WRX / WRX STI — Generation guide
GD (Bugeye / Blobeye / Hawkeye) (2002–2007)
The iconic era. EJ205/EJ257 turbo boxer, 227–300 hp. Three facelifts gave it three distinct looks. STI arrived in 2004 with Brembo brakes and a driver-controlled center diff.
Documented problems (2002–2007)
All problems →EJ257 Rod Bearing Failure & STI Rod Knock (2004-2021)
From cracked oil pickup tubes and low oil pressure to full spun-bearing engine destruction — the EJ257 STI's most infamous failure, covering both early warning stage and full failure stage.
Repair: $400–$12,000
5MT Gear Grinding (3rd Gear)
Many 2002-2014 Subaru WRX models with the 5-speed manual transmission experience a "grinding" or "crunching" sensation when shifting into 3rd gear, particularly during spirited driving.
Repair: $2,000–$3,500
Boost Leak from Y-Pipe
A common issue on 2002-2014 WRX models where the turbocharger Y-pipe’s rubber coupler cracks or loosens, leading to a loss of boost pressure and reduced engine performance.
Repair: $150–$350
Subaru WRX Turbo Banjo Bolt Screen Oil Starvation
A small mesh screen inside the turbo oil feed line banjo bolt clogs with sludge, causing catastrophic turbocharger failure and potential engine destruction.
Repair: $400–$2,500
NHTSA recalls
All recalls →No NHTSA recall campaigns for WRX / WRX STI model years 2002–2007 are currently in our database. For authoritative status, look the vehicle up by VIN at NHTSA:
nhtsa.gov/recalls — WRXRepair-cost references
All costs →Repair-cost entries are model-wide; verify applicability for 2002–2007 before quoting.