2011 Subaru WRX: common problems and MOT failures
What MOT testers find on the Subaru WRX first registered in 2011: we looked at the 348 MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Small sample: there were only 348 MOTs of these cars during 2023–2025, so treat the percentages as rough. The known faults below don't depend on it.
Common 2011 Subaru WRX MOT failures and advisories
The share of 2011 Subaru WRX MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Suspension17% of testsRough price £120–£400
At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.
- Brakes15% of testsRough price £150–£350
At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.
- Tyres14% of testsRough price £70–£150
At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.
- Exhaust and emissions12% of testsRough price £100–£1,200
At the viewing: Look for black soot in the tailpipe, listen for blowing from the exhaust and check for engine or DPF warning lights.
- Lights and electrics12% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Wipers, windscreen and mirrors5% of testsRough price £15–£250
At the viewing: Check for chips in the driver's view, and test the wipers and washers.
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2011 Subaru WRX
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?
Looking at a Subaru WRX?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the Subaru WRX compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 280 | Tyres 11% |
| 2017 | 918 | Tyres 13% |
| 2016 | 970 | Tyres 17% |
| 2015 | 823 | Tyres 17% |
| 2014 | 1,031 | Tyres 16% |
| 2013 | 181 | Tyres 24% |
| 2012 | 368 | Tyres 18% |
| 2010 | 201 | Lights and electrics 18% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test done in Great Britain during 2023–2025, counting the MOTs of Subaru WRX cars first registered in 2011. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score