At a Glance
The Subaru Wrx has 2 identified common problems across 2 generations, with the VA (2014-2021) being the most affected generation and tyres & wheels the most common problem category. Based on 16K MOT tests from DVSA data.
Problems are patterns in the DVSA data that occur significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average — confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read our DVSA MOT data methodology →
Below: generation-by-generation comparison of Subaru Wrx common problems, MOT failure types, and pass-rate data drawn from DVSA records. Click any generation to see fuel- and engine-specific fault patterns, mileage-banded repair guidance, and the most common MOT failures testers record.
MOT Tests & Failures by Generation
Subaru Wrx generations by MOT tests, failures, and identified problems from DVSA data
Hover over each bar for a full breakdown. Tap any bar to view that generation's problems.
Showing total MOT tests, failures, and known problems per make. Hover over each bar for a full breakdown.
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Browse Subaru Wrx Generations
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Most Common Subaru Wrx MOT Failures
Every reason Subaru Wrx vehicles fail their MOT, ranked by frequency. Select an individual year to see only that year’s failures, or stay on ‘All time’ for the combined picture across our 20 years of DVSA data. Scroll inside the table for the full list.
| # | Failure | % of failures |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Catalytic converter efficiency low | 9.42% |
| 2 | Tyre condition | 8.03% |
| 3 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 7.90% |
| 4 | Number plate lamp not working | 7.66% |
| 5 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 6.85% |
| 6 | Brake pads or linings worn | 4.90% |
| 7 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 4.15% |
| 8 | Position lamp not working | 3.37% |
| 9 | Fog lamp not working | 3.13% |
| 10 | Windscreen washer not working | 3.05% |
| 11 | Exhaust system fault | 2.70% |
| 12 | Brake performance below minimum | 2.41% |
| 13 | Front lamp not working | 2.30% |
| 14 | Headlamp aim defect | 2.28% |
| 15 | Steering rack fault | 2.17% |
| 16 | Stop lamp not working | 2.06% |
| 17 | Spark ignition emissions above threshold | 2.01% |
| 18 | Driveshaft fault | 1.69% |
| 19 | Rear fog lamp not working | 1.42% |
| 20 | Brake disc or drum worn | 1.37% |
| 21 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 1.20% |
| 22 | Indicator fault | 1.12% |
| 23 | Headlamp fault | 1.04% |
| 24 | Battery loose or leaking | 1.02% |
| 25 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 0.88% |
| 26 | Horn not working | 0.78% |
| 27 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 0.75% |
| 28 | Suspension mounting corroded | 0.75% |
| 29 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 0.72% |
| 30 | Headlamp washer not working | 0.70% |
| 31 | Ball joint dust cover split | 0.67% |
| 32 | Coil spring broken or corroded | 0.62% |
| 33 | Suspension linkage fault | 0.56% |
| 34 | Dashboard warning lamp fault | 0.54% |
| 35 | Track rod end worn | 0.54% |
| 36 | Compression ignition emissions above threshold | 0.51% |
| 37 | Rear lamp not working | 0.46% |
| 38 | Brake caliper fault | 0.37% |
| 39 | Rigid brake pipe corroded or damaged | 0.37% |
| 40 | Electronic stability control fault | 0.35% |
| 41 | ABS fault | 0.32% |
| 42 | Chassis condition | 0.32% |
| 43 | Seat belt condition | 0.32% |
| 44 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 0.29% |
| 45 | Wheel bearing worn | 0.29% |
| 46 | Handbrake lever fault | 0.27% |
| 47 | Bonnet catch or hinge fault | 0.24% |
| 48 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 0.24% |
| 49 | MacPherson strut worn | 0.24% |
| 50 | Body corrosion or damage | 0.21% |
| 51 | Front suspension fault | 0.19% |
| 52 | Front suspension joint worn | 0.19% |
| 53 | Parking brake condition | 0.19% |
| 54 | Steering lock fault | 0.19% |
| 55 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.19% |
| 56 | Airbag warning light on | 0.16% |
| 57 | Brake lever fault | 0.16% |
| 58 | Electrical switch fault | 0.16% |
| 59 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.16% |
| 60 | Engine oil leak | 0.13% |
| 61 | Subframe corrosion or damage | 0.13% |
| 62 | Tyre pressure monitoring system fault | 0.13% |
| 63 | Tyre valve stem damaged | 0.13% |
| 64 | Bumper damaged or insecure | 0.11% |
| 65 | Exhaust emissions above threshold (non-catalyst) | 0.11% |
| 66 | Headlamp levelling device fault | 0.11% |
| 67 | Rear fog lamp warning light fault | 0.11% |
| 68 | Rear reflector damaged or missing | 0.11% |
| 69 | Steering free play excessive | 0.11% |
| 70 | Subframe mounting corroded | 0.11% |
| 71 | Boot lid damaged or insecure | 0.08% |
| 72 | Brake fluid leak | 0.08% |
| 73 | Fuel pipe corroded or damaged | 0.08% |
| 74 | Reversing lamp not working | 0.08% |
| 75 | Steering arm worn | 0.08% |
| 76 | Steering wheel damaged or insecure | 0.08% |
| 77 | Suspension arm worn or corroded | 0.08% |
| 78 | Body security fault | 0.05% |
| 79 | Brake fluid level low or contaminated | 0.05% |
| 80 | Brake fluid reservoir fault | 0.05% |
| 81 | Brake pedal fault | 0.05% |
| 82 | Drag link end worn | 0.05% |
| 83 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.05% |
| 84 | Fuel cap damaged or missing | 0.05% |
| 85 | Hydraulic fluid leak | 0.05% |
| 86 | Undertray damaged or missing | 0.05% |
| 87 | Steering coupling worn | 0.05% |
| 88 | Anti-roll bar worn or corroded | 0.03% |
| 89 | Brake cable, rod, lever or linkage fault | 0.03% |
| 90 | Brake fluid warning light on | 0.03% |
| 91 | CV joint worn | 0.03% |
| 92 | Front fog lamp not working | 0.03% |
| 93 | Front passenger door fault | 0.03% |
| 94 | Fuel hose damaged or leaking | 0.03% |
| 95 | Passenger seat fault | 0.03% |
| 96 | Power steering pipe or hose leaking | 0.03% |
| 97 | Propshaft fault | 0.03% |
| 98 | Rear suspension fault | 0.03% |
| 99 | Spring mounting corroded | 0.03% |
| 100 | Steering box fault | 0.03% |
| 101 | Steering column fault | 0.03% |
| 102 | Steering operation fault | 0.03% |
| 103 | Steering shaft fault | 0.03% |
| 104 | Vehicle structure corrosion | 0.03% |
Showing all 104 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Subaru Wrx MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Subaru Wrx, grouped by category. Same data as the failures table above — just sliced by category instead of fault title. Hover a slice for the top failures in each category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Subaru Wrx problems?
Based on analysis of 16K Subaru Wrx MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 2 identified common problems across 2 generations. The most frequently flagged issue is "Spark ignition emissions above threshold". Tyres & Wheels is the most common problem category.
Which Subaru Wrx generation has the most problems?
The Subaru Wrx VA (2014-2021) (2014–2021) has the highest number of identified common problems (2). Click the generation card above for the full breakdown.
How is this data calculated?
We analyse anonymised DVSA MOT test records under the Open Government Licence. An issue is classified as a "Common Problem" when it occurs significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average, confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read the full methodology page for details.
Can I report a problem with my Subaru Wrx?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Subaru Wrx owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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