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 three separate issues that can stall the engine while driving: a PCV valve that can break apart and send debris into the engine, a failing low-pressure fuel pump, and an engine control module that can short-circuit the ignition coil.
Recalls 3 and 4 describe the same engine control module issue: after the engine is shut off, the module can continue powering the ignition coil, causing a short circuit and blown fuse that may stall the vehicle while driving. The PCV valve recall involves components that can separate and enter the engine, cutting power unexpectedly. The fuel pump can fail outright, also cutting engine power while underway. There is also a lighting recall covering the front reflectors, which may not reflect enough light to meet federal standards, reducing how visible the vehicle is to other drivers at night.
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.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the front headlamp assemblies at no cost to restore proper light reflection.
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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 →
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.
