"The repair instructions previously provided in the WQK-47 recall bulletin as been updated, the WQQ-52 recall will involve applying additional anti-corrosion material to the four-way (2-2 way) joint connector area of the brake line system on Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI vehicles previously repaired under the WQK-47 (14V-311) brake line corrosion recall prior tothe December 23, 2014 WQK-47 recall bulletin revision."
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2008 Subaru Impreza brakes problems
severe 8 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $450 · see brakes across all vehicles →
Complaints
8
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$450
2crashes
When does it fail?
Of the 8 brakes complaints filed for the 2008 Subaru Impreza, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Among the 13 model years of Subaru Impreza in our records for brakes problems, this one ranks #2 by owner-complaint volume.
No new NHTSA brakes complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 17 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering brakes on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This bulletin provides diagnosis and procedure information to be applied when diagnosing potential fluid leaks on front and rear brake calipers. This information has been developed to reduce unnecessary brake caliper replacement.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This bulletin announces availability of a new stop lamp switch for the models listed above equipped with LED - type rear combination lamps.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗"Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, and WRX vehicles to replace the brake lamp switch. A total of 1,303,530 U.S. vehicles will be affected by this recall."
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This Service Information bulletin announces instruction for application of additional lubrication between the brake caliper support and pad clips. This will prevent the pad from dragging due to corrosion buildup which may result in uneven or premature wear of the replacement brake pads. This additional instruction applies to all models with brake pads using the upper and lower pad clips and has been added to the brake pad installation procedures found in the related Service Manuals.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
I own a 2008 wrx sti Subaru that had complete engine failure due to fact the dealer could not perform a critical ECM recall that was a direct result of engine failure. Subaru refused to cover it under warrenty. The car has been a problem from the start also had brake system issues they refuse to repair. *tr
2008 Subaru impreza wrx sedan ABS issues. Light snow/wet pavement coming to a stop anywhere from 5-25 mphs the ABS system locks the wheels causing it to slide. ABS pulsates but does not seem to let go. *tr
Had brakes trouble with your 2008 Subaru Impreza?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the brakes problem on the 2008 Subaru Impreza?
It's a meaningful issue. 8 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $450.
At what mileage does the brakes typically fail?
Based on the 8 complaints filed, brakes issues most often appear around 44,100 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $450 for brakes repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to brakes?
No active recalls currently cover brakes issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2008/Subaru/Impreza.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.