Repair cost
$2,200–$4,000
Pan drop + cleanup; $8-12k if bearings already damaged
DIY difficulty
4 / 5
Severity
Critical
Engine, safety, or drivability — fix before driving
Affected
2022-2024
FA24DIT
What goes wrong
Subaru applied too much RTV sealant at the timing-cover and oil-pan joints during assembly. Chunks break free over time and lodge in the oil pickup screen, starving the bearings.
Symptoms to watch for
- Low oil pressure warning despite full oil
- Silicone bits visible on dipstick
- Glitter (bearing material) in oil at change
Root cause
Manufacturing defect — over-application of RTV at engine assembly.
In-article ad
Buy time with these
- • Check dipstick weekly
- • Cut filter at every change
Permanent fix
- Drop oil pan, scrape RTV, reseal with Subaru OEM gasket maker, inspect bearings
Related recalls / TSBs
NHTSA investigation PE24-013
FAQ
What causes 2022+ wrx fa24 rtv oil pickup clog?
Manufacturing defect — over-application of RTV at engine assembly.
How much does it cost to fix?
National average $2,200–$4,000. Pan drop + cleanup; $8-12k if bearings already damaged
Is this a DIY repair?
Difficulty 4/5. Drop oil pan, scrape RTV, reseal with Subaru OEM gasket maker, inspect bearings
What are the symptoms?
Low oil pressure warning despite full oil; Silicone bits visible on dipstick; Glitter (bearing material) in oil at change
Sources
- • NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation