Subaru Wrx sti 2008 problems

General information about Subaru-Wrx sti
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Subaru WRX STI is a variant of the Subaru WRX sedan produced by in-house tuning company Subaru Tecnica International between 2014 and 2021. It succeeded the Subaru Impreza WRX STI. The VA WRX STI was the last vehicle produced with the famous EJ257 engine. Production of the WRX STI may resume production in the next generation (Presumably codenamed VC) WRX, however there are currently no plans for a VB WRX STI. STI also offers many factory-backed accessories usually available from dealerships, and accented in STI's signature cherry blossom, a tribute to the iconic tree of the same name from the brand's homeland of Japan.

First Generation (VA; 2014-2021)

The VA WRX STI was released in 2014 alongside the VA WRX. It featured uprated brakes, the famous Subaru Technica International tuned EJ257 4-cylinder engine, an uprated 6 speed manual transmission, along with a unique body kit and spoiler. Interior upgrades include an STI-exclusive gauge cluster, shifter knob, and other unique touches, including Recaro bucket seats in certain models. The WRX STI for the most part featured a red accented interior, over the WRX's black and grey.

Starting with the MY2016 update, the WRX STI gained fluorescent green brake callipers, which was a hit among the Subaru community, and is now an easy identifier of the WRX STI.

In 2020, Subaru announced they would be phasing out the WRX STI along with the EJ257, the last variant of the ageing EJ engine, with the release of the VB series WRX in 2021. Subaru introduced the STI WRX EJ25 Final Edition, based on Subaru's flagship STI Spec R. The EJ25 Final Edition features a range of upgrades including BBS 19” gold forged aluminium wheels, silver Brembo calipers, black door mirror covers, front grille pinstripe in STI cherry blossom, Final Edition engine cover plate, and numbered EJ25 Final Edition badge. Only 75 were produced for markets across the globe.

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Common Subaru Wrx sti 2008 problems

The Subaru WRX STI 2008 is known for several common problems that have been reported by owners. These issues include:

Head gasket failures: The 2008 Subaru WRX STI is prone to head gasket failures, which can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed promptly. This issue is common in many Subaru models and can be caused by a variety of factors, including the design of the engine and the materials used in the head gaskets themselves.
Faulty oxygen sensors and rough running: Some owners have reported issues with the oxygen sensors in their 2008 WRX STI, which can lead to rough running and poor performance. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty sensors, damaged wiring, or issues with the engine control unit (ECU).
Bad camshaft seals: The camshaft seals in the 2008 WRX STI can sometimes fail, leading to oil leaks and other issues. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, damage from debris, or manufacturing defects.
Ringland failure and spun bearings: Some owners of the 2008 WRX STI have reported issues with ringland failure and spun bearings, which can lead to significant engine damage. This problem is often caused by high engine speeds and aggressive driving, and can be exacerbated by modifications or aftermarket parts.
Corrosion around the battery terminals: Some owners have reported issues with corrosion around the battery terminals, which can lead to electrical problems and other issues. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to moisture, damage from debris, or issues with the battery itself.
Transmission issues: Some owners of the 2008 WRX STI have reported issues with the transmission, including slipping, grinding, and other problems. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, damage from debris, or manufacturing defects.
Oil leaks and starvation: Some owners have reported issues with oil leaks and starvation in their 2008 WRX STI, which can lead to engine damage and other problems. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, damage from debris, or manufacturing defects.
Piston failures: Some owners of the 2008 WRX STI have reported issues with piston failures, which can lead to significant engine damage. This problem is often caused by high engine speeds and aggressive driving, and can be exacerbated by modifications or aftermarket parts.
Rod bearing failures: Some owners of the 2008 WRX STI have reported issues with rod bearing failures, which can lead to engine damage and other problems. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, damage from debris, or manufacturing defects.
Electrical issues: Some owners of the 2008 WRX STI have reported issues with electrical problems, including issues with the battery, starter motor, and other components. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, damage from debris, or manufacturing defects.

It's important to note that not all 2008 WRX STI models will experience these issues, and many owners have reported no problems with their vehicles. However, it's important to be aware of these common problems and to address them promptly if they do occur. Regular maintenance and inspections can help to prevent many of these issues, and working with a qualified Subaru mechanic can help to ensure that any problems are addressed promptly and effectively.

What problems do Subaru WRX STI have?

Piston failures (ring land fractures) on the 2.5-litre engine are quite common – both on WRX and STI hatchbacks. Some owners have had new short-block engine replacements, whilst others have gone for a bespoke engine rebuilds with forged pistons – budget around $3,000 / £2,500 for this.

Are WRX STI engines reliable?

According to repairpal.com, the Subaru WRX STI scores 2. ⁄5, placing it 36th out of 36 for other compact cars. It has higher than average costs for the WRX STI, making it less dependable than other similar selections.

How long do WRX STI engines last?

WRX and WRX STI: The Subaru WRX and WRX STI are high-performance sports sedans known for their powerful engines and agile handling. Despite their sporty nature, WRX and WRX STI models can still provide long-term reliability, lasting 150,000 miles + with proper maintenance and care.

What year STI is the most reliable?

The 2000-2002 and 2008-2016 versions are the worst on the market. There are some quality years available for the Subaru WRX STI if you're determined to invest in this vehicle. We recommend the 1992-1999, 2004-2007, or 2017-2022 selections for the best results.

What problems do Subaru WRX STI have?

Is the Subaru WRX STI reliable?

The Subaru WRX STI is a classic car. Unfortunately, we would not recommend even the most reliable versions, thanks to the expensive repairs required. Subaru is a solid manufacturer, but the WRX STI isn't necessarily their strong suit. If you want the car for its classic standing, go with the best years available.

Is the Subaru Impreza WRX 2008 reliable?

Perfectly reliable.

It is safe, efficient, comfortable, sporty enough, and has lots of utility with the hatchback and seats that fold down. It has been insanely reliable and always performed well. I guess that's why Subaru is such a well loved auto maker.

How long do WRX STI engines last?

Subaru Wrx sti 2008 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Wrx sti problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Unknown or other problems
Power train problems
Structure problems
Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Wrx sti 2008 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Subaru Wrx sti 2008 complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Wrx sti 2008.

2017-02-24

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2017-02-08
VIN: JF1GR89648L
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: SECONDARY AIR VALVE, RELAY, AND PUMP. THERE IS A RECALL ON THE SECONDARY AIR VALVE RELAY. THE RELAY INITIATES THE PUMP WHICH CAUSES THE VALVE TO OPEN AND CLOSE. AFTER THE RECAL WAS PERFORMED THE SECONDARY AIR VALVE NO LONGER FUNCTIONED PROPERLY AND WAS TOLD BY SUBARU MUST BE REPLACED AT OWNERS EXPENSE. THE COST OF THE FIX IS AROUND N $1500. THE VALVE MALFUNCTIONS ON COLD START UPS AND THE FAILURE WILL NOT ALLOW THE CAR TO PASS A SMOG TEST. THESE ITEMS ARE TOO CLOSELY RELATED TO ONE ANOTHER FOR THE PROBLEM NOT TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH ONE ANOTHER. THEY SHOULD ALL BE UNDER RECAL.

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2016-02-10

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2015-07-27
VIN: JF1GR89648L
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: FIREWALL FLEXES AFTER REPEATED USE OF CLUTCH, BREAKING SPOT WELDS ON FIREWALL AND RENDERING CLUTCH USELESS. IMPOSSIBLE TO SHIFT GEARS WHEN THIS HAPPENS, AND IF IN GEAR, CAR WILL NOT STOP. TERRIBLE BURNING SMELL WHEN BRAKES ARE ENGAGED. INCIDENT OCCURRED IN UNDERGROUND PARKING LOT WHILE EXITING PARKING SPACE FROM PARKED POSITION. TEMPORARY REPAIR COST IS ROUGHLY $400 (OVER $1000 FOR PERMANENT FIX AND RE-WELD OF FIREWALL).

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2015-10-04

POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2015-09-30
VIN: JF1GR89618L
Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: THE BRAKE PEDAL BRACKET HAS BROKEN ALMOST COMPLETELY IN HALF. IF DRIVING WAS TO BE CONTINUED, THE BRAKES WOULD FAIL TO OPERATE. THIS HAPPENS AFTER REPEATED USE OF THE CLUTCH.

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Subaru Wrx sti 2008 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Subaru Wrx sti 2008.

2014-12-31

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Impreza, 2008-2014 WRX and STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia that were remedied under recall 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. The brake lines may experience brake line corrosion due to salt water splashing on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector.
Consequence: Brake fluid may leak due to the brake line corrosion and may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will apply an anti-corrosion wax to the four-way joint connector area of the brake line system, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQQ-52. Notes: This recall is specific to affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI customers who had their car remedied under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. Subaru has determined that this remedy was inadequate due to incomplete repair instructions provided to dealers. Affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI vehicles that were not repaired under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014 will continue to be processed under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311. Affected vehicles not currently, or formerly, registered in the salt belt states identified in this recall are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.

2014-06-10

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Outback and Legacy, 2008-2011 Impreza and 2008-2014 Impreza WRX/STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Salt water could splash on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector, resulting in excessive corrosion of the brake lines. Note that affected vehicles not currently, or formerly registered, in the salt belt states identified above are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.
Consequence: Brake line corrosion may result in brake fluid leakage. Fluid leakage may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will test the brake system by depressing the brake pedal and inspecting for brake fluid leaks. If no brake fluid seepage is observed, the affected areas will be rustproofed with anti-corrosion wax. If brake fluid seepage is observed, the brake lines will be replaced followed by rustproofing with anti-corrosion wax. These services will be performed free of charge. The recall began July 2014 and second notifications will run through November 2014. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall campaign number is WQK-47. Note: This recall supersedes recall 13V-110 which applied to certain 2005-2009 Legacy/Outback vehicles. Vehicles that were remedied under the previous campaign still need additional areas rust-proofed.

Additional sources

More sources of information about Subaru Wrx sti 2008 problems:

2008 Subaru STI problems? : r/WRXSTi

https://www.reddit.com/r/WRXSTi/comments/d7dxc6/2008_subaru_sti_problems/

Sep 21, 2019 ... Ringland failure and spun bearings are the major ones. You should stay away from 2008-10 if you can unless it's super low mileage. Try for 11-14 ...

Difference and problems with 2008 vs 2009 Subaru WRX? | Subaru ...

https://www.wrxtuners.com/threads/difference-and-problems-with-2008-vs-2009-subaru-wrx.32424/

Apr 28, 2012 ... Also I read that the 08 has more problems then the 2009? Is this true and if it is what are the common problems seen in 08 and not the 09? I am ...

2008 Impreza wrx sti reliability? : r/subaruimpreza

https://www.reddit.com/r/subaruimpreza/comments/gvcqic/2008_impreza_wrx_sti_reliability/

Jun 2, 2020 ... Turbocharged EJ series engines are prone to blowing out ring lands and head gaskets. They are also notorious for getting too hot without ...

2008 STI owners poll (Problems vs. No Problems) | IW STi Forum

https://www.iwsti.com/threads/2008-sti-owners-poll-problems-vs-no-problems.128012/

Jul 13, 2008 ... ... issues and their car truly is having major problems. ... 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI | Dark Gray Metallic ... A forum community dedicated to Subaru ...