# Subaru WRX 2022–2026 (VB) Problems, Reliability & Costs

Canonical: https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/subaru-wrx-2022-2026/

> 2022+ Subaru WRX (VB): the 2022 RTV oil-pan defect, Starlink screen bugs, battery drain, 6MT complaints. Real repair costs and what to check before buying.

Case file · SUBARU-WRX-2022-2026 · VB

# Subaru WRX 2022–2026 Common problems, reliability & repair costs

The VB WRX swapped the old FA20 for a bigger, lower-stress 2.4L FA24 turbo, and so far the ringland horror stories haven't followed it. Complaint volume is genuinely low for a turbo performance car. The real file: a first-year (2022) factory-sealant blunder that can shed RTV chunks into the oil pan, a glitchy 11.6-inch Starlink screen, some dead-battery reports tied to parasitic draw, and scattered 6MT gripes. Young car, thin data. Read it accordingly.

[Shop Subaru WRX parts on Amazon →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSubaru%2BWRX%2Bparts) Verified part numbers below Affiliate link to Amazon. We may earn a commission if you buy. Your price is the same, and a commission never changes a verdict.

Case data plate SUBARU-WRX-2022-2026

Case score
7/10

Best years

2024, 2025

Avoid

2022 (first-year: excess RTV sealant in the oil pan. Inspect

Status
Reviewed
Amended 2026-08-30

[How we score →](https://carcasefile.com/methodology/)

Exhibit A · Subaru WRX Kevauto · [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0) · [Wikimedia](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2022_Subaru_WRX_Limited,_rear_NYIAS_2022.jpg)

Case verdict At a glance

Case score
7/10

Best years

2024, 2025

Years to avoid

2022 (first-year: excess RTV sealant in the oil pan. Inspect

Worst system

drivetrain

#1 problem

**Front driveshaft can crack and break (recall 23V-754, 2023 small batch)** · $0

Companion pages for this car generation:

📄 Dossier Overview Active Page [📋 Inspection Checklist Field Guide ->](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/subaru-wrx-2022-2026/checklist/) [💰 Maintenance Costs 5-Year Ledger ->](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/subaru-wrx-2022-2026/cost-to-maintain/) [🩺 Audit a Quote Estimate Case File ->](https://carcasefile.com/estimate-doctor/?vehicle=Subaru%20WRX)

## Engines

- **FA24F** · 2.4L gasoline, 271 hp

## Transmissions

- **manual**, 6-speed
- **SPT**· cvt

## Drivetrain

AWD

## Body

sedan

## Trims

Base, Premium, Limited, GT, TR (2024+), tS (2025+)

Parts desk

## Subaru WRX part-number cross-reference

Start from the OEM number, then pick the brand you trust. Verified equivalents for the Subaru WRX (2022–2026).

Part links go to Amazon, and to eBay where Amazon does not stock the part.
Affiliate links, so we may earn a commission if you buy. Your price is
unchanged, and a commission never changes a verdict.

### Oil filter

2.4L FA24F turbo (all VB WRX, 2022-2026)
swipe →

OEM part
Subaru
[Find Subaru oil filter on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB00LD1J362)

Verified via: [Genuine Subaru: WRX oil filter 15208AA170 (parts.subaru.com)](https://parts.subaru.com/p/Subaru__WRX/Engine-Oil-Filter-Element-Oil-Filter-Complete/60014672/15208AA170.html), [FTSpeed, 15208AA170 fitment: 2015-2024 WRX / 2022-2024 BRZ / GR86](https://www.ftspeed.com/products/subaru-oem-oil-filter-2015-2024-subaru-wrx-2022-2024-brz-toyota-gr86)

### Engine air filter

2.4L FA24F turbo (all VB WRX, 2022-2026)
swipe →

OEM part
Subaru
[Look up Subaru engine air filter on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB072YV45X1)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

K&N

Washable cotton-gauze drop-in; confirmed fitment for 2022+ VB WRX (also fits Crosstrek/Impreza/Forester/Ascent/Legacy/Outback).
[Check K&N engine air filter](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB075TKKCTM)

Verified via: [Genuine Subaru: 2022 WRX air filter element 16546AA16A (parts.subaru.com)](https://parts.subaru.com/p/Subaru_2022_WRX/Engine-Air-Filter-Element-Air-Cleaner/68011467/16546AA16A.html), [STM Tuned: K&N 33-5064 replacement air filter for VB WRX](https://stmtuned.com/products/k-n-replacement-air-filter-vb-subaru-wrx-33-5064), [Cars Simplified: 16546AA16A/16546AA150 cross-reference (notes inaccurate Fram/Wix crosses)](https://carssimplified.com/x/subaru/air-filter-16546aa16a-cross-reference.php)

### Cabin air filter

all VB WRX (2022-2026)
swipe →

OEM part
Subaru
[See Subaru cabin air filter on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0979MD868)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Bosch

Also sold as Bosch retail M5188; catalog cross-reference for 72880FL000.
[Compare Bosch cabin air filter](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DBosch%2B1987435188)

Verified via: [Genuine Subaru: cabin air filter 72880FL000 (parts.subaru.com)](https://parts.subaru.com/p/Subaru__/Cabin-Air-Filter/73272008/72880FL000.html), [Air Filter Cross Reference: SUBARU 72880FL000 replacements (Bosch 1987435188/M5188, etc.)](https://www.airfilter-crossreference.com/convert/SUBARU/72880FL000)

### Spark plugs

2.4L FA24F turbo (all VB WRX); 4 required
swipe →

OEM part
Subaru
[Find Subaru spark plugs on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSubaru%2B22401AA92A)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

NGK

NGK stock no. 96698, Laser Iridium; the exact plug Subaru supplies as OEM. Gap 0.024 in / 0.6 mm.
[Look up NGK spark plugs](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0CV2BRG84)

Verified via: [Genuine Subaru: Spark Plug SILKFR8A6, 22401AA92A (parts.subaru.com)](https://parts.subaru.com/p/Subaru__/Spark-Plug-SILKFR8A6/73199335/22401AA92A.html), [STM Tuned: NGK SILKFR8A6 (96698) OEM spark plug for 2022+ WRX, gap/heat-range spec](https://stmtuned.com/products/96698-silkfr8a6-ngk-spark-plug-oem-subaru-2022-wrx)

### Front brake pads

Base / Premium / Limited / GT: standard (non-Brembo) front brakes
swipe →

OEM part
Subaru
[Check Subaru front brake pads on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSubaru%2B26296AN021)

Verified via: [Subaru OEM Parts Online: front brake pads 26296AN021, 2022-2025 WRX](https://subaru.oempartsonline.com/oem-parts/subaru-brake-pads-26296an021), [Genuine Subaru: 2022 WRX front pad kit 26296AN020 (parts.subaru.com)](https://parts.subaru.com/p/subaru_2022_WRX/Pad-Kit-Disk-Brake-Front/109134947/26296AN020.html), [PowerStop Z23 kit fitment: 2022-2024 WRX Base/GT/Limited/Premium (shared with 2019-22 Forester)](https://www.newprovisionsracing.com/products/powerstop-z23-evolution-sport-brake-upgrade-kit-front-2022-wrx)

### Wiper blades (front pair)

all VB WRX (2022-2026); beam-style
swipe →

OEM part
Subaru
[See Subaru wiper blades on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSubaru%2BSOA591B726%2B%252826%2Bin%2Bdriver%2529%2B%252B%2BSOA591B716%2B%252816%2Bin%2Bpassenger%2529)

Verified via: [Genuine Subaru OEM front wiper set SOA591B726 + SOA591B716 (Amazon listing)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FSubaru-Front-Windshield-Wiper-Genuine%2Fdp%2FB0CCBKN2W4&raw=1), [Wiper Blades USA: 2022 Subaru WRX size chart (26 in / 16 in)](https://www.wiperbladesusa.com/wiper-size/subaru/wrx/2022)

### Serpentine / accessory drive belt

2.4L FA24F turbo (all VB WRX); single 6-rib serpentine belt
swipe →

OEM part
Subaru
[Compare Subaru serpentine / accessory drive belt on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0GPFLM7KW)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Gates

Micro-V 6-rib, ~59.8 in; direct replacement for 23780AA070 on 2022+ WRX.
[Find Gates serpentine / accessory drive belt](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB000C2UKHO)

Verified via: [Suburban Subaru (Genuine): WRX serpentine belt 23780AA070](https://parts.suburbansubaru.com/p/Subaru__WRX/Serpentine-Belt/69874207/23780AA070.html), [STM Tuned: Gates K060598 accessory belt for 2022+ WRX (replaces 23780AA070)](https://stmtuned.com/products/k060598-gates-accessory-belt-2022-wrx)

### Battery

all VB WRX (2022-2026)
swipe →

OEM part
Subaru (OE)
[Look up Subaru battery on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSubaru%2B%2528OE%2529%2BBCI%2BGroup%2B35%252C%2Bflooded)

Verified via: [PowerTex: 2022 Subaru WRX H4 2.4L listed as BCI Group 35](https://powertexbatteries.com/products/2022-subaru-wrx-h4-2-4l-replacement-car-battery-bci-group-35-lithium-lifepo4-automotive-powertex-battery), [Optima Batteries: Subaru WRX uses Group 35 (factory flooded lead-acid)](https://www.optimabatteries.com/experience/blog/what-type-of-battery-is-in-a-subaru-wrx)

Amazon and eBay affiliate links. Prices unchanged for you. Confirm fitment against your VIN; mid-generation changes exist.

Verdict

## Should I buy a 2022–2026 Subaru WRX?

Buy with normal used-turbo-car diligence. This generation has been quiet so far. Across 2022–2025 the WRX logged only about 42 NHTSA complaints total, which is low even accounting for how young the fleet is. The one issue worth real attention is the 2022 model year's excess factory RTV sealant, which can break loose inside the oil pan and partially clog the oil pickup. On a 2022, favor cars with documented oil-pan inspection/cleaning or a long, clean oil-analysis history. 2023 driveshaft-recall cars (a 413-unit batch) should show the recall closed by VIN. 2024 and newer are the cleanest pick. Manual cars: test every gear, hot and cold, before money changes hands.

Best years

2024, 2025

Years to avoid

2022 (first-year: excess RTV sealant in the oil pan. Inspect or verify cleaned, don't just walk away)

Inspection Companion

### Pre-Purchase Checklist for Subaru WRX

[Open Field Checklist Page ->](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/subaru-wrx-2022-2026/checklist/)

- ☐ On a 2022 (and early 2023): ask whether the oil pan has been dropped and cleaned of excess RTV sealant. If not, budget for it, or ask the seller to have the last oil filter cut open and inspected for gray/orange silicone debris.
- ☐ Run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup. A small batch of 2023 cars (built Sept 1–13, 2023) got front driveshafts that can crack and break (recall 23V-754). Confirm it's closed.
- ☐ Manual cars: shift every gear cold AND hot. Notchy 2nd–3rd, grinding on quick shifts, or a chirping/rattling noise with the clutch pedal down (throwout bearing) are the documented complaints.
- ☐ Sit through a full 10-minute idle-and-drive with the 11.6-inch Starlink screen: watch for freezes, reboots, phantom touches, or the backup camera appearing while driving. Ask if firmware updates were installed.
- ☐ Ask how the car is used. If it sits for a week-plus at a time, ask about dead-battery history. Parasitic-draw complaints (often traced to the telematics DCM) show up on this generation.
- ☐ Check the oil level and ask for oil-change receipts. The FA24 is not a notorious oil-burner, but a turbo boxer with no service history is a walk-away regardless.
- ☐ Modified cars: tunes, catless downpipes, and hard launch history change the risk math entirely on a new-generation turbo engine. Stock and documented beats modified and cheap.

Verified-fit parts for the Subaru WRX (2022–2026).

Parts desk

Parts cross-reference

OEM number first, verified equivalents below it. Links go to Amazon.

Oil filter

2.4L FA24F turbo (all VB WRX, 2022-2026)

- [OEM Subaru 15208AA170 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB00LD1J362)

Engine air filter

2.4L FA24F turbo (all VB WRX, 2022-2026)

- [OEM Subaru 16546AA16A →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB072YV45X1)
- [K&N 33-5064 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB075TKKCTM)

Cabin air filter

all VB WRX (2022-2026)

- [OEM Subaru 72880FL000 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0979MD868)
- [Bosch 1987435188 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DBosch%2B1987435188)

Spark plugs

2.4L FA24F turbo (all VB WRX); 4 required

- [OEM Subaru 22401AA92A →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSubaru%2B22401AA92A)
- [NGK SILKFR8A6 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0CV2BRG84)

Front brake pads

Base / Premium / Limited / GT: standard (non-Brembo) front brakes

- [OEM Subaru 26296AN021 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSubaru%2B26296AN021)

Wiper blades (front pair)

all VB WRX (2022-2026); beam-style

- [OEM Subaru SOA591B726 (26 in driver) + SOA591B716 (16 in passenger) →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSubaru%2BSOA591B726%2B%252826%2Bin%2Bdriver%2529%2B%252B%2BSOA591B716%2B%252816%2Bin%2Bpassenger%2529)

Serpentine / accessory drive belt

2.4L FA24F turbo (all VB WRX); single 6-rib serpentine belt

- [OEM Subaru 23780AA070 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0GPFLM7KW)
- [Gates K060598 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB000C2UKHO)

Battery

all VB WRX (2022-2026)

- [OEM Subaru (OE) BCI Group 35, flooded →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSubaru%2B%2528OE%2529%2BBCI%2BGroup%2B35%252C%2Bflooded)

Confirm fitment against your VIN. Mid-generation changes exist. Affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Known faults

## Common Subaru WRX problems & repair costs

### Excess RTV sealant in the oil pan (oil-pickup clog risk)

$300–$700

engine severe 2022 (primarily), some early 2023 ~any: it's a factory assembly defect, not wear

**Symptoms:** Usually none until it matters. That's the problem. Debris shows up as gray/orange silicone chunks in the oil pan or trapped in the oil filter media. In the worst case (documented on the same-family FA24 in the 2022 BRZ/GR86): low oil pressure, bearing noise, or engine failure from oil starvation, with track use the highest-risk scenario.

**Fix:** Preventive fix: drop the oil pan, clean out loose RTV, and reseal properly, roughly $300–$700 at an independent shop. Cutting open each used oil filter is the free early-warning check. Subaru issued no recall or service campaign for the WRX on this, so it's on the owner. If the pickup actually clogs and starves the engine, you're into bearings or a replacement engine, $7,000–$11,000 territory, which is exactly why the cheap preventive version is the one to do.

Sources: [The Autopian: 2022 WRX owners finding RTV clogging oil pickup tubes](https://www.theautopian.com/2022-subaru-wrx-owners-are-finding-rtv-clogging-their-oil-pickup-tubes-but-its-not-clear-how-big-of-a-deal-it-is/), [The Drive: how the same RTV defect kills 2022 GR86 (FA24) engines](https://www.thedrive.com/guides-and-gear/how-to-spot-and-fix-the-oil-clogging-issue-thats-killing-2022-toyota-gr86-engines), [CarComplaints: 2022 WRX engine complaints (15 NHTSA reports)](https://www.carcomplaints.com/Subaru/WRX/2022/engine/engine.shtml), [Lemberg Law: 2022 WRX oil pan / RTV silicone complaints](https://lemberglaw.com/subaru-wrx-engine-oil-problems/)

### Starlink 11.6-inch infotainment freezes, reboots, and phantom inputs

$150–$2,500

electrical minor 2022–2023 (improved by updates; fewer reports on 2024+)

**Symptoms:** Screen freezes or goes unresponsive (sometimes with volume stuck), spontaneous reboots, laggy climate and CarPlay screens, phantom touch inputs, backup camera image appearing while driving forward. Usually clears on restart. Annoying more than dangerous, but climate controls live in that screen.

**Fix:** First step is always the latest firmware update. It's free under warranty and it resolved or improved most owners' complaints. Persistent failures get a head unit replacement, covered under the 3yr/36k basic warranty for most cars today; out of warranty a replacement unit runs well into four figures. A 2023 class action covers Starlink head-unit failures across 2019–2023 Subarus.

Sources: [CarComplaints: Subaru Starlink class action (2019–2023 models)](https://www.carcomplaints.com/news/2023/subaru-infotainment-system-problems-class-action-lawsuit.shtml), [ClubWRX: 2023 WRX Starlink multimedia bugs (owner thread)](https://www.clubwrx.net/threads/2023-wrx-starlink-multimedia-system-bugs.134620488/), [Torque News: Subaru Starlink problems and owner options](https://www.torquenews.com/1084/having-problems-subaru-starlink-what-owners-can-do)

### Parasitic battery drain / dead battery (DCM telematics draw)

$150–$500

electrical moderate 2022–2025 ~any; worst on cars that sit for days between drives

**Symptoms:** Dead or weak battery after the car sits a few days to a week; repeated jump-starts; battery testing fine under load but draining at rest. Owners measuring dark current have traced 20–40 mA of extra draw to the DCM (telematics module), on top of a resting draw that should be under ~25 mA total.

**Fix:** Get an actual parasitic-draw test, not just a new battery. A battery alone treats the symptom. Dealers can update or address a misbehaving DCM under warranty; a new AGM-style battery plus diagnosis at an independent shop runs $150–$500. Note the 2015–2020 Subaru battery-drain class settlement does NOT cover the VB WRX. This generation's reports are forum-corroborated, not part of that settlement. A battery maintainer is the cheap insurance if the car sits.

Sources: [ClubWRX: parasitic battery draw (VB owner thread)](https://www.clubwrx.net/threads/parasitic-battery-draw.134621107/), [ClubWRX: DCM fuse / dark current measurements](https://www.clubwrx.net/threads/dcm-fuse.134621675/)

### 6MT notchy shifting, grind complaints, and isolated failures

$1,400–$2,400

transmission moderate 2022–2024 ~reported from nearly new (some under 5k mi)

**Symptoms:** Notchy or baulky 2nd–3rd engagement, grinding on brisk shifts, clicking/chirping with the clutch pedal depressed (throwout/pilot bearing), and in the worst documented cases a transmission that wouldn't take gears at all. One 2022 needed a full transmission replacement around 1,000 miles and became a lemon-law buyback.

**Fix:** Hard failures this early are warranty work (5yr/60k powertrain). Document symptoms in writing at the dealer every visit. The cost range shown is an out-of-warranty clutch/throwout-bearing job at an independent shop, the realistic future expense on a hard-driven car. Notchiness alone, especially cold, is common on this box and often just character; grinding is not.

Sources: [Lemon Law Experts: 2022 WRX repurchased over transmission/clutch failure](https://lemonlawexperts.com/case-results/subaru-repurchases-2022-subaru-wrx-with-severe-transmission-and-clutch-issues/), [ClubWRX: 2022 6MT clicking-noise thread](https://www.clubwrx.net/threads/2022-6mt-with-clicking-sound.134617673/), [NHTSA: 2022 Subaru WRX complaints (drivetrain)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2022/SUBARU/WRX)

### Front driveshaft can crack and break (recall 23V-754, 2023 small batch)

$0–$0

drivetrain safety 2023 (413 WRXs built Sept 1–13, 2023)

**Symptoms:** A cracked outer race can eventually break, causing loss of drive; a broken shaft can also let the car roll when parked in gear without the parking brake. Improper cooling during manufacturing at the supplier (NTN) caused the defect.

**Fix:** Free recall repair: dealers inspect both front driveshafts and replace as needed. Owners were notified January 2024. On any 2023, run the VIN through NHTSA's lookup and confirm the recall shows closed. That's the entire fix.

Sources: [NHTSA recall 23V-754: dealer stop-sale notice (PDF)](https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2023/RCMN-23V754-7419.pdf), [RepairPal: recall 23V754 summary](https://repairpal.com/recall/23V754000), [ClubWRX: 2023 WRX front driveshaft recall thread](https://www.clubwrx.net/threads/new-2023-wrx-recall-front-drive-shafts-23v754.134619609/)

Day-to-day, a stock VB WRX costs about what any turbo AWD compact does: synthetic oil changes on time (non-negotiable on a turbo boxer), tires that wear faster than a Camry's, and premium fuel. The FA24 has not shown the oil-burning or ringland patterns that haunted older WRX engines, and most owners report negligible consumption. But the fleet is young, so treat that as encouraging, not proven. The two owner-controlled line items that matter: a one-time oil-pan RTV cleanout on a 2022 (~$300–$700) and a battery maintainer if the car sits. Budget bigger only if you buy a modified car, where warranty goodwill and risk both move against you.

Cost calculator

### What will this Subaru WRX cost you by a given mileage?

Drag to a mileage. We total the documented problems whose typical onset falls at or before it. The same cost ranges listed above, nothing new invented.

100k mi

$0 estimated repair range

🩺
Have a repair quote for this Subaru WRX?

Audit against OEM book times, uncover duplicate pad and rotor labor, and verify parts markups.

[Audit Repair Estimate ->](https://carcasefile.com/estimate-doctor/?vehicle=Subaru%20WRX)

DIY repairs

## How to fix common Subaru WRX problems (DIY)

### Oil & filter change with RTV debris check (cut open the old filter)

easy 45 min–1 hr saves ~$80–$150

**Tools:** Ramps or jack + jack stands, 14mm socket or wrench (drain plug), Oil filter wrench, Drain pan + funnel, Utility knife or filter cutter (for the debris check)

- Warm the engine briefly, then raise the car and remove the 14mm drain plug; drain into a pan. Use a fresh crush washer on reinstall.
- Spin off the oil filter (top-mounted on the FA24, one of the easiest filters in the business) and spin on the new one, hand-tight plus a quarter turn.
- Refill with 0W-20 synthetic to spec (about 4.8 quarts), check the level on the dipstick, and check for leaks at idle.
- Now the part that matters on a 2022: cut the old filter open with a filter cutter or carefully with a utility knife.
- Fan out the filter media and look for gray/orange rubbery silicone fragments (RTV). Metal glitter or RTV chunks = drop the pan / involve a shop before it becomes an engine.

Parts

- [Oil filter (2022+ Subaru WRX FA24)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D2022-2025%2Bsubaru%2Bwrx%2Boil%2Bfilter) · Amazon $8–$15
- [0W-20 full synthetic oil (5+ qt)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D0w-20%2Bfull%2Bsynthetic%2Boil%2B5%2Bquart) · Amazon $28–$45
- [Oil filter cutter (inspection tool)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Doil%2Bfilter%2Bcutter%2Binspection%2Btool) · Amazon $20–$40

### Cabin & engine air filter change

easy 20 min saves ~$60–$120

**Tools:** None (hands only; maybe a small flathead for airbox clips)

- Open the glovebox, squeeze the sides to release it, and let it swing down to expose the cabin filter cover.
- Slide the old cabin filter out and insert the new one with the airflow arrow pointing the right way (down).
- For the engine filter, release the airbox clips, lift the lid, and swap the panel filter. Note which way the old one sat.
- Re-clip the lid, close everything up, and confirm the glovebox stops re-seat.

Parts

- [Cabin air filter (2022+ Subaru WRX)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D2022-2025%2Bsubaru%2Bwrx%2Bcabin%2Bair%2Bfilter) · Amazon $10–$18
- [Engine air filter (2022+ Subaru WRX)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D2022-2025%2Bsubaru%2Bwrx%2Bengine%2Bair%2Bfilter) · Amazon $15–$25

### Parasitic battery-draw test (chase the dead-battery gremlin)

moderate 1–1.5 hrs (includes module sleep time) saves ~$120–$250

**Tools:** Digital multimeter with 10A range (or a clamp meter), 10mm wrench (battery terminal), Fuse puller (in the fuse box lid)

- With the car off, doors closed, and key fob far from the car, disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Connect the multimeter (10A setting) in series between the negative cable and the battery post, then wait 30–45 minutes for all modules to go to sleep.
- Read the resting draw: under ~25 mA is healthy. 50 mA or more means something isn't sleeping.
- Pull fuses one at a time (interior and engine-bay boxes) and watch the meter; the fuse that drops the reading names the offending circuit.
- If the draw falls ~20–40 mA when the DCM fuse comes out, you've found the documented VB culprit. Take that finding to the dealer for warranty diagnosis rather than permanently unfusing it (it kills telematics/emergency services).

Parts

- [Digital multimeter (10A capable)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Ddigital%2Bmultimeter%2B10a%2Bautomotive) · Amazon $25–$60
- [Battery maintainer / smart tender (if the car sits)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dbattery%2Bmaintainer%2Btender%2B12v) · Amazon $30–$60

Some parts links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no cost to you. We only list parts that fit this generation.

## The short version

The VB-generation WRX has been, by rowdy-turbo-Subaru standards, uneventful. Across 2022–2025 it drew only around 42 NHTSA complaints total, a low number even after you account for the fleet being young. The new FA24 2.4L turbo was deliberately built as a lower-stress engine than the old FA20, and the ringland anxiety that shadowed earlier WRXs simply hasn’t materialized here so far.

The one genuine landmine is a first-year assembly defect: **2022 cars got too much RTV sealant at the factory**, and chunks of it can break loose inside the oil pan and clog the oil pickup. The same defect family killed engines in 2022 BRZ/GR86s (same engine architecture). On the WRX it’s been mostly caught early, showing up as RTV in the oil filter and cleaned pans rather than dead engines, but Subaru never issued a recall for it, so it’s the buyer’s job to check.

## What that means when you’re shopping

On a **2022**, make the oil pan the first conversation: has it been dropped and cleaned, or does the seller have oil-analysis or cut-open-filter evidence the oil is staying clean? A 2022 with a cleaned pan is arguably the value pick of the generation. On a **2023**, run the VIN for the small front-driveshaft recall (23V-754: 413 cars, free fix). **2024 and newer** are the low-drama choice, and the 2024 TR and 2025 tS added real hardware for enthusiasts.

Everything else is small-bore: an 11.6-inch Starlink screen that freezes and reboots (mostly tamed by firmware updates, and covered by a 2019–2023 class action), dead-battery reports on cars that sit (owners trace an extra 20–40 mA of draw to the telematics module), and a 6MT that rewards a thorough test drive. Notchy cold shifts are normal, grinding is not.

## Manual or SPT?

Buy on preference, not fear. The 6MT owns most of this generation’s transmission complaints, including a lemon-law buyback, but the absolute numbers are small. The SPT (the WRX-tuned CVT) has no documented VB failure pattern. The gripes are about rubber-band launch feel, and it was the only way to get EyeSight through 2023.

**How this file is built:** failure modes and cost ranges are compiled from NHTSA complaint and recall data, CarComplaints records, documented lemon-law outcomes, and owner-forum reporting (ClubWRX and the BRZ/GR86 community for the shared FA24 defect), then sanity-checked against shop-floor experience. This is a current-production car. The data is younger and thinner than for older generations, and this file will be updated as the fleet ages. Cost figures are independent-shop estimates and vary by region. Spot something off? [Tell us](https://carcasefile.com/disclaimer/).

Myths, checked

## Viral car myths, checked against this car

Outdated

### [Does a "$1 mineral" really double car battery life? The Epsom-salt reality.](https://carcasefile.com/claims/1-dollar-mineral-doubles-battery-life-myth/)

The mineral is Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate). It was a real desulfation hack for serviceable flooded-cell batteries 40+ years ago. It does not work on modern sealed AGM or EFB batteries, and trying it on yours will void the warranty without helping the battery.

Misleading

### [Is the "$1 Japanese oil trick" that stops engine wear forever real?](https://carcasefile.com/claims/1-dollar-japanese-oil-trick-mos2-engine-wear/)

The 'Japanese oil trick' is almost certainly MoS2 (molybdenum disulfide), a real industrial friction modifier. It is German, not Japanese (Liqui Moly popularized it), sold openly at every parts store for $15-20, has real but modest measured friction benefits, and was never buried by anyone.

Appendix

## Frequently asked questions

### Is the FA24 in the 2022+ WRX reliable? What about ringland failure?

So far, yes, with the honesty caveat that the oldest cars are only a few years old. The FA24 is a bigger engine running less boost than the old FA20DIT, and no widespread ringland-failure pattern has shown up in complaints or forums the way it did for earlier WRX engines. The one documented factory defect is excess RTV sealant in 2022 oil pans. Stock, maintained cars have been quiet.

### Which 2022+ WRX years should I avoid?

None outright. The 2022 carries the RTV oil-pan risk, so on that year verify the pan was cleaned or check the oil filter for silicone debris before buying. A cleaned 2022 is a fine car. On a 2023, confirm the driveshaft recall (23V-754) is closed by VIN; it only touched 413 cars. 2024 and newer have the fewest reported issues.

### Should I get the manual or the CVT (SPT)?

Mechanically, neither has a damning record on this generation. The 6MT has more documented complaints: notchy 2nd–3rd, grind reports, isolated early failures. Test-drive it thoroughly; the SPT's complaints are about feel, not breakage, and it was required for EyeSight through 2023. Buy the one you'll actually enjoy; resale and enthusiast demand favor the manual.

### Why does my 2022+ WRX battery keep dying?

If the car sits for days between drives, you may have the parasitic-draw issue owners have traced to the DCM telematics module (an extra 20–40 mA that keeps the battery from resting). Get a proper draw test. A new battery alone just resets the clock. The dealer can address the DCM under warranty, and a battery maintainer covers cars that sit. Note the 2015–2020 Subaru battery settlement does not cover this generation.

### Is the RTV oil-pan issue a recall? Will Subaru fix it free?

No recall and no service campaign exists for the WRX on this, unlike some 2022 BRZ/GR86 engine failures that were handled under warranty after the same defect got attention. If your engine fails from a clogged pickup in the 5yr/60k powertrain window, that's a warranty claim; the preventive pan-cleaning (~$300–$700) is out of pocket. Cutting open your oil filter at each change is the free way to monitor it.

Cross-reference

## Cross-shopped rivals

Files on what buyers weigh against the Subaru WRX of this era.

- [Ford Mustang 2024–2026 6/10](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/ford-mustang-2024-2026/)

## More Subaru case files

- [Subaru Outback 2020–2025 7/10](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/subaru-outback-2020-2025/)
- [Subaru Forester 2019–2024 7/10](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/subaru-forester-2019-2024/)

Spot an error in this case file?

Wrong cost, a fault we missed, or a part number that doesn't fit. Tell us and we'll fix it. See our [verification methodology](https://carcasefile.com/methodology/) and [corrections policy](https://carcasefile.com/disclaimer/).

Reviewed CarCaseFile editorial · filed 2026-07-03 · updated 2026-08-30

Cost figures are independent-shop estimates and vary by region and condition. Always confirm a diagnosis before authorizing repairs.