How many problems does the 2018 SUBARU Impreza have?

The 2018 SUBARU Impreza currently has 146 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.

What are the most common problems with 2018 SUBARU Impreza?

The most common problems reported for the 2018 SUBARU Impreza are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.

Where does this 2018 SUBARU Impreza problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2018 SUBARU Impreza comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.

2018 SUBARU Impreza Problems

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

58 complaints

On 8/9/24 I was involved in a fender bender minor collision with a parked car which damaged my right-hand headlamp assembly on my 2018 Subaru Impreza. On 8/23/24 I brought my car to Subaru of Ann Arbor to have Safety Recall WRG-22 NHTSA ID 22V-624 performed on it. Both headlamp assemblies were under recall by Subaru. I was told by the service manager that the right hand and left hand headlamp assembly replacement procedure could not be performed free of charge, as promised by Subaru, because the front bumper was damaged (due to the accident), and Subaru could not remove and replace it in order to accomplish either headlamp replacement. On 9/9/24 I brought my car to Heritage Collision Center for a repair estimate on my damaged right hand front fender. (See Picture 1) I told Heritage Collision that the right hand headlamp assembly was under recall and Subaru was going to replace it free of charge. During the time of repair, I asked Heritage if I could take a picture of the damaged and recalled right hand headlamp assembly (See Picture 2). Upon reviewing my final bill of repair from Heritage Collision, I saw that Subaru had charged the MSRP of $319.95 to replace the recalled right hand headlamp assembly after promising to replace the recalled headlamp assembly for free. Subaru owes me $319.95 for my replacement of the recalled headlamp assembly. (See Picture 3)

Nov 24, 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V624000 (Exterior Lighting); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Aug 23, 2024

The headlights on my vehicle are incredibly dim. Subaru issued a recall about this in August 2022 and I have been constantly asking my local dealerships and Subaru of America to get this address. They have repeatedly told me I will be receiving a letter in the mail when they have the parts to fix the issues. It has almost been 2 years and Subaru still doesn't have the parts... I'm not sure what to do at this point other than submit a complaint as they seem like they have no interest in addressing this recall.

Jun 26, 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V624000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Jun 14, 2024

My wife's 2018 Impreza premium has had an open recall on it since August 0f 2022. It has been almost 2 years now. The recall, 22V624000 is a serious safety concern since it's about the car's headlights not functioning properly. Even with no obvious symptoms, I'm terrified for my wife to drive in the dark. Just last year I saw headlight assemblies for her model available for sale on Subaru's OEM website....so I'm not understanding why there's no remedy still.

Jun 12, 2024

+ 53 more complaints for this component

VISIBILITY/WIPER

28 complaints

While parked at a roadside rest for the night I heard a sound similar to cracking but didn’t think anything of it. The next day when the sun came up I noticed the windshield was cracking and had a few chips in it. The chips were not the cause of the cracking and came along the cracks but we’re not centrally located to the cracks meaning they were caused by the windshield cracking. The night before the defrost was on cold because it had been raining and it was warm outside. I immediately took photos. I have been unable to repair the windshield considering it costs over 1000.00 and my insurance doesn’t cover defects in the quality of parts used on the vehicle.

Jun 24, 2023

Rear view mirror fell off while driving. There was no impact or otherwise cause for this to fall off. The mirror took a chunk of glass from the front windshield with it. Very dangerous.

May 01, 2022

Windshield cracked for not apparent reason. Parked car, places visor up, came back to car, took visor down and immediately noticed the crack. I do not remember any rocks hitting the windshield at that spot and I did not notice it at all until this morning when returning to my car. Very unusual.

Mar 06, 2022

The windshield on my 2018 Impreza car cracked on the lower left drivers side. The crack was unexpected and was not triggered by anything. It arrived out of no where. There is no chip or indentation. Crack is about the length of 2 dollar bills. I feel this is a manufacturing defect and should be paid for by Subaru. This is absolutely faulty craftsmanship and I am extremely disappointed with the durability considering I take excellent care of my vehicle and have had it for less than 1 year! Not to mention, I do not even want to think about the lack of protection this windshield would have provided me if I were ever been in an accident. As a mother, I prefer to drive a vehicle that is safe with my 2 year old daughter in the back seat. I read that there is an ongoing lawsuit with Subaru concerning 2017-2019 vehicles with windshield defects. I am not the only individual experiencing this. Not to mention, this is not an expense I was prepared for and shouldn’t have to be, if Subaru would make a windshield that was not faulty and safe for its consumers! Subaru needs to make this right and be considerate of its consumers.

Jan 07, 2022

I have had 3 windshields crack (all in the Winter months) for no reason with this Impreza. On December 4 2021, I turned on the car and while still in park, a 5" crack started growing from the bottom of the front windshield upward. The crack was not there when I started the car and during the day it grew to 8". This repair costs $1000 each time and from what I have read, Subaru is aware that this is not an isolated incident with these windshields. I complain each time that the windshields are defective and that vehicles I have that are 10 years old have not had a windshield crack or be relaced. Even a Subaru employee joked I should trade before getting another cracked windshield this Winter. I should have heeded that advice.

Dec 05, 2021

+ 23 more complaints for this component

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

13 complaints

This making model has become known for a parasitic drain of the DCM module. It’s all over the public forums that this module doesn’t shut down properly and causes a drain on the battery system. The remedy is to plug your car into a battery tender system.

Nov 10, 2025

There is an open recall on my vehicle. It has been open since August of 2022. They have yet to come up with a remedy and it seems like it is a safety issue. Vin [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Jan 17, 2024

I have had an open recall on my vehicle since August 12, 2022 with no remedy available still as of May 4, 2023. The page says to file a complaint if the manufacturer does not issue a remedy quickly.

May 04, 2023

While driving on highway 96 on 3/29/23 at 5:45pm my drivers side window blew out. I was in the far left lane going 75mph, when I heard a pop noise and when I looked over my window was flying in my car and outside my car. I did just keep driving because what would stopping do. I did not file a police report because I didn’t find a stone or bullet in my car. I have contacted Subaru and they seem to be working with me. They offered to pay for any out of pocket expenses for the window. I still need to talk with them about the paint that needs repainting due to the glass hitting it.

Apr 05, 2023

This vehicle was sold to me with the recall not fixed and not disclosed to me. They also did not disclose that this vehicle is a salvage. (They being a dealership). It was sold at salvage/insurance auction with 14, 170 miles. It was then sold at a dealer auction with 14, 171 miles. When it was sold to me the mileage on the duplicate title I was given showed actual mileage of 14,171. The odometer disclosure statement I received indicates mileage of 14, 172. Upon purchasing the vehicle which is financed through Chrysler Capital, I noticed the car while driving on the freeway at 70 mph would pull to the right. Without the multiple details this is a quick summary. This vehicle needs to be off the road and not sold again. I have documentation of all this and more.

Sep 05, 2021

+ 8 more complaints for this component

ENGINE

6 complaints

Engine oil leak. An engine oil leak could potentially cause a fire hazard by igniting when leaking into hot components. It could cause engine damage due to inadequate lubrication leading to overheating and severe engine damage. The leak can contaminate the environment including soil and water, and it can create slippery surfaces which would be a risk to people walking in the area with leaked oil. I took my vehicle to a Subaru dealership for service, and they indicated that it was leaking oil everywhere. I looked it up and found numerous reports in online forums of others having the exact same issue. I was quoted over $5000 to repair and forums also indicate that others have been quoted multiple thousands of dollars to repair as well. I have noticed that the vehicle would always give me a low oil light approximately 3000 miles after an oil change, so I would top it off. It has been doing this since I originally purchased the vehicle with approximately 16000 miles. I took it to a Subaru dealership back then and was told by the service providers that it's normal for engines under 60,000 miles to consume more oil and dismissed it. Now it no longer falls under warranty and am expected to pony up $5000 to fix it.

May 29, 2025

Knocking sound in engine confirmed by dealership service center to be a spark knock in the engine. No fix available and the service center stated "is a common problem in Impreza."

Jan 03, 2024

Engine began failing at 68k miles. The vehicle spews blue smoke from the tailpipe and under the hood and loses power when accelerating intermittently. It also consumes large amounts of oil. I've had the car worked on by an independent mechanic and will have to have the engine rebuilt at a cost of $6500 or more. Local dealership claims car is out of warranty an nothing can be done. The car didn't have a light on despite these symptoms. At 83k miles, the car became completely unsafe to operate.

Dec 06, 2023

Driver / owner of vehicle was found deceased from a fire that originated in the engine compartment of the vehicle. This is being reported by Portland Fire and Rescue Fire Investigator [XXX]. NO apparent body damage to the metal parts of the vehicle. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

Jan 25, 2023

Fire: 1

WHEN STARTING THE SUBARU RELEASES DARK GREY SMOKE IN HIGH QUANTITIES, AND HAS BEEN LOOSING POWER WHEN SPEEDING UP.

Nov 28, 2020

+ 1 more complaint for this component

VISIBILITY

6 complaints

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V624000 (Visibility) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Mar 01, 2023

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that upon entering the vehicle, he noticed that a vertical crack had formed on the bottom passenger’s side windshield. The crack quickly extended approximately 30 inches. The contact stated that the crack obstructed his vision while driving at various speeds. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000.

Jan 04, 2023

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that he parked and remained at a close distance from the vehicle; however, upon returning to the vehicle, he noticed that there was a large crack on the windshield. The contact inspected the windshield but could not determine the cause of the failure. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 25,500.

Oct 24, 2022

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that the front windshield was cracked. The contact was unsure what caused the windshield to crack since the vehicle was rarely driven. The contact scheduled an appointment with the dealer for an inspection. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 81,500.

Jun 14, 2022

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that after he poured water onto the windshield to wash the windshield, the windshield shattered. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 16,000.

May 04, 2022

+ 1 more complaint for this component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

5 complaints

2018 Impreza, beginning around 2020, has had three dead or damaged batteries (2x OEM and 1x aftermarket) and the car is now on its fourth battery (aftermarket). Vehicle couldn't sit for more than a few days without needing jump started. Dealership performed parasitic draw test and concluded the Data Communications Module (DCM) was the source of the parasitic draw and pulled the DCM fuse while I await back ordered parts (the DCM and DCM battery). From my research, older DCM units rely on 3G cell service that's no longer available and the DCM keeps attempting to phone home telemetry data, but can't, and drains the battery. Thankfully I have an extended warranty to cover this replacement but feel like Subaru needs to be more proactive in solving this issue for its customers by declaring a recall.

Oct 18, 2023

Failure of the starter motor, should be able to get the faulty part from mechanic. This rendered me unable to start my car and required a tow, thankfully not from the side of the highway. Confirmed faulty with tow driver and mechanic. The part has only been inspected by mechanic who mentioned this was the third starter motor failure he has seen on Subaru Imprezas. No warnings, though the car struggled to turn over earlier in the day.

Jun 05, 2023

I LEASE A 2018 SUBARU IMPREZA, WHICH CURRENTLY HAS ABOUT 14,000 MILES. SINCE JANUARY 2021, IT'S BATTERY HAS FAILED MULTIPLE TIMES. I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO THE DEALER (DUNNING SUBARU IN ANN ARBOR, MI) AND THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT HAS INSTALLED 4 NEW BATTERIES. THEIR DIAGNOSIS HAS BEEN THAT AS LONG AS I DON'T DRIVE MORE OFTEN AND FARTHER (IN THESE VAGUE TERMS) MY CAR'S BATTERY WILL CONTINUE TO FAIL. THE LAST TIME I TOOK MY CAR TO GET IT FIXED AFTER IT STRANDED ME, ON APRIL 16, THE DEALERSHIP AND SUBARU OF AMERICA'S CONSUMER ADVOCATE OFFICE BOTH SUGGESTED THAT I PURCHASE AN OFF-MARKET BATTERY TENDER TO RECHARGE THE BATTERY. THIS MEANS THAT THEY ANTICIPATE THEIR CAR BATTERY WILL FAIL WITH MY CURRENT DRIVING NEEDS. IN OTHER WORDS, THE VEHICLE IS UNRELIABLE. BUT FROM THEIR PERSPECTIVE, I AM AT FAULT FOR NOT DRIVING MORE.

Apr 16, 2021

OEM BATTERY FAILED AND LEFT DRIVER STRANDED IN NOV 2020. DEALER REPLACED BATTERY AT THAT TIME. DEALER HAD TO REPLACE BATTERY AGAIN TODAY, 04/02/2021 BECAUSE IT WAS ALSO FAILING. DEALER WOULD NOT ACKNOWLEDGE THAT ISSUE WAS WITH CAR. SIMPLY STATED THAT THEY WOULD CONTINUE TO REPLACE FAILED BATTERIES IF WITHIN WARRANTY PERIOD. EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. WHEN BATTERY FAILS, CAR IS UNRESPONSIVE TO ANY/ALL COMMANDS.

Apr 02, 2021

PROBLEM WITH THE IGNITION SWITCH NOT WANTING TO ENGAGE, WOULDN'T TURN THE KEY AT ALL. HAS BEEN A PROBLEM FOR THE LAST FEW MONTHS WHERE I HAD TO PLAY WITH IGNITION TO GET IT TO TURN OVER

Mar 24, 2019

STRUCTURE

4 complaints

WINDSHIELD CRACKED IN MIDDLE FOR NO REASON. CRACK IS 1.5 FEET LONG. VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY WHEN IT OCCURRED.

Mar 23, 2021

2018 SPORT MODEL NOTICED FRONT WINDSHIELD COWL PANEL WARPED AT 4770 MILES AND AGAIN AT 6880 MILES AFTER WARRANTY PLACEMENT. COWL PANEL POPS UP AT THE CENTER OF THE PANEL LEAVING A 1/8" GAP BETWEEN THE RUBBER SEAL AND THE BASE OF THE WINDSHIELD. UPON PRESSING IT DOWN, THE GAP WILL RETURN IN A FEW DAYS LEAVING A LARGER 1/4" GAP. OVER TIME THE PANEL PULLS ITSELF COMPLETELY OFF THE WINDSHIELD EXPOSING THE PLASTIC CLIPS THAT HOLDS THE COWL BEHIND THE WINDSHIELD. THIS GAP EXPOSES THE 2 WIRE WINDSHIELD HEATING ELEMENT TO DUST AND RAIN ALONG WITH TRAPPING VARIOUS DUST AND DEBRIS.

Apr 01, 2019

THE WIPER COWL COVER SEPARATES FROM THE WINDSHIELD RESULTING IN A GAP BETWEEN THE COWL COVER AND THE WINDSHIELD. THIS GAP ALLOWS AN ABNORMAL AMOUNT OF WATER TO FLOW INSIDE, ESPECIALLY DURING HEAVY RAINFALL, SNOW, OR CARWASH. IN ADDITION, DEBRIS SUCH AS LEAVES, PINE NEEDLES, ETC ENTER THROUGH THE GAP, RESULTING IN CLOGGED DRAIN TUBES OVER TIME. IN THE PHOTO BELOW THE GAP IS AROUND 0.25 IN AFTER ATTEMPTING TO PUSH IT BACK IN, AFTER DRIVING, THE GAP GROWS TO AN 1 IN AT THE CENTER.

Feb 28, 2019

ABOUT TWO WEEKS AGO WHEN THE FIRST FROST HIT I NOTICED THERE WAS A WINDSHIELD CRACK BUT IT LOOKED UNRELATED TO AN IMPACT CRACK AS IT CAME FROM THE SIDE OF THE WINDSHIELD AND EXTENDED TOWARDS THE CENTER. AFTER GETTING THE WINDSHIELD REPLACED ONE WEEK LATER WHILE SITTING IN MY CAR AND IT IS WARMING UP ANOTHER CRACK APPEARS IN MY WINDSHIELD. IT SEEMS AS THOUGH THE WINDSHIELDS AND CRACK BUT IT LOOKED UNRELATED TO AN IMPACT CRACK AS IT CAME FROM THE SIDE OF THE WINDSHIELD AND EXTENDED TOWARDS THE CENTER. AFTER GETTING THE WINDSHIELD REPLACED ONE WEEK LATER WHILE SITTING IN MY CAR AND IT IS WARMING UP ANOTHER CRACK APPEARS IN MY WINDSHIELD. IT SEEMS AS THOUGH THE WINDSHIELDS IN SUBARU'S ARE SUSCEPTIBLE TO DAMAGE WHEN THERE'S IS TEMPERATURE CHANGES. THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY BOTH TIMES WHEN IT GOT CRACKED IN MY DRIVEWAY.

Dec 23, 2018

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaints

My vehicle has repeatedly displayed a “low tire pressure” warning despite having been serviced twice for this issue. In addition, there is an open case with Subaru of America regarding ongoing performance concerns – fuel tank?! In addition, I have reported both verbally and in writing to the dealership that my car often loses power when driving uphill and, at times, runs unevenly or hesitantly—similar to an engine stutter or sputter. Most recently, multiple problems occurred simultaneously. The low tire pressure warning remained on, my cell phone was no longer recognized or paired with the vehicle and would not charge, part of the clock display stopped illuminating, and then the vehicle suddenly began to shake. Within seconds, all dashboard warning lights turned on and the engine shut off entirely. This happened so rapidly that I had no time to react. Fortunately, I had pulled over the car; otherwise, this incident could have resulted in a serious crash with me behind the wheel. Although no prior warning lights had appeared, I was later informed that the vehicle had a cracked ignition coil and a dead battery—despite the car having relatively low mileage and there being two recalls related to this issue. The new manager went above and beyond to assist me during this ordeal and I am beyond grateful for everything – Subaru of America is lucky to have him on staff!! However, as of today, I still have not received a clear explanation of what caused this failure or what risks may remain if I continue driving the vehicle. My understanding is that ignition coils should run for 80K - 100K. I am aware that others have experienced similar problems, and I request that this matter be thoroughly addressed before it results in a potentially preventable, yet serious accident.

Nov 18, 2025

The Starlink head unit, produced by HK, is having the same issues that the WUA86 update should have fixed. It was reprogrammed in 2019, and less than 1 year later when my wife bought it, it was having the same reported glitches. I.E. randomly turning off and on, not connecting to Bluetooth/usb music interface, backup camera taking extended time to come up on head unit screen, turning the headhunt off with the power button doesn't work because it just randomly turns itself back on again. The bluetooth will also randomly disconnect when it does happen to connect in the first place. This is a recall that was performed, and the same exact issues are happening. It's a BIG danger to whomever is driving the car as it takes attention away from driving. I am very unhappy with this danger as it was supposed to have been repaired already. Since the 2018 subaru impresa premium is out of the extended warranty even, it seems there's nothing we can do. But Subara put out this software update and said it would work. It didn't!

Jun 12, 2024

after less than two years into my lease, the car was completely 'dead'. I could not start it or 'jump' it. It cost me out of pocket money to have it towed 50 miles to dealership. They replaced battery. They car was recalled a year or so. Took it into dealership for repair. After I noticed that automatic headlight dimmer would not work.-Still doesn't. 2 weeks ago, car would not start. Was told again by dealer that car had to be brought in. Was referred to 'roadside service company' Was quoted an ' out of pocket' charge of $644 to tow vehicle to dealership. Since I could not do that, decided to order battery myself for $260. waiting for battery to arrive

Jul 17, 2022

SERVICE BRAKES

3 complaints

March 2023 I had all 4 rotors & brakes replaced. About 2 weeks after, doing 65 mph on highway 79 I had to lightly apply my brakes. After letting off the brake all of a sudden my whole car, steering wheel, etc started shaking. I pulled off the road thinking something broke but nothing was. A couple months later on 79 it did it again without applying my brakes. It's happening more often and the shaking is getting more severe to where my car is either going to fall apart or bounce off the road or into another car. I'm terrified when this happens because I don't know what's going to happen. I won't even put my grand children in my car. One if my co-workers had the same thing happen to her Subaru. She said after her mechanics did some investigating, they found that there was an issue with the replacement rotors warping and causing the car to shake terribly. This is a severe safety issue and really needs to be investigated. Also a year warranty on these defective parts is too short.

Aug 01, 2024

Suspected defective and/or faulty brake booster or brake hose on the front left tire. Car starts violently shaking/shuddering when easing onto the brakes (once the brakes have warmed up for my daily commute to work). Resulting vibrations travel up the steering column to the steering wheel, and into the cabin. The car will then pitch its nose in various directions; it feels as though the front left brake is being grabbed and not properly released. Taken to a Subaru dealership multiple times. New brakes and rotors installed in July 2022; other components of the brake (calipers, pistons) were inspected in Aug. 2022 and appeared fine. However, on inspection (08/2022) the newly replaced rotor on the front left tire was already showing visible wear/damage (white scalding) due to excessive heat generated while braking. I have taken the car to be serviced at a dealership multiple times & have been told the shaking "couldn't be replicated." I recreate it every day I drive to work (350 miles every week). *Please* see the video linked to a third-party website: https://imgur.com/a/wFvLV0A Other symptoms: The engine starts and runs roughly despite recent oil changes. OBDII code P0300 (Random/multiple cylinder misfire detected) was detected by a personal OBDII scanner, although I don’t know if that issue is related. Ignition timing advance for the 1st cylinder is near red zone. Please help..

Sep 19, 2022

I BEGAN THE LEASE OF MY 2018 SUBARU IMPREZA WAGON IN MARCH OF 2018. IN SEPTEMBER OF 2019, I BROUGHT MY VEHICLE IN FOR BRAKE ISSUES I WAS HAVING. MY BRAKES WERE MAKING A SQUEALING NOISE, AND CONSIDERING THAT MY MILEAGE WAS 20,527, I FOUND THIS TO BE ODD. DEALERSHIP HAD MY CAR UNTIL 10/5/19, AND HAD TO BRING IN A NEW TECH TO REMEDY THE PROBLEM. I WAS TOLD THAT THIS WAS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH MY CAR, AND THAT MY CAR WOULD BE THE "GUINEA PIG" TO FIGURE OUT THE SOLUTION. BROUGHT MY CAR IN AGAIN ON 2/26/20 FOR AN OPEN RECALL FOR THE BRAKE HOSES SWELLING. REPLACEMENT HAPPENED THEN. MILEAGE AT THAT TIME WAS 25,908. LESS THAN 5,000 MILES LATER, I BRING MY CAR IN AGAIN TO HAVE THE BRAKES LOOKED AT, AS THEY WERE SQUEALING. 9/19/2020, MILEAGE 30,770. DEALERSHIP LOOKED AT THE BRAKES THEN, AND SAID THERE WAS NO ISSUE. CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP AGAIN AFTER LEAVING, AS THE BRAKES CONTINUED TO MAKE THE NOISE, AND HAD STARTED TO SMELL LIKE BURNING RUBBER. I EMAILED VIDEOS OF THE NOISE ON 9/25, AND 9/30. I CALLED AND I WAS TOLD TO BRING THE CAR IN ON 10/6/2020, THOUGH THEY DIDN'T LOOK AT IT THEN. THE BRAKES ALSO STARTED TO VIBRATE WHILE BRAKING AT HIGHER SPEEDS, AND THE SMELL OF BURNING RUBBER WAS QUITE STRONG. WENT IN ON 10/17/2020, AND HAD MY CAR UNTIL 10/22/2020. MILEAGE IN WAS 31,908, MILEAGE OUT WAS 32,044. INSPECTION BY THE TECH FOUND THAT THE ROTORS WERE HOT SPOTTED AND PADS WERE DISCOLORED. REPLACED FRONT PADS AND ROTORS. ON 10/27/2020 I EMAILED AGAIN WITH MORE VIDEOS OF THE BRAKES CONTINUING TO SQUEAL. I WAS ASKED IF I COULD BRING THE CAR IN, AND I DID AGAIN, SAME DAY. MILEAGE WAS 32,482. I WAS THEN TOLD AT PICKUP ON 11/4/2020 THAT THEY BELIEVE THAT THE NOISE WAS BEING CAUSED BY A "SLAG GREASE BUILDUP ON THE CALIPER PINS." I WAS TOLD THAT SHOULD REMEDY THE PROBLEM. ON THE DRIVE ON 11/4/2020, THE BRAKES BEGAN TO SQUEAL AGAIN. CONTINUES TO SQUEAL DAILY ON ALL DRIVE TERRAINS.

Nov 11, 2020

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER

3 complaints

Headlights Recall from 8/2022 still has no remedy available. NHTSA Recall Number22V624000

Feb 04, 2024

Subaru has failed to repair the halogen headlight safety recall in a timely manner. This recall was first announced on August 16th, 2022. It has been 9 months and the remedy for the safety recall has not yet been made available.

May 13, 2023

Have had low visibility at night since purchase in 2018. Thought it was just the bulbs until receiving a recall notice that it is a manufactured issue and there is still no remedy. VERY low night visibility is a serious safety risk to myself and other drivers when having to operate after dark. It has been over 5 months and Subaru has still failed to make a remedy available to resolve problem.

Jan 30, 2023

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE

2 complaints

After the coil pack recall was done, our car began shuddering, hesitating and stalling. Went to the dealership 4-5 times. ECM and Prindle valve were replaced but still doing it. then engine exploded going up a hill, stranding us for 2.5 hours on the freeway. Engine replaced under warranty (which expired while in shop for two months). No warranty on new motor. Same issues still going on and shop now charges us to "look at it." It stalled last week in heavy traffic, so it definitely is dangerous. We don't want to sell the car and pass the problem on to someone else.

Jan 18, 2023

INTERMITTENT LOSS OF POWER AT 2000 TO 3000 RPM IS GETTING WORSE AND WORSE. I'VE TAKEN IT TO MY LOCAL SUBARU DEALER 8 TIMES TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE AND THEY HAVE DENIED ANYTHING I'VE REPORTED. THEY'VE HAD TECHNICIANS ON RIDES WITH ME BUT I CAN'T RECREATE SOMETHING THAT IS SO INTERMITTENT. IT SEEMS TO HAPPEN MORE IN HOT WEATHER BUT I CAN SAFELY SAY AC ISN'T THE CAUSE. ALTHOUGH MY CAR ISN'T A CROSSTREK, THE MOTOR IN ONE IS EXACTLY THE SAME AS MINE. I SUSPECTED IT WAS DUE TO A RECALL REPAIR THAT HADN'T BEEN PERFORMED BUT IVE HAD BOTH OF MY RECALLS DONE BUT MY DEALER NEVER REPORTED IT TO SUBARU OF AMERICA. THE NAME OF MY MAIN DEALERSHIP IS HINE SUBARU OF TEMECULA. HTTPS://WWW.SUBARUXVFORUM.COM/THREADS/HESITATION-BOG-ON-ACCELERATION-6MT.175290/PAGE-2 THIS FORUM AND COUNTLESS OTHERS HAVE DISCUSSED THIS ISSUE AND CONTINUE TO CLAIM IT'S A SAFETY ISSUE, ESPECIALLY WHEN MERGING ONTO THE FREEWAY. WHEN THE ISSUE IS PRESENT, THE CAR HAS ABSOLUTELY NO THROTTLE INPUT. THE ONLY WAY TO ACCELERATE OUT OF DANGER WHEN MERGING IS TO DOWNSHIFT TO KEEP THE RPMS ABOVE 3000 TO AVOID THE LOSS OF POWER. THERE HAVE BEEN TIMES WHEN I'VE HAD TO PULL OFF THE FREEWAY WHEN TRYING TO MERGE BECAUSE MY CAR WOULD NOT ACCELERATE PROPERLY. I IMMEDIATELY BROUGHT IT TO THE DEALER AFTER IT HAPPENED AND THEY TURNED ME AWAY BECAUSE I DIDN'T HAVE AN APPOINTMENT. I IMPLORE ANYONE READING THIS TO DELVE INTO THE FORUMS DISCUSSING THIS ISSUE. THERE ARE DOZENS OF OTHERS WHO REPORT THE EXACT SAME ISSUE. SOME WERE LUCKY AND TRADED THEIR VEHICLE IN. I WAS REFERRED BY A USER TO FILE A COMPLAINT IN FACT. PLEASE, THIS IS A REAL HAZARD AND I DON'T FEEL SAFE IN MY CAR.

Jan 16, 2020

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER

2 complaints

THE RUBBER AT THE BOTTOM OF THE WINDSHIELD FROM END TO END IS NOT SECURE PROPERLY. I BOUGHT IT 2/8/2021. MY FIRST TIME WASHING IT WAS 4/12/2021 WHEN I NOTICED THAT THE RUBBER IS LOOSE

Apr 15, 2021

MY WINDSHIELD CRACKED FOR NO APPARENT REASON.

Oct 27, 2019

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

When the car is turned on, all of the lights flicker nonstop to the point of moderately reducing line of sight. I am terrified the headlights are going to just quit altogether. The car also “shimmys” in time with the flickering lights. It appears to get worse when accelerating as well. Also it has been over 2 years since the headlight recall for this model. The dealership keeps saying, we don’t have the parts or just ignoring my requests altogether.

Dec 10, 2023

Carry Handle, Shell, Base,Other/I am not sure

1 complaint

I was attempting to adjust the recline angle on the car seat in my husband’s car to match on daughter new weight category of over 20 pounds. When I went to adjust it I realized it only locks in positions 1 and 5. Neither of these is the appropriate angle. I have contacted the manufacturer. I have also learned apparently this is a common and know problem with this car seat model and the manufacturer is aware and has taken no action. This failure to lock is placing children at risk and could cause injury if the seat were involved in an accident.

Aug 14, 2023

POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,ENGINE

1 complaint

it is a case of sudden acceleration when parking the car in battery , goin forward very slowly, the subaru impreza accelerate , jump the curve and crash agaings a tree 5 ft away from the curve, the results extensive damage in the left front , airbags did not deploy

Aug 02, 2023

Crash: 1

WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

The hubcaps that were manufactured with the car and given with the car have repeatedly fallen off while driving. This is a hazard because it has almost hit other cars while driving. In the 5 years I have had this car I’ve had to replace 6 hub caps that have fallen off. When I got my tires replaced this year I was also told by the tire center that they constantly see this issue with Subarus and that the hub caps for this car frequently fall off because of the design. I have tried to tell Subaru about this issue but they don’t care. I have friends who also have Subarus who have the same issue and whenever I’m driving around I can see other Subarus missing their hubcaps so I know I’m not the only one having this issue. The approximate date I’ll enter is the most recent but this dates back to 2020

Jul 19, 2023

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

It’s been nearly a year since Subaru issued the safety recall on the Impreza yet they still claim they have no remedy despite the recall notice and the NHTSA website stating that the right and left headlamp housing will be replaced as the remedy. At this point it’s not being handled in a timely fashion and Subaru is dragging their feet and not concerned about the safety of their customers as they initially fought the recall through appeals and lost, thus forcing them to implement the recall. They are rolling Impreza’s off the assembly line so it’s not like there’s a part shortage, they should be halting production to get the headlamp housing units out to the dealers and not allowed to continue to produce new vehicles if they can’t handle them both concurrently.

Jun 19, 2023

STEERING,STRUCTURE

1 complaint

Bought this car 1 year ago at East Hills Subaru. Among other problems such as water leaking inside vehicle due to clogged drains, most recent issue is the steering column not locking firmly. This is causing the steering wheel to shift up or down while driving, even though locking mechanism under steering wheel column is engaged. The car has under 40k miles. The safety of the driver is at risk here as the shifting movement of the steering wheel affect proper steering. Dealer is unable to give me a reasonable appointment to address this and only has drop off service, no loaner cars available. I am not happy with the Subaru service department and the inability of this service department to address serious issues in a timely matter.

Sep 13, 2022

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

SINCE JANUARY 2021, THE SCREEN WITH THE REAR CAMERA GO TO BLACK, MANY TIMES AND YOU ONLY CAN SEE THE RED AND YELLOW LINES, SO AND OTHER WORDS WHEN ACTIVATE REVERSE THE SCREEN IS BLACK YOU CAN SEE NOTHING. PLEASE HELP.

May 01, 2021

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

THEY WERE TOWING MY CAR, AND THIS VEHICLE ONLY HAS ONE PLACE TO GRAB IT, WHEN THE TOWING SERVICE WAS GOING TO RELEASE MY CAR THIS PLACE TO GRAB IT BROKE AND RELEASED, AND EJECTED THE CAR, IF NOT FOR THE HANDBRAKE IT HAD HAPPENED A FATAL ACCIDENT, A CAR FROM 2018 THAT HAS THESE FAULTS, I DON'T THINK SO, NOW THEY MUST PAY FOR THE DAMAGES TO THE 2 VEHICLES, WHICH IS NOT WHAT IT SHOULD BE BECAUSE THIS IS A FACTORY DAMAGE I'M SURE, I HAVE VIDEOS, PHOTOS, EVERYTHING, THIS WAS IN COLORADO AND IT HAPPENED WHEN I WAS GOING TO LEAVE MY CAR AT THE DEALER, IT COULD HAPPEN IN ANOTHER PLACE AND IT COULD ATTEMPT WITH SOMEONE'S LIFE

Apr 03, 2021

Crash: 1

STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS

1 complaint

THE CAR IS LESS THEN 2 YEARS OLD AND IT HAS A PROBLEM BRAKING, IT MAKES A RUBBING NOISE EVERTING TIME IT TURNS WHILE BRAKING, AT HIGHER SPEEDS IT VIBRATES, AND ALSO HAS PROBLEM SHIFTING DEALERSHIP SAID THEY HAD NO PROBLEMS WITH THE CAR

May 25, 2020

SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

SINCE THE END OF 2018, ABOUT 6 MONTHS AFTER ACQUIRING THE VEHICLE LEASE, I STARTED TO HEAR NOISES WHILE DRIVING THE CAR. THEY SOUNDED LIKE CREAKY NOISES YOU'D HEAR FROM A CAR THAT WAS 10+ YEARS OLD. AT FIRST, JIM BURKE SUBARU DEALERSHIP SAID THEY DID NOT HEAR THE SOUND, THEN AFTER ANOTHER FOUR OR FIVE MONTHS WENT BY I DECIDED TO TAKE MY CAR IN AGAIN. IT WAS SO LOUD AT THAT POINT THAT THEY KEPT MY CAR TO WORK ON IT. OVER THE COURSE OF A YEAR THEY HAVE KEPT MY CAR ABOUT 5+ TIMES, REPLACED THE SUSPENSION SYSTEM, REPLACED THE BALL JOINTS AND NOW HAVE LABELED IT AS A "SPOT WELD" ISSUE THAT MUST HAVE OCCURRED WHEN THE CAR WAS MADE IN THE FACTORY. THIS SOUND OCCURS WHEN DRIVING THE CAR AROUND TOWN BUT NOT OVER 45 MPH. IT IS MAINLY ON THE PASSANGERS SIDE BUT I HAVE HEARD IT PREVIOUSLY ON THE DRIVERS SIDE. SUBARU CORPORATE HAS OFFERED ME EITHER A WARRANTY EXTENSION ON THE CAR IF I CHOOSE TO KEEP IT OR A VOUCHER FOR $2,500 IF I WANTED TO TRADE IN THE CAR AT THE END OF MY LEASE. IN DECEMBER OF 2019 I AGREED TO THIS BUT SINCE THEN I HAVE TAKEN MY CAR BACK INTO THE DEALERSHIP AND AFTER A MONTHS TIME OF WORKING ON THE CAR THEY STILL HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO REPAIR THE ISSUE. I THEN CONTACTED SUBARU CORPORATE AGAIN AND THEY SAID THEY ARE "NOT OBLIGATED TO REPLACE THE VEHICLE, ONLY REPAIR THE ISSUE". THE AMOUNT OF HOURS I HAVE SPENT TAKING MY CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP AND NOW FEELING UNSURE OF THE STRENGTH OF THE BODY OF THE CAR OR THE INTEGRITY OF THE MANUFACTURED VEHICLE I AM STUCK WITH A $256 LEASE PAYMENT EVERY MONTH UNTIL SUMMER OF 2021. I AM PAYING FOR THE SAME AMOUNT SOMEONE ELSE IS PAYING FOR A NICE, WELL FUNCTIONING CAR. AT WHAT POINT IS SUBARU RESPONSIBLE FOR REPLACING THE VEHICLE? ALL REPAIRS AND DOCUMENTATION OF THIS ISSUE HAS OCCURRED THROUGH JIM BURKE SUBARU. I CAN PROVIDE DOCUMENTS FROM THE DEALERSHIP IF THIS WOULD SUPPORT ANY REASON FOR INVESTIGATION.

Apr 02, 2020

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

THE SIDE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND 3 SENSORS WHERE ACTIVATED BUT BECAUSE OF THE ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS IT NEVER WENT OFF. *JS *JS

Aug 11, 2019

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS

1 complaint

I WAS INVOLVE TO CAR ACCIDENT, I WAS A PASSENGER THE SEAT BELT WAS ON ME AND, PRAPORLY LUCKED TO THE SEAT. THE DRIVER AIRBAG DEPLOEY. HE DIDNT GET ANY DAMEGE TO HIS BODY. AND MY IARBAG DID NOT DEPLOEY CAUSE OF THAT I HAVE SPINE FRACTURE LAMBAR L3-L2. IT HAPPEND IN 08/23/2018.

Jan 27, 2019

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

1 complaint

THE CAR HAS STALLED 3 TIMES WHILE DRIVING. AT A STOP SIGN, RED LIGHT AND AT A STOP SIGN. THE INCIDENT AT THE TRAFFIC LIGHT CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO START ROLLING BACKWARDS AND ALMOST HIT INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. SUBARU CAN NOT FIND THE PROBLEM BUT ACKNOWLEDGES THE INCIDENTS OF STALLING. THE CAR IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE AND WAS PURCHASED IN THE LATER HALF OF APRIL 2018.

Jun 11, 2018

2018 SUBARU Impreza Problems & Complaints

Complaints by Component

Frequently Asked Questions

How many problems does the 2018 SUBARU Impreza have?

What are the most common problems with 2018 SUBARU Impreza?

Where does this 2018 SUBARU Impreza problem data come from?

Other Years - SUBARU Impreza

Other SUBARU Models

Similar Brands