2018 SUBARU WRX Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
39
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
ENGINE
7 complaints
Oil changes always done, no modifications to vehicle. Driving down road lights all come one and car starts smoking. Rod broke and put hole in engine.
Aug 26, 2025
I bought a 2018 Subaru WRX with 61,000 miles, After driving it 6,000 miles with engine spun a rod bearing, requiring a complete engine replacement. This is a vehicle that in the previous 4th generation of the car, it was recalled for this exact issue. the total repair bill for this fix is $11,720.43. This is on a car with 67,000 miles. 7,000 miles over Subaru's manufacture warranty. After speaking with a few service advisors at Subaru. it is my belief, that this is a known issue with this model.
Jul 27, 2024
Engine rod knock at 32,000 miles due to bearing failure causing loss of control of vehicle and sudden loss of power and control. Car was logged to be traveling at 35 mph with normal acceleration at time of failure. Carter Subaru confirmed bearing failure, and fits with the pattern confirmed in 2012-2017 WRX STi engine failure class action settlement, as part in 2018 remains unchanged from 2017 according to mechanics. Head mechanic at dealership confirmed that only car modification (intake) would not cause catastrophic loss of oil leading to bearing failure, and thus it is likely due to engine design that leads to poor oil circulation as a known issue in this EJ25 engine type. Engine components have been inspected by Carter Subaru, and have been made available to Subaru of America, along with images, videos, pictures, receipts, logs, records, computer/ECU data, receipts, tool purchases, and other maintenance and service logs for the car (including prior to ownership). Dealership acknowledges that the car maintenance exceeded the manufacturer recommendation, yet engine still failed even with oil changes done at 3,000 mile intervals... While manual states much higher interval to follow. Engine still failed at increased oil change levels. Problem appeared once engine started knocking, which means the engine has already suffered irreversible engine failure and needs to be replaced, according to Subaru. Subaru of America assigned a customer advocate but has been incommunicado for the duration of the investigation and refuses to answer or even acknowledge that a claim has been opened, as they constantly cite erroneous interactions with the vehicle owner.
Mar 27, 2024
******* DELETE VOQ ******* THIS COMPLAINT IS BEING MARKED FOR DELETION BECAUSE IT IS REQUESTED BY THE CONSUMER THAT THEY WISH TO HAVE IT REMOVED. DJR ******* DELETE VOQ *******
Jan 11, 2024
******* DELETE VOQ ******* THIS COMPLAINT IS BEING MARKED FOR DELETION BECAUSE IT IS REQUESTED BY THE CONSUMER THAT THEY WISH TO HAVE IT REMOVED. DJR ******* DELETE VOQ *******
Jan 10, 2024
+ 2 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
5 complaints
When accelerating from a stop, the car is having trouble accelerating despite having the accelerator fully depressed. The engine sounds like it is roaring, but hardly any power is being produced. When the vehicle hits about 35-40mph, the engine surges and then full power is produced. It feels like potentially an issue with the turbo or the transmsission. This is creating a significant safety hazard as the vehicle is behaving unpredictable and could lead to an accident when having to accelerate into traffic or merge. The vehicle has already had 3 CVT transmission replacements under factory warranty. The vehicle currently has approximately 47,000 miles but is outside factory warranty now.
Jul 20, 2025
The transmission began leaking fluid and has experienced slippage while driving. I took the vehicle to Hendrick Subaru in Feb. 2023 for diagnostics and was told the leak was unserviceable and needed replacement. I was told they detected minor slippage at the time. It is now June 2023 and the dealer is telling me that the transmission is not going to be replaced, but rather "resealed" and they are now claiming there is no record of it ever slipping and they cannot replicate it. Subaru took months to approve any type of repair so I was forced to drive my vehicle while it continued to leak transmission fluid, which could have potentially caused additional damage.
Jun 16, 2023
DEFECTIVE THROW-OUT BEARING AND FORK IN THE SIX SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION COMPLETELY BURNING THE CLUTCH IN 3 MONTHS TO 3000 MILES AFTER REPAIR WITH REPLACEMENT PART. THIS IS COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE IN A BRAND NEW VEHICLE AFTER REPAIR AT DEALERSHIP. PURCHASED 2018 WRX WITH 13,000 MILES ON FEBRUARY 17, 2020 AND IT IS NOW JULY 2020 SINCE THEN, ON MY THIRD THROW OUT BEARING REPLACEMENT. I PUT THE CAR IN GEAR, LET THE CLUTCH OUT ALL THE WAY OUT, PUSH THE GAS PEDAL AND THE CAR REVS UP AND SLIPS AND DOESNT MOVE IN MOVING TRAFFIC! IT COMPLETELY STOPS IN THE ROAD, I PHYSICALLY HAD TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE AND PUSH THE CAR OFF THE ROAD AND HAVE A TOW TRUCK TOW IT TO THE DEALERSHIP! THROW-OUT BEARING FORK BURNT OUT SMOKES UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. A COMMON DEFECTIVE ISSUE ON THIS MODEL 2018 SUBARU WRX THE DEALERS KNOW THIS AND THROW OUT BEARING IN TRANSMISSION IS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY MULTIPLE DUPLICATE SUBARU SERVICES PERFORMED WITH SAME DEFECTIVE THROW OUT BEARING THE MANUFACTURER HAS CREATED A NEW RELEASE OF BEARINGS AND INCORPORATED INTO PRODUCTION IN THE 2018 LEGACY, OUTBACK, IMPREZA, CROSSTREK AND FORESTER. BUT NOT THE WRX! FACT CHECK HTTPS://STATIC.OEMDTC.COM/TSB/MC-10150949-9999.PDF THROW OUT BEARING FORK IS RUSTED FROM MAJOR HEAT FRICTION AND CORRODED BURNT BLACK AND ORANGE RUST PARTICLES ON THE 3 MONTH OLD TRANSMISSION INTERIOR IN 3000 MILES OF DRIVING A BRAND NEW VEHICLE AND CLUTCH AND FLYWHEEL ARE COMPLETELY BURNT TO HELL. THE THROW OUT BEARING MAKES A LOUD CHIRPING NOISE FROM THE TRANSMISSION WITHIN THE BELLHOUSING OF THE TRANSMISSION EVERY DAY. THOUSANDS OF WRX OWNERS EXPERIENCING THE SAME THROW-OUT BEARING ISSUE AND THE DEALER IS CHARGING CUSTOMERS FOR THESE REPAIRS OF THEIR FACTORY DEFECTIVE SLIPPING TRANSMISSION IN THE 6 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION. IT IS A RIP OFF AND LEMON
Jul 21, 2020
DEFECTIVE OEM THROW-OUT BEARING AND FORK IN THE SIX SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION COMPLETELY BURNING THE CLUTCH IN 3 MONTHS TO 3000 MILES AFTER REPAIR WITH REPLACEMENT PART. THIS IS COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE IN A BRAND NEW VEHICLE AFTER REPAIR AT DEALERSHIP. PURCHASED 2018 WRX WITH 13,000 MILES ON FEBRUARY 17, 2020 AND IT IS NOW JULY 2020 SINCE THEN, ON MY THIRD THROW OUT BEARING REPLACEMENT. I PUT THE CAR IN GEAR, LET THE CLUTCH OUT ALL THE WAY OUT, PUSH THE GAS PEDAL AND THE CAR REVS UP AND SLIPS AND DOESNT MOVE IN MOVING TRAFFIC! IT COMPLETELY STOPS IN THE ROAD, I PHYSICALLY HAD TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE AND PUSH THE CAR OFF THE ROAD AND HAVE A TOW TRUCK TOW IT TO THE DEALERSHIP! THROW-OUT BEARING FORK BURNT OUT SMOKES UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. A COMMON DEFECTIVE ISSUE ON THIS MODEL 2018 SUBARU WRX THE DEALERS KNOW THIS AND THROW OUT BEARING IN TRANSMISSION IS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY MULTIPLE DUPLICATE SUBARU SERVICES PERFORMED WITH SAME DEFECTIVE THROW OUT BEARING THE MANUFACTURER HAS CREATED A NEW RELEASE OF BEARINGS AND INCORPORATED INTO PRODUCTION IN THE 2018 LEGACY, OUTBACK, IMPREZA, CROSSTREK AND FORESTER. BUT NOT THE WRX! FACT CHECK HTTPS://STATIC.OEMDTC.COM/TSB/MC-10150949-9999.PDF THROW OUT BEARING FORK IS RUSTED FROM MAJOR HEAT FRICTION AND CORRODED BURNT BLACK AND ORANGE RUST PARTICLES ON THE 3 MONTH OLD TRANSMISSION INTERIOR IN 3000 MILES OF DRIVING A BRAND NEW VEHICLE AND CLUTCH AND FLYWHEEL ARE COMPLETELY BURNT TO HELL. THE THROW OUT BEARING MAKES A LOUD CHIRPING NOISE FROM THE TRANSMISSION WITHIN THE BELLHOUSING OF THE TRANSMISSION EVERY DAY. THOUSANDS OF WRX OWNERS EXPERIENCING THE SAME THROW-OUT BEARING ISSUE AND THE DEALER IS CHARGING CUSTOMERS FOR THESE REPAIRS OF THEIR FACTORY DEFECTIVE SLIPPING TRANSMISSION IN THE 6 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION.! IT IS A RIP OFF AND LEMON
Jul 21, 2020
WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE THE ENGINE STARTED KNOCKING. TOOK TO DEALER UNDER WARRANTY AND DENIED CLAIM.
Apr 25, 2019
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
4 complaints
Parasitic battery drain. Car is rendered inoperable after periods of non use. The batter has been replaced and the problem persists.
Jan 10, 2022
Battery dies and vehicle is unable to start after short periods of being turned off. This has left me stranded in unsafe areas and can pose a major safety hazard. Vehicle has been inspected and no issues found by Subaru dealer. No warning lights or other notifications, vehicle simply does not start.
Jan 04, 2022
The contact owns a 2018 Subaru WRX. The contact stated that the vehicle had been parked in the garage during the winter months and while attempting to drive the vehicle, the vehicle would not start. The contact stated he charged the battery and he was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact stated that the failure persisted, and he replaced the battery himself. However, the failure reoccurred, and he was unable to restart the vehicle. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 5,000.
Sep 14, 2021
BATTERY DRAINING BEGINNING IN DECEMBER 2019 BUT STILL EXISTS
May 15, 2021
VISIBILITY/WIPER
3 complaints
WOKE UP ONE DAY TO MY WINDSHIELD HAVING A SMALLER CRACK THAT WAS NOT THERE BEFORE. WAS A COLD NIGHT CRACK HAS SPREAD, ASKED SUBARU IF THEY WOULD COVER THE COST THEY DIDN'T BUT ITS A KNOWN DEFECT IN SUBARU
Jan 04, 2021
WINDSHIELD CHIPPED/CRACKED WHILE DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY.
Dec 14, 2020
THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION ON A HIGHWAY WHEN THE WIND SHIELD CRACKED ALONG THE MOST SUPERIOR BORDER OF THE WINDSHIELD. THERE WAS NOTHING VISIBLE OR AUDIBLE THAT HAD CAUSED THE WINDSHIELD TO CRACK DURING MY 10 MINUTE COMMUTE. THERE WAS ALSO LITTLE TO NO TRAFFIC. THE CRACK WAS LARGE ENOUGH THAT I HAD TO REPLACE THE WINDSHIELD. I AM ONLY REPORTING THIS NOW BECAUSE I SUSPECT THE WINDSHIELD CRACKED SECONDARY TO BEING ONE OF THE DEFECTIVE WINDSHIELD'S THAT SUBARU IS UNDER SCRUTINY FOR. UNFORTUNATELY, I NO LONGER HAVE PICTURES OF THE CRACKED WINDSHIELD; HOWEVER, I HAVE ATTACHED MY RECEIPT FROM SAFELITE AUTOGLASS.
Jun 21, 2020
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
Shortly after purchase (within 1 month), a strong raw gasoline vapor odor began entering the passenger cabin, strongest near the driver’s side rear seat and rear wheel well area. The odor intensifies at idle and after short periods of driving, filling the interior cabin with fuel fumes. The smell is so strong that it causes dizziness and headaches when operating the vehicle. This is not an isolated occurrence — Subaru’s own service technicians were able to replicate the issue and confirmed the smell, but reported that smoke and pressure testing showed “no leaks.” Despite replacing the evaporative canister, purge valve, and fuel check valve, the problem persists. The dealership has admitted they cannot determine the source of the vapors. Safety Concern: This condition presents a serious safety hazard because: •Fuel vapors are toxic and pose an immediate health risk to occupants breathing them inside a closed cabin. •Gasoline vapors are highly flammable, creating a potential fire/explosion risk if vapors accumulate near ignition sources. •Subaru has suggested the condition is “normal under certain circumstances” and advised me to alter my driving habits (avoid idling, use engine braking). This is not an acceptable or safe resolution. Attempts to Remedy: •Vehicle has been at the Subaru dealership for over two weeks. •Multiple components in the evaporative emission system were replaced (canister, check valve, purge vent). •Subaru engineers have been contacted but no permanent fix has been provided. •Dealership admitted another customer reported a similar issue in a newer model, but stated it was “normal.” Summary: This is not normal vehicle operation. A car cabin filling with raw fuel vapor represents a defect affecting safety. Subaru has failed to remedy the issue despite multiple repair attempts, and is minimizing it rather than acknowledging it as a defect.
Aug 20, 2025
We tool the car to the DMV to get the plates and rhey told us the car had a recall. They stated the Fuel pump may fail. However, we were unaware.
Jun 11, 2022
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
Cluth was replaced at a little over 50,000 miles and throw out bearing failed within 200 miles of the break in period. Took it back to dealer and they found that the throw out bearing was faulty and they replaced it. A year later same sound that was heard after replacement came back (almost like a chirping sound), took the car in for them to examine the car and determine if the throw out bearing waa faulty again. Associate who helped indicated that if it was the throw out bearing it would be covered, once the mechanic checked the car they found a front valve leak, at first indicated that the throw out bearing was fine and then changed that. They also indicated that the entire clutch needed to replace again even though it was just replaced a year ago. They indicated that there were hot spots on the clutch and that it was due to my driving. I did reach out to SOA but they indicated that the dealer told them that it was my fault and they shouldn't help me.
Sep 12, 2024
SUNROOF EXPLODED DRIVING ON HIGHWAY GOING ROUGHLY 65MPH. THE CAR WAS NOT DRIVEN FOR 2 DAYS PRIOR DUE TO SNOW IN THE AREA, MEANING 2 OR 3 INCHES OF SNOW WAS SITTING ON TOP OF THE CAR THE PREVIOUS TWO DAYS. THE NIGHT PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT THE TEMPERATURE ROSE IN THE AREA TO AROUND 40 DEGREE F. THE MORNING OF THE INCIDENT THE TEMPERATURE WAS AROUND 38 DEGREES F. THE DEFROST WAS ON IN THE CAR AND THE SUNROOF COVER WAS CLOSED. THE CAR IS FITTED WITH A SUNROOF DEFLECTOR ON THE ROOF OF THE CAR AND ROOF RACKS ARE INSTALLED. FOR DEBRIS TO HIT TOP OF THE VEHICLE FROM ANOTHER MOVING CAR IS VERY UNLIKELY. THERE WERE NO OVERPASSES OR BRIDGES THAT WERE PASSED UNDER DURING THE INCIDENT.
Jan 16, 2020
STEERING
2 complaints
Unknown. I am unsure of the issue. However, there is an issue. & it is very dangerous... This has happend about 5, or 6 times now. Sometimes when I am making a turn (I believe it is related to the braking), My steering wheel locks up (as if the key isn't in the ignition). It only lasts for a second, or two. But again, it is very dangerous. & I am at my wits end trying to figure out what the issue is. I am unsure of the issue. But, there is an issue. & it is dangerous for myself, & others. I am trying to limit my driving, but I still have bills to pay, & jobs to do. So please get back to me at your earliest convenience. Thank You, & God Bless.
Sep 19, 2022
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 SUBARU WRX. WHILE DRIVING AND AFTER SHIFTING THE GEAR, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED WITHOUT WARNING. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE JUMPED A CURB AND CRASHED INTO SOME BUSHES. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO SUBARU OF SANTA FE (7511B CERRILLOS RD, SANTA FE, NM 87507), BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 3,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
May 25, 2018
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
I have been experiencing a strong fuel odor both inside and outside the cabin when starting the engine. After several months of experiencing this issue, I recently had my vehicle fully inspected by an authorized Subaru dealership, and they confirmed a critical fuel leak issue. The dealership discovered that the high-pressure fuel pipe is leaking, as confirmed by a camera inspection of the engine bay. They have deemed the vehicle unsafe to drive and have strongly advised against further use due to the potential fire hazard. It is important to note that my vehicle has never been involved in an accident, and no prior mechanical work has been performed in the affected area, which suggests this may be a manufacturing defect.
Mar 13, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Fuel pump failing Reverse switch failing
Sep 01, 2024
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
Started car up. Check engine light is on, cruise control flashing. Fuel tank level is flashing. Has gas but the meter is says it’s empty. Took it to a mechanic and they told me it is the fuel pump that’s bad. Called a Subaru dealership and they said there’s no recall for this car. You guys issued a recall for this make and model back in 2020 but for the production date of April. My car was produced in November. Anyway you guys can issue a recall fort car so I can get it fixed?
May 15, 2024
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
Headlight deflector burning/melting.not properly deflecting light to properly lighting up the road .they acknowledged the problem but said they would have replaced them if I brought it in before 3 years or 36,000 miles .no not inspected .no indication of symptoms prior to failure.
Mar 22, 2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
BATTERY DRAINED EVEN THOUGH I LEFT NO LIGHTS ON AND HAS HAPPENED MULTIPLE TIMES. HAD TO REPLACE BATTERY TWICE IN LESS THAN A YEAR. HAD BATTERY TESTED AND IT WAS GOOD. HAD TO JUMP MY CAR MULTIPLE TIMES FOR DEAD BATTERY WHILE AT WORK. VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN A PARKING LOT.
May 16, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHEN DRIVING MY 2018 SUBARU WRX PREMIUM IN THE HEAT WITH THE A/C ON IT IS CAUSING EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WITH THE CAR STUTTERING CAUSING FLUCTUATION IN SPEED WITH THE CAR DRAGGING THEN PROPELLING DRAMATICALLY DUE TO THE TURBO ENGAGING. THE ERRATIC CHANGE IN THE PERFORMANCE OF THE CAR IS NOT NORMAL AND IS CAUSE FOR ATTENTION FROM THE MANUFACTURER. I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AND THIS PULLED SUCH AN EXTREME DRAIN ON THE CARS ELECTRICAL SYSTEM AND COOLING SYSTEM IT ALMOST MADE MY CAR OVERHEAT IN THE MIDDLE OF FAST MOVING TRAFFIC. MY CAR IS WELL MAINTAINED AND DRIVEN RESPONSIBLY. I HAD MY FAMILY IN THE CAR AND THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED A TRAGGIC SITUATION AS THE FREEWAYS HERE IN CALIFORNIA ARE VERY UNFORGIVING.
Sep 09, 2020
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
IN JANUARY 2019 AT AROUND 10PM PST MY 2018 SUBARU WRX EXPERIENCED A SERIOUS MALFUNCTION. AT THE TIME OF THIS INCIENT I WAS IN A SECLUDED, WOODED AREA WITHOUT CELLPHONE SERVICE, AS WELL AS BEING AT LEAST 30MINUTES TO THE NEAREST STORE. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN DEADLY. I WAS GOING DOWN A HILL AT 35MPH, IT WAS RAINY AND DIFFICULT TO SEE. AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS HILL WAS A SHARP TURN, AT THIS TIME THE SAFETY SYSTEM ACTIVED TAKING OVER ALL CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THIS CAUSED THE STEERING TO LOCK UP, PULLING TO THE FAR LEFT, TOWARDS A 15-20FOOT DROP INTO A LAKE. THE APPROACHING TURN I WAS SUPPOSED TO TAKE WAS A SHARP RIGHT. STILL UNABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL I WAS DRIVING STRAIGHT INTO THE FAST APPROACHING LAKE. SHORTLY BEFORE THE ENDGE OF THE ROAD I WAS ABLE TO FORCE THE VEHICLE TO THE RIGHT. AGAIN STEERING LOCKED UP, NOW FORCING ME FAR RIGHT. AT THE RIGHT WAS DENSE TREES, BUSHES, AND SHRUBS. NARROWLY ABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL BEFORE GOING HEAD-ON INTO A TREE, I FORCED THE STEERING WHEEL BACK TO THE LEFT. I ENDED UP STRIKING SOME BUSHES AND A TREE STUMP. CAUSING MINOR DAMAGE TO THE PASSENGER SIDE MIRROR, SCRATCHES TO BOTH PASSENGER DOORS, AND A DEEP DENT ON THE LOWER REAR DOOR AND QUARTER PANNEL. THIS IS WHEN THE REAR PASSENGER TIRE COLLIDED WITH A TREE STUMP, TAKING THE 35MPH BRUNT IMPACT THAT STOPPED THE CAR INSTANTLY. THE TIRE WAS SEPARATED FROM THE RIM BY A TREE BRANCH, THE LOWER CONTROL ARM WAS BENT AND CRACKED, THE ENTIRE REAR DRIVE TRAIN WAS PUSH TO THE RIGHT CAUSING THE ALIGNMENT OF THE DRIVER SIDE LEFT TIRE TO BE PUSHED OUT AS WELL. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CAR WAS 100% IMMOBILE AT THIS POINT AS THE REAR TIRE WOULDN'T MOVE. AFTER SPENDING AN HOUR I WAS ABLE TO REMOVE THE OLD TIRED AND PUT ON THE DOUGHT. I HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT THE ISSUES THAT CASUED THIS MANY TIMES AND NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE. I AM SCARED OF THIS CAR AND WILL NEVER OWN A SUBARU AGAIN.
May 03, 2019
STEERING,STRUCTURE,WHEELS
1 complaint
IN JANUARY 2019 AROUND 10PM PST MY 2018 SUBARU WRX EXPERIENCED A SERIOUS MALFUNCTION. AT THE TIME OF THIS INCIENT I WAS IN A SUCLUDED, WOODED AREA WITHOUT CELLPHONE SERVICE, AS WELL AS BEING ATLEAST 30MINUTES TO THE NEAREST STORE. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN DEADLY. I WAS GOING DOWN A HILL AT 35MPH, IT WAS VERY RAINY AND DIFFICULT TO SEE. AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS HILL WAS A SHARP RIGHT TURN, AT THIS TIME THE SAFETY SYSTEM ACTIVED TAKING OVER ALL CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THIS CAUSED STEERING TO LOCK UP, TURNING TO THE FAR LEFT. AT THE RIGHT WAS A 15-20FOOT DROP INTO A LAKE. THE TURN I WAS SUPPOSED TO TAKE WAS A SHARP RIGHT. STILL UNABLE REGAIN CONTROL AND WAS DRIVING STRAIGHT TOWARDS THE FAST APPROACHING LAKE. SHORTLY BEFORE DROPOFF I WAS ABLE TO FORCE THE STERRING WHEEL TO THE RIGHT. BUT STEERING AGAIN LOCKED UP AND FORCED ME TO THE FAR RIGHT. OFF THE ROAD TO THE RIGHT WAS HEAVLY WOODED. NAROWLY ABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL OF STERRING I CRASHED THROUGH BUSHES. CAUSING MINOR DAMAGE TO THE FOLLOWING; PASSENGER SIDE MIRROR, SCRATCHES TO WHOLE PASSENGER SIDE, DEEP DENT ON LOWER REAR DOOR AND QUARTER PANEL. REAR PASSENGER TIRE COLLIDED WITH A TREE STUMP WITH IMPACT AT 35MPH STOPPING THE CAR INSTANTLY. TIRE WAS SEPARATED FROM THE RIM BY A TREE BRANCH, LOWER CONTROL ARM WAS BENT AND CRACKED, ENTIRE REAR DRIVE AXLE WAS PUSH TO THE RIGHT CAUSEING ALIGNMENT OF THE DRIVER SIDE REAR TIRE TO BE PUSHED OUT. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND I HIT MY HEAD ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW. THE CAR WAS 100% UNDRIVABLE TIRE WOULDN'T MOVE. TAKING DAMAGE TIRE OFF AND PUTTING ON DONUGT TOOK OVER AN HOUR, I COULDN'T GET THE DAMAGED TIRE OFF. A LOT MORE TO THIS AS WELL. I HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT THIS ISSUE MANY TIMES AND DEALERSHIP DID NOTHING. I AM SCARED OF THIS CAR AND WILL NEVER OWN A SUBARU AGAIN. I WANT THIS CAR GONE!!!! SOMETHING OF THIS NATURE HAPPENS EVERYDAY WITH MY CAR. JUST ONCE IT CAUSED AN ACCIDENT
May 03, 2019
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
IN JANUARY 2019 AROUND 10PM PST MY 2018 SUBARU WRX EXPERIENCED A SERIOUS MALFUNCTION. AT THE TIME OF THIS INCIENT I WAS IN A SUCLUDED, WOODED AREA WITHOUT CELLPHONE SERVICE, AS WELL AS BEING ATLEAST 30MINUTES TO THE NEAREST STORE. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN DEADLY. I WAS GOING DOWN A HILL AT 35MPH, IT WAS VERY RAINY AND DIFFICULT TO SEE. AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS HILL WAS A SHARP RIGHT TURN, AT THIS TIME THE SAFETY SYSTEM ACTIVED TAKING OVER ALL CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THIS CAUSED STEERING TO LOCK UP, TURNING TO THE FAR LEFT. AT THE RIGHT WAS A 15-20FOOT DROP INTO A LAKE. THE TURN I WAS SUPPOSED TO TAKE WAS A SHARP RIGHT. STILL UNABLE REGAIN CONTROL AND WAS DRIVING STRAIGHT TOWARDS THE FAST APPROACHING LAKE. SHORTLY BEFORE DROPOFF I WAS ABLE TO FORCE THE STERRING WHEEL TO THE RIGHT. BUT STEERING AGAIN LOCKED UP AND FORCED ME TO THE FAR RIGHT. OFF THE ROAD TO THE RIGHT WAS HEAVLY WOODED. NAROWLY ABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL OF STERRING I CRASHED THROUGH BUSHES. CAUSING MINOR DAMAGE TO THE FOLLOWING; PASSENGER SIDE MIRROR, SCRATCHES TO WHOLE PASSENGER SIDE, DEEP DENT ON LOWER REAR DOOR AND QUARTER PANEL. REAR PASSENGER TIRE COLLIDED WITH A TREE STUMP WITH IMPACT AT 35MPH STOPPING THE CAR INSTANTLY. TIRE WAS SEPARATED FROM THE RIM BY A TREE BRANCH, LOWER CONTROL ARM WAS BENT AND CRACKED, ENTIRE REAR DRIVE AXLE WAS PUSH TO THE RIGHT CAUSEING ALIGNMENT OF THE DRIVER SIDE REAR TIRE TO BE PUSHED OUT. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND I HIT MY HEAD ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW. THE CAR WAS 100% UNDRIVABLE TIRE WOULDN'T MOVE. TAKING DAMAGE TIRE OFF AND PUTTING ON DONUGT TOOK OVER AN HOUR, I COULDN'T GET THE DAMAGED TIRE OFF. A LOT MORE TO THIS AS WELL. I HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT THIS ISSUE MANY TIMES AND DEALERSHIP DID NOTHING. I AM SCARED OF THIS CAR AND WILL NEVER OWN A SUBARU AGAIN. THIS IS ONE OF DOZENS OF ISSUES I HAVE WITH THIS CAR. ITS GETTING WORSE BUT THE DEALER WONT CARE UNTIL I GET HURT
May 03, 2019
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ADVISING CYLINDER MISFIRE ADVISING RINGLAND OISTON FAILURE SPARKNPLUG DESTROYED
Apr 23, 2019
STEERING,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
THE WHEELS LOCKED WHILE DRIVING ON A CLEAR DECEMBER DAY (I DON'T HAVE EXACT DAY) ON A WINDING MOUNTAIN ROAD FULL OF CLIFFS. 38 MPH AND FEET FROM GOING OFF A CLIFF SUBARU SAY ELECTRONIC MODULE FAILED THEN IN ANOTHER STATEMENT FROM HAK AT SUBARU AMERICA THEY SAY THE TWO OCCURRENCES NOT RELATED EVEN THOUGH THEY HAPPENED SIMULTANEOUSLY. WE TOOK THE CAR IN BECAUSE OF THE WHEEL LOCKING UP WHILE MOVING AND THEY DISCOVERED THE ELECTRONIC FAILURE. THEY MAINTAIN THE CAR IS SAFE TO DRIVE "BECAUSE THEY CAN'T RECREATE THE PROBLEM". SUBARU FAIRFIELD HAS PROMISED US HELP BUT HAVE DONE NOTHING BUT ISSUE THREATS WHEN NO ONE FROM SUBARU AMERICA EVEN CALLS US! THE CARS HAVE A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE AND NO ONE WANTS TO DRIVE IT INCLUDING THE SERVICE TECHNICIAN. THEY DROVE IT 20 MILES WHEN THEY WERE SUPPOSED TO BE TESTING IT. WE HAVE DATE/TIME STAMPED PHOTOS! WE WERE TOLD THIS IS A "RARE" SAFETY FAILURE YET THEY TREAT US LIKE NORMAL AND LIE ABOUT EVEN TEST DRIVING IT. THIS IS SO UNSAFE THAT A CAR WHEEL STOPS MOVING LIKE THE ENGINE IS OFF YET THE CAR IS RUNNINGT!!! SHE DECIDED TRY AND JERK THE WHEEL SUPER HARD AND FORTUNATELY IT FINALLY MOVED AND SHE DID NOT GO OVER THE CLIFF AND FORTUNATELY THERE WAS NO TRAFFIC COMING IN THE OPPOSING LANE AS SHE CROSSED THE YELLOW LINES ETC. SHE HAD A SORE BACK FOR MANY DAYS FROM THE FORCE OF JERKING THE WHEEL AND WAS LEFT SHAKEN AND DISTURBED WITH NO WHERE TO PULL OVER. SUBARU AMERICA REGIONAL SERVICE MANAGER REQUESTED THE DETAILS AND WAS SUPPOSED TO CONTACT US BUT NO ONE HAS. WE NAIVELY BELOVED THE DEALER THAT THEY WERE TRYING TO HELP US INSTEAD TODAY I GET AN EMAIL SAYING THE WILL NOW CHARGE US STORAGE OF $175 X DAY IF WE DON'T COLLECT THE CAR. I SENT THEM NOTIFICATION THAT WE ARE SURRENDERING THE LEASE AS WE WILL NEVER GET IN THIS CAR AGAIN. DONT BUY A WRX!!!!!
Jan 16, 2019
AIR BAGS
1 complaint
THE FRONT PASSENGER DOOR WAS SLAMMED ON MY 2018 SUBARU WRX. THIS CAUSED ALL OF THE SIDE AIRBAGS TO DEPLOY- INCLUDING THE AIRBAG IN THE PASSENGER SEAT. THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED WITH THE ENGINE ON. THERE WAS NO IMPACT ASIDE FROM THE DOOR BEING SLAMMED FROM THE OUTSIDE. THIS OCCURRED IN A PARKING LOT.
Oct 26, 2018
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
THIS ISSUE OCCURS ON ACCELERATION , MOST NOTICEABLE WHEN MERGING ONTO FREEWAY FROM ON RAMP 1/2 THROTTLE , THE VEHICLE STARTS TO ACCELERATE NORMAL THEN HITS AROUND 4200 RPM AND THE BOOST GAUGE GOES NUTS FLUCTUATING UP AND DOWN AND THE VEHICLE LOOSES POWER , HESITATES , SURGES ( LIKE A FLAT SPOT ) THEN FINALLY GETS A LITTLE HIGHER IN RPM AND IT WILL PICK UP AGAIN THROUGH THE REST OF RPM GAUGE , MOST NOTICEABLE IN LOWER GEARS ( MINES A 6 SPEED MANUAL , I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO DEALER ON 5/30/18 WITH 1380 MILES ON THE ODOMETER , HUFFINES SUBARU DENTON TEXAS , TONY THE SERVICE MANAGER DROVE MY CAR AND DUPLICATED THE COMPLAINT , HE THEN PROCEEDED TO GET ANOTHER NEW WRX OFF THE LOT SIMILAR TO MINE AND AGAIN DUPLICATED THE COMPLAINT ( SO THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE ) THE DEALER CLAIMS ITS JUST A DESIGN IN THE CAR , ITS VERY UNSAFE AS YOU THINK YOU WILL GET UP TO SPEED AND THEN IT HESITATES WHICH COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT , THE DEALER DID SAY THEY WOULD OPEN A CASE WITH SUBARU TECHLINE WHICH THEY DID NOT , SO I CALLED SUBARU CUSTOMER SERVICE AND FILED A COMPLAINT , THEY CALL BACK 2 DAYS LATER AND TELL ME WE SPOKE TO DEALER NOTHING WE CAN DO , SO I PROCEEDED TO DO AN INTERNET SEARCH AND FOUND NUMEROUS PEOPLE COMPLAINING ABOUT THE SAME ISSUE ON 17-18 WRX MODELS , I CURRENTLY HAVE 2006 MILES ON THE CAR AND ITS STILL DOING THIS , NOT SURE IF ITS A DRIVE BY WIRE , THROTTLE MAP ISSUE OR A FLAW IN THE FACTORY TUNING CAUSING THIS BUT IT NEEDS TO TO BE ADDRESSED AND FIXED , VEHICLE GIVES FALSE SENSE OF SECURITY ON ACCELLERATION .
Jun 27, 2018
STEERING,AIR BAGS,WHEELS
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT'S SON OWNS A 2018 SUBARU WRX. WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN AT 25 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE WHEEL REMAINED IN A TURNED POSITION AFTER THE DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO STRAIGHTEN THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND COLLIDED WITH A TREE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER SUFFERED A BROKEN NOSE AND A SWOLLEN EYE. THE DRIVER WAS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL FOR MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED FROM THE SCENE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING TRANSFERRED TO BRUNSWICK SUBARU (2992 CENTER RD, BRUNSWICK, OH 44212) FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PLANNED TO INVESTIGATE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,055.
Oct 12, 2017
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2018 SUBARU WRX have?
The 2018 SUBARU WRX currently has 39 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 WRX?
The most common problems reported for the 2018 SUBARU WRX 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 WRX problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2018 SUBARU WRX comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
Other Years - SUBARU WRX
2025 Problems
2024 Problems
2023 Problems
2022 Problems
2021 Problems
2020 Problems
2019 Problems
2017 Problems
2016 Problems
2015 Problems
2014 Problems
2013 Problems
2012 Problems
2011 Problems
2010 Problems
2009 Problems
2008 Problems
2007 Problems
2006 Problems
2005 Problems
2004 Problems
2003 Problems
2002 Problems
2001 Problems
2000 Problems
Other SUBARU Models
Similar Brands
ST
3,555 models
RS
3,484 models
NC
2,822 models
ND
2,385 models
Z
1,951 models
MOTO
1,583 models
NU
1,189 models
RC
1,122 models