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Subaru · Sports Car · 2008–2014

Subaru STI GR

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

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

Body Variants

The Subaru STI GR is available as Limousine and Schrägheck — choose your body type for specific insurance data:

Limousine
1 Engines 1× Stay Away!
view Limousine →
Schrägheck
1 Engines 1× Stay Away!
view Schrägheck →

Generations

Engine Overview

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

2.5L Turbo STI · Benziner· 305 PS
2008 2014
Stay Away! 5 weaknesses

The Subaru 2.5L Turbo STI (Benziner, 305 PS) has the EJ257 (2.5L Turbo STI) — rated: "Stay Away!", 5 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Brake line corrosion (Recall WQK-47)

Official Subaru recall WQK-47 for 2008-2014 STI: brake lines can perforate from salt water. Free inspection and repair at dealer.

Symptoms: Soft or spongy brake pedal, longer stopping distance, visible corrosion on brake lines
from 80,000 km
Ad brake line Subaru STI GRB stainlessbrake pipe set STI 2008-2014
 Medium
!Brembo caliper bolts seize

Galvanic corrosion between steel bolt and aluminum caliper. On the GR STI with 6-piston Brembo front calipers, particularly relevant during brake service or inspections.

Symptoms: Bolt won't break free, caliper can't be removed, internal threads strip out
from 80,000 km
Ad Brembo caliper bolt STI GRBcopper anti-seize caliper STI
 Medium

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 10 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru STI GR (2008–2014) — 5 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. One problem engine: EJ257 (2.5L Turbo STI). Typical issues affect Brakes, Rust, Suspension, Interior.

STI (EJ257, 2008–2014) — Stay Away!: Ringland Failure — The STI Cliché, Rod Bearing Failure — Class Action, Oil Pickup Tube Crack. Power: 305 PS.

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 GR have? +
The Subaru STI GR has 5 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru STI GR? +
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 GR engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Subaru STI GR — rated: "Legendary!". {description} 305 hp EJ257, stiffer chassis than GD but 110 lbs heavier. 2008-2010 problematic (bearings, electrics), 2011+ mature. The sedan is less sought after than the hatch — making it a bargain for people who want performance without the hype premium. Budget for firewall crack like the GR WRX.
Is the Subaru STI GR worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Subaru STI GR — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Subaru STI GR? +
The Subaru STI GR is available with engine variants from 301 to 310 hp. Petrol: EJ257 (2.5L Turbo STI).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee