When does a WRX clutch need replacing?
The current WRX comes with a six-speed manual or a CVT (an automatic with no fixed gears).
The signs are the usual ones: revs climb but the speed doesn't, the pedal bites higher than it used to, or there's a shudder taking off. Subaru's schedule has the clutch system's function checked at every service, so ask what the last one found.
The gearbox has to come out to reach the clutch, which is why the job is a big one. While it's apart, ask about the flywheel, the release bearing and the rear engine oil seal. If the car's been tuned, say so, because a standard clutch might not suit extra power. More in how long a clutch lasts.
Does a WRX have a timing belt?
An older WRX with the EJ-series boxer engine does. It's a rubber belt that keeps the valves and pistons in step, and on the later EJ designs the valves will likely be damaged if it fails. So on these cars the belt is never a job to stretch. Treat an unrecorded belt as due until a mechanic has had a look.
The current WRX has a 2.4-litre turbo boxer. Subaru's schedule for WRXs from MY22 on has no timing belt item at all up to 120,000 km. The drive belt it lists at every service is a different part, running the engine's accessories. The timing belt or chain guide explains the difference.
Subaru WRX problems: what's actually on record
We won't hand you a forum list of WRX faults, because those lists mix standard cars with tuned ones. What's on record: CarsGuide reported a 121,754-vehicle Subaru recall in March 2019 over a fault that could stop the brake lights working. It covered WRX, Forester, Impreza and XV models, so check your VIN on vehiclerecalls.gov.au if you've bought one second-hand.
Subaru also says high performance use such as track days counts as severe conditions needing more maintenance. If your WRX sees a track, tell the mechanic. Fresh oil and brake fluid matter more on a car worked that hard.
Servicing a WRX to Subaru's schedule
A WRX from MY22 on is due every 12 months or 15,000 km, whichever comes first. Brake fluid is replaced every second service, starting at 30,000 km. Manual gearbox oil and the front and rear diff oils are replaced at 60,000 km and 120,000 km. An older WRX may run to a different schedule, so go by its own book.
The new car warranty is five years with unlimited kilometres for private owners. An independent mechanic working to Subaru's schedule and specifications doesn't by itself void it. Warranty repairs are different: Subaru says it can't reimburse work done outside its retailers without prior approval.
What you can check on a WRX
You can
- Check the oil on a cold car, level ground, between services. Turbo engines deserve the habit.
- Note when a clutch slips: which gear, what revs, how hot the day was.
- Run your VIN through the government recall site.
Leave to the mechanic
- Clutch replacement and any gearbox removal.
- Timing belt work, with the engine set up to the maker's marks.
- Brake fluid changes and anything on the turbo.
What we'd do with a WRX
Work out the engine and the gearbox first, because they decide which jobs even apply. Then ask for a written estimate that names the parts and the plan for the flywheel. Tell the mechanic about any tune or track days. One who works on a lot of Subarus will ask anyway.