2020 Subaru Wrx Safety Report
2020 Subaru WRX: Excellent crash safety, but watch for electrical issues and windshield cracking.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Subaru Wrx
Reliability Score
The 2020 Subaru Wrx receives a reliability score of 75 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
Known Issues for the 2020 Subaru Wrx
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Subaru Wrx:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parasitic Battery Drain/Premature Battery Failure Multiple reports of batteries dying frequently, even after short periods of not driving, leading to stranding. Dealerships often recharge or replace without finding a root cause. |
Medium | Common | 0-25000 miles |
| Spontaneous Windshield Cracking Several complaints describe the front or rear windshield cracking or imploding without impact or apparent reason while stationary or driving. |
Medium | Occasional | 0-30000 miles |
| Cvt Transmission Fluid Leak One complaint details a significant fluid leak between the engine and CVT transmission, initially misidentified as an oil spill. |
High | Rare | 70000-80000 miles |
| Engine Stalling And Knocking One report of the engine stalling, being hard to start, and then knocking severely at low mileage. |
High | Rare | 30000-35000 miles |
| Backup Light Switch Corrosion Subject of a recall; switch may corrode, causing backup lights and rearview camera to become inoperative, increasing crash risk. |
Medium | Common | 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 2020 Subaru Wrx:
Frequent complaints about battery drainage, premature battery failure, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
Reports of windshields cracking spontaneously without external impact.
Issues including CVT transmission fluid leaks and incorrect gear display.
Complaints of engine stalling, knocking, and general starting issues.
Reports of rear passenger seatbelts fraying.
One complaint of brake failure leading to a crash and another regarding parking brake effectiveness on inclines.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Subaru Wrx
Is the 2020 Subaru WRX safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 Subaru WRX is highly safe in terms of crash protection, earning a perfect 5-star overall safety rating. However, there are 17 reported complaints, including 1 crash and 1 injury, with recurring issues in the electrical system and visibility components that potential buyers should be aware of.
What are common problems with the 2020 Subaru WRX?
The most reported issues for the 2020 Subaru WRX are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4 complaints), primarily parasitic battery drain and premature battery failure. VISIBILITY/WIPER issues (3 complaints), specifically spontaneous windshield cracking, are also common. Other concerns include power train issues like CVT leaks and engine problems such as stalling and knocking.
Has the 2020 Subaru WRX been recalled?
Yes, the 2020 Subaru WRX has one recall (NHTSA ID: 20V734000) concerning the EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BACK UP LIGHTS:SWITCH. This recall addresses a potential corrosion issue that can cause the backup lights and rearview camera to become inoperative, increasing the risk of a crash.
How does the 2020 Subaru WRX perform in crash tests?
The 2020 Subaru WRX performs exceptionally well in crash tests, receiving a 5-star rating in every NHTSA category: Overall, Frontal Crash, Side Crash, and Rollover. This indicates a very high level of occupant protection in various collision scenarios.
Are there any engine or transmission issues with the 2020 Subaru WRX?
While not widespread, there are specific complaints regarding the engine and power train. One complaint details a CVT transmission fluid leak at high mileage, and another mentions severe engine knocking and stalling at low mileage. These are significant but appear to be isolated incidents among the reported complaints.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: The 2020 Subaru WRX offers excellent crash safety, but prospective buyers should be vigilant about potential electrical system issues and spontaneous windshield cracking, and ensure all recall work, especially for the backup light switch, has been completed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Subaru Wrx
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Subaru Wrx. The data includes 17 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 Subaru Wrx an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
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.