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Subaru WRX STI: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2025 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2021 (95/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2021 95 · 2024 94 · 2016 93 · 2020 91

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202564/100
Unproven

2 complaints · 0 recalls

202494/100
Buy

13 complaints · 0 recalls

202364/100
Unproven

7 complaints · 1 recalls

202288/100
Buy

25 complaints · 1 recalls

202195/100
Buybest year

13 complaints · 1 recalls

202091/100
Buy

17 complaints · 1 recalls

201964/100
Unproven

1 complaints · 0 recalls

201864/100
Unproven

2 complaints · 0 recalls

201782/100
Buy

53 complaints · 1 recalls

201693/100
Buy

34 complaints · 3 recalls

201564/100
Unproven

3 complaints · 0 recalls

201464/100
Unproven

6 complaints · 10 recalls

201364/100
Unproven

2 complaints · 2 recalls

201264/100
Unproven

1 complaints · 2 recalls

201164/100
Unproven

1 complaints · 2 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2021?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2021 Subaru WRX STI’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2025 Subaru WRX STI head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Subaru WRX STI as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.