Clutch Pedal/linkage problems of the 2008 Subaru Impreza

30 problems related to clutch pedal/linkage have been reported for the 2008 Subaru Impreza. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2008 Subaru Impreza based on all problems reported for the 2008 Impreza.

1 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 01/24/2020

The spot welds under windshield cowl broke causing the bracket holding clutch pedal assembly to break. Because of these issues, I can only engage my reverse gear half the time and while shifting gears in motion, it tends to be a bit difficult. I've almost crashed a couple times because of this issue. My car is a 2008 Subaru wrx sedan with only 74,000 miles and I'm currently making payments on the car. Money is really tight due to me being a full time college student and full time worker so I'm not sure how to go about this really big problem. My car is everything to me right now and if it fails on me, I have no means of transportation. I also have no modifications to the vehicle other than wheels, and a blow off valve. The vehicle tends to give me the most difficulty engaging reverse every morning.

2 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 12/19/2018

Tl the contact owns a 2008 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that the clutch pedal became very wobbly and almost detached. The contact stated that the manufacturer sent him a technical service bulletin extending the clutch attachment component; however, the dealer (Subaru superstore of chandler, 1050 gilbert rd, chandler, az 85286) never had the parts to repair the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 124,000. The VIN was unknown.

3 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 03/02/2017

The clutch pedal on my 2008 wrx makes a loud creaking noise every time it's depressed. When I investigated the noise, I noticed that the entire clutch pedal bracket assembly (attached to the forward firewall) shifts approx 1/4 inch every time the clutch pedal is depressed. I found that the three spot welds securing the clutch pedal bracket to the forward firewall were broken. From the outside of the firewall, just under the windshield wipers, I saw the spot welds pulling away from the firewall every time the clutch pedal was depressed. This allows the entire clutch pedal bracket assembly to move, causing the creaking noise. If the bracket completely separates from the firewall, the clutch may become completely inoperative - especially dangerous while driving.

4 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 01/27/2017

We had a new clutch installed and the brake pedal and clutch pedal now move together. Simultaneously this not only is a safety issue but has potential to cause premature clutch and brake failure.

5 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 12/22/2014

The fire wall is cracked and the welds are broken which is causing my clutch to not disengage properly and the clutch pedal to not function correctly.

6 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 08/09/2014

Cpsc:i1490369a. 2008 Subaru Impreza. Consumer stated the welds that hold the clutch bracket to the firewall failed, causing creaking, popping and increased pressure to fully depress the clutch pedal.

7 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 01/08/2014

The clutch pedal on my 2008 wrx makes a loud creaking noise every time it's depressed. When I investigated the noise, I noticed that the entire clutch pedal bracket assembly (attached to the forward firewall) shifts approx 1/4 inch every time the clutch pedal is depressed. I found that the three spot welds securing the clutch pedal bracket to the forward firewall were broken. From the outside of the firewall, just under the windshield wipers, I saw the spot welds pulling away from the firewall every time the clutch pedal was depressed. This allows the entire clutch pedal bracket assembly to move, causing the creaking noise. If the bracket completely separates from the firewall, the clutch may become completely inoperative - especially dangerous while driving.

8 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 01/01/2014

The welded clutch bracket behind the dash board broke, making my clutch pedal useless and my master cylinder flex forward badly. This is unacceptable. My car is not under warranty anymore and this is a 14 hour labor job. Any other power train related repair would be expected at this mileage, but there should never be a welded bracket that breaks.

9 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 08/28/2013

Clutch pedal on 2008 wrx has developed a creaking noise every time it is depressed. Brake pedal shifts forward and to the left upon depression of clutch pedal. This is a reasonably well documented problem of the clutch pedal assembly spot weld joints failing. This is a safety issue that should result in a recall.

10 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 05/01/2013

The vehicle developed a crack in the fire wall. Every time I press my clutch pedal there is flexing in the assembly and makes a loud crack/squeek sound. Its a daily driver vehicle so its never been raced or tracked. Due to this fire wall crack (which might be dangerous in fire/accident) my transmission gears and syncros have been worn out due to the clutch not releasing properly. I know I am not the only one with this problem, I would hope that Subaru of America will one day make a recall for this terrible problem because I dont think that I should be responsible for a huge defect like this, the vehicle is no longer safe for many reasons and is wearing out my internal components every day. Please help me!.

11 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 04/01/2013

I own a 2008 Subaru Impreza wrx with a stock clutch. For approximately 2 years I have been hearing creaking and/or clicking noises when engaging the clutch pedal. In April of 2013 chatham Subaru in GA replaced my clutch due to the metal clutch fork wearing through at the pivot point within the bell-housing. They also noted a very hard clutch pedal and spongy brakes before the repair. They replaced the clutch, flywheel, pressure plate, fork and master cylinder (I replaced the slave cylinder before I brought it in) all of which I paid for. Initially the clutch felt great (brake feel was unchanged), but has since began to harden again. . Read more...

12 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 03/04/2013

Had a squeaky clutch pedal for the past few months. Yesterday it became very hard to shift into gear. I noticed when the clutch was depressed, both the brake and clutch pedals moved about 2" to the left. Looking further, it looks like the sport weld have given way where the brace mounts to the firewall. Researching I found many people with the same issue. Car is almost undriveable and unsafe.

13 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 01/01/2013

Failed welds connecting pedal panel to the firewall. Results in loud squeaking when clutch pedal is depressed/released and the panel welds may fail entirely on my '08 sti.

14 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 01/01/2013

My clutch pedal starting squeaking in January. I thought it was squeaking because it was cold outside and thought that the problem would go away once the weather got warmer. However this is not the case and upon inspection, my spot welds are broken where the clutch attaches to the firewall. After a search, I have found that this is an extremely common problem with this model car and no recall has been issued. I have also found that many people have not had any luck at all by trying to get the dealer to fix the issue. It is definitely a flaw with the car and not an isolated incident with just me.

15 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 01/01/2013

My clutch pedal starting squeaking in January. I thought it was squeaking because it was cold outside and thought that the problem would go away once the weather got warmer. However this is not the case and upon inspection, my spot welds are broken where the clutch attaches to the firewall. After a search, I have found that this is an extremely common problem with this model car and no recall has been issued. I have also found that many people have not had any luck at all by trying to get the dealer to fix the issue. It is definitely a flaw with the car and not an isolated incident with just me.

16 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 12/21/2012

My 2008 Subaru Impreza wrx has had a "hard clutch pedal". Im an auto tech at a dealer so I took a look at it. I checked the spring and the pedal. I found the pedal would bend the mounting location under the dash when pushed in. I looked on the firewall under my wiper arms where the welds are at. The weld that holds the clutch and brake pedals to the firewall is cracked and now is cutting a hole in the firewall. I checked online for some help with the problem, and I found out im not the only one with this problem. I took the car to my local Subaru dealer. The dealer told me I needed a clutch. I ask them to look at the firewall welds that hold the clutch and brake pedals to the car. They told me to go away and not bring my car back to them! I called Subaru of America after this all happened. They told me to take it to another dealer. So I did to one " 3 hours away ". The next dealer told me the car is not safe to drive and weld is cracked on the firewall, and they called Subaru of America (soa. ) soa never called the dealer back and I took the car home and waited. They called me 5 days later and told me I would have to pay 1/2 of the bill to fix the oem defect on the firewall welds. I feel as though they don't care about this safety issue even though after some research online it is clear that im not the only one having this same issue. I have videos and pictures showing the defective welds and can produce them for you. I noticed this issue around 58000 miles. Vehicle now has 60500 miles.

17 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 10/01/2012

Clutch pedal on 2008 wrx has developed a creaking noise every time it is depressed. Brake pedal shifts forward and to the left upon depression of clutch pedal. This is a reasonably well documented problem of the clutch pedal assembly spot weld joints failing.

18 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 08/15/2012

My clutch bracket broke on the welds. This is an oem product that has a defect and it is well known on the internet and forums. Subaru of newton NJ refuses to fix the problem and was well aware. This was very dangerous for me since it happened on a highway at speeds of 65 mph. The bracket is broken and the clutch will not engage. I have noticed the firewall is cracking also. The brake pedal moves inches to the side when the clutch is pressed. This is a very dangerous problem. I am very disappointed with Subaru and the car only has 73k miles on it. I also filled with Subaru and I am awaiting answers.

19 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 07/19/2012

A loud squeak is occurring when I press and release my clutch. I had my clutch replaced about 10k miles ago due to a seized throwout bearing. I brought it to the dealer, they lubed it all up but squeak is still there. The tech said the noise is actually coming from the bracket that is mounted to the firewall under the dash. After a few hours of research, I have found numerous posts about this issue and it lies with the welds holding the bracket being faulty and breaking. This causes the firewall to flex and the whole pedal assembly, clutch and brake, to move around while in operation.

20 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 07/19/2012

A loud squeak is occurring when I press and release my clutch. I had my clutch replaced about 10k miles ago due to a seized throwout bearing. I brought it to the dealer, they lubed it all up but squeak is still there. The tech said the noise is actually coming from the bracket that is mounted to the firewall under the dash. After a few hours of research, I have found numerous posts about this issue and it lies with the welds holding the bracket being faulty and breaking. This causes the firewall to flex and your whole pedal assembly, clutch and brake, to move around while in operation.

21 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 03/01/2012

The clutch pedal on my 2008 wrx makes a loud creaking noise every time it's depressed (it will also pop if cold out). After reading other complaints online I found the entire clutch pedal bracket assembly (attached to the forward firewall) shifts approx 1/4 inch every time the clutch pedal is depressed, also causing the brake pedal to flex to the left. I can see at least two of my three spot welds securing the clutch pedal bracket to the forward firewall are broken. The whole clutch pedal assembly pulls away from the firewall every time the clutch pedal is depressed, the slave cylinder unit visibly moves. This allows the entire clutch pedal bracket assembly to move, causing the creaking noise. If the bracket completely separates from the firewall, the clutch may become completely inoperative, it already frequently feels like I cannot push the clutch in far enough to get it into gear. Feedback from the online forums shows Subaru is not addressing the problem of the faulty welds leading to expensive consumer repairs or alternative diy fixes.

22 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 02/06/2012

The clutch pedal on my 2008 wrx makes a loud creaking noise every time it's depressed. When I investigated the noise, I noticed that the entire clutch pedal bracket assembly (attached to the forward firewall) shifts approx 1/4 inch every time the clutch pedal is depressed. I found that the three spot welds securing the clutch pedal bracket to the forward firewall were broken. From the outside of the firewall, just under the windshield wipers, I saw the spot welds pulling away from the firewall every time the clutch pedal was depressed. This allows the entire clutch pedal bracket assembly to move, causing the creaking noise. If the bracket completely separates from the firewall, the clutch may become completely inoperative - especially dangerous while driving. . . I also have a vide file if needed.

23 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 12/01/2011

Vehicle started with a noise in the clutch pedal. Went away with lubricant. Then began to make a clicking sound and the clutch and brake both started to move as I depressed the clutch . The shifting of gears became difficult from the start of reverse or first gear. Then it be came real loose I had a mechanic look into it and mentioned that a weld has broken and did not recommend him fix but to have the dealer take a look at it because its a safety issue and if it breaks completely that it may cause the car to be unable to stop . So I took it to the dealer and mentioned it was out of warranty. But they will look at it. Currently they mentioned they cannot fix it under warranty so currently I cannot afford to get it resolved so im unable to drive the car.

24 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 12/01/2011

For at least 20,000 miles now (I'm at 55,000) I have had a very stiff clutch pedal and terrible squeak with every depression of the clutch. My clutch is slipping in 3rd, 4th and 5th. This was reported and diagnosed under warranty around 30,000 miles by the pembroke pines Subaru dealership. Subaru of America requested that the pressure plate and possibly the clutch be replaced (ignoring my statement that the tack welds holding the clutch assembly in place were snapped -- which they are, effecting engagement and likely damaging the clutch/pp/flywheel). After moving to asheville, nc right at the time of soa making this request, the Subaru dealership (prestige) refused to honor soa's request stating they were a franchise dealership and did not have to listen. I expect the pressure plate & clutch, along with the firewall welds, to be repaired under soa warranty.

25 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 09/21/2011

The pedal assembly of my vehicle has disconnected from my firewall due to faulty welds. My clutch and brake pedals now have an unsafe amount of play and is causing issues with braking and disengaging my clutch. Subaru of America refused to repair the problem with my car.

26 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 09/05/2011

Welds on clutch pedal assembly failed causing poor clutch feel and excessive noise. There are several spot welds on the assembly the clutch pedal mounts to which attach it to the firewall. Some of these welds broke and now give the car an unusual feeling response to the pressing of the clutch. In addition there is now excessive noise from the clutch assembly that is persistent. With some of the welds no longer functioning the clutch assembly is no longer adequately secured to the firewall and there is a risk the remaining welds could break. This would cause complete clutch failure possibly during use on the road. With a sub-par connection to the firewall now there is noticeable bending and flexing of the firewall inside the engine compartment near the clutch cylinder and the brake master cylinder. The flexing of the firewall could eventually impact the ability of the brake master cylinder to performance at top performance or possibly fail.

27 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 08/23/2011

Loud groaning noise coming from clutch pedal each time pedal is depressed to shift the car. On closer inspection of the noise come to find out that the entire (clutch and brake) pedal assembly is flexing and the firewall of the car is deflecting each time the pedal is actuated. Looking at how the pedal assembly is attached to the vehicle believe that with enough cycles the pedal assembly could become displaced due to failure of the pedal assembly. While my vehicle has high mileage this is due to long distance travel for work. An owner living in an urban area may have a higher duty cycle with the pedals and experience issues sooner.

28 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 07/30/2010

There started to be a clicking / squeaking sound when depressing the clutch. Brought the car to multiple dealerships to diagnose the problem without any answers - they continued to apply lubricant. Made it to 106,000 miles on the original clutch, had it replaced as routine maintenance with the goal of the sound going away. The sound and clicking continued, yet the car continued to drive normally. At the time of clutch replacement, the entire pedal assembly moved as one unit when depressing the clutch - this continued to be an undiagnosed problem (yet the car continued to drive normally). Brought car to dealership for routine maintenance, again complained about the noise - was informed about the firewall weld issue being the cause for the noise. Firewall welds were replaced without cost to me. Upon picking up the car, the squeaking and clicking noise was still present. Upon inspection under the steering column / dash, it was noted that a connecting bar (clutch / brake) was fractured and flexes upon depression of the clutch. Estimated cost of repair is about $1000. I have called Subaru of America, and they are investigating about whether or not this will be covered. I will not purchase a Subaru again. This is my first Subaru, and it will be my last.

29 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 06/01/2010

Every time I push in my clutch, within the first few inches there is a "click" that occurs. To my knowledge the 08 Subaru Impreza has had an issue with the clutch pedal assembly breaking welds on the fire wall, thus causing the "click" sound.

30 Clutch Pedal/linkage problem

Failure Date: 01/01/2010

I bought used 11/2009 with approximately 27,000 miles. The clutch was always very stiff which I assumed was normal. Shortly after purchase I began to notice a squeak when I depressed the clutch. The squeak was fairly intermittent but became progressively worse for a time and then turned into a clicking noise. It was frequent enough to be annoying but I just assumed the clutch assembly was squeaky and there was no other problem. Over the last few months I have been having more and more difficulty engaging the clutch and assumed that I needed a new one. I took the car into a mechanic to replace the clutch but was turned away because of what he found: when the clutch pedal is depressed, it, along with the brake pedal, move to the left and forward. Furthermore, the slave cylinder inside the engine compartment moves out and up when the clutch pedal is depressed. After doing some research online I have found that this is not an uncommon problem for the Subaru clutch assembly, though no recall has be initiated. What happens is that the welds on the firewall break, causing the abnormal movement of the clutch and brake pedals and even a warping of the firewall, not allowing the clutch to disengage.


Other Power Train related problems of the 2008 Subaru Impreza


Safety Ratings of Impreza Cars
Fuel Economy of Impreza Vehicles
Impreza Service Bulletins
Impreza Safety Recalls
Impreza Defect Investigations