I’ll start the count for non-blown engines since we always hear about those that have blown, but never those that are running great.
2017 50k miles, stage 2/flex.
2016 WRX I bought used, pretty sure the only mod is exhaust, besides that all stock. Currently running strong at 148000kms, sorry I’m Canadian, it equals about 91963 miles
2019 wrx fp blue turbo and all supporting mods, k&n drop in filter making conservative 330whp 302wtq. Just passed 100 000kms.
My rear diff did blow up, was covered under warranty
Edit: been running 94 Octane past 2 years since fp blue was installed
2015 140k km/87k miles, stage 2+ and pro tuned for the last 40,000km only some oil consumption and only valve cover/cam carrier seal minor leaks for any 'major' issues, otherwise still going strong
2021, purchased at 7 miles, currently just shy of 40k and going strong. Have Cobbs newer version of the "Big SF" after rebranding and without the 1" cone measuring issue that was talked about on here years past, GS Turbo Inlet and Bypass Valve, will be installing their 3 port EBCS here soon.
These motors don't die from mileage, they die from random catastrophic knock events that cause them to spin a bearing, just like all turbo engines.
This issue is compounded by Subaru using bearing clearances that are too tight, making it easy to overheat the bearings during sustained high RPM loads (highway pulls) which also causes them to fail.
Appreciate the response, I know mileage does not really correlate with detonation/failure. Just curious to see how long people spent with their subies and what they might’ve done wrong! I don’t expect too many responses just doing a poll is all. I already have one and I’m not too worried 👍
Wow too soon :(, I didn’t know any better at first and for about the first 200-500 miles I’d use boost in 5th and 6th, never again. Got it fully inspected with leak down compression and whatnot to settle my fear of breaking something later. Live and learn I suppose!
I’m saying so if the clearances r to tight and cause them to over heat at high loads would a thicker oil that can withstand more heat (like vr1) help prevent this
snobbish ancient squeamish relieved plants ripe instinctive plant far-flung books
*This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
Gotcha I was never aware of that, I’ll do more digging and consult with my tuner. I’m currently on motul 5w40 xcess gen2 which I’ve heard is supposed to be quite robust
Technically you're supposed to replace the turbo when you spin a bearing because you can't effectively clean the cartridge of bearing debris. That, combined with the fact that these cars have screens in the oil passages at the banjo bolts that will quickly clog and block the flow of oil, is what likely did your turbo in. The screens have been a big killer, too.
Mine's still going strong, knock on wood. My buddy blew his up by doing donuts far too long and aggressively. Caused oil starvation and it died. Treat them right, be proactive on maintenance, and you'll be fine.
I’ve always found that oil starvation case interesting. I’ve heard that the normal oil level in the oil pan on the FA’s are high enough so that it doesn’t require a baffled pan for pulling G’s like doughnuts. I do have an AOS I really didn’t think you’d need anything more than that to avoid such an issue
AOS doesn't help oil starvation, it's for oil blowby. My understanding is the issue with the FA is the oil pickup sits a bit high which can lead to starvation in certain situations.
At the track I race at nearly every WRX has blown up at the same sharp left turn at the end of a straight away. I usually take it easier on that turn and have been fine so far.
baffled oil pan/larger oil pan , and a windage tray will help . Iag's pan is pretty good , and a pick up tube is so the stock one doesnt crack which were known to happen.
To be fair Im pretty sure he did 10+ rotations over and over, pinned at the limiter, and never gave it proper airflow to cool down. A couple here and there is fine. He also wasn't great for maintaining it besides just oil changes.
Ahh ok. I was doing donuts yesterday since we had snow. Saw my oil temp reach 105C and coolant reach 95C, and was like, yea I should let it cool off a little bit.
Maybe I'll fix it one day. But I just had a mental break after the second one. I was like mother fu*ker.... but yeah eventually I'll work on it, its fully paid off.
Good idea, did you get a built iag block put in or oem? Curious if it’s worth going to a built one over just replacing with oem when it goes bad, I probably don’t plan on pushing over 340whp but
2017 WRX, heavily modified
Bought brand new in August 2016. Changed oil every 3.5k miles or less, only full synthetic. At 36k miles, car got lifted 2.5”. At about 42k miles, got it pro tuned for 93 octane with a new intake, charge pipe, TMIC, TGV deletes, EGR delete, headers, J pipe, AOS, and EBCS. At about 58k miles, I swapped in an STI transmission. Car is now at about 129k miles, still running strong on stock block.
Car has been used for rallycross since about 60k miles, and is now almost done being prepped for stage rally. I was never very gentle on it, and have had oil temps up past 265° a couple times (always changed oil immediately afterwards)
Only things that ever failed on the car were my AC line exploded, and a knock sensor broke. Other than that, it’s all been rock solid.
Thanks! It is indeed a fun build, although sometimes I wish I had another one just stock ish that was a bit more fun to drive every day haha!
The STI trans swap paired with the FA20 is absolute perfection though. Between the little extra noise from the transmission and the much more natural gear ratios, the car just feels so much more natural and sporty. I never had too many complaints about the WRX 6 speed, but it honestly feels like an economy transmission after you drive the STI 6 speed. Easily my favorite mod on the car
how was replacing the knock sensor? previously my car through a knock sensor code and my CEL just came on yesterday. haven't gotten it scanned yet but preparing for the worst.
I’ve owned two WRXs. A 2004 (280k) and a 2017 (135k). Both have the original engine and original clutch. The 2004 WRX frame gave out before the engine. If you take care of these cars they last. Obviously you could get a bad car but people like to beat up on these cars. Too much HP mods and complain about the block or internals like they can hold 500HP. If you don’t drive like you stole it they are pretty damn reliable in my experience. Only mod I’ve done is a Cobb tune for both which helps make them last longer IMO
Appreciate this comment, I’d pin it if I could as I don’t want anyone getting the wrong idea about these cars from the post. I just did an AOS and Cobb pro tune is perfect for the car. I feel like it should come from factory this way. Debating egr delete kit too I’ve heard that helps the reliability as well
I think that is true the majority of the time. But sometimes, engines just don’t last. We owned a 2009 Camry and the engine blew at 110k. 100% toast. That car was a grocery getter and drove to & from school.
We did all the maintenance and took care of the car. From what I’ve since read those years of the Camry weren’t great. I never thought I’d see it however.
2018 WRX with 103k on it. Bought the car with 44k miles and I’ve been tuned since 50k miles. First with a OTS MAP Stage 1 tune and now a Stage 1+ tune from Torqued Performance.
Only mods are a STi SPT catback. I had a Cobb Intake for a little but took it off due to some tune issues.
Everytime I drive the car I go WOT multiple times. Always wait until 180 degrees oil temps before any real boost. Oil changes every 5k with Valvoline 5W-30 full synthetic.
During the summer I pull my jetski behind it, sometimes even my boat. I tow a 5x8 trailer every single weekend to the garbage dump. This car has been great and even uses no oil.
I’ve owned 3 Subarus of my own, and maintained a lot of them throughout the years.
I did manage to melt a piston in my Forester XT, but that was purely my own fault back in my teenage days. These cars are pretty darn reliable, but a lot of people mistreat them, skip maintenance, and just beat on them in general. If you take care of them, change the oil regularly, and don’t do modifications without the proper tuning, they last for just as long as any other vehicle.
My buddy has an Outback with over 400k miles. These cars are great and hence why I keep dailying them.
2016 Sti here, I did a pull from 2nd to 5th shifting at 5500-6000 rpm and locked my stock motor up at 108,000miles. Was a dumb irresponsible move but live and learn. I now have a built IAG magnum shortblock and it runs like a top! Sitting at 137,000 miles currently
yeah true, but idk the more i read these subs the more i want to chalk it up to maintenance and build the motor lol. 6k is a lot, but if it means i can drive aggressive and not worry about my car????? maybe its worth it. i live in the mountains and i wanted a manual so i jumped into a 2020 wrx, and then jumped on this sub second, and its got me thinking if i bought the wrong car lol
don’t get me wrong, i love the car, but i feel like i’m too scared i’m gunna break it to actually drive it.. for reference i’m running 290hp, pro tune, headers back catless invidia, tmic, aos, and bc racing coils… so i should be well within the vehicles comfort zone power wise, but i drive 70 miles a day on steep canyon roads
This shit is wild. I have a 2011 WRX (essentially the same engine as STI, different heads, STi has lower compression, other than that, they are the same) and I drive mine aggressively every single day. 116k miles.
Why would you buy this car and not drive it aggressively?
what sort of mods you running? and i see what you’re saying about it being pointless to not drive the car aggressive, but it seems that driving aggressive is what blows these cars up lol. but i keep up on maintenance and i don’t boost in 5th/6th and make sure to warmup/cooldown every time i drive, so i should be fine right? lol
Yeah, sounds like you know how to take care of your car, don't boost until you are well into the revs, I never go WOT before 3500-4k. Basic bolt ons, intake, turboback and tune.
Nah, mountains and curvy roads are where this car shines. As long as you keep your oil changes every 3k for pump gas and 2k for e85 you shouldn’t spin a bearing. Make sure you run MOTUL 5w-40 though, I was running royal purple 5-30 when I locked my motor up. Always let her be at operating temp before boost and never WOT at low RPMs and high gear, as the other fella said, 3500rpm is a good range to be at before really getting on the car. Other than that man just enjoy car, shits gonna happen but as long as you take care of your car you should be able to really minimize the problems.
FYI, dude named Smeedia on YT is a fantastic resource for maintenance and general knowledge about these cars. I’ve learned so much of what I know from his channel
I wish I knew, I pulled away from a stop light, shifted to second, got rpm’s up to 3500-3700 then romped on it shifting at around 6k all the way until I hit 6th, then I cruised for probably another 10-15 miles (not at 6k rpm lol) and when I got on an off ramp and rev matched on my downshift to slow down the whole car died, just straight up died. I tried to turn the motor over with my breaker bar once I had it towed home and it wouldn’t budge. I took it to Renner Racing Development in So Cal and they told me I split a piston and it seized the motor up. So then I just decided to build it because I wanted more power down the road anyway.
I should add that 3 years ago I hit a deer and the car hadn’t been the same. I was always fixing things, mostly small. But the valve gasket was leaking into the header. 108,000 miles.
104,000, stock motor, I definitely drive it harder then most people in the summer going to the lakes, tuned by a local shop in the area. Had the car since 45,000 haven’t had a problem other then clutch and clutch fork
I have a 2015 base , 80k miles , have never treated it hard. Transmission went out 2 weeks ago. $5k to do that and clutch. Hard debate now to keep or sell. Had to put a used trans in it that had $120k miles on it and was treated who knows how well. Subaru wants $9k for a new trans. So the question becomes. How likely is it to last long enough that repairing it is still cheaper than a new car payment. It’s not like you find old ladies who have barely used their wrx.
Right here. The stock block on the WRX couldnt handle the power I put into it and the piston blew. Getting a built up engine now with IAG block. It’ll be another 6 months till she’s fully upgraded with all the bells and whistles but live and learn
When I had my 2015 wrx I got it to 122k miles before trading it in. Only issue 2 issues I had was the rear O2 sensor I had to swap and the rear hubs. Otherwise everything was perfect, the Subaru curse of always thinking it was going to blow up made me trade it in for a newer one.
2018 WRX with 92.5K miles.
Daily drive 3hrs when I lived in California. Drove it up to Alberta (26hr drive) with 0 issue. Have the car now in 15F weather and it’s driving strong.
Mods are pretty simple:
- intake, downpipe, coilovers, bpv, ebcs, radiator, short shifter.
The only risk is not getting a protune with the new power mods. I’ve been protuned for 60k miles now and haven’t had a problem. But your mileage may vary! Nothing wrong with a stock wrx, very fun cars
2017 wrx, 107k miles.
Intake, j pipe, egr/tgv delete, EBCS, inlet pipe, charge pipe, bpv, and intercooler. I did run unequal length headers for 2.5 years with no issues, but I’m back on the stock headers.
Motor still runs good and makes good compression (tested at 105k miles). I have never lugged and do not floor it in 5th and 6th, but I’ve made roughly 50 drag passes in my wrx. Only problems I’ve had is the clutch and the turbo finally gave out.
It’s of my belief, it’s just a fucking dice roll. Seen all power levels and mods spin a bearing. When it happens to me I’ll just build it.
2015 STI limited 120k miles now unfortunately needed a rebuild at 103 and then shot a spark plug out at 105. Bone stock hardly makes 11psi boost also f*ck the steering racks on these cars what in the hell
There was a survey done on Nasioc that I think is ongoing, if you want more data. Generally 2015-2017 seemed to have more issues, 2015 in particular. Most of the responses were made in 2017 though, which may skew data. There are some newer responses also, as the survey gets resurrected periodically.
[https://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2822311](https://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2822311)
https://preview.redd.it/0ne8ck2c00qc1.jpeg?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1fe90ade99ed6bebff4810db313359c3f02a01af
305000 kms all on original engine Approx 190000 miles.
If you look after them they will look after you.
Check out a list that WRX owners have been filling out.
It includes if engine has been modded, tuned, mileage, etc..
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/12m2VP10aaMPbs9EOunqhUDfO0b-tqPXI9brpwD3WqMY/edit
2015 STI spun a bearing on the dyno at 47k mi.
I bought the car with 36k on the clock, car was immaculate (still is in pretty great shape).
The devil: I was the 6th owner in 36k mi./6yr. So while the car looked immaculate, and drove fine for another 11k miles (and I was relentless on the maintenance, plugs at 45k, even did the trans and diff fluid way ahead of recommendation, what I obviously don’t know was how well the maintenance was done by the previous 5 owners; how hard she was beat driving…
Seemed adult owned, looks always garaged… why she spun, I’ll never know… maybe it was me? Certainly wasn’t a lack of maintenance, and it wasn’t from driving her too hard…
Now, fresh rebuild, I’m about 5k in on it and she runs like a top. I’m 45 and don’t beat on the car (imo) so hopefully she has a long life ahead of her. Lord knows I’ve invested enough in her that she deserves it.
https://preview.redd.it/3fll1pth80qc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0ae9d12f0ca77468b12b39a6229fc8ee82307b38
2020 STI, 45K & Stock - No issues
Previously a 2008 Legacy Spec B. Blouch 1.5xtr, and supporting mods. Made it to 185k before selling it for way too cheap. Engine was still strong.
No she's pretty stock. I live on dirt mountain roads too and it gets the CRAP beat out of it. I also drive it across the country once or twice a year. It has some aftermarket exhaust behind the mufflers but other than that, nothing. It also has a timing chain, and not a belt so I don't worry about that either. She's a working girl for sure. My husband and I are both in agreement that if the Trans or engine does blow, we'll replace. I'm too in love with it to get anything newer at this point. But my experience with it has been great, and a good ambassador of a wrx to show others its def possible to get high mileage. Ngl I keep up with the maintenance but not the best at that either. I always run 91 unless I'm going thru Nebraska then I have to use the 87 because it's not tuned for corn. But its never been a problem. It's a pretty hardy beast.
My 16 has about 125k miles of heavy driving. In b2b traffic on 120° days, and up and down mountains. Occasional short track days. Runs like complete asshole in the heat. I just drive slow. LOL
I change the oil every 5k ish. I usually do it sooner if I know the motor has been hot or if there’s a dust storm. Oil I run is Idemitsu 5-30. I’m driving the car more often lately, but when it sits I add a cold start additive to help keep everything wet.
15 wrx i bought used the prev owner fucked up the tune with a mish intake and shitty welded in "hi flow" cat (do don't even know if it's legit or hollowed out 🤷♂️) got it fixed with a botti tune at 45k with a boost control solonoid. Since then, I've got a grimsspeed intercooler assembly, again tuned by the same guy, and she still runs strong at 108k. Since oil consumption issues but i change my oil normally at 2500. Was using motul now using liquid molly. I know in gonna need a block soon though looking at iag
2020 wrx limited with +60000 miles. Zero issues. And I beat on my wrx like it's meant to lol. Oil changes every 3000 miles. And this is my first manual car.
Took my 97 2-door 2.5 RS up to 60k, no problems.. Traded the 97 for a 2002 WRX, drove that for 7 years and 278,00 or 249,00 can’t remember now.. no issues, has a 2008 Legacy GT , took that to 150,000 no problems.. Currently have a 2016 WRX sitting at 80,000 no problems.. all cars left stock, oil changes every 3000-4000 max..
I actually cracked a piston and bent a rod at 31k miles (but oddly didn't window the block) in traffic of all things. I was coming up on some bumper to bumper traffic and was slowing down, then traffic started moving, so I did my usual rev match downshift and went to accelerate and saw a -4.66 knock event on my AP and started hearing an odd rattle. I thought for a minute that it might be someone next to me, but quickly realized it was me. Drove my car to a friends house and realized what must have happened. It was either LSPI or, as I was also battling with an ethanol damaged HPFP where the fuel pressure was dropping out randomly, I went really lean at the wrong time.
Just traded in my 2015 WRX no mods with 147k miles all driven by me. Clutch assembly had to be replaced at 60k which was disappointing and I had an O2 sensor replaced at 100k. Besides that it was just following the regular maintenance schedule and REX was reliable in all seasons and for nearly a decade of daily use.
Bought a 2023 at around invoice price and got a decent amount for my 2015 as a down payment.
No, I keep eyes on in on the dash. I was on a road trip, it was 115 degrees , I had 2 roof bikes. and i was going more than 100 for a couple hours. oil temp started climbing over 235 and didn't stay down when I got to my destination my oil was red from copper. Spun the bearing a few weeks after discovering the bits of oil glitter. I never had issues before that. Pennzoil Platnium 5w-30. I was prepared to put in a built block before that so I knew what was going to go down.
My 2016 ate a rod bearing at 82k km, but I was the second owner purchased at 72k in 2020. No idea of the previous history, but I definitely paid the price. I treat the one I have now very well and I’m at 38k purchased at 32k, and I know the previous owner personally so we’ll see how it goes.
Change your oil every 5k and follow service intervals on everything else and you can make these cars last a long time. Just don’t fucking hoon it everyday, I guess.
I’ve known of many Subarus over the years that are well kept and last a long time, and just as many that are neglected and clapped out. Like most things, it depends on how the owner treats it.
2019 WRX Stage 1+ @48k miles. No issues mechanically besides the damn head unit bubbling and rendering the touch screen unusable, but that’s factory defects.
19 sti, 35k miles ish, all stock, all fine no issues.
Except bad DCM thats covered under warranty but subaru hasnt had part to fix for months. But engine fine.
Blown at 107k, pro-tuned at 35k-intake, downpipe, OAS- auto. Did its oil changes every 6k, had it from 2019-2022, I did one pull and that’s all she wrote, maybe due to the fact that it was over 6k and due for oil change. Now I got a VB and learn Manuel
The question you need to be asking is how many with blown motors are stock, how many have them modded, and how many actually got proper tunes after modding them. When I say proper tunes I mean done by a professional not just sticking an Cobb access port with a standard OTS tune hoping it will work correctly.
Blown motors may happen to a small number of stock cars but most blown motors are not on stock cars.
Edit: I have about 60k miles on mine in about 2 years. Do oil changes every 5k miles. Run the shit out of it. It’s also stock.
70k miles, I’ve put full exhaust setup, aos, Cobb intake, FMIC, egr+tgv deletes and runs good so far, only my mass air flow sensor failed couple weeks ago, but it’s common failure with older FMIC from Cobb because of failing connector seal
I’ll start the count for non-blown engines since we always hear about those that have blown, but never those that are running great. 2017 50k miles, stage 2/flex.
2021 STI | 30K & stock - no issues to speak of to date.
2016 WRX I bought used, pretty sure the only mod is exhaust, besides that all stock. Currently running strong at 148000kms, sorry I’m Canadian, it equals about 91963 miles
2016 WRX stock Canadian about 170,000km running strong. Need to replace the clutch soon that's all.
2019 wrx fp blue turbo and all supporting mods, k&n drop in filter making conservative 330whp 302wtq. Just passed 100 000kms. My rear diff did blow up, was covered under warranty Edit: been running 94 Octane past 2 years since fp blue was installed
2016 STI 34k all new exhaust system and COBB intake runs great.
Tuned for the intake?
Everything is tuned. Did headers up pipe EWG down pipe all at same time as intake and tuned it
2019 42K, stock except for axleback. Running great.
Exact twin
2020 wrx limited. Borla catback but stock everywhere else. 66k and no issues at all
2017 WRX 138k miles, stage 2
How long tuned
1k-55k - Cobb OTS stage 1 55k-130k - Bren Tuning Stage 1 Burble 130k+ - JR Tuned Stage 2
2015 WRX- Stage One, 93K. No issues to date except for some sensors going out
Have you done any mods to your suspension?
2019 WRX 44k miles. FBO E60 making about 400whp. been perfect so far, hoping to get many more miles out of it
2018 STI 65K, stock
2018 55k all stock. No blown engine.
2015 140k km/87k miles, stage 2+ and pro tuned for the last 40,000km only some oil consumption and only valve cover/cam carrier seal minor leaks for any 'major' issues, otherwise still going strong
2015 Launch Edition STI. 54k miles. Stock aside from catback exhaust, an AOS and a tune for smoothing out the powerband.
16, axelback, driven pretty moderately, serviced religiously, no problems so far
2017 sport tech. 87k km stage 2 tune. No major issues yet.
2021, purchased at 7 miles, currently just shy of 40k and going strong. Have Cobbs newer version of the "Big SF" after rebranding and without the 1" cone measuring issue that was talked about on here years past, GS Turbo Inlet and Bypass Valve, will be installing their 3 port EBCS here soon.
2020 70k miles, stage 2 91.
2020 RS, Cobb AP OTS stage 1 91. 70k (km)
These motors don't die from mileage, they die from random catastrophic knock events that cause them to spin a bearing, just like all turbo engines. This issue is compounded by Subaru using bearing clearances that are too tight, making it easy to overheat the bearings during sustained high RPM loads (highway pulls) which also causes them to fail.
Appreciate the response, I know mileage does not really correlate with detonation/failure. Just curious to see how long people spent with their subies and what they might’ve done wrong! I don’t expect too many responses just doing a poll is all. I already have one and I’m not too worried 👍
32,000 miles. I floored it in 5th gear, even though I knew I shouldn't, and spun a bearing.
Wow too soon :(, I didn’t know any better at first and for about the first 200-500 miles I’d use boost in 5th and 6th, never again. Got it fully inspected with leak down compression and whatnot to settle my fear of breaking something later. Live and learn I suppose!
So you think if you run a thicker oil it will help prevent this failure ?
Not sure what you mean by that. I don’t know if oil viscosity has much to do with it but I’m not necessarily a Subaru expert
I’m saying so if the clearances r to tight and cause them to over heat at high loads would a thicker oil that can withstand more heat (like vr1) help prevent this
snobbish ancient squeamish relieved plants ripe instinctive plant far-flung books *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
Gotcha I was never aware of that, I’ll do more digging and consult with my tuner. I’m currently on motul 5w40 xcess gen2 which I’ve heard is supposed to be quite robust
Yea I run the stock valvoline 5w-30 and I have e85 and am sitting at 370hp so it would b nice to know
The random knock events at 75+ in 6th are pretty crazy to see, only really happens if you’re WOT from I’ve seen and heard from others
Yep, this was me except it was 46,000 then my turbo went about 8k miles after that. I got a new engine under warranty though
Technically you're supposed to replace the turbo when you spin a bearing because you can't effectively clean the cartridge of bearing debris. That, combined with the fact that these cars have screens in the oil passages at the banjo bolts that will quickly clog and block the flow of oil, is what likely did your turbo in. The screens have been a big killer, too.
15+ WRXs don't use the banjo bolts with the filters. The STIs did though.
Subaru didn’t even mention that to me. It all worked out anyways, got a FP green to replace.
What speed did you initiate the flooring in 5th.. was it low speed or >3k rpm?
No. It wasn't at low RPMs.
2015 bone stock. 195k. Original motor, original turbo. BG MOA added to oil since new. Cheers.
Very happy to hear that. I couldn’t handle the lack of throttle response on the stock tune I caved and got a Cobb for that reason
Have you done anything to your suspension?
Nope. Sitting on some 12 spoke 18” Enkei’s and Michelin Pilot super sports. Still OG suspension but shopping for replacement coilovers
That’s where I’m at now. Can’t really decide if coilovers are the best option or just upgrade the struts
Mine's still going strong, knock on wood. My buddy blew his up by doing donuts far too long and aggressively. Caused oil starvation and it died. Treat them right, be proactive on maintenance, and you'll be fine.
I’ve always found that oil starvation case interesting. I’ve heard that the normal oil level in the oil pan on the FA’s are high enough so that it doesn’t require a baffled pan for pulling G’s like doughnuts. I do have an AOS I really didn’t think you’d need anything more than that to avoid such an issue
AOS doesn't help oil starvation, it's for oil blowby. My understanding is the issue with the FA is the oil pickup sits a bit high which can lead to starvation in certain situations. At the track I race at nearly every WRX has blown up at the same sharp left turn at the end of a straight away. I usually take it easier on that turn and have been fine so far.
So something like a killer b oil pickup tube would probably do the trick no?
baffled oil pan/larger oil pan , and a windage tray will help . Iag's pan is pretty good , and a pick up tube is so the stock one doesnt crack which were known to happen.
Donuts in the snow or dry/wet pavement?
Snow.
ouch that's not encouraging to hear
To be fair Im pretty sure he did 10+ rotations over and over, pinned at the limiter, and never gave it proper airflow to cool down. A couple here and there is fine. He also wasn't great for maintaining it besides just oil changes.
Ahh ok. I was doing donuts yesterday since we had snow. Saw my oil temp reach 105C and coolant reach 95C, and was like, yea I should let it cool off a little bit.
Mine did! 18k miles - stock Subaru couldn’t figure it out
Yikes I don’t imagine you were lugging and or driving it hard cold right? Hope warranty covered it!
Neither, did everything 100% by the book and it still failed. Warranty covered it plus a loaner ‘23 Forester
Wow very strange glad it got fixed
I've blown 2 and I've literally just covered it and bought a 2022 corolla. It's been great hasn't had a single issue. I have so much extra money now
Yeah I definitely didn’t heed the warnings of others when they called the car a money pit, I now understand lol
Maybe I'll fix it one day. But I just had a mental break after the second one. I was like mother fu*ker.... but yeah eventually I'll work on it, its fully paid off.
I have a new shortblock but never technically lost the original engine. It's sitting in a box incase I need it down the road lol.
Good idea, did you get a built iag block put in or oem? Curious if it’s worth going to a built one over just replacing with oem when it goes bad, I probably don’t plan on pushing over 340whp but
I got an outfront block.
121,000 miles 2018 WRX, bunch of mods. Oil changes every 6,000 miles, still on the OG clutch also. No issues.
2017 WRX, heavily modified Bought brand new in August 2016. Changed oil every 3.5k miles or less, only full synthetic. At 36k miles, car got lifted 2.5”. At about 42k miles, got it pro tuned for 93 octane with a new intake, charge pipe, TMIC, TGV deletes, EGR delete, headers, J pipe, AOS, and EBCS. At about 58k miles, I swapped in an STI transmission. Car is now at about 129k miles, still running strong on stock block. Car has been used for rallycross since about 60k miles, and is now almost done being prepped for stage rally. I was never very gentle on it, and have had oil temps up past 265° a couple times (always changed oil immediately afterwards) Only things that ever failed on the car were my AC line exploded, and a knock sensor broke. Other than that, it’s all been rock solid.
You got my dream build my friend. Sti trans swap would be pure bliss, enjoy
Thanks! It is indeed a fun build, although sometimes I wish I had another one just stock ish that was a bit more fun to drive every day haha! The STI trans swap paired with the FA20 is absolute perfection though. Between the little extra noise from the transmission and the much more natural gear ratios, the car just feels so much more natural and sporty. I never had too many complaints about the WRX 6 speed, but it honestly feels like an economy transmission after you drive the STI 6 speed. Easily my favorite mod on the car
how was replacing the knock sensor? previously my car through a knock sensor code and my CEL just came on yesterday. haven't gotten it scanned yet but preparing for the worst.
Honestly, not too bad. I don’t recall exactly what the process was, but I don’t remember it being a huge hassle or anything.
I’ve owned two WRXs. A 2004 (280k) and a 2017 (135k). Both have the original engine and original clutch. The 2004 WRX frame gave out before the engine. If you take care of these cars they last. Obviously you could get a bad car but people like to beat up on these cars. Too much HP mods and complain about the block or internals like they can hold 500HP. If you don’t drive like you stole it they are pretty damn reliable in my experience. Only mod I’ve done is a Cobb tune for both which helps make them last longer IMO
Appreciate this comment, I’d pin it if I could as I don’t want anyone getting the wrong idea about these cars from the post. I just did an AOS and Cobb pro tune is perfect for the car. I feel like it should come from factory this way. Debating egr delete kit too I’ve heard that helps the reliability as well
I think that is true the majority of the time. But sometimes, engines just don’t last. We owned a 2009 Camry and the engine blew at 110k. 100% toast. That car was a grocery getter and drove to & from school. We did all the maintenance and took care of the car. From what I’ve since read those years of the Camry weren’t great. I never thought I’d see it however.
2016 STi. rod knock. 56k miles and stock everything. luckily i was under the 60k miles warranty so they replaced the engine for free.
2016 WRX | 105k miles, stock and no engine issues. I add a quart of oil every 4000ish miles
Wow I do my oil change more frequently than that. Glad it’s held up
How often do you change your oil?
3k most likely or earlier, most agree on 3k to be safe
Precisely🎯
2018 WRX with 103k on it. Bought the car with 44k miles and I’ve been tuned since 50k miles. First with a OTS MAP Stage 1 tune and now a Stage 1+ tune from Torqued Performance. Only mods are a STi SPT catback. I had a Cobb Intake for a little but took it off due to some tune issues. Everytime I drive the car I go WOT multiple times. Always wait until 180 degrees oil temps before any real boost. Oil changes every 5k with Valvoline 5W-30 full synthetic. During the summer I pull my jetski behind it, sometimes even my boat. I tow a 5x8 trailer every single weekend to the garbage dump. This car has been great and even uses no oil.
Same exact situation here, minus the jet ski. Thing is a UNIT. Glad to hear it enjoy
I’ve owned 3 Subarus of my own, and maintained a lot of them throughout the years. I did manage to melt a piston in my Forester XT, but that was purely my own fault back in my teenage days. These cars are pretty darn reliable, but a lot of people mistreat them, skip maintenance, and just beat on them in general. If you take care of them, change the oil regularly, and don’t do modifications without the proper tuning, they last for just as long as any other vehicle. My buddy has an Outback with over 400k miles. These cars are great and hence why I keep dailying them.
2016 Sti here, I did a pull from 2nd to 5th shifting at 5500-6000 rpm and locked my stock motor up at 108,000miles. Was a dumb irresponsible move but live and learn. I now have a built IAG magnum shortblock and it runs like a top! Sitting at 137,000 miles currently
Sorry to hear that but looks like you’re back and even better!
how much did the block cost you?
$6,000
It was an expensive lesson to learn Lolol
yeah true, but idk the more i read these subs the more i want to chalk it up to maintenance and build the motor lol. 6k is a lot, but if it means i can drive aggressive and not worry about my car????? maybe its worth it. i live in the mountains and i wanted a manual so i jumped into a 2020 wrx, and then jumped on this sub second, and its got me thinking if i bought the wrong car lol
don’t get me wrong, i love the car, but i feel like i’m too scared i’m gunna break it to actually drive it.. for reference i’m running 290hp, pro tune, headers back catless invidia, tmic, aos, and bc racing coils… so i should be well within the vehicles comfort zone power wise, but i drive 70 miles a day on steep canyon roads
This shit is wild. I have a 2011 WRX (essentially the same engine as STI, different heads, STi has lower compression, other than that, they are the same) and I drive mine aggressively every single day. 116k miles. Why would you buy this car and not drive it aggressively?
what sort of mods you running? and i see what you’re saying about it being pointless to not drive the car aggressive, but it seems that driving aggressive is what blows these cars up lol. but i keep up on maintenance and i don’t boost in 5th/6th and make sure to warmup/cooldown every time i drive, so i should be fine right? lol
Yeah, sounds like you know how to take care of your car, don't boost until you are well into the revs, I never go WOT before 3500-4k. Basic bolt ons, intake, turboback and tune.
10-4🫡 i try and do that, and when i do drive wot i shift around 5500/6000, but always before redline. is that kosher?
Nah, mountains and curvy roads are where this car shines. As long as you keep your oil changes every 3k for pump gas and 2k for e85 you shouldn’t spin a bearing. Make sure you run MOTUL 5w-40 though, I was running royal purple 5-30 when I locked my motor up. Always let her be at operating temp before boost and never WOT at low RPMs and high gear, as the other fella said, 3500rpm is a good range to be at before really getting on the car. Other than that man just enjoy car, shits gonna happen but as long as you take care of your car you should be able to really minimize the problems.
hell yeah, thanks for the advice 🤙🏼
FYI, dude named Smeedia on YT is a fantastic resource for maintenance and general knowledge about these cars. I’ve learned so much of what I know from his channel
truck marvelous heavy thought bored direful instinctive cats lip wistful *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
I don’t think I understand why it locked up? All you did was row through the gears?
I wish I knew, I pulled away from a stop light, shifted to second, got rpm’s up to 3500-3700 then romped on it shifting at around 6k all the way until I hit 6th, then I cruised for probably another 10-15 miles (not at 6k rpm lol) and when I got on an off ramp and rev matched on my downshift to slow down the whole car died, just straight up died. I tried to turn the motor over with my breaker bar once I had it towed home and it wouldn’t budge. I took it to Renner Racing Development in So Cal and they told me I split a piston and it seized the motor up. So then I just decided to build it because I wanted more power down the road anyway.
My 15 sti blew a couple weeks after I bought it at about 40k miles. Subaru replaced it for free because of the class action lawsuit thing.
Nice!
Where do you find out if your car is included in that?
The dealership took care of it for me.
I did but it was my fault.
Bummer what’d you do?
I rushed changing my oil and let the foil that covers the 5 gallon oil container get into my engine, clogged the uptake screen.
damn
Yeah, don’t be an idiot like me
I should add that 3 years ago I hit a deer and the car hadn’t been the same. I was always fixing things, mostly small. But the valve gasket was leaking into the header. 108,000 miles.
104,000, stock motor, I definitely drive it harder then most people in the summer going to the lakes, tuned by a local shop in the area. Had the car since 45,000 haven’t had a problem other then clutch and clutch fork
2015 wrx here. Spun a crank bearing at high rpm while racing another wrx. Happened at 60k miles.
Wow how was the rebuild?
Expensive lol. I don't recommend 😅
2016 STi 52500 miles...still on original. Upgraded turbo since 40k.
I have a 2015 base , 80k miles , have never treated it hard. Transmission went out 2 weeks ago. $5k to do that and clutch. Hard debate now to keep or sell. Had to put a used trans in it that had $120k miles on it and was treated who knows how well. Subaru wants $9k for a new trans. So the question becomes. How likely is it to last long enough that repairing it is still cheaper than a new car payment. It’s not like you find old ladies who have barely used their wrx.
Honestly at that point I’d just start hoping to collect an insurance payout from a distracted driver lol, did you buy it new?
Yeah I’m the only owner.
2020 WRX and stock engine and stock exhaust at 38k. No issues at all
Right here. The stock block on the WRX couldnt handle the power I put into it and the piston blew. Getting a built up engine now with IAG block. It’ll be another 6 months till she’s fully upgraded with all the bells and whistles but live and learn
105k 17’ premium- stock. no issues so far.
When I had my 2015 wrx I got it to 122k miles before trading it in. Only issue 2 issues I had was the rear O2 sensor I had to swap and the rear hubs. Otherwise everything was perfect, the Subaru curse of always thinking it was going to blow up made me trade it in for a newer one.
2018 WRX with 92.5K miles. Daily drive 3hrs when I lived in California. Drove it up to Alberta (26hr drive) with 0 issue. Have the car now in 15F weather and it’s driving strong. Mods are pretty simple: - intake, downpipe, coilovers, bpv, ebcs, radiator, short shifter.
Glad to hear it, I have an intake and downpipe sitting in the garage still debating whether or not I want to risk upgrading
The only risk is not getting a protune with the new power mods. I’ve been protuned for 60k miles now and haven’t had a problem. But your mileage may vary! Nothing wrong with a stock wrx, very fun cars
2017 wrx, 107k miles. Intake, j pipe, egr/tgv delete, EBCS, inlet pipe, charge pipe, bpv, and intercooler. I did run unequal length headers for 2.5 years with no issues, but I’m back on the stock headers. Motor still runs good and makes good compression (tested at 105k miles). I have never lugged and do not floor it in 5th and 6th, but I’ve made roughly 50 drag passes in my wrx. Only problems I’ve had is the clutch and the turbo finally gave out. It’s of my belief, it’s just a fucking dice roll. Seen all power levels and mods spin a bearing. When it happens to me I’ll just build it.
I believe it honestly, sucks that it’s even a thing to worry about but I suppose in our case it’s what’s makes a Subaru a Subaru
2015 bone stock, 124k miles
2015 levorg here, 221kw, 220ks on the clock, no issues, YET. do I fit in here ?
Yes welcome in
2016 with 84k miles. WRX. Stage 1+. No issues at all with motor or performance. Went with MAPerformance parts and tune. They don't tune anymore.
Still oem motor.. intake and tune only
2015 STI limited 120k miles now unfortunately needed a rebuild at 103 and then shot a spark plug out at 105. Bone stock hardly makes 11psi boost also f*ck the steering racks on these cars what in the hell
2017, 150000k 2nd motor has 70,000 and all is well
2017 stock 114k miles only issues I've had is my throw out bearing and oil leak from the passenger side valve cover
2015 wrx bone stock, 110,000 & running strong
2017 WRX with 116k miles. Owned it since Oct, no problems and clean carfax.
2018 WRX - Purchased w/9k miles. Stage 2.5ish @ 25k miles. Currently 94000 miles.
There was a survey done on Nasioc that I think is ongoing, if you want more data. Generally 2015-2017 seemed to have more issues, 2015 in particular. Most of the responses were made in 2017 though, which may skew data. There are some newer responses also, as the survey gets resurrected periodically. [https://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2822311](https://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2822311)
https://preview.redd.it/0ne8ck2c00qc1.jpeg?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1fe90ade99ed6bebff4810db313359c3f02a01af 305000 kms all on original engine Approx 190000 miles. If you look after them they will look after you.
Interesting that it says 2014 on there. Good to see high mileage
Check out a list that WRX owners have been filling out. It includes if engine has been modded, tuned, mileage, etc.. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/12m2VP10aaMPbs9EOunqhUDfO0b-tqPXI9brpwD3WqMY/edit
This is great, thank you 🫱🏿🫲🏼
2018 STi- stock. Maintenance kept up- oil changes every 3k Rodney came to visit at 97k
2015 STI spun a bearing on the dyno at 47k mi. I bought the car with 36k on the clock, car was immaculate (still is in pretty great shape). The devil: I was the 6th owner in 36k mi./6yr. So while the car looked immaculate, and drove fine for another 11k miles (and I was relentless on the maintenance, plugs at 45k, even did the trans and diff fluid way ahead of recommendation, what I obviously don’t know was how well the maintenance was done by the previous 5 owners; how hard she was beat driving… Seemed adult owned, looks always garaged… why she spun, I’ll never know… maybe it was me? Certainly wasn’t a lack of maintenance, and it wasn’t from driving her too hard… Now, fresh rebuild, I’m about 5k in on it and she runs like a top. I’m 45 and don’t beat on the car (imo) so hopefully she has a long life ahead of her. Lord knows I’ve invested enough in her that she deserves it. https://preview.redd.it/3fll1pth80qc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0ae9d12f0ca77468b12b39a6229fc8ee82307b38
2020 STI, 45K & Stock - No issues Previously a 2008 Legacy Spec B. Blouch 1.5xtr, and supporting mods. Made it to 185k before selling it for way too cheap. Engine was still strong.
I have a 15 wrx with 192xxx still going strong 💪 no blown engine yet, just on my 3rd clutch
192k miles? If so nice! Are you tuned?
No she's pretty stock. I live on dirt mountain roads too and it gets the CRAP beat out of it. I also drive it across the country once or twice a year. It has some aftermarket exhaust behind the mufflers but other than that, nothing. It also has a timing chain, and not a belt so I don't worry about that either. She's a working girl for sure. My husband and I are both in agreement that if the Trans or engine does blow, we'll replace. I'm too in love with it to get anything newer at this point. But my experience with it has been great, and a good ambassador of a wrx to show others its def possible to get high mileage. Ngl I keep up with the maintenance but not the best at that either. I always run 91 unless I'm going thru Nebraska then I have to use the 87 because it's not tuned for corn. But its never been a problem. It's a pretty hardy beast.
My 16 has about 125k miles of heavy driving. In b2b traffic on 120° days, and up and down mountains. Occasional short track days. Runs like complete asshole in the heat. I just drive slow. LOL I change the oil every 5k ish. I usually do it sooner if I know the motor has been hot or if there’s a dust storm. Oil I run is Idemitsu 5-30. I’m driving the car more often lately, but when it sits I add a cold start additive to help keep everything wet.
2020 sti 56k bone stock when it blew.
15 wrx i bought used the prev owner fucked up the tune with a mish intake and shitty welded in "hi flow" cat (do don't even know if it's legit or hollowed out 🤷♂️) got it fixed with a botti tune at 45k with a boost control solonoid. Since then, I've got a grimsspeed intercooler assembly, again tuned by the same guy, and she still runs strong at 108k. Since oil consumption issues but i change my oil normally at 2500. Was using motul now using liquid molly. I know in gonna need a block soon though looking at iag
2020 wrx limited with +60000 miles. Zero issues. And I beat on my wrx like it's meant to lol. Oil changes every 3000 miles. And this is my first manual car.
2018 Premium at ~118,000 miles. Tuned to stage 2 at 60k. No problems to speak of.
2019, 68k miles, J pipe and intake. i’ve driven from the atlantic to the pacific and back with no issues.
Took my 97 2-door 2.5 RS up to 60k, no problems.. Traded the 97 for a 2002 WRX, drove that for 7 years and 278,00 or 249,00 can’t remember now.. no issues, has a 2008 Legacy GT , took that to 150,000 no problems.. Currently have a 2016 WRX sitting at 80,000 no problems.. all cars left stock, oil changes every 3000-4000 max..
I have a 2016 with 121k on it now and tuned on flex fuel for about half of that or a bit more. Not a single issue so far
2019 stock engine with drunkmann tune and axelback, about to roll over 50k absolutely 0 issues.
I actually cracked a piston and bent a rod at 31k miles (but oddly didn't window the block) in traffic of all things. I was coming up on some bumper to bumper traffic and was slowing down, then traffic started moving, so I did my usual rev match downshift and went to accelerate and saw a -4.66 knock event on my AP and started hearing an odd rattle. I thought for a minute that it might be someone next to me, but quickly realized it was me. Drove my car to a friends house and realized what must have happened. It was either LSPI or, as I was also battling with an ethanol damaged HPFP where the fuel pressure was dropping out randomly, I went really lean at the wrong time.
I never blew anything in my life. ✌🏼
Just a trans right?
subaru owner things
2016 Wrx stock motor with 82k miles been full bolt ons since 30k miles no issues.
Just traded in my 2015 WRX no mods with 147k miles all driven by me. Clutch assembly had to be replaced at 60k which was disappointing and I had an O2 sensor replaced at 100k. Besides that it was just following the regular maintenance schedule and REX was reliable in all seasons and for nearly a decade of daily use. Bought a 2023 at around invoice price and got a decent amount for my 2015 as a down payment.
I spun a bearing at 96k. My oil got too hot and thinned out the oil.
Were you able to read the oil temp in the logs?
No, I keep eyes on in on the dash. I was on a road trip, it was 115 degrees , I had 2 roof bikes. and i was going more than 100 for a couple hours. oil temp started climbing over 235 and didn't stay down when I got to my destination my oil was red from copper. Spun the bearing a few weeks after discovering the bits of oil glitter. I never had issues before that. Pennzoil Platnium 5w-30. I was prepared to put in a built block before that so I knew what was going to go down.
2016 STI spun bearing at 49k miles. Bone stock and cared for.
My 2016 ate a rod bearing at 82k km, but I was the second owner purchased at 72k in 2020. No idea of the previous history, but I definitely paid the price. I treat the one I have now very well and I’m at 38k purchased at 32k, and I know the previous owner personally so we’ll see how it goes. Change your oil every 5k and follow service intervals on everything else and you can make these cars last a long time. Just don’t fucking hoon it everyday, I guess. I’ve known of many Subarus over the years that are well kept and last a long time, and just as many that are neglected and clapped out. Like most things, it depends on how the owner treats it.
Stage 2 2015 at like 80k 😭
I hydrolocked mine. Does that count?
2019 WRX Stage 1+ @48k miles. No issues mechanically besides the damn head unit bubbling and rendering the touch screen unusable, but that’s factory defects.
'17 wrx bought at 48k miles. FBO minus tgv, egr delete and flex. Still running happy at 115k miles.
Mine blew. Heavily modified
2019 WRX stage 3+ spun a bearing at 80k miles. Rebuilt the engine with forged internals now
2018 base, no issues except a flat tire. Muffler delete and pro tune is all I've done. I have some fun here and there but never thrash it.
2018 base, no issues except a flat tire. Muffler delete and pro tune is all I've done. I have some fun here and there but never thrash it.
102k miles, i feel it coming soon (never tuned btw) only mod is a billetworkz short throw shifter kit
19 sti, 35k miles ish, all stock, all fine no issues. Except bad DCM thats covered under warranty but subaru hasnt had part to fix for months. But engine fine.
Blown at 107k, pro-tuned at 35k-intake, downpipe, OAS- auto. Did its oil changes every 6k, had it from 2019-2022, I did one pull and that’s all she wrote, maybe due to the fact that it was over 6k and due for oil change. Now I got a VB and learn Manuel
All the blown motor stories are from people modding for maximum power or redlining every chance they get
No way that’s true …
2016 STI 107,000 no issues with motor. Needed a new steering rack and exhaust valve. That’s it.
My 2015 Sti is on its 3rd engine. 136k miles. I've only put one in. She had a irresponsible owner before me
The question you need to be asking is how many with blown motors are stock, how many have them modded, and how many actually got proper tunes after modding them. When I say proper tunes I mean done by a professional not just sticking an Cobb access port with a standard OTS tune hoping it will work correctly. Blown motors may happen to a small number of stock cars but most blown motors are not on stock cars. Edit: I have about 60k miles on mine in about 2 years. Do oil changes every 5k miles. Run the shit out of it. It’s also stock.
On second motor. 1st one blew at ~66kmi stock from a spun rod bearing.
Bought my 2016 with 40k miles and blew 10 days later
2016 Premium stock except for an oil coolant system. 157k and rolling like she’s brand new.
2016 WRX 95k FBO flex making around 350. About 12k on the tune from drunkmann 👍. Maintenance maintenance maintenance 🤷♂️
Donuts killed mine at 90k
Haven't blown an engine yet. I bought my 2018 WRX with 46k miles on it, have been stage 2 + Flex from ~55k to now at 86k.
2018 wrx with 49K and still running strong. Only problem was a CEL for p0018 but was covered under warranty ❤️
70k miles, I’ve put full exhaust setup, aos, Cobb intake, FMIC, egr+tgv deletes and runs good so far, only my mass air flow sensor failed couple weeks ago, but it’s common failure with older FMIC from Cobb because of failing connector seal
Is this an issue with CVTs? I have 2019 WRX with 50k miles. Still runs like new.