2009 Subaru WRX power train problems
33 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the power train on the 2009 Subaru WRX — 80% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Failed welds connecting pedal panel to the firewall. Results in loud squeaking when clutch pedal is depressed/released and car is extremely difficult to get in or out of gear. Causes movement of brake pedal as well which could cause major issues. This happens moving and parked”
filed Jan 14, 2018
“The welds where the clutch pedal attaches to the firewall are breaking. The same bracket is attached to the brake pedal. The entire brake & clutch assembly could break off of the firewall. This could result in a loss of braking.”
filed Mar 18, 2017
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% |
| 2008 WRX | 48 | 74% |
| 2004 WRX | 1 | 2% |
| 2003 WRX | 4 | 7% |
| 2002 WRX | 16 | 4% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2009 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.