Subaru Recalls 2022 WRX For Wrong Owner's Manual Information

Jan. 29, 2023 4:11 PM ET by Jay Traugott Recall / 5 Comments

Over 4,600 examples are involved because high-beam assist sensitivity instructions are incorrect.

Subaru has issued a recall for 4,615 examples of its 2022 WRX due to incorrect information published in the owner's manual. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has published information on its website stating that the WRX's owner's manual might have incorrect instructions for adjusting the high-beam assist sensitivity function, which is part of EyeSight. This could potentially be in violation of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Only WRXs equipped with the high-beam assist feature are included in the recall. Owners who don't have this system have nothing to worry about. Those who do, however, could possibly misunderstand the system status contained in the owner's manual, thus increasing the risk of a crash.

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2022-2023 Subaru WRX Sedan Rear-Facing View

CarBuzz / Ian Wright

CarBuzz / Ian Wright

More specifically, the instructions mistakenly referenced the operation of a different type of dimmer switch. The Japanese automaker became aware of the issue in October and spent the next couple of months investigating the problem before making the decision earlier this month that the WRXs in question were in violation of federal law. The good news is that Subaru is unaware of any related injuries, crashes, or reports related to the misinformation.

The WRX was all-new for the 2022 model year and, like its predecessors, it's not exactly beautiful, though that's part of its charm. An even more powerful WRX STI will not happen, sad to say. Under the hood lies a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer four that's good for 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual comes standard or you can opt for the CVT.

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2022-2023 Subaru WRX Sedan Gearbox Controls

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2022-2023 Subaru WRX Sedan Infotainment System

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Regardless of gearbox choice, both route power to all four wheels. Other standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Pricing begins at $30,605, up from the previous model's $29,105 MSRP. Four trims are offered: Base, Premium, Limited, and GT. A fully-loaded example costs over $50,000.

Owners affected by this recall do not have to visit a dealership to resolve the problem. Instead, Subaru will send them an owner's manual insert containing the correct information. It's still possible to visit a dealership to receive the correct insert is also an option.

Subaru will begin notifying affected owners around March 21.