Parts for your 2008 Subaru Impreza-Oil seals

2008 Subaru Impreza oil seals

Oil seals are absolutely fitted to the 2008 Subaru Impreza and are essential to how the car holds engine, transmission and differential fluids. This isn’t guesswork — the Subaru 2008 Impreza (GE/GH/GR) factory service manual details front and rear crankshaft oil seals, camshaft oil seals, oil pump seal and various transmission/diff axle seals. The Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue lists these seals across EJ-series engines used in 2008 models, and independent workshop guides and repair manuals for 2008 Impreza models describe the same components. So, oil seals are relevant to this vehicle and should be considered in regular servicing plans.

What do they do? In short, they stop oil sneaking past spinning shafts and housings. On a 2008 Impreza, engine oil seals keep oil inside the crankcase and timing areas, while transmission and diff seals keep gear oil in the driveline. When they harden or wear, oil escapes, which can drop fluid levels, make a mess under the bonnet, and, in nasty cases, contaminate a timing belt.

Key seal locations on this model include the front crankshaft seal behind the crank pulley, the rear main seal between engine and gearbox, camshaft seals behind the timing covers, the oil pump seal, and front and rear differential/axle shaft seals. The WRX/STI variants (turbo DOHC) also rely on multiple cam seals, while naturally aspirated EJ engines run cam seals at each end.

• Typical signs of trouble: oil weeping at the bottom of the timing cover, a smear of oil on the sump bellhousing joint, burnt-oil smell on hot shutdown, or dampness around axle stubs.
• Good practice: inspect seals whenever the timing belt is off, after a coolant or oil leak event, or if the PCV system has been blocked (excess crankcase pressure can push seals out).
• Use quality (preferably genuine) seals, lightly oil the lips, and seat them square and flush. Replace the crank bolt and cam seals during a timing belt job to save repeat labour.

For most 2008 Imprezas with timing belts, many workshops recommend renewing the front crank and cam seals during the next belt service (typically around the 160–175 thousand kilometre mark, depending on local schedule), or sooner if there’s visible leakage. The rear main is usually done when the gearbox is out. Transmission and diff seals are replaced on condition — any misting or wetness should be addressed before it turns into a proper drip.

A quick workshop tip: always check crankcase ventilation (PCV valve and hoses) when chasing repeat engine seal leaks. For AWD models, keep an eye on front diff/axle seals and the rear diff pinion and side seals — small leaks there can become noisy diffs if oil runs low.

Popular questions about 2008 Subaru Impreza oil seals

Where are the main oil seals on a 2008 Subaru Impreza?

The big ones are the front crankshaft seal behind the crank pulley, the rear main seal between the engine and gearbox, and the camshaft seals behind the timing covers. You’ll also find oil seals at the oil pump and on the transmission and differential where the driveshafts/axles enter.

When should the cam and crank seals be replaced?

They’re typically replaced during a timing belt service or any time there’s visible weeping. On many 2008 Imprezas that lands around the mid-160k km range, but go by condition and the service schedule for your engine variant. If there’s oil inside the timing cover, don’t delay — it can contaminate the belt.

Can a blocked PCV valve cause oil seal leaks?

Yes. A stuck or blocked PCV can raise crankcase pressure and force oil past otherwise decent seals. If seals are leaking or keep leaking after replacement, inspect and refresh the PCV valve and hoses first so the new seals aren’t put under excess pressure.