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Parts for your 2008 Subaru Impreza-Clutch kit
2008 Subaru Impreza Clutch Kit — What It Does and When to Replace It
Based on the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2008 Impreza (GE/GH/GV), the Subaru FAST parts catalogue, and OEM supplier guides from Exedy Australia/NZ, a clutch kit is fitted to 2008 Subaru Impreza models with manual transmissions (5‑speed in 2.0/2.5 NA and WRX, 6‑speed in STI). These sources show a conventional single dry-plate clutch with a pressure plate, friction disc, release bearing and related hardware. Automatic 4EAT models don’t use a clutch kit, they use a torque converter, so a clutch kit isn’t relevant to those variants.
For manual 2008 Imprezas, the clutch kit’s job is straightforward: connect and disconnect engine power smoothly so shifting stays crisp and driveability feels right. The kit typically includes the clutch disc, pressure plate, release (throw‑out) bearing, and often a pilot bearing/bush. It works with the flywheel (single‑mass or dual‑mass depending on variant) and a hydraulic release system to give a predictable pedal and bite point.
There’s no fixed replacement interval, it’s condition‑based. Regular servicing should include a check of clutch pedal free play/height, inspection for fluid contamination, and listening for release‑bearing noise. If it’s slipping under load, shuddering on take‑off, or the bite point has crept high, it’s time to plan a replacement. When replacing, doing the whole kit at once saves headaches and keeps pedal feel consistent.
- What’s usually replaced: clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, pilot bearing/bush, and the flywheel resurfaced or replaced if out of spec. Consider the clutch fork pivot/clip and rear main seal while the gearbox is out.
- Good practice: lightly lube input splines with high‑temp moly grease, align the disc with a proper tool, torque bolts to spec, and bleed the hydraulic system with fresh DOT 3/4 fluid.
On dual‑mass flywheel cars, machining isn’t always recommended, follow spec checks and replace if excessive play or heat spotting is found. After installation, bed the clutch in with gentle take‑offs and no hard launches for 500–800 kilometres to stabilise the friction surfaces. Choosing an OEM‑quality kit (Exedy is the OE supplier for many Subaru applications) keeps noise and engagement behaviour close to factory, which most owners in Australia and New Zealand prefer for daily driving.
Signs it’s time:
- Engine revs rise without matching acceleration (slip) in higher gears.
- Judder on take‑off, especially warm.
- Pedal feels gritty or release bearing chirps when the pedal is pressed.
Popular questions
How do they know if the clutch is slipping on a 2008 Impreza?
If the tach climbs quickly but the road speed lags, especially in 3rd–5th under load, that’s classic slip. Another quick check is a high‑gear, low‑rpm acceleration test up a slight hill, if revs flare without a solid pull, the friction disc is likely worn. A burning smell after repeated take‑offs is another giveaway.
It’s smart to rule out clutch fluid contamination or oil leaks first, because a rear main or input shaft seal can make a healthy clutch behave like it’s worn.
Do they need to machine or replace the flywheel when changing the clutch?
On single‑mass flywheels, a light machine within service limits helps the new disc bed properly. For dual‑mass units (some turbo variants), machining is often not recommended, check free play, run‑out and heat damage and replace if out of spec. The service manual specs should guide that call.
Ignoring a heat‑spotted or uneven flywheel can cause shudder and shorten the life of a new kit.
What clutch fluid should be used and how often should it be changed?
Use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid in the clutch hydraulic system, as specified by Subaru. Many workshops in AU/NZ flush it every 2 years or when it’s dark and contaminated, which helps keep pedal feel consistent and protects seals.
Always bleed the system properly after a clutch replacement to remove air and restore a firm, predictable pedal.
