2008 Subaru WRX Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2008 Subaru WRX
- The system most likely to surface first: ej255 engine internals (critical severity).
- Has 7 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting:brake lights:switch.
- Scores 7 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2006 Subaru WRX earns a 75.
Is the 2008 Subaru WRX Worth Buying?
The 2008 Subaru WRX offers an intoxicating blend of performance and AWD capability, but it demands meticulous care and a keen eye for its specific weak points. While immensely fun to drive, potential owners must acknowledge the elevated risk of significant engine and transmission issues if not properly maintained or previously abused, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection absolutely non-negotiable.
Biggest Strengths
- Excellent AWD system for all-weather traction
- Engaging driving dynamics and performance potential
- Strong aftermarket support and passionate community
What Tends to Fail First on the 2008 Subaru WRX
The systems that break first on the 2008 Subaru WRX. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
2008 Subaru WRX Recall History
7 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
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.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
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.
What breaks on the 2008 Subaru WRX?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Subaru WRX Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Subaru WRX. Click any year for its full report.
2008 Subaru WRX Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2008 Subaru WRX
Parts and accessories matched to your 2008 Subaru WRX
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Frequently Asked Questions
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