2008 Subaru Wrx problems
The Subaru WRX is an all-wheel drive sport compact car manufactured by the Japanese automaker Subaru, originally based on the Impreza created for the World Rally Championship in 1992. Subaru claimed the name WRX stands for "World Rally eXperimental". Starting with the 2015 models, the WRX lineup has been split from the Impreza, with a different body style that is not offered as an optional hatchback/wagon, being introduced as the separate Levorg model.
Impreza-based models (1992–2014)
The first three generations of the WRX, sold until the 2015 model year, were based on standard Impreza platforms, and replaced the Subaru RX hatchback and sedan.
The initial first-generation WRX models were based on the Impreza sedan (GC chassis code). They were followed by wagons (GF) in 1993 and the first upgraded WRX STi version, introduced in 1994. Several limited edition first-generation coupés were offered in the late 1990s and early 2000s which were never sold in the US and are highly sought after by Subaru enthusiasts.
The second-generation WRX (GD/GG chassis codes for the sedan/wagon, respectively) was brought over to the United States domestic market for model year 2002, with the STI being brought over for model year 2004. The initial "bugeye" front end styling (2000) was superseded by the "blobeye" in 2004 and the "hawkeye" in 2006. Under an agreement between Fuji Heavy Industries and General Motors, Saab sold its own version of the WRX, marketed as the Saab 9-2X, for the 2005 and 2006 model years. The 9-2X was available in both a standard (Linear) and performance (Aero) package, the latter was essentially identical to the second-generation WRX wagon, mechanically.
The third-generation WRX were sold as chassis codes GE (sedan) and GH (hatchback, replacing the earlier wagon version) initially; the third-generation WRX STI was sold with a widened chassis and was available only as a widebody hatch (GR). For the 2011 model year, the third-generation WRX sedan and hatch were moved to the GV and GR wide-body chassis variants, respectively, and a widebody sedan version of the STI (GV) was marketed. The Impreza was redesigned and the fourth-generation was first marketed for model year 2012, making it a distinct model from the WRX, which continued on the third-generation GV/GR chassis until 2014 in most markets.
The fourth-generation WRX were given the VA chassis designation and marketed as a separate model from the Impreza starting in 2015.
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Common 2008 Subaru Wrx problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Subaru WRX 2008, several common problems have been reported:
- Transmission Problems: Another common complaint among Subaru WRX 2008 owners is related to transmission issues, specifically with second gear repeatedly popping out of engagement. This can be a safety concern and affect the overall drivability of the vehicle. Addressing transmission problems promptly is essential to prevent potential accidents and further damage to the transmission system.
- Turbocharger Failure: Some owners have reported turbocharger failure, which can lead to a loss of power and performance in the vehicle. Turbocharger issues can be costly to repair and may require professional intervention to ensure proper functioning of the turbo system. Regular maintenance and monitoring of the turbocharger system can help prevent unexpected failures and ensure optimal performance of the vehicle.
- Head Gasket Failure: Head gasket failures have been noted by some Subaru WRX 2008 owners, which can result in coolant leaks, overheating, and potential engine damage. Addressing head gasket issues promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to the engine and ensure the vehicle's reliability. Regular inspections and maintenance can help detect head gasket issues early and prevent costly repairs in the future.
- Steering Rack Leak: Owners have reported steering rack leaks, which can lead to steering issues, fluid loss, and potential safety hazards while driving. Steering system problems should be addressed promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle. Regular inspections and maintenance of the steering system can help prevent leaks and ensure proper steering functionality.
By addressing these common problems promptly and conducting regular maintenance and inspections, Subaru WRX 2008 owners can enhance the longevity, performance, and reliability of their vehicles. Regular monitoring of the engine, transmission, turbocharger, head gasket, and steering system is essential to detect issues early and prevent costly repairs in the future.
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.
What are bad years for WRX?
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 is the biggest problem with the WRX?
Subaru WRX Reliability Problems
- CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery. Too many owners of newer Subaru vehicles are waking up to cars that won't start due to dead batteries. ...
- Lineartronic CVT Reliability. ...
- Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires. ...
- Subaru EyeSight Problems. ...
- Rust and Corrosion Problems.
What is the problem with the 2008 Subaru Impreza?
Common problems with the Subaru Impreza include engine issues, sudden and abrupt acceleration, transmission failure, and air bag problems. The 2008 and 2012 models of the Subaru Impreza should be avoided, but the rest have generally good reliability.
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.
What is the biggest problem with the WRX?
Subaru WRX Reliability Problems
- CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery. Too many owners of newer Subaru vehicles are waking up to cars that won't start due to dead batteries. ...
- Lineartronic CVT Reliability. ...
- Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires. ...
- Subaru EyeSight Problems. ...
- Rust and Corrosion Problems.
What are bad years for WRX?
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.
Is the 2008 WRX fast?
Even with the '08-spec 224 horsepower, our WRX was never lacking motivation. On the test track, it managed to hit 60 mph in 5.6 seconds on the way to a 14.3-second quarter mile.
2008 Subaru Wrx car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Wrx problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Structure problems
- Service brakes problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Subaru Wrx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2008 Subaru Wrx
The NHTSA has received 65 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Subaru Wrx. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2008 Subaru Wrx vehicles.
2019-04-02
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-20
- VIN: JF1GH74698G
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CLUTCH/BRAKE ASSEMBLY BROKE AWAY FROM FIRE WALL. MAKING CAR UNDRIVABLE
2019-02-20
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-20
- VIN: 6XKD352
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE DRIVER LOOKS HIGH. CUTTING PEOPLE OFF AND RUNNING THROUGH STOP SIGNS
2019-01-21
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-28
- VIN: JF1GE74668G
- Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE WELDS THAT ATTACH THE BRAKE AND CLUTCH PEDDLE TO THE VEHICLE BRAKE AND ALLOW THE WHOLE PEDDLE ASSEMBLY TO MOVE. BECAUSE OF THIS, BRAKING EFFICIENCY AND DRIVE GEAR ENGAGEMENT BECOME COMPROMISED. IN THE EVENT THAT A HARD STOP IS NEEDED, THE WHOLE ASSEMBLY COULD BRAKE AND KEEP THE DRIVER FROM BEING ABLE TO STOP. THIS ISSUE IS A HUGE HAZARD! THIS IS NOT A CONVENIENCE ISSUE, THIS IS A LIFE AND SAFETY ISSUE TO NOT ONLY THE OCCUPANTS OF THE SUBARU BUT EVERYONE ON THE ROAD! I HAVE CONTACTED SOA, AND THEY INFORMED ME THAT I WOULD HAVE TO TAKE CARE OF THE REPAIR MYSELF. THIS REPAIR IS NOT JUST SOME NUTS AND BOLTS COMING LOOSE OR SOMETHING LIKE THAT. THIS IS A HUGE REPAIR THAT IS STRUCTURAL TO THE VEHICLE. AT COSTS OF WELL INTO THE THOUSANDS! SOA KNOWS OF THE ISSUE AND REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT! MY VEHICLE CURRENTLY SITS AT 92K MILES BECAUSE OF THE POOR CLUTCH ENGAGEMENT I HAD TO REPLACE MY CLUTCH AT 78K. I HAVE VIDEO AND PHOTO EVIDENCE TO GO ALONG WITH EVERYTHING THAT IS STATED ABOVE, BUT A QUICK GOOGLE SEARCH WILL SHOW YOU THAT THOUSANDS OF SUBARU WRX AND STI OWNERS FROM 2008 TO 2014 ARE OR WILL EXPERIENCE THIS EXACT ISSUE!
2018-12-17
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-17
- VIN: VINJF1GE746
- Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
- Summary: FIREWALL SPOT WELDS HAVE FAILED, CAUSING SIGNIFICANT LATERAL PLAY IN THE CLUTCH PEDAL. I HAVE HAD SOME SIGNIFICANT TROUBLE TRYING TO GET IT INTO GEAR. SO I HAVE HAD TROUBLE SHIFTING GEARS WHILE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND HAVE HAD TROUBLE GETTING IT IN REVERSE IN ORDER TO PULL OUT OF A PARKING SPOT. THE BRAKE PEDAL IS NEXT IN-LINE TO BE AFFECTED BY THE SHEET METAL TEAR. I KEEP HEARING THAT THIS PROBLEM IS NOT COVERED UNDER ANY RECALL. NOR IS IT A WARRANTY ITEM AT THIS YEAR AND MILEAGE (105,000). THIS IS A VERY SIGNIFICANT ISSUE AND WILL COST A GREAT DEAL (OVER $1000) TO FIX. THIS BEING A WELD ISSUE AND NOT A WEAR ISSUE MAKES ME THINK THAT THE FACTORY OUGHT TO COVER THIS SAFETY ISSUE. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR THE LAST YEAR AND A HALF. BUT I HAVE ONLY RECENTLY DISCOVERED THE TRUE EXTENT OF THE PROBLEM.
2018-11-12
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-01
- VIN: JF1GE74628G
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THERE ARE 3 WELD SPOTS ON MY FIREWALL THAT ARE SNAPPED. BECAUSE OF THIS I CONSTANTLY HEAR SNAPPING SOUNDS AND MY BREAK PEDAL MOVES WHEN THE CLUTCH IS DEPRESSED. THIS WAS A RECALL ON THE CAR BUT SUBARU OF AMERICA SAYS THAT I CANT GET IT FIXED UNDER WARRANTY. I BOUGHT THE CAR USED FROM A SUBARU DEALERSHIP IN RAMSEY NJ PRE-OWNED CERTIFIED AND THIS PROBLEM SHOULD HAVE BEEN FIXED BEFORE I PURCHASED THE CAR. IVE HAD THE CAR FOR ABOUT 6 MONTHS OR SO. THE SOUND IS DRIVING ME CRAZY AND THE CRACKS ARE GETTING WORSE.
2018-10-11
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-04
- VIN: JF1GH74648G
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: FIREWALL WELDS BROKE AND CLUTCH NEEDS REPLACEMENT AT 88,000 MILES. THE CLUTCH IS STILL STIFF AND MAKES A CREAKING NOISE DESPITE THE FIREWALL WELDS BEING REPAIRED.
2018-06-02
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-30
- VIN: JF1GE75608G
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: CREAKING CLUTCH PEDAL REALLY IS THE FIREWALL PEDAL MOUNTING BRACKET THAT IS FACTORY SPOT WELDED ONTO THE DRIVERS SIDE DASH SECTION OF THE FIREWALL UNDER THE DASH BOARD HAS ITS WEAK FACTORY SPOT WELDS BROKEN. I HAD REPLACED THE CLUTCH ON MY CAR AS IT WAS WEAK AND THOUGHT REPLACING IT WOULD MAKE THE CREAKING SOUND GO AWAY. REPLACING THE CLUTCH MADE THE SQUEAKING NOISE LOUDER AND NOW MY BRAKE PEDAL MOVES RIGHT INTO THE PATH OF THE CLUTCH WHEN IT IS PRESSED AND BACK TO ITS PLACE WHEN DEPRESSED. THIS IS A SAFETY CONCERN AS I AM A FATHER AND CANNOT GUARANTEE THIS CAR IS SAFE TO DRIVE AT ALL. I SPENT $1,200 ON THE INSTALLATION AS I PROVIDED THE PARTS TO THE SUBARU DEALER. AFTER RECEIVING MY CAR BACK, THE CAR BECAME INOPERABLE AS THE CLUTCH IS DIFFICULT TO ENGAGE SAFELY INTO ANY GEAR. I CONTACTED SUBARU OF AMERICA AS PER THE DEALERS ADVICE AND WAS DENIED ANY COMPENSATION FOR STRUCTURAL REPAIRS TO MY VEHICLE.
2018-02-19
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-14
- VIN: JF1GE74618G
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I PURCHASED A 2008 SUBARU IMPREZA WRX. EVERY TIME THE CLUTCH IS ENGAGED OR DISENGAGED A CREAK/POP NOISE CAN BE HEARD. YOU CAN ALSO SEE THE CLUTCH AND BRAKE PEDAL MOVE SIGNIFICANTLY. THE SPOT WELDS ON THE FIREWALL/BULKHEAD HAVE SEPARATED MAKING IT VERY DIFFICULT TO GET INTO GEAR AND MAKING THE CLUTCH VERY FIRM. THIS NEEDS TO BE A RECALL. PEOPLE CAN NOT AFFORD THIS VERY EXPENSIVE WHILE MAKING PAYMENTS ON THEIR VEHICLE. THIS PROBLEM IS ALSO CAUSING PREMATURE WEAR ON TRANSMISSION PARTS AS WELL. I HAVE 4 SUBARUS AND IF THEY DON'T MAKE THIS RIGHT I WILL NOT BUY ANOTHER. VERY SAD TO SAY CONSIDERING I WORK FOR THEM BUILDING ENGINES.
2018-02-06
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-24
- VIN: JF1GE75618G
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE FIREWALL IS CRACKING WHICH CAN CAUSE THE CLUTCH PEDAL TO BECOME INOPERABLE. AFTER I HAD WORK DONE ON MY CAR THE MECHANIC TOLD ME THAT THE FIREWALL WAS CRACKING AND THAT I WOULD NEED TO CONTACT SUBARU OF AMERICA FOR POSSIBLE COVERAGE. THEY DENIED ME COVERAGE BECAUSE IT WOULD BE TOO COSTLY DESPITE THE FIREWALL BEING A KNOWN ISSUE ON THE WRX FROM 2008-2014
2017-05-10
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-16
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: CLUTCH BRACKET SPOT WELDS LET GO OF FIRE WALL. MAKING THE CLUTCH AND BRAKE PEDAL MOVE AND SQUEAK WHEN CLUTCH IS ENGAGED.
2017-03-05
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-04
- VIN: F1GH75628G8
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I BOUGHT THE CAR USED WITH THE CLUTCH PEDAL SQUEAKING. IGNORED IT BECAUSE I THOUGHT IT JUST NEEDED GREASE. I WAS DRIVING HOME LAST NIGHT WHEN THE CLUTCH PEDAL GOT STUCK PRESSED ALL THE WAY DOWN. I STARTED RESEARCHING AND FOUND MANY POSTS OF PEOPLE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. THE SQUEAKING WAS CAUSED BY THE CLUTCH PEDAL MOUNTING BRACKET SEPARATING FROM THE FIRE WALL. I CRAWLED UNDER THE DASHBOARD TO LOOK, AND SURE ENOUGH IT IS BROKEN.
2016-11-11
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-06
- VIN: JF1GE74668G
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE I NOTICED WHILE DEPRESSING MY BRAKES OR CLUTCH, I WOULD HEAR A "POPPING SOUND." ALSO I NOTICED THE CLUTCH PEDAL AND THE BRAKE PEDAL WOULD MOVE TOWARDS THE LEFT TOGETHER (OPPOSE TO JUST UP AND DOWN) WHEN DEPRESSING THE CLUTCH PEDAL. IT SEEMS LIKE THE WHOLE FIREWALL WHERE THE CLUTCH AND BRAKE PEDALS ARE ATTACHED TOO IS MOVING WHEN DEPRESSED. THIS HAPPENS ALL THE TIME NOW WHEN CLUTCH PEDAL IS DEPRESSED.
2016-09-22
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-18
- VIN: JF1GH74698G
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I RECENTLY DISCOVERED A KNOWN ISSUE IMPACTING MY PARTICULAR CAR AND CONFIRMED THE PROBLEM AFTER INSPECTING MY VEHICLE MYSELF. THE FIRST 130K MILES WERE SPENT COMMUTING TO MY JOB 84 MILES A DAY AT OVER 90% HIGHWAY DRIVING (VERY LITTLE CLUTCH/BREAK ACTION REQUIRED), AND THE LAST 9K WERE PUT ON OVER THE LAST 4 YEARS - CAR MOSTLY SAT SINCE I STARTED WORKING FROM HOME. OVER TIME SPOT WELDS WHICH HOLD THE CLUTCH/BRAKE ASSEMBLY TO THE FIREWALL HAVE BROKEN AND ASSEMBLY IS AT RISK OF DETACHING WHILE DRIVING MY CAR. NUMEROUS CARS HAVE BEEN AFFECTED OVER MULTIPLE MODEL YEARS AND HAS BEEN WELL DOCUMENTED SEE NASIOC OWNERS - HTTP://FORUMS.NASIOC.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=2700583. SUBARU HAS HISTORY OF DENYING CLAIMS DESPITE ISSUING EXTENDED WARRANTIES. THEIR INCONSISTENT TREATMENT OF THIS ISSUE AN UNWILLINGNESS TO ADDRESS THIS CLEAR DESIGN/ENGINEERING FLAW NEEDS TO BE HANDLES AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL. I HAVE NOT REQUESTED A DEALERSHIP INSPECTION OR REPAIR DUE TO MY CARS AGE AND SUBARU'S PAST HISTORY OF DENYING CLAIMS.
2016-05-27
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-15
- VIN: JF1GE74668G
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I HAD AN ISSUE PREVIOUSLY WITH THE WELDS FOR THE CLUTCH PEDAL ASSEMBLY CRACKING ON THE FIREWALL. IT GOT SO BAD THAT THE WHOLE PEDAL ASSEMBLY WITH THE BRAKE AND GAS PEDAL SHIFTED LEFT EVERY TIME I DEPRESSED THE CLUTCH. IT EVENTUALLY CAUSED THE CLUTCH TO NOT DISENGAGE ENTIRELY AND BURN OUT. SUBARU OF AMERICA FIXED THE PROBLEM BY SENDING IT TO A BODY SHOP TO RE-WELD THE PEDAL ASSEMBLY TO THE FIREWALL BUT NOW, JUST A FEW YEARS LATER, THE PEDAL IS SQUEAKING AGAIN JUST LIKE IT DID LAST TIME THE WELDS BROKE. I HAVEN'T TAKEN IT IN YET BUT IT IS AN UNMISTAKABLE SOUND.
2016-05-04
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-27
- VIN: JF1GE746X8G
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE CLUTCH PEDAL ON MY 2008 WRX MAKES A SQUEAKING NOISE EVERY TIME IT'S ENGAGED. WHEN I INVESTIGATED THE NOISE, I NOTICED THAT THE CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET ASSEMBLY (FORWARD FIREWALL) SHIFTS APPROX 1/4 INCH EVERY TIME THE CLUTCH PEDAL IS ENGAGED. I FOUND THAT THE THREE SPOT WELDS HOLDING THE CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET TO THE FORWARD FIREWALL WERE BROKEN. FROM THE OUTSIDE OF THE FIREWALL, JUST UNDER THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS, THE SPOT WELDS ARE SEPARATING AWAY FROM THE FIREWALL EVERY TIME THE CLUTCH PEDAL IS ENGAGED. THIS ALLOWS THE ENTIRE CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET ASSEMBLY TO MOVE,MAKING THAT SQUEAKING NOISE. IF THE BRACKET COMPLETELY SEPARATES FROM THE FIREWALL, THE CLUTCH WILL NOT WORK. THIS IS SUPER SUPER DANGEROUS WHILE DRIVING.
2016-03-25
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-21
- VIN: JF1GH75638G
- Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: A COUPLE YEARS AGO MY CLUTCH STARTED TO CREAK. I ASKED THE LOCAL SUBARU DEALER TO CHECK IT WHEN I TOOK IT IN FOR A SCHEDULED OIL CHANGE. I GOT TOLD THEY COULDN'T FIND A PROBLEM. SO I THOUGHT NOTHING OF IT. I JUST TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER AND GOT TOLD THE SPOT WELDS ON THE FIREWALL. SUBARU OFFERED TO FIX THE WELDS BUT I HAVE TO PAY FOR A NEW CLUTCH ASSEMBLY. IF THE WELDS TOTALLY FAIL THIS COULD BECOME A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE AS IT WILL AFFECT THE BRAKE MOTION ALSO.
2016-01-13
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-22
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JF1GH75658G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS PARKED, CAR OFF. VEHICLE OWNER IN GYM WORKING OUT WHEN AN EMPLOYEE ALERTED HIM HE HAD SMOKE COMING OUT FROM UNDERHOOD. OWNER WENT OUT AND FOUND FLAMES COMING OUT OF HOOD SCOOP. OPENED HOOD AND FOUND WHAT APPEARED TO BE SECONDARY AIR PUMP ON FIRE. EXTINGUISHED WITH FIRE EXTINGUISHER. TOWED CAR TO SHOP AND INITIAL INSPECTION APPEARS THAT THE PLASTIC SECONDARY AIR PUMP CAUGHT FIRE AND WAS STARTING TO BURN AND DO DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING UNDERHOOD COMPONENTS. VEHICLE CURRENTLY IN SHOP (SMART SERVICE 206-417-0880) HAVING DAMAGE PARTS REPLACED. IT APPEARS THAT IF THIS FIRE WAS NOT EXTINGUISHED IT WOULD HAVE BURNED THE VEHICLE TO THE GROUND AND ANYTHING SURROUNDING IT. MORE PICTURES ARE AVAILBLE BY CALLING SHOP LISTED ABOVE AS WELL AS ALL OLD PARTS WILL BE SAVED FOR INSPECTION IF NEEDED.
2015-11-03
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-30
- VIN: JF1GH7466G8
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AS VERIFIED BY THE DEALERSHIP: THE FIREWALL WELDS KEEPING THE CLUTCH BRACKETS IN PLACE ARE CRACKED. THIS CAUSES THE PEDAL ASSEMBLY TO HAVE PLAY AND MOVE AS UNINTENDED. IF THE PEDAL BRACKET WERE TO BECOME MORE UNSTABLE THE VEHICLE COULD BE UNCONTROLLABLE DURING USE.
2015-10-14
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-12
- VIN: JF1GE74698G
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE SPOT WELDS THAT HOLD MY CLUTCH PEDAL ASSEMBLY ON THE FIRE WALL ARE BREAKING AND CAUSING PROBLEMS GETTING CAR INTO 1ST AND REVERSE
2015-10-01
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-01
- VIN: JF1GH75628G
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE USED FROM A DEALERSHIP IN JANUARY OF 2015 WITH OVER 100,000 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. AFTER A FEW MONTHS OF DRIVING IT I BEGAN TO HEAR A CLICK EVERY TIME I DEPRESSED THE CLUTCH PEDAL. I LOOKED INTO THE ISSUE TO SEE IF IT WAS A COMMON PROBLEM AND IF THERE WAS AN EASY FIX TO IT. TURNS OUT SIX OF THE SEVEN SPOT WELDS THAT HOLD MY CLUTCH AND BRAKE ASSEMBLY TO THE FIREWALL WERE CRACKED. THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE ALREADY BUT THEY WONT SERVICE VEHICLES PAST 40,000 MILES.THIS DOES NOT HELP ME SEEING AS THE CAR IS FAR PAST 40,000. NOT ONLY IS THIS A SAFETY ISSUE BUT IT IS ALSO CAUSING OTHER PARTS OF THE CAR TO PREMATURELY WEAR OUT SUCH AS THE CLUTCH AND THE RELEASE BEARING. I NEED HELP.
2015-07-16
STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-10
- VIN: JF1GE76619G
- Components: STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE CLUTCH PEDAL ON MY 2009 WRX MAKES A LOUD CREAKING NOISE EVERY TIME IT'S DEPRESSED. WHEN I INVESTIGATED THE NOISE, I NOTICED THAT THE ENTIRE CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET ASSEMBLY (ATTACHED TO THE FORWARD FIREWALL) SHIFTS APPROX 1/4 INCH EVERY TIME THE CLUTCH PEDAL IS DEPRESSED. I FOUND THAT THE THREE SPOT WELDS SECURING THE CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET TO THE FORWARD FIREWALL WERE BROKEN. FROM THE OUTSIDE OF THE FIREWALL, JUST UNDER THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS, I SAW THE SPOT WELDS PULLING AWAY FROM THE FIREWALL EVERY TIME THE CLUTCH PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THIS ALLOWS THE ENTIRE CLUTCH PEDAL BRACKET ASSEMBLY TO MOVE, CAUSING THE CREAKING NOISE. IF THE BRACKET COMPLETELY SEPARATES FROM THE FIREWALL, THE CLUTCH MAY BECOME COMPLETELY INOPERATIVE - ESPECIALLY DANGEROUS WHILE DRIVING. I EVENTUALLY FIXED IT MYSELF WITH A CUSTOM MADE BRACE AND SOME BOLTS. UPDATED 12/21/2015*JS
2015-06-23
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-04
- VIN: JF1GE75638G
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: CHECK CLUTCH DIFFICULT TO GET IN GEAR FOUND CLUTCH PEDAL SUPPORT BRACE BROKEN AWAY FROM FIREWALL. NEEDED TO REWELD BRACE AND ADD PLATE AND ADDITIONAL WELDS
2015-06-09
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-15
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MANY PEOPLE WITH SUBARU WRX AND STI MODEL CARS HAVE BEEN HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE SPOT WELDS THAT HOLD THE CLUTCH PEDAL ASSEMBLY. THESE SPOT WELDS HAVE A TENDENCY TO BRAKE OFF AND LEAVE THE CAR INOPPERABLE BECAUSE ONCE THOSE SPOT WELDS BRAKE OFF YOU CANT PUSH IN THE CLUTCH PEDAL TO PUT IT IN GEAR. ONE OF THE EARLY SYMPTOMS I HAD IN MY CAR WAS A SQUEAKY CLUTCH PEDAL. MANY PEOPLE IN THE SUBARU COMMUNITY HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM AND THERES EVIDENCE OF THIS ON YOUTUBE AND MANY SUBARU FORUMS LIKE NASIOC.COM . WE NEED HELP GETTING THIS FIX, SUBARU OF AMERICA HAS KNOWN FOR YEARS ABOUT THIS DEFECT BUT THEY HAVE BEEN DOING NOTHING ABOUT IT. MANY PEOPLE HAVE HAD TO PAY 1000-2000 DOLLARS OUT OF POCKET TO GET THIS PROBLEM FIXED BECAUSE SUBARU DOESNT WANT TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY.
2015-05-13
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-01
- VIN: JF1GE746X8G
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE CLUTCH PEDAL WAS MAKING A LOT OF NOISE, PROGRESSIVELY GETTING WORSE OVER THE YEARS THAT I'VE OWNED THIS CAR. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY ADJUSTED THE PEDAL ASSEMBLY. THE NOISE CAME BACK SHORTLY AFTER SO I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AGAIN AND THEY REPLACED THE PEDAL ASSEMBLY. ONCE AGAIN, THE NOISE CAME BACK, BUT THIS TIME IT WAS WORSE THAN EVER. THE DEALERSHIP IS SAYING THE CLUTCH PEDAL MOUNT HAS HAD ALL WELDS FAIL THAT ATTACH IT TO THE FIREWALL. SUBARU NEEDS TO ADDRESS THIS AS IT SEEMS MANY OWNERS HAVE THIS SAME ISSUE.
2015-05-06
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-11-02
- Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: CLUTCH STARTED MAKING A CREAKING NOISE WHEN PRESSING IN AND OUT. SHIFTING GEARS HAS ALSO BECOME MORE DIFFICULT LIKE THE CLUTCH ISN'T FULLY ENGAGING AND DISENGAGING. I ALSO NOTICED THE WHOLE ASSEMBLY SHIFTS (CLUTCH AND BRAKE PEDALS) WHEN PRESSING DOWN ON THE CLUTCH. TURNS OUT THE SPOT WELDS ON THE BRACKET THAT HOLD THE ASSEMBLY ARE COMPLETELY BROKEN, CAUSING FLEX TO THE CLUTCH AND BRAKE ASSEMBLY. IF THAT BRACKET RIPS OFF, COULD LOSE BRAKING POWER. THIS IS UNSAFE AND NEEDS TO BE RECALLED. *TR
2008 Subaru Wrx recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 2008 Subaru Wrx.
2020-01-02
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
2020-01-02
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
2020-01-02
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
2019-04-11
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
- Consequence: The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
2019-02-28
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.
- Consequence: Brake lights that do not illuminate properly will not alert other drivers that the vehicle is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of crash.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.
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 2008 Subaru Wrx problems:
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/
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https://www.vwvortex.com/threads/2008-subaru-wrxs-maintenance-reliability-nightmare.8375729/
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Common '08 WRX Problems? : r/WRX
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2008 STI Engine Failure - Subaru WRX Forums
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