This page covers 6 recalls, 193 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek.
25–29 mpg combined
8.1–9.4 L/100km
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The dominant complaint pattern for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek centers on visibility and wiper issues, which account for nearly a third of all reports filed for this model year. Owners most commonly describe windshield wiper failures and reduced forward visibility, with many reports pointing to wiper systems that stop functioning properly in rain or winter conditions. Engine complaints are the next most-reported category, where owners describe stalling, rough running, and in some cases violent shaking at idle or at stops, several reports mention ignition coil problems as the suspected cause of stalls in traffic. Electrical system reports come in at the same volume as engine complaints, with owners describing headlight failures, particularly passenger-side LED assemblies going dark, as a recurring issue.
193
Total Complaints
10
Crash-Related
1
Fire-Related
1
With Injuries
By System
The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek has 6 recalls, the most serious being an engine control module software fault that can keep the ignition coil powered after the engine shuts off, causing a short circuit that can stall the vehicle while driving.
Two other recalls introduce separate stall or power-loss risks. A positive crankcase ventilation valve can break apart internally, and the separated pieces can get drawn into the engine, causing an unexpected loss of power while underway. On certain vehicles, an incorrect floor mat retention bracket allows the driver's floor mat to slide out of position and catch on the accelerator or brake pedal, which can interfere with the driver's ability to accelerate or slow down normally.
The remaining issues involve rear suspension stability. Bolts securing the rear stabilizer bracket can loosen over time, sometimes announcing themselves with a rattling noise from the back of the vehicle. If the bolts detach completely, the bracket can shift out of position and reduce the vehicle's stability, particularly during cornering or sudden maneuvers.
At a glance
What can fail
Bolts securing the rear stabilizer bracket can gradually loosen, causing rattling from the rear. If loosening continues unchecked, bolts may detach entirely, reducing vehicle stability.
What the fix does
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Dealer will inspect the rear stabilizer bracket bolts, tighten them as needed, and replace any missing bolts.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The Engine Control Module may continue supplying power to the ignition coil after the engine shuts off, creating a short circuit.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the ECM software and replace the ignition coils and front exhaust pipe if needed, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The bolts securing the rear stabilizer bracket may loosen and detach from the vehicle.
What the fix does
Dealers will retighten the bolts and replace any that are missing, at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The engine control module may continue sending power to the ignition coil after the engine shuts off, potentially causing an electrical short circuit and blown fuse.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the engine control module software and inspect or replace the ignition coil as needed. Vehicles with confirmed coil damage will also get a new front exhaust pipe.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The aluminum PCV valve may separate internally. Loose components can enter the engine and cause power loss while driving.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the PCV valve if needed. If components are missing, the engine will be replaced.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The floor mat retention bracket may be incorrect, allowing the floor mat to shift and interfere with accelerator or brake pedal operation.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the floor mat retention bracket and replace it if needed, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
