Is the 2008 Subaru Impreza STI reliable?

There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.

What are the most common problems with the 2008 Subaru Impreza STI?

The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 42% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2008 Subaru Impreza STI have?

1 recall on file for this model year.

2008 Subaru Impreza STI

○ Not enough data

2008 Subaru Impreza STI
RENDERED 2026-10-31T15:30:43.680Z

Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 33
Recalls: 1
Investigations: 0
Top problem: Engine and engine cooling

Complaints per year

2008: 33 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2008	33
2009	3

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Engine and engine cooling

42% · 14 reports

Most commonly citing engine.

Power train

33% · 11 reports

Show complaint excerpts

Check engine light went off, flashing cruise control, and flashing differential selection [s] code. Brought the car to the shop and had it checked out.

NHTSA ODI report, 2013-05-01

The firewall is flexing under clutch pedal movement or braking. Upon research I have found numerous claims by 08/09 impreza owners of soft welds on the firewall cracking and causing the firewall to flex under operation of the brakes or clutch.

NHTSA ODI report, 2012-12-28

Also filed under Service brakes

Structure

18% · 6 reports

Most commonly citing body.

Service brakes

18% · 6 reports

Most commonly citing hydraulic.

CRASH

Air bags

12% · 4 reports

Most commonly citing frontal.

CRASH

Show complaint excerpts

On the morning of November 4, 2011 , I pulled into the parking area behind a middle school and my car would not stop. I applied my brakes, the car still continued to go forward over the cement bumper and into the building.

NHTSA ODI report, 2011-11-04

Also filed under Service brakes, hydraulic and vehicle speed control

Safety timeline

1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

2009-04-17Equipment09E011000 Thule, inc. Is recalling 2,323 owner-installed roof-mounted fit kits, models 3068 and 3069, manufactured between January 1, 2008 and February 28, 2009 that are used with thule podium foot packs…

Remedy: Thule will mail a retro fit kit along with repair instructions to owners free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on or before April 13, 2009. Owners may contact thule toll-free at…

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

2008 Subaru Impreza STI — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Engine and engine cooling: 14 reports on file for this year.
Power train: 11 reports on file for this year.
Structure: 6 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 09E011000 · Equipment

FAQ

Is the 2008 Subaru Impreza STI reliable?: There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2008 Subaru Impreza STI?: The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 42% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2008 Subaru Impreza STI have?: 1 recall on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.