Parts for your 2008 Subaru Impreza-Brake calipers

2008 Subaru Impreza Brake Calipers

Brake calipers are absolutely fitted to the 2008 Subaru Impreza. The 2008MY Subaru Impreza/WRX/STI Service Manual (Brake—BR section) and Subaru’s genuine parts catalogues list front disc brake calipers across the range, with many trims also running rear disc calipers. Performance variants like WRX and STI use more substantial multi‑piston setups, while some entry-level models in certain markets pair front calipers with rear drum brakes. Either way, calipers are integral to the car’s braking system.

On this Impreza, the caliper’s job is to clamp the pads onto the rotor to convert speed into heat and slow the car. Most non‑performance trims use floating single or twin‑piston calipers up front, WRX steps this up, and STI models run fixed Brembo calipers (four‑piston front, two‑piston rear). That layout is well documented across Subaru’s service literature and major aftermarket catalogues used in AU/NZ trade workshops.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to give the calipers some love every 10,000–15,000 km or at each service visit:

• Inspect for fluid leaks, torn dust boots, uneven pad wear and stuck slide pins.
• Clean and lubricate slide pins with quality high‑temp brake grease, replace pin boots if perished.
• Refresh abutment clips/shims when pads are changed to keep pad movement smooth and quiet.
• Replace brake fluid every 24 months (or as specified on the master cylinder cap, typically DOT 3 or DOT 4). Bleed from the wheel furthest from the master cylinder and work closer.
• Check hoses for cracking and the banjo bolt/crush washers for weeping.

Signs the caliper needs attention include pulling to one side under braking, a hot wheel, squeals that don’t go away, a soft pedal, or inner pads wearing faster than outer pads. If replacement’s on the cards, swap calipers in axle pairs, torque mounting bolts to the factory spec, and use new crush washers on the hose. After refitting, bleed the system and bed in the pads as recommended by the pad maker. On WRX/STI with rear disc rotors and an internal drum handbrake, remember the park brake adjustment is separate from the caliper.

For the STI’s fixed calipers, be fussy about rotor thickness and runout, and stick to the factory torque specs from the Subaru manual. For daily drivers, keeping the sliders free and the fluid fresh will keep the pedal feel crisp and braking performance consistent across Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions about 2008 Subaru Impreza brake calipers

Do all 2008 Imprezas have rear brake calipers?
Not all of them. Every 2008 Impreza runs front disc calipers, but some entry‑level trims in certain markets came with rear drums. WRX and STI feature disc calipers at the rear. If unsure, a quick look behind the rear wheel will show a rotor (disc) and caliper, or a drum.

How often should the calipers be serviced?
Have them checked at each regular service (around 10,000–15,000 km) and any time pads or rotors are replaced. A two‑year brake fluid change is a good rule of thumb in AU/NZ to keep corrosion at bay and maintain a firm pedal.

What are the tell‑tale signs of a sticking caliper?
Common giveaways include the car drifting to one side when braking, a wheel that’s noticeably hotter after a drive, uneven pad wear (inner pad thinner), a burning smell, or poor fuel economy. Address it quickly to avoid cooking pads and rotors.