Subaru Common Problems & Known Faults

How reliable are Subaru cars?

Our database covers 8 Subaru models and 49 documented faults across the range. Of these, 10 are classified as dangerous and a further 29 as major. Dangerous faults are those that can compromise vehicle safety or lead to complete mechanical failure if left unaddressed.

According to DVSA MOT test data, Subaru models fail at an average rate of 18.5%, sitting below the 22.7% average across all manufacturers in our database. Reliability varies considerably between models. The WRX is the strongest performer at just 9%, while the Legacy has the highest failure rate at 25.1%.

If you are considering a used Subaru, researching the specific model and generation you are looking at makes a real difference. The most common failure areas across the range are engine and transmission, though each model has its own particular weak points. This page gives you a complete breakdown by severity, the models affected, and what repairs typically cost at UK garages.

Subaru reliability summary

Where Subaru problems occur

Understanding which systems are most prone to failure helps you focus during a test drive or pre-purchase inspection. Here is how Subaru's 49 known issues break down by area.

Engine problems dominate, accounting for 15 of the 49 faults we track (31%). Issues in this area include Valve spring recall (early) (ZC6) and Head gasket failure (EJ). The most affected models are the Impreza (6), the Forester (3), the WRX (3).

Transmission is the next most common area, with 9 documented faults (18%). Common faults here include Throwout bearing noise (ZC6) and Gearbox synchro wear. The most affected models are the Impreza (3), the BRZ (1), the Justy (1).

We also track 9 suspension faults across the range (18%). Problems to watch for include Suspension component corrosion (SH/SJ/SK) and Suspension component corrosion and wear (GD/GE/GH). The most affected models are the Justy (2), the XV (2), the Forester (1).

Brakes rounds out the top problem areas with 5 known issues (10%). Notable issues include Brake disc warping (ZC6) and Brake binding (ZC6). The most affected models are the BRZ (2), the Forester (1), the Justy (1).

Known Subaru faults by severity

Every fault in our database is rated by severity based on its potential safety impact and typical repair cost. Below is a sample of issues at each level, with links to the affected model pages where you can read the full details.

Top issues across the Subaru range

The most common and severe problems found across all Subaru models, ranked by severity and how many models are affected.

Problems by Subaru model

We track faults across 8 Subaru models. Each model page includes every known issue, generation-specific details, UK repair costs, and MOT failure data. Select a model below to see its full breakdown.

What to check before buying a used Subaru

Every used Subaru deserves a thorough inspection, but knowing the common weak points for your target model gives you a serious advantage. Since engine faults are the most common across the range, pay particular attention to this area during any viewing or test drive.

The 10 dangerous-rated faults deserve special attention. These include Valve spring recall (early) (ZC6), Suspension component corrosion (SH/SJ/SK), Ringland failure (EJ). Any of these can compromise safety or result in repair bills running well into the thousands.

A complete dealer service history is one of the strongest indicators of how well a Subaru has been looked after. Many of the faults on this page are preventable or can be caught early through regular servicing. If the seller cannot produce service records, treat that as a significant red flag.

Check the MOT history carefully too. With a 18.5% average failure rate across the Subaru range, some advisories and minor failures are normal over the life of any car. What matters is the pattern: recurring failures in the same area suggest an underlying problem, while a history of clean passes is encouraging.

Subaru repair costs: what to expect

Across all documented faults, the average Subaru repair costs between £595 and £1,250 at an independent garage. At the top end, the most expensive single repair can reach £4,500 or more. Main dealer rates are typically 30% to 50% higher across the board.

The single most expensive Subaru repair in our database is Ringland failure (GR/GV), which can cost £6,000–£12,000 at a main dealer.

These figures are based on reported UK repair costs and serve as a guide. Actual prices will vary depending on your location, the garage, and the parts required. Getting quotes from two or three specialists before committing to any major work is always worthwhile.