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Subaru · Sports Car · 2015–2021

Subaru STI VA

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

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

Generations

Engine Overview

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

2.5L Turbo STI · Benziner· 310 PS
2015 2021
Stay Away! 5 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Subaru 2.5L Turbo STI (Benziner, 310 PS) has the EJ257 (2.5L Turbo STI) — rated: "Stay Away!", 5 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Brembo caliper bolts seize

Known STI issue across all generations: galvanic corrosion between steel bolt and aluminum caliper. Copper anti-seize on installation prevents the problem. VA retains 6-piston Brembo front.

Symptoms: Bolt won't break free during brake service, internal caliper threads damaged on removal
from 80,000 km
Ad Brembo caliper bolt STI VA VABcopper anti-seize brake caliper
 Medium

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 10 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru STI VA (2015–2021) — 5 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. One problem engine: EJ257 (2.5L Turbo STI). Typical issues affect Brakes, Suspension, Electronics, Gearbox.

STI (EJ257, 2015–2021) — Stay Away!: Ringland Failure — The STI Cliché, Rod Bearing Failure — Class Action, Oil Pickup Tube Crack. Power: 310 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 VA have? +
The Subaru STI VA has 5 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru STI VA? +
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 VA engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Subaru STI VA — rated: "Legendary!". {description} The final EJ257 STI: no VB successor in sight. DCCD, manual, boxer rumble — everything that became history after 2021. 2019+ with stronger factory pistons: ringland risk reduced. Used prices exploded after the "no VB STI" announcement. S209 (209 units): $80-107k. Regular VA STI: $35-55k. Community: "If you have a mint VA STI, keep it."
Is the Subaru STI VA worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Subaru STI VA — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Subaru STI VA? +
The Subaru STI VA is available with engine variants from 301 to 310 hp. Petrol: EJ257 (2.5L Turbo STI).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee