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Subaru · Sports Car · 2004–2007

Subaru STI GD

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
1.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Subaru STI GD is available with one engine variant at 301 hp.

STI · Benziner· 300 PS
2004 2007
Stay Away! 5 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Subaru STI (Benziner, 300 PS) has the EJ257 (2.5L Turbo STI) — rated: "Stay Away!", 5 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Front subframe rusts through

Identical recall issue to the WRX GD: front subframe and control arm brackets corrode severely in salt-belt states. Safety-critical — control arm can break.

Symptoms: Visible rust on subframe, clunking from suspension, failed safety inspection
from 120,000 km
Ad front subframe Subaru STI GDBlower control arm bracket STI GD rust
 High
!Rear wheel arch rust

Same design weakness as the WRX: weld seam at rear wheel house traps moisture. STIs are often driven year-round — higher salt exposure than seasonal vehicles.

Symptoms: Paint bubbling, rust inside and outside of rear wheel arch, visible corrosion at panel seam
from 100,000 km
Ad rear wheel arch repair panel STI GDrear fender rust repair Subaru STI 2004-2007
 High

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 11 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru STI GD (2004–2007) — 5 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. One problem engine: EJ257 (2.5L Turbo STI). Typical issues affect Rust, Brakes, Suspension.

What to watch out for with the Subaru STI? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Subaru STI GD have? +
The Subaru STI GD has 5 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru STI GD? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
None of the available engines are rated 'Good Choice'. Stay away! The most fun to drive is the EJ257 (2.5L Turbo STI). Problem engine: EJ257 (2.5L Turbo STI) — stay away!
Which Subaru STI GD engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Subaru STI GD — rated: "Legendary!". {description} Rally homologation on four wheels. Unequal-length boxer rumble, DCCD center diff, 300 hp from the EJ257. Raw, direct, uncompromising. Ringland risk real but overstated: under 0.1% on maintained stock cars. Watch for the 2007 ECU lean spot. Blobeye with 880 miles: $107,000 on Cars & Bids. If you own one: don't sell.
Is the Subaru STI GD worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Subaru STI GD — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Subaru STI GD? +
The Subaru STI GD is available with engine variants from 301 to 310 hp. Petrol: EJ257 (2.5L Turbo STI).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee