particularly in older models or those that have been modified.
Common Electrical Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the alternator, battery, or the ECU. In particular, the battery terminals can become loose, leading to poor charging and power issues. Additionally, the alternator might fail, leading to a loss of electrical power.
What to Look For: Make sure to inspect the electrical system for any obvious signs of corrosion on battery terminals or wiring. Pay attention to warning lights on the dashboard and ensure that the car starts reliably every time.
What to Look for When Buying a Subaru Impreza WRX STI (2008-2014)
When purchasing a used WRX STI, it’s essential to approach the inspection with a thorough checklist due to its performance nature. Here are the most critical things to inspect:
- Service History: Ask for detailed records of all maintenance and repairs. This includes turbocharger maintenance, oil changes, transmission servicing, suspension repairs, and any history of head gasket replacements. A well-maintained WRX STI with a complete service history is more likely to be trouble-free.
- Modifications: Many WRX STI owners modify their cars for better performance, but this can sometimes lead to problems. Be cautious of heavily modified vehicles, especially those with engine or turbo upgrades that haven’t been done professionally. Modifications can increase the risk of issues like blown turbos or transmission damage.
- Body and Suspension Inspection: Performance driving can sometimes take a toll on the car’s body and suspension. Look for any signs of frame damage or suspension wear. Pay special attention to the condition of the tires and check for uneven tire wear, which could indicate suspension problems.
- Mileage and Previous Ownership: Lower-mileage cars are generally preferable, but many WRX STIs have been driven hard. If the car has higher mileage but comes with a solid maintenance history, it might still be a good buy. If the vehicle was previously owned by a track-day enthusiast or driven aggressively, it could be more prone to issues.
How Expensive is It to Own a Subaru Impreza WRX STI (2008-2014)?
Owning a Subaru WRX STI is not as cheap as owning a regular sedan or hatchback due to its high-performance nature, but it’s more affordable than some other performance cars in its class. Here’s an overview of the ownership costs:
- Fuel Economy: The WRX STI’s turbocharged engine has a combined fuel economy of around 19-23 mpg, which is relatively good for a performance car, but certainly not as efficient as typical hatchbacks. Expect to spend more at the pump, especially with aggressive driving.
- Maintenance and Repairs: While the WRX STI is generally reliable, maintenance and repairs can be costly, especially for the turbocharger, head gasket, and suspension components. Regular servicing is essential to keep the car in good condition, and parts for performance cars tend to be more expensive than standard models.
- Insurance: Insurance for the WRX STI can be relatively expensive, particularly for younger drivers or those with less driving experience. The high-performance nature of the car typically places it in higher insurance categories. On average, expect to pay higher premiums than for more conventional vehicles.
Better Alternatives to the Subaru Impreza WRX STI (2008-2014)
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Subaru WRX STI, here are a few cars that offer similar performance but with fewer potential issues:
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X (2008-2015): Similar in terms of performance, handling, and rally pedigree, the Evolution X is another excellent all-wheel-drive performance car. It offers comparable power and handling with slightly fewer common engine issues than the WRX STI.
- Volkswagen Golf R (2010-2014): A more refined alternative, the Golf R provides excellent handling, all-wheel-drive traction, and a solid turbocharged engine. It’s a bit more understated but still delivers impressive performance.
- Ford Focus RS (2009-2011): With its turbocharged engine and fantastic handling, the Focus RS is an iconic performance hatchback. While it’s less common, it’s still a worthy alternative, especially for driving enthusiasts.
- Audi S3 (2008-2013): For those looking for a more premium option, the Audi S3 offers similar performance with a refined interior, great handling, and strong build quality.
- BMW M135i (2012-2014): A rear-wheel-drive performance hatchback with a turbocharged six-cylinder engine, the BMW M135i offers fantastic power and handling. It’s not all-wheel-drive, but it’s a great alternative for those seeking performance with a more premium feel.
Conclusion
The Subaru Impreza WRX STI (2008-2014) is a thrilling performance car, but it’s not without its potential issues. Problems with the turbocharger, head gasket, transmission, and suspension can arise, especially if the car has been driven aggressively or modified. If you’re considering a used model, ensure the car has been well-maintained, and carefully inspect it for signs of wear.
Owning a WRX STI can be an exciting experience, but it does come with higher-than-average maintenance costs and insurance premiums. If you're looking for something with similar performance but fewer potential issues, consider alternatives like the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, Volkswagen Golf R, or Audi S3, which offer similar thrills with different strengths.