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Subaru · Compact · 2002–2007

Subaru WRX GD

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Body Variants

The Subaru WRX GD is available as Limousine and Kombi — choose your body type for specific insurance data:

Limousine
2 Engines
view Limousine →
Kombi
2 Engines
view Kombi →

Generations

Engine Overview

The Subaru WRX GD is available with one engine variant at 224 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

WRX · Benziner· 227–230 PS Engine Change
2002 2005
Be Careful 5 weaknesses
2006 2007
Be Careful 5 weaknesses

The Subaru WRX (Benziner, 227–230 PS) comes with 2 different engines: EJ205 (2002–2005, Be Careful) und EJ255 (2006–2007, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the WRX!

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Front subframe rusts through

Known recall issue (2011): Front subframe and lower control arm brackets corrode severely in salt-belt states — metal can be punched through. Safety-critical failure mode.

Symptoms: Visible rust on subframe, clunking or knocking from suspension, failed safety inspection
from 120,000 km
Ad front subframe Subaru Impreza GD WRXlower control arm bracket WRX rust repair
 High
!Rear wheel arch rust

Rear wheel houses rust from the inside out — the weld seam between inner and outer panel traps moisture. In salt-belt regions visible from about 10 years onward.

Symptoms: Rust bubbles or holes at rear wheel arch, paint bubbling, rust visible on inner wheel house seam
from 100,000 km
Ad rear wheel arch repair panel Subaru Impreza WRX GDrear fender rust repair WRX
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
561 complaints · 2002–2007
Fuel System
342
Gasoline
316
Brakes
101 ⚠ 22
Hydraulic
85 ⚠ 18
Powertrain
27 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Fuel System (342 complaints)
⚠ Gasoline (316 complaints)
⚠ Brakes (101 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 16 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru WRX GD (2002–2007) — 10 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Rust, Suspension, Brakes, Interior.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Subaru WRX GD have? +
The Subaru WRX GD has 10 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru WRX GD? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: EJ205 (2.0L Turbo), EJ255 (2.5L Turbo). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the EJ255 (2.5L Turbo).
Which Subaru WRX GD engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Subaru WRX GD — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} More displacement than the EJ205, but also more ringland risk. The GR/GV WRX is the workhorse of the scene. Hatchback version cult-worshipped, sedan more common. From Stage 1 it gets properly fun — stock is competent but not exciting.
Is the Subaru WRX GD worth buying used? +
The Subaru WRX GD requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Subaru WRX GD? +
The Subaru WRX GD is available with engine variants from 224 to 230 hp. Petrol: EJ205 (2.0L Turbo), EJ255 (2.5L Turbo).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee