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Subaru · Compact · 2008–2014 Custom Search

Subaru WRX GR

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants · How we rate

Body Variants

The Subaru WRX GR is available as Sedan and Hatchback — choose your body type for specific insurance data:

Generations

Engine Overview

The Subaru WRX GR is available with one engine variant at 230 hp.

2.5L Turbo · Petrol· 265 PS
2008 2014

Turbo boxer with 2.5L — the WRX engine of the GR/GV era. Same ringland vulnerability as the EJ257 (cast iron pistons with thin ringlands), but slightly less boost from the factory. Oil pickup tube crack, rod bearing failure, and timing belt are the three big concerns. Class action for 2012-2017 models extended warranty to 8 years/100k miles.

+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Brake line corrosion (Recall WQK-47)

Subaru recall WQK-47 (2014): Brake lines can corrode through from salt water — over 660,000 vehicles including 2008-2014 WRX affected. Free inspection and repair at dealer.

Symptoms: Soft or spongy brake pedal, increased stopping distance, visible corrosion on brake lines under vehicle
from 80,000 km
Ad brake line Subaru WRX GR stainlessbrake pipe set Impreza WRX 2008-2014
 Medium
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Average
126 complaints · 2008–2014
  1. 01 Powertrain
    90
  2. 02 Brakes
    43 ⚠ 1
  3. 03 Body Structure
    42
  4. 04 Other
    17
  5. 05 Engine
    11

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Powertrain (90 complaints)
⚠ Brakes (43 complaints)
⚠ Body Structure (42 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues +

A total of 10 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru WRX GR (2008–2014) — 5 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Brakes, Rust, Suspension, Interior.

WRX (EJ255, 2008–2014) — Be Careful: Ringland Failure — Piston Breakage, Rod Bearing Failure, Oil Pickup Tube Crack. Power: 265 PS.

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 GR have? +
The Subaru WRX GR has 5 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru WRX GR? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: EJ255 (2.5L Turbo). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the EJ255 (2.5L Turbo).
Which Subaru WRX GR engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Subaru WRX GR — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} The GR WRX has the stiffer chassis and bigger engine, but also the EJ255 weaknesses: ringland vulnerability and the notorious firewall crack. 2008-2010 are problem years, 2011+ is mature. The sedan lives in the shadow of the hatchback cult — unfairly. Competent stock, properly good from Stage 1.
Is the Subaru WRX GR worth buying used? +
The Subaru WRX GR requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Subaru WRX GR? +
The Subaru WRX GR is available with engine variants from 230 to 230 hp. Petrol: EJ255 (2.5L Turbo).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee