The 2018 Subaru WRX has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 40 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Subaru WRX. Severity signals include 5 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (8), Engine (8), Steering (7).
WRX reliability snapshot
71/100
Latest model-year reliability score
3.5/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$682
Avg annual repair cost vs $526 category avg
#32/36
Ranking in compact cars · better than 11% of peers
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Subaru WRX before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Electrical System8
Engine8
Steering7
Power Train6
Unknown Or Other3
Visibility Wiper3
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2018 Subaru WRX
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Inspect for engine knocking or rod bearing failure
☐Check for transmission hesitation or surging during acceleration
☐Test battery for drainage issues by leaving the car off for a short period
☐Examine clutch for wear or unusual noises, especially the throw-out bearing
☐Inspect for fuel odors inside the cabin, indicating potential leaks
☐Check for windshield cracks, especially after cold weather
☐Verify if all recalls have been completed, especially for the fuel pump
What owners reported
2018 Subaru WRX owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 5 crashes, 1 fire and 2 injuries to NHTSA for the 2018 Subaru WRX. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints8
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Owners of the 2018 Subaru WRX frequently report issues with battery drainage, with multiple complaints describing the vehicle becoming inoperable after short periods of non-use or shortly after being turned off. Symptoms include the vehicle failing to start, requiring frequent battery replacements, and needing jumps to restart. These issues appear across a wide range of mileages, from as low as 5,000 miles to higher mileages like 96,000 miles. Additionally, one owner mentions a problem with the vehicle incorrectly indicating reverse gear while driving forward, activating the backup camera and reverse lights. Safety implications include the risk of being stranded in unsafe locations and potential hazards from unexpected vehicle behavior.
Owner complaints8
ENGINE
Owners report frequent engine failures in the 2018 Subaru WRX, primarily due to rod bearing issues. Typical symptoms include engine knocking, sudden loss of power, and in some cases, complete engine failure, often occurring around 32,000 to 67,000 miles. Additional complaints describe a strong fuel odor linked to a high-pressure fuel pipe leak, posing a potential fire hazard. Safety implications include risks of being stranded and loss of vehicle control. Buyers should be aware that these issues may require significant repairs or replacements, even at relatively low mileage.
Owner complaints7
STEERING
Owners of the 2018 Subaru WRX frequently report steering issues, with several complaints describing instances where the steering wheel locks up, often leading to a loss of control. These incidents typically occur during turns or while driving at moderate speeds, with some reports indicating the problem may be linked to the vehicle's safety systems activating unexpectedly. Complaints often involve crashes, and two reports mention injuries, suggesting significant safety implications. The issues are noted at various mileage points, with some vehicles having as few as 1,055 miles. Buyers should be aware of these reported steering malfunctions and the potential for accidents when considering a used 2018 Subaru WRX.
Owners report several power train issues with the 2018 Subaru WRX, particularly involving the transmission. Complaints frequently mention problems with acceleration, including hesitation and surging, especially noticeable when merging onto highways or accelerating from a stop. These issues are often linked to the CVT transmission, with one owner experiencing three replacements by 47,000 miles, and a manual transmission defect involving the throw-out bearing and fork, which in one case resulted in a fire. The manual transmission issue is reported to cause the vehicle to stop unexpectedly in traffic, posing a significant safety risk. Additionally, transmission fluid leaks and slippage are noted, with some repairs delayed by months, potentially leading to further damage. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for buyers considering a used 2018 WRX, particularly in vehicles with higher mileage.
Owners of the 2018 Subaru WRX report several issues in the UNKNOWN OR OTHER category, with clutch and sunroof problems appearing prominently. Owners frequently mention clutch failures, specifically the throw-out bearing, with symptoms like a chirping sound occurring shortly after replacement, often around 50,000 miles. Another complaint involves the sunroof exploding while driving on the highway at approximately 65 mph, under specific weather conditions involving recent snowfall and temperature changes. An additional report highlights a check engine light indicating a cylinder misfire due to ringland piston failure, with spark plug damage noted. While no crashes or injuries are mentioned, these issues could be concerning for potential buyers, particularly those considering vehicles with similar mileage.
Owner complaints3
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Owners of the 2018 Subaru WRX report issues with windshield cracking under various conditions. Complaints frequently mention cracks appearing overnight, particularly after cold weather, or while driving on highways without any visible or audible impact. Some owners suspect these incidents are linked to a known defect in Subaru windshields. The reports do not specify mileage ranges, but the need for windshield replacement is a common outcome. There are no reports of crashes or loss of control related to these issues, but the necessity of replacing the windshield suggests potential visibility concerns for drivers.
Owner complaints2
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Owners of the 2018 Subaru WRX report issues related to fuel vapors and a potential fuel pump recall. One owner describes a strong raw gasoline odor entering the cabin shortly after purchase, particularly near the driver's side rear seat and wheel well, which persists despite multiple repair attempts and component replacements. This issue is noted to cause dizziness and headaches, with the dealership unable to identify the source. Another owner mentions being informed of a fuel pump recall during a DMV visit, indicating a potential risk of fuel pump failure. These complaints suggest safety implications due to toxic fumes and potential fire hazards, which used car buyers should consider.
2018 WRX recalls (2)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2018 WRX. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGNHTSA 22V522000Jul 21, 2022
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2021 WRX vehicles. The backup light switch may corrode and become inoperative, which can result in the backup lights not illuminating and the rearview camera image not displaying when the vehicle is in reverse.
Consequence: Inoperative backup lights and an inoperative rearview camera can reduce vehicle visibility and driver awareness, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the backup light switch, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE-22.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINENHTSA 21V587000Jul 29, 2021
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21.
Used-market value
2018 Subaru WRX resale snapshot
$29,988median asking price from 32 listings
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
The 2018 Subaru WRX earns a reliability score of 71, placing it slightly above the segment average of 67. This suggests a moderate reliability profile. Complaints are distributed across several categories, with the electrical system and engine receiving the most attention. The steering and power train also contribute notable concerns, indicating no single dominant issue but a spread of moderate concerns.
With only two recalls, the recall count is limited, suggesting Subaru has not identified significant widespread defects. However, the presence of 40 complaints, particularly in critical systems like the engine and steering, indicates areas that may require attention for potential buyers.
Overall, the 2018 Subaru WRX presents a moderate reliability risk, with a balanced distribution of issues that prospective buyers should consider.
What you get in a 2018 Subaru WRX report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
Check a 2018 Subaru WRX now
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2018 Subaru WRX — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2018 Subaru WRX reliable?
The 2018 Subaru WRX earns a reliability score of 71, placing it slightly above the segment average of 67. This suggests a moderate reliability profile. Complaints are distributed across several categories, with the electrical system and engine receiving the most attention. The steering and power train also contribute notable concerns, indicating no single dominant issue but a spread of moderate concerns.
How many recalls does the 2018 Subaru WRX have?
2 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2018 Subaru WRX. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2018 Subaru WRX problems?
The most-reported 2018 Subaru WRX problem areas are: Electrical System (8), Engine (8), Steering (7).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2018 Subaru WRX?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2018 Subaru WRX, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
