Table 1 shows one common equipment related problems of the 2022 Subaru Impreza Wrx.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Equipment problems |
My car was recently in a high speed crash with a curb. The axle broke immediately and no airbags deployed followed my the entire engine compartment catching fire.
Complaint summary: I am filing a complaint regarding a potentially defective a/c compressor that is producing abnormal noise and may indicate premature failure. Description of issue: my vehicle’s a/c compressor produces a loud, rhythmic “chugging” or knocking noise at idle when the a/c system is off. The noise is excessive and not consistent with normal operation. When the a/c is turned on, the noise changes but remains abnormally loud. Based on my experience and comparison to other similar vehicles, this is not normal behavior. A comparable 2024 Subaru wrx does not exhibit this issue, and many other 2022 wrx owners have reported similar symptoms. Safety concern: this is not just a noise concern—it may indicate internal compressor failure or premature wear. The a/c compressor in this vehicle is part of a continuously driven system (no traditional clutch), meaning it is always engaged via the serpentine belt. If the compressor were to fail internally, it could: •seize or bind, potentially damaging or breaking the serpentine belt •lead to sudden loss of power steering assist (if belt-driven) •cause loss of alternator function (battery charging failure) •result in engine overheating if the water pump is belt-driven •leave the vehicle stranded unexpectedly this presents a potential safety risk, especially if failure occurs while driving. Additional context: Subaru has issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) for a similar a/c compressor issue in another model using a comparable design, which includes replacement procedures for certain serial number ranges. Despite this, Subaru has not acknowledged the issue for the wrx, even though there are numerous owner reports of the same symptoms. Conclusion: the abnormal noise suggests a potential defect that could lead to premature failure and safety-related consequences. I am requesting that this issue be investigated for possible defects in design or manufacturing affecting the a/c compressor in the 2022 subar.
My sunroof spontaneously shattered. The car was not moving at the time.
Subaru sent me an email informing me a software update was available for my vehicle. For weeks I tried to update the software, however it has been unavailable. I attempted to reach Subaru via their 1800 number at least a dozen times. Subaru does not answer their phones, and does not return calls when the option is selected. I opened an ticket number online via their complaint system and have also not received a response. I attempted to reach their roadside assistance phone line and also could not reach a person. I sent an email to Subaru chief executive and received a call back from their executive offices. They acknowledged that they were also ubable to reach a person at any of their numbers including road side assistance. This is obviously extremely unacceptable for many reasons. Subaru charges for pre installed equipment and subscriptions for access to roadside and support. Not only are they building in cost to the consumer, but they are not delivering what they are promising, and most importantly, not providing what you are paying for. The safety aspect of not being able to reach roadside assistance is very serious . I have yet to receive an answer as to why I received an email telling me to update my vehicle software when I don't have software available to install. The dealership I purchased the vehicle from confirmed the software in my car isn't up to date, or is an obsolete version. Subaru needs to be held accountable for not providing the services they are advertising, selling, and customers are dependent on.