2017 Subaru Wrx Safety Report

2017 Subaru WRX: Recall for backup lights, concerning airbag non-deployment, and frequent power train/engine complaints without NHTSA crash ratings.

51Complaints
1Recalls
45/100Reliability Score
8Crash Reports
2Fire Reports
7Injuries
Most reported components: Power Train (9)Electrical System (7)Engine (6)Air Bags (3)Exterior Lighting (3)Visibility/Wiper (3)Steering,Electrical System,Engine (2)Electrical System,Fuel/Propulsion System (1)Back Over Prevention (1)Steering,Electrical System,Visibility/Wiper (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Subaru Wrx

The 2017 Subaru WRX presents a mixed safety picture, with a notable recall and several concerning complaint patterns, despite the absence of NHTSA crash test ratings. With 51 total complaints, including 8 crashes and 7 injuries, there are clear areas of concern. A significant recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V522000) addresses corroding backup light switches, which can lead to inoperative backup lights and rearview cameras, increasing crash risk. Several complaints directly reference this issue, indicating its real-world impact. Common complaint patterns include power train issues (9 complaints), electrical system problems (7 complaints), and engine failures (6 complaints). Within the power train category, there are multiple reports of premature clutch failure and throw-out bearing issues, some occurring at low mileages (e.g., before 10,000 miles). Engine complaints include rod bearing failure leading to engine destruction and carbon build-up causing stalling. A particularly alarming pattern involves airbag non-deployment in multiple crash incidents, with drivers reporting head impacts despite no airbag activation. This raises serious questions about occupant protection in collisions. Electrical system complaints frequently cite battery drain issues, with owners reporting multiple battery replacements within a few years of ownership. Other electrical issues include non-functional windshield wipers and general electrical malfunctions. While NHTSA has not provided specific crash test ratings for the 2017 WRX, the reported airbag non-deployment incidents in actual crashes are a significant red flag that potential buyers should consider. The overall safety profile suggests that while the vehicle has a recall addressing a visibility issue, more critical safety components like airbags and engine reliability are subjects of frequent and serious complaints.

Reliability Score

The 2017 Subaru Wrx receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2017 Subaru Wrx

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Subaru Wrx:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Airbag Non-Deployment In Crashes
Multiple complaints detail crashes where airbags failed to deploy, despite significant impact, leading to potential head injuries.		 High Occasional N/A miles
Premature Clutch/Throw-Out Bearing Failure
Owners report rattling noises and clutch failure, sometimes at very low mileage, requiring costly replacements.		 High Common 10000-40000 miles
Engine Failure (Rod Bearing, Carbon Build-Up)
Complaints include catastrophic engine failure due to rod bearings and stalling from carbon build-up on valves.		 High Occasional 20000-60000 miles
Backup Light Switch Corrosion/Failure
Corrosion of the backup light switch leads to inoperative backup lights and rearview camera, addressed by a recall.		 Medium Common N/A miles
Battery Drain/Premature Failure
Owners frequently report batteries draining quickly or failing prematurely, requiring multiple replacements.		 Medium Common N/A miles
Windshield Wiper Malfunction
Reports of windshield wipers stopping working entirely, even after motor and key replacements.		 Medium Occasional 12000-24000 miles
Steering Issues (Seizing/Difficulty)
Isolated reports of steering wheel seizing or becoming difficult to steer at highway speeds.		 High Rare N/A miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Subaru Wrx:

Power Train 17% of complaints

Frequent issues with clutch failure, throw-out bearings, and transmission-related problems.

Electrical System 13% of complaints

Common complaints about battery drain, premature battery failure, and general electrical malfunctions including wipers.

Engine 11% of complaints

Reports of engine failure (e.g., rod bearings) and performance issues like stalling due to carbon build-up.

Air Bags 5% of complaints

Multiple incidents where airbags failed to deploy during significant crashes.

Exterior Lighting 5% of complaints

Issues with backup lights not illuminating, often related to the recall for the backup light switch.

Visibility/Wiper 5% of complaints

Problems with windshield wipers ceasing to function.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Subaru Wrx

Is the 2017 Subaru WRX safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Subaru WRX has 51 total complaints, including 8 crashes and 7 injuries. While there are no NHTSA crash test ratings, multiple complaints detail airbag non-deployment in crashes, which is a significant safety concern. There is also a recall for backup light switch corrosion affecting visibility.

What are common problems with the 2017 Subaru WRX?

The most reported issues are related to the POWER TRAIN (9 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7 complaints), and ENGINE (6 complaints). Specific common problems include premature clutch and throw-out bearing failure, battery drain issues, engine failure (e.g., rod bearings), and non-deployment of airbags in crashes.

Has the 2017 Subaru WRX been recalled?

Yes, the 2017 Subaru WRX has one recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V522000) concerning the EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BACK UP LIGHTS:SWITCH. This recall addresses a corroding backup light switch that can cause backup lights and the rearview camera to become inoperative, increasing the risk of a crash.

Are there issues with the airbags in the 2017 Subaru WRX?

Yes, there are 3 complaints specifically about AIR BAGS, with multiple reports detailing incidents where airbags failed to deploy during significant collisions, despite impacts that owners believed should have triggered deployment. This is a serious safety concern.

What should I know about the engine and transmission?

The engine has 6 complaints, including reports of rod bearing failure leading to engine destruction and stalling due to carbon build-up. The power train has 9 complaints, with common issues being premature clutch failure and throw-out bearing problems, sometimes occurring at low mileage.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the concerning reports of airbag non-deployment, engine failures, and persistent power train issues, potential buyers should proceed with extreme caution and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially of the engine, clutch, and electrical system.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Subaru Wrx

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Subaru Wrx. The data includes 51 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 8 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.