2008 Subaru Impreza: Reliability, Recalls, Known Issues & Cost to Own
Data last updated 2026-07-04 · sources listed throughout · based on public NHTSA data
Third-generation launch year with a high complaint volume, notable powertrain issues, and excessive oil consumption. 3 known issue patterns are documented below, with frequency and the mileage windows where they typically appear. New, the 2008 Subaru Impreza ranged from $16,995 to $19,995 depending on trim (base MSRP, before options and destination).
This listing
Context from the listing you were viewing, not a market-price judgement.
Third-generation launch year with a high complaint volume, notable powertrain issues, and excessive oil consumption.
Sources (3)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=imprez…
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/subaru/impreza
- cargurus.comhttps://www.cargurus.com/research/articles/subaru-impreza-buying-guide
Known issues
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These years fall under the Takata airbag inflator recall affecting the front airbag modules.
commonly reported · 39 NHTSA complaints · other
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Powertrain and clutch or transmission complaints were the largest category at launch, with reports of premature clutch wear and driveline issues.
commonly reported · 66 NHTSA complaints · transmission
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The 2.5L EJ253 engine commonly burns excessive oil and can develop head-gasket coolant and oil leaks as mileage climbs.
commonly reported · 40 NHTSA complaints · typically 90k–150k miles · engine
Based on public NHTSA complaint data and AI synthesis: patterns, not guarantees.
Sources (3)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=imprez…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=imprez…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=imprez…
Recalls & safety
Recall history hasn't been loaded for this model year yet.
Whether a recall is still open on a specific car depends on its VIN. Check it free at NHTSA's VIN lookup (nhtsa.gov/recalls), or ask the seller for proof the repair was done.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Simple, well-understood mechanicals that are inexpensive to service.
- Versatile hatchback practicality and a peppier 2.5L engine than the prior generation.
- Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive with confident grip in snow and rain.
Cons
- Dated interior and unremarkable fuel economy for a compact.
- The 2.5L engine is prone to oil consumption and head-gasket leaks as miles accumulate.
- Takata airbag recalls affect these years.
Trims & original pricing
| Trim | Original base MSRP | New today | Engine | MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5i | $16,995 | discontinued | — | — |
| Premium | $18,495 | discontinued | — | — |
| Outback Sport | $19,995 | discontinued | — | — |
Prices are base MSRP for each trim's standard configuration. Options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Sources (1)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/2008-subaru-impreza-price
Depreciation
Move your cursor along the line to see the estimated value for any year.
This listing sits above the typical depreciation curve. Common for heavily-optioned cars and for 2021-2023 model years (pandemic-era pricing); the curve is anchored at base MSRP, which excludes options.
Curve anchored at the entry-trim base MSRP ($16,995). Higher trims started higher (up to $19,995), and options added more.
The curve's data ends 10 years in, so the line levels off after that. Treat the tail as a floor, not a forecast: asking prices for older cars depend mostly on condition, mileage, and the current market, and often sit well above it.
Sources (1)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/subaru-impreza/resale-value
Cost to own
| Repairs (rises with mileage) | ≈ $650–700/yr |
| Expected lifespan | ~200k miles |
National-average estimates based on public data. Your costs vary by region, driver, and condition.
Sources (1)
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/subaru/impreza
Frequently asked questions
What problems does the 2008 Subaru Impreza have?
Documented issue patterns include: These years fall under the Takata airbag inflator recall affecting the front airbag modules; Powertrain and clutch or transmission complaints were the largest category at launch, with reports of premature clutch wear and driveline issues; The 2.5L EJ253 engine commonly burns excessive oil and can develop head-gasket coolant and oil leaks as mileage climbs. Frequency is based on public NHTSA complaint data: patterns, not guarantees.
Is the 2008 Subaru Impreza reliable?
Third-generation launch year with a high complaint volume, notable powertrain issues, and excessive oil consumption.
How much did the 2008 Subaru Impreza cost new?
Between $16,995 and $19,995 depending on trim. Those are base MSRPs for each trim's standard configuration; options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Is the Subaru Impreza expensive to maintain?
Estimated repairs run roughly $650–700/year as mileage climbs.
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Estimates are based on public data: patterns, not guarantees. CarVitals is not affiliated with NHTSA, CarMax, AutoTrader, or Cars.com. Issue frequencies come from public NHTSA complaint data, which has no denominator, so they describe reporting patterns, not failure probabilities. Always have a used car inspected before buying. How we build these reports.