MY16 Subaru WRX Exterior Side View

Protect Your Investment: Subaru WRX Vehicle Inspection

Are you in the market for a Subaru WRX? If so, you may want to consider having a pre-purchase vehicle inspection done before committing to buying the car. This will give you peace of mind that the car is in good condition and free from any major issues.

Common issues buying used Subaru WRX

The 2016 Subaru WRX is a great car for sports and performance enthusiasts, but there are some common issues that owners should be aware of.

  1. Intermittent rough idle is a common problem with the 2016 WRX, which can often be caused by a vacuum leak in the intake manifold gaskets, worn spark plugs, bad ignition coils, or a faulty mass airflow sensor.
  2. Turbo lag is caused when the turbocharger takes too long to spool up and provide the expected boost.
  3. Oil consumption is also a problem, which can often be attributed to worn piston rings, valve seal leaks, or inadequate engine maintenance.
  4. Vehicle Mistreatment is a common issue due to the performance capabilities of the 2016 WRX. Drivers may abuse the vehicle by applying excessive load on the engine under hard, frequent acceleration, wearing tyres rapidly and causing mechanical issues such as damaged CV Shafts. This can significantly decrease the overall lifespan of these reliable cars and increase repair costs.

Additionally, some owners have reported fluctuating fuel gauges, excessive engine noise, poor fuel economy, and Check Engine Light issues. In more extreme cases, some owners have experienced failed turbocharger bearings and failed throttle body actuators.

For those experiencing these issues, it is recommended to visit a qualified car mechanic who can diagnose and repair the problem. With proper maintenance, these issues can often be avoided, ensuring that you will get the most out of your 2016 Subaru WRX.

Our Recent Subaru WRX Vehicle Inspection

Recently, we had the pleasure of inspecting an MY16 Subaru WRX. After evaluating the vehicle, we provided a comprehensive service and a full report of our findings.

The interior and exterior of the vehicle were in excellent condition. However, the price tag of $36,000 was a bit steep considering the odometer reading of > 117,000 km. According to current market values, a premium WRX STI model of this age would sell starting at around $35,000. This can be seen on popular sites for purchasing and evaluating vehicles, Carsales and Redbook.

WRX Paint Thickness Assessment
WRX Headlight Condition Assessment
WRX Engine Bay Assessment
WRX Wheel Condition Assessment
WRX Interior Assessment
WRX Underbody Assessment

During the inspection, we identified several issues that should be addressed. The primary issue was an immobiliser code thrown due to a recent battery replacement. Additionally, brake pads were showing wear and would need to be replaced soon. Further, there was a visible windscreen repair and some pitting as well as small paint chip defects.

Overall, the WRX was in good condition. However, it is important to consider the issues identified during the inspection and factor them into the vehicle’s price.

What to Look for During a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection

Here are a few things to look out for when inspecting a Subaru WRX:

  1. Check the Engine: Make sure to examine the engine for any signs of wear or damage. Check for oil or coolant leaks, listen for any strange noises and make sure all hoses and belts are in good condition.
  2. Check the Transmission: Make sure to check the transmission for any signs of wear or damage. Look for signs of fluid leaks and make sure the transmission is shifting smoothly.
  3. Check the Suspension: Make sure to inspect the suspension components for any signs of wear or damage. Check the shocks, struts, and bushings for any signs of wear or damage.
  4. Check the Tyres: Make sure to check the tyres for any signs of wear or damage. Check the tread depth and look for any signs of uneven wear, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues.
  5. Check the Computer: Make sure to check the computer for any codes or issues. If the car has an immobiliser code due to a battery change, make sure to have it reset by a professional.
  6. Check for Oil Leaks: Make sure to look for any signs of oil leaks, which could indicate a problem with the engine.
  7. Check for CV Shaft: Make sure to check for any signs of wear or damage on the CV shaft. This is important, as a worn or damaged CV shaft will cause the car to vibrate.
  8. Check for Rust: Make sure to look for any signs of rust or corrosion on the car. This can indicate an issue with the car, so make sure to have it inspected by a professional.
  9. Logbooks: Ensure that the vehicle has been maintained and repaired correctly, using quality parts, at a reputable service centre. Subaru offers a stamp of approval, which provides extra confidence when purchasing that the car is of good quality.
  10. When in Doubt, Hire a Professional: A professional inspector will have the necessary experience, training, and tools to accurately assess the car’s condition and provide you with an honest opinion. This can help you make a more informed decision when it comes to purchasing a used car.

Making sure to have a pre-purchase vehicle inspection done before buying a Subaru WRX is a great way to ensure you are getting a car in good condition. By following the tips above, you can rest assured that your car is in good condition before you commit to buying it.

Our Newcastle, Hunter & Central Coast Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection Service

At OnlineMechanic, we offer the most comprehensive pre-purchase vehicle inspection service in the Central Coast, Sydney, Newcastle, and Hunter regions. We use industry-grade diagnostic tools and 44 years of industry experience to ensure that you have all the information you need to make an informed decision when buying a used car.

Our mobile vehicle inspection service includes a thorough visual mechanical and body inspection, a road test, computer scanning, paint thickness testing and more. We also provide an easy-to-understand report, with diagrams, photos, and detailed comments so that you can understand the condition of the vehicle.

WRX Vehicle Condition Report by OnlineMechanic

Our same-day pre-purchase inspections give you the peace of mind you need when making such an important purchase and our expert advice means that you can make the right decision. Choose OnlineMechanic for your pre-purchase car inspection and you can rest assured that your next car will be the perfect fit for you. For a full list of service, inclusions click here.

Get Your Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection Today!

Robin Baldwin is the owner and operator of OnlineMechanic Pre Purchase Car Inspections. He is a qualified automotive technician with over 43 years of hands on experience in the motor trade.

If you wish to book an inspection please contact us now for same day inspections. Call Robin Baldwin on 0425 210 188 or follow our links.

Contact us today and book our google reviews 5-star mobile used vehicle inspection service.

WRX Vehicle Condition Report by OnlineMechanic

References: 

1. https://www.carcomplaints.com/Subaru/WRX/2016/

2. https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-turbocharger-bearing

3. https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-throttle-body-actuator

4. https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-turbocharger-bearing

5. https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-throttle-body-actuator