2022 Subaru Wrx Safety Report
2022 Subaru WRX excels in crash safety but faces serious, widespread engine RTV sealant issues and a minor recall.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2022 Subaru Wrx
Reliability Score
The 2022 Subaru Wrx receives a reliability score of 60 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 2022 Subaru Wrx
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2022 Subaru Wrx:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excessive Rtv Sealant In Engine Over-application of RTV sealant in the oil pan and timing cover leads to pieces breaking off, clogging the oil pickup, and causing engine oil starvation and potential failure. |
High | Common | under 4000-unknown miles |
| False Activation Of Eyesight Pre-Collision System The automatic emergency braking system can be falsely triggered by exhaust smoke from vehicles ahead, potentially causing unexpected braking and increasing the risk of a rear-end collision. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Airbag Non-Deployment In Front-End Collision In one reported front-end collision, the airbags failed to deploy, raising concerns about occupant protection in certain crash scenarios. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Infotainment System Blank Screen/Eyesight Disablement The infotainment system periodically goes blank, disabling the EyeSight camera and automatic braking/collision features, posing a safety concern. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Sunroof Spontaneous Shattering One complaint reported the sunroof spontaneously shattering while the car was stationary. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2022 Subaru Wrx:
The most prevalent issue involves the engine, specifically concerning excessive RTV sealant leading to oil starvation and potential engine failure. This accounts for 12 out of 22 complaints.
Complaints related to the forward collision avoidance system, including false activation by exhaust smoke, represent a notable pattern.
Issues with the electrical system, including infotainment screen malfunctions that disable safety features, are also reported.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2022 Subaru Wrx
Is the 2022 Subaru WRX safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2022 Subaru WRX received a perfect 5-star overall safety rating in crash tests, indicating excellent protection in collisions. However, there are significant concerns regarding potential engine failure due to excessive RTV sealant and a reported instance of airbag non-deployment in a crash, which temper the overall safety picture.
What are common problems with the 2022 Subaru WRX?
The most reported issues for the 2022 Subaru WRX revolve around the ENGINE (12 complaints), specifically the widespread problem of excessive RTV sealant clogging the oil pickup and causing oil starvation. Other reported problems include false activations of the FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE system and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM malfunctions affecting the infotainment and EyeSight features.
Has the 2022 Subaru WRX been recalled?
Yes, the 2022 Subaru WRX has had one recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 22V075000) related to incorrect instructions in the owner's manual for adjusting the sensitivity of the High Beam Assist function. This is a minor recall and does not address the more serious engine-related complaints.
How does the 2022 Subaru WRX perform in crash tests?
The 2022 Subaru WRX performs exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It achieved 5 stars in frontal crash, side crash, and rollover resistance tests, demonstrating high levels of occupant protection.
Should I be concerned about the engine in a 2022 Subaru WRX?
Yes, there is significant concern regarding the engine in the 2022 Subaru WRX. Multiple complaints detail excessive RTV sealant leading to oil pickup clogs and potential oil starvation, with one reported engine failure at under 4,000 miles. This issue is widespread enough to warrant serious consideration and inspection.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2022 Subaru WRX boasts excellent crash safety, potential buyers should be highly cautious of the documented widespread engine RTV sealant issue; a pre-purchase inspection specifically addressing this concern is strongly recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2022 Subaru Wrx
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2022 Subaru Wrx. The data includes 22 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2022 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.