2008 Subaru WRX power train problems
48 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the power train on the 2008 Subaru WRX — 74% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“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…”
filed Jan 21, 2019
“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…”
filed Dec 17, 2018
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
This announcement provides information on the remanufactured CVT transmission program.
SubaruNet Announcement (R · Other · issued May 4, 2026This bulletin announces the service manual correction regarding clutch master cylinder reservoir service procedures.
03-97-26 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Apr 24, 2026
Power Train problems in other WRX years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 WRX | 4 | 16% |
| 2019 WRX | 2 | 7% |
| 2018 WRX | 6 | 14% |
| 2017 WRX | 11 | 21% |
| 2016 WRX | 4 | 13% |
| 2015 WRX | 18 | 35% |
| 2009 WRX | 33 | 80% |
| 2004 WRX | 1 | 2% |
| 2003 WRX | 4 | 7% |
| 2002 WRX | 16 | 4% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2008 Subaru WRX
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.