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2018 Subaru Crosstrek: common problems and reliability
One of the worst Crosstrek years.
One of the Subaru Crosstrek years to avoid. All Crosstrek years
194 owner complaints, most about visibility/wiper. 5 recalls.
Should I buy a 2018 Crosstrek?The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek has 194 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 5 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are visibility/wiper and electrical system.
Safety record for the 2018 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2018 Subaru Crosstrek vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other Crosstrek years only. How we score it
Is 2018 a good year for the Crosstrek?
Across the 12 Crosstrek model years we track, complaint volume runs from 26 (2013) to 284 (2019). With 194 complaints, the 2018 Crosstrek sits above the model's median of 97.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2018 Crosstrek
engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:emission control:crankcase (pcv)
Campaign 19V744000Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Impreza and 2018 Crosstrek vehicles equipped with an aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve. The PCV valve may come apart, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, possibly resulting in a loss of power while driving.
suspension:rear
Campaign 21V263000Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid, and 2019 Forester vehicles. The rear stabilizer bracket bolts may loosen and detach.
electrical system:software
Campaign 21V264000Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Subaru Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, causing a short circuit.
electrical system:software
Campaign 19V743000Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, which could result in a short circuit and blown fuse.
Show 1 more recall
service brakes
Campaign 17V701000Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Crosstrek vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with an incorrect floor mat retention bracket, allowing the floor mat to move out of position and interfere with the accelerator or brake pedal operation.
What owners say across generations
Mixed to positive sentiment overall, with a strong reputation for practicality, safety, and all-weather capability.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Crosstrek. See the full Crosstrek owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used Crosstrek listings typically run $15,300–$24,199.
Other Crosstrek model years
Compare every Crosstrek year side by side to see how 2018 ranks against the rest.
Compare the Crosstrek against its rivals
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