How Long Do Subaru WRXs Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan
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The Subaru WRX, known for its rally heritage and spirited performance, is popular among car enthusiasts. But beyond its impressive speed and handling, a practical question arises: How long do Subaru WRXs last? This question is not just about numbers or miles; it’s about understanding what makes the WRX a reliable choice for drivers who value longevity as much as performance.
Both prospective buyers and owners of a Subaru WRX need to know its lifespan, as it provides you with valuable information about the car’s reliability and long-term value. Having a good understanding of its longevity can help you make informed decisions and plan for future maintenance and ownership expenses.
So today, let’s discuss the lifespan of the Subaru WRX, how many miles it can last, and whether it’s a good investment for used car buyers. Let’s take a look.
How Many Miles Does the Subaru WRX Last?
The Subaru WRX is a vehicle renowned for its durability, with numerous models lasting up to 200,000 miles or beyond when maintained properly. The actual lifespan of the car can vary depending on various factors, such as maintenance practices, driving conditions, and whether or not the vehicle has been modified.
Several sources confirm that the Subaru WRX’s boxer engine can last up to 250,000 miles if well taken care of. However, if the car is driven beyond its limits or not adequately maintained, it can significantly shorten the engine’s lifespan. This could lead to significant issues as early as 60,000 miles. Note that the WRX is known to be a high-maintenance vehicle compared to standard economy cars. It requires more attention and care, mainly if used for performance driving or modified for racing.
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Consumer feedback also seems to confirm the longevity of the Subaru WRX. For instance, a Reddit thread titled “How many miles does your WRX have?” from the r/WRX subreddit provides insights into the longevity of the Subaru WRX from various owners. For instance, one user mentioned a 2005 WRX STi with over 201,000 miles on the original motor and clutch. Another user cited a 2003 model with about 300,000 miles on the original engine and clutch, though it was reaching the end of its life.
How long do Subaru WRXs last? As expected, regular maintenance and timely upgrades are crucial for the longevity of these vehicles. For instance, a user with a 2015 model at 180,000 miles upgraded almost everything on the transmission and shifter without replacing the factory transmission and clutch. Additionally, another owner with a 2006 WRX at 280,000 miles emphasized the importance of regular oil changes and following mechanic recommendations.
What Is a Good Mileage for a Used Subaru WRX?
When considering the purchase of a used Subaru WRX, the number of miles that might be regarded as “too many” can vary based on several factors. Here are some general guidelines and insights
- Mileage and Maintenance: When considering a car’s mileage, it’s important to consider its age and maintenance history. For example, a WRX with 50-70k miles can be a great option if it has undergone regular maintenance. In general, it’s more about how well the vehicle has been taken care of rather than just the mileage.
- Modifications and Usage: The car’s history, including any mods and how it was driven, is crucial. A stock WRX with reasonable mileage might be preferable over a heavily modified one with the same mileage. The way the car has been used (e.g., regular commuting vs. extensive track use) also impacts its condition.
- General Guidelines: A general rule of thumb is to consider about 10,000 miles per year as a benchmark when evaluating a used car. Therefore, a mileage between 30,000 and 60,000 could be reasonable if you’re considering a few years old car. However, remember that this is just a basic guideline, and the actual acceptability of a car’s mileage can differ from person to person. It depends greatly on the WRX’s overall condition.
While there’s no hard and fast rule for what constitutes good on a used WRX, factors like maintenance history, age, usage, and modifications are vital in determining its suitability. Personal preferences and specific circumstances of each vehicle should also be taken into account.
THE SUBARU WRX YEARS TO AVOID
We want to ensure you know which model to get when looking for a used WRX. This post will provide information on the Subaru WRX years to avoid and the best ones to buy.
Should I Buy a Used Subaru WRX with More Than 100k Miles?
Unlike commercial cars, you should approach the prospect of buying a used Subaru WRX with more caution. The Subaru WRX is a performance vehicle, so it tends to be driven hard and has modifications that can affect reliability. This could result in higher maintenance and repair costs due to increased wear and tear.
With that said, apart from the mileage shown on the odometer, proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity of a WRX. Even with high mileage, a well-maintained WRX can be a good purchase. As such, looking for a vehicle with a complete maintenance record is essential. Cars that have been maintained regularly are more likely to last longer and have fewer problems.
As mentioned, it’s advisable to look for stock WRXs. Modified WRXs, especially those with high mileage, may have been driven hard and could be more prone to problems. Modifications can also affect the car’s reliability and longevity. Inspecting the vehicle thoroughly, including a compression check, is highly recommended.
Furthermore, Subaru vehicles, including the WRX, tend to face certain issues as they reach higher mileage. For instance, steering pumps might fail around the 100,000-mile mark, and some models struggle with high oil consumption and head gasket issues. Understanding these common problems can help you prepare for potential repairs.
Final Thoughts: Is a Used Subaru WRX a Wise Investment?
How long do Subaru WRXs last? As you can see, it’s one of the better performance models as far as reliability goes. When considering a used Subaru WRX, it’s best to weigh its strong performance and popularity against the likelihood of higher upkeep costs and potential wear from its previous usage. Make sure to thoroughly check the car’s history and condition before deciding to buy.
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