NHTSA (USA)Low Risk
At a glance
What can fail
The left and right side reflectors and left low beam reflector may not reflect light adequately, making the vehicle harder to see at night.
This page covers 5 recalls, 149 owner complaints and NHTSA crash-test ratings for the 2018 Subaru Impreza.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Complaints about the 2018 Subaru Impreza center heavily on exterior lighting and visibility issues, which together account for the large majority of reports filed. Owners frequently describe headlight problems, most commonly that the headlights produce inadequate illumination, making nighttime driving difficult. Wiper performance draws a similar volume of complaints, with owners reporting poor visibility in rain and snow despite the wipers appearing to function. Engine issues make up a smaller but notable share, with owners describing overheating, oil or seal leaks discovered at low mileage, and warning lights appearing without obvious cause. A recurring tire pressure monitoring complaint also surfaces, with owners reporting the low-pressure warning returning repeatedly even after the issue is addressed at a shop. The headlight and wiper complaints are by far the dominant pattern in this complaint set, suggesting the 2018 Impreza's lighting output and wiper effectiveness are the most consistently reported concerns among owners.
149
Total Complaints
5
Crash-Related
1
Fire-Related
2
With Injuries
By System
The 2018 Subaru Impreza has 5 recalls, the most serious involving multiple defects that can stall the engine while driving: a software fault in the engine control module, a failing low-pressure fuel pump, and a crumbling PCV valve.
The engine control module can continue sending power to the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, creating a short circuit that can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly while driving. This same defect is covered by two filings, and prior repair attempts may not have fully resolved the issue. Separately on the engine side, the positive crankcase ventilation valve, which manages pressure inside the engine, can break apart on vehicles equipped with an aluminum version of that component. When it does, the loose pieces can enter the engine and cause a sudden loss of power. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank can also fail outright, cutting fuel delivery and stalling the engine mid-drive. All three of these issues raise crash risk by removing driver control without warning. On the lighting side, the front reflectors on some vehicles do not reflect enough light to meet federal standards, reducing how visible the car is to other drivers at night or in low-visibility conditions.
At a glance
What can fail
The left and right side reflectors and left low beam reflector may not reflect light adequately, making the vehicle harder to see at night.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
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 →
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the front headlamp assemblies at no cost to restore proper light reflection.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail, which could prevent fuel from reaching the engine.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump 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 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 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.