2008 Subaru P0087: What It Means & Is It Safe to Drive?
P0087 on the 2008 Subaru: Fuel Rail/System Pressure – Too Low. Here's what it means, what usually causes it, what repairs typically cost, and whether it's safe to keep driving.
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What this code means
The actual fuel rail pressure is lower than the PCM commanded. On direct-injection engines the high-pressure fuel pump is the primary suspect; on port injection engines the lift pump or filter is most common.
Common causes on the 2008 Subaru
- Failing high-pressure fuel pump (direct injection engines)
- Weak low-pressure lift pump
- Clogged or restricted fuel filter
- Leaking fuel pressure regulator
- Restricted fuel supply line
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- Hard starting, especially when hot
- Stalling or stumbling under load or acceleration
- Rough idle
Typical fixes
- Replace high-pressure fuel pump (GDI engines)
- Replace low-pressure (in-tank) fuel pump
- Replace fuel filter
- Inspect and replace fuel pressure regulator
Repair cost range
For a 2008 Subaru, repairs for P0087 typically fall between $200 and $1200, depending on the root cause and labor rates in your area.
Known issues on Subaru
Subaru FA20DIT (WRX/STI) P0087 is a known issue—the HPFP can fail and Subaru has extended warranties for some VINs. On naturally aspirated FB25 models, the in-tank pump is the more common culprit.
Most commonly affected models
Forester 2014–2018Outback 2015–2019WRX 2015–2019