2019 Subaru Wrx Safety Report
2019 Subaru WRX faces recalls for backup light and fuel pump failures, alongside significant electrical and engine complaints.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Subaru Wrx
Reliability Score
The 2019 Subaru Wrx receives a reliability score of 55 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 2019 Subaru Wrx
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Subaru Wrx:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Failure (Rod Bearing, Stalling) Multiple reports of sudden engine failure, including rod bearing issues and stalling at various speeds, requiring significant repairs like short block replacement. This can lead to loss of power while driving. |
High | Occasional | 9000-77000 miles |
| Parasitic Battery Drain / Dead Battery Numerous complaints about batteries draining rapidly, often within a day or week of not being driven, leading to inability to start the vehicle. This is sometimes attributed to the telematics system (DCM). |
Medium | Common | 1000-60000 miles |
| Power Steering Failure One report of complete power steering loss while driving, making the car almost impossible to steer, which can reset after turning the car off but reoccur. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Infotainment System Malfunction (Starlink) Issues with the radio screen malfunctioning, freezing, becoming unresponsive, skipping songs, phantom scanning radio stations, and disconnecting phone calls, sometimes with what appears to be water spots inside the screen. |
Medium | Occasional | under 60000 miles |
| Backup Light Switch Corrosion Recall for corrosion of the backup light switch, leading to inoperative backup lights and rearview camera, increasing crash risk due to reduced visibility. |
High | Common | N/A (recall) miles |
| Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure Recall for potential failure of the low-pressure fuel pump, which can cause an engine stall while driving and increase the risk of a crash. Multiple complaints mention fuel pump replacements. |
High | Common | N/A (recall) miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Subaru Wrx:
The most frequently reported issues relate to the electrical system, including parasitic battery drain, dead batteries, and infotainment system malfunctions. There are 7 complaints specifically for 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' and 3 for 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER'.
Engine-related problems are the second most common, with 6 direct complaints. These include severe issues like rod bearing failure, engine seizing, and stalling while driving, often requiring major repairs.
Complaints related to the fuel system, specifically fuel pump issues leading to stalling, are noted, aligning with a significant recall for low-pressure fuel pump failure.
One complaint mentions the vehicle occasionally not shifting into 2nd gear, indicating a potential power train issue.
One complaint details an airbag (SRS) light illuminating due to a fault in the Occupant Detection System, potentially preventing airbag activation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Subaru Wrx
Is the 2019 Subaru WRX safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Subaru WRX has no reported crashes, injuries, or deaths among its 27 complaints. However, it has two significant safety recalls concerning backup light functionality and fuel pump failure, both of which can increase crash risk. Additionally, there are recurring complaints about sudden engine failures and power steering loss, which are serious safety concerns.
What are common problems with the 2019 Subaru WRX?
The most reported issues for the 2019 Subaru WRX are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7 complaints), primarily parasitic battery drain and infotainment malfunctions. ENGINE problems (6 complaints), including rod bearing failures and stalling, are also prevalent. There are also concerns with the FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE (1 complaint, but supported by a recall), and isolated reports of power steering failure and airbag system faults.
Are there any recalls for the 2019 Subaru WRX?
Yes, the 2019 Subaru WRX has two recalls. One is for 'EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BACK UP LIGHTS:SWITCH' where corrosion can cause backup lights and the rearview camera to fail. The second is for 'FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP' due to a low-pressure fuel pump failure that can lead to an engine stall while driving.
How does the 2019 Subaru WRX perform in crash tests?
NHTSA ratings for the 2019 Subaru WRX are not available for Overall, Frontal, Side, or Rollover crash tests. Therefore, its crash test performance cannot be assessed based on this data.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2019 Subaru WRX?
When considering a used 2019 Subaru WRX, pay close attention to the vehicle's service history, especially regarding engine repairs (look for evidence of rod bearing issues or engine replacements) and fuel pump replacements. Ensure both recalls have been addressed. Also, check for any signs of electrical issues, such as a weak battery or infotainment system malfunctions.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the significant recalls for critical safety components and recurring complaints about engine failures and electrical issues, potential buyers should proceed with caution. Ensure all recalls have been completed and thoroughly inspect the vehicle's service history for engine or fuel system repairs before purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Subaru Wrx
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Subaru Wrx. The data includes 27 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 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.