2020 Subaru WRX Feels Sluggish? How to Fix a Loss of Power

How to Fix No Power

Experiencing a lack of power in your 2020 Subaru WRX can be frustrating. One owner described the impact of related issues: "Now that I have a very expensive paper weight, I might as well make it into a coffee table that will be an absolute bitch to move!" (source). This guide will help you diagnose and address the most likely cause of this issue, based on the experiences of other 2020 Subaru WRX owners.

Symptoms

Owners have reported a few symptoms that relate to a loss of power in the 2020 Subaru WRX. The most commonly discussed issue is the feeling of reduced responsiveness, especially in specific driving conditions. Owners frequently mention the impact of winter conditions and related issues.

Many drivers experience difficulty in managing the car, especially during adverse weather. Some may find themselves unable to get the car moving, or struggling to maintain traction. This can be further compounded by the addition of modifications to the vehicle.

This reduction in power and control often leads to frustration, especially when encountering other drivers who may be exacerbating the situation. Some owners have reported the urge to respond aggressively to these drivers.

The cumulative effect of these factors is a compromised driving experience, where the driver feels disconnected from the vehicle and unable to fully utilize its capabilities. This leads to the impression of the vehicle having "no power."

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner discussions, the most likely cause of perceived "no power" in your vehicle is issues related to the throttle, potentially aggravated by environmental factors. While the mechanical aspects of the throttle itself might not be the sole culprit, its interaction with factors like winter driving and tire choice seems to significantly influence the driving experience and perception of power. The ability of the throttle to properly regulate power is key to this.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing a throttle-related issue that manifests as "no power" can be tricky. Start with a visual inspection of the throttle body. Look for any obvious obstructions or damage. You'll need a few basic tools:

• Scan Tool (OBDII): To check for any related trouble codes.
• Wrench Set: For removing air intake components.
• Throttle Body Cleaner: To clean the throttle plate.

Next, use the scan tool to check for any trouble codes related to the throttle position sensor (TPS). If codes are present, note them down as they will be useful. Check for proper throttle plate movement by manually actuating it with the engine off.

If the throttle body appears clean and free of obstructions, further diagnostics may be necessary to rule out related issues, such as problems with sensors. If you are unsure about these steps, it may be wise to consult with a trusted mechanic.

Step-by-Step Fix

The primary step to address the "no power" symptom, assuming it's throttle-related, is to clean the throttle body. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the negative terminal of your battery to prevent any electrical mishaps.
2. Locate the Throttle Body: It's typically located after the air filter box, connected to the intake manifold.
3. Remove the Air Intake: Use a wrench or screwdriver to loosen the clamps and remove the air intake tube connected to the throttle body.
4. Inspect the Throttle Body: Check for carbon buildup on the throttle plate and the surrounding walls.
5. Apply Throttle Body Cleaner: Spray throttle body cleaner onto a clean rag. Do NOT spray directly into the throttle body, as it can damage sensitive sensors.
6. Clean the Throttle Plate: With the rag dampened with cleaner, gently wipe away the carbon buildup on both sides of the throttle plate. You may need to manually open the throttle plate to clean it thoroughly.
7. Clean the Throttle Body Walls: Wipe the inner walls of the throttle body to remove any accumulated grime.
8. Reassemble: Reconnect the air intake tube and tighten the clamps.
9. Reconnect the Battery: Reconnect the negative terminal of your battery.
10. Start the Engine: Start your 2020 Subaru WRX and let it idle for a few minutes. The engine might run rough initially as it adjusts to the cleaned throttle body.

As one owner shared: "Ive lived in the Midwest my whole life where it snows big just about every year throughout the winter. Ive got some year or so old general gmax A/S and it drove great!" (source. This highlights the importance of good throttle response for winter driving and the perception of power.

Parts and Tools Needed

Here's a list of parts and tools you might need for this fix:

• Throttle Body Cleaner: CRC Throttle Body Cleaner (Part Number: 05078)
• Wrench Set: Standard metric wrench set
• Screwdriver Set: Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
• Clean Rags: Microfiber cloths
• Scan Tool (OBDII): Optional, for clearing trouble codes

Real Owner Costs

The cost to address "no power" can vary depending on the actual cause and whether you choose to DIY or take it to a shop.

• DIY (Throttle Body Cleaning):
  • Throttle Body Cleaner: $10 - $20
  • Total: $10 - $20 (assuming you already have basic tools)
• Professional Mechanic:
  • Diagnosis: $75 - $150
  • Throttle Body Cleaning: $50 - $150 (labor) + $10 - $20 (cleaner)
  • Total: $125 - $320+ (if the throttle body needs replacement, this cost could increase significantly)

These costs are estimates based on reports of similar work. Your actual expenses may vary.

Prevention

Preventing the "no power" symptom often involves maintaining your vehicle. Regular maintenance, like throttle body cleaning, can help. Additionally, choosing the right tires for your driving conditions is crucial. As one owner explained, proper tires can improve your driving experience during winter. Consider your driving style, too. Aggressive driving can stress components more, potentially leading to problems. One owner said: "Well when some sackless mouth breather with bald tires is going 40 mph on the highway in the left lane It makes me want to weld on a push bar and pit them into next year" (source.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from SUBARU owners:

Owner Experiences

"I feel bad for those who don’t get to experience ripping it up in the snow Lowered about an inch, ain’t nothing stopping me." — SUBUWUH (source)

"Lowered about an inch, ain’t nothing stopping me. Headphone or speakers for a beautiful redline" — SUBUWUH (source)

"Seen everyone talking about blizzards this and winter tires that. Ive lived in the Midwest my whole life where it snows big just about every year throughout the winter." — DueMolasses9571 (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix the no-power issue? A: Cleaning the throttle body can take about 30 minutes to an hour if you are doing it yourself. Professional diagnosis and repair can take anywhere from an hour to a full day, depending on the complexity of the issue.

Q: Can I drive with the no-power issue? A: It's not recommended to drive extensively if you're experiencing a noticeable loss of power. This can potentially cause further damage to the engine. It is important to diagnose the underlying cause first.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Subaru WRX? A: While not the most common, throttle-related problems and perceived power loss due to environmental factors (such as winter) are issues some 2020 Subaru WRX owners have reported. Proper maintenance and tire selection can help mitigate these issues.

Q: DIY vs mechanic – what's recommended? A: Cleaning the throttle body is a relatively simple DIY task. However, if you are not comfortable working on your car or if the problem persists after cleaning, it's best to consult a professional mechanic for a thorough diagnosis and repair.

Q: What is the best way to prevent experiencing the "no power" issue? A: Regular cleaning of the throttle body, using high-quality fuel, and ensuring proper tire maintenance and selection will help prevent issues related to throttle response and perceived power loss.

Q: What role does the oil play in experiencing the "no power" issue? A: Low or dirty oil can cause the engine to work harder and reduce performance. Make sure to adhere to a regular oil change schedule to prevent issues related to performance.