Last updated: 2026-04-20

RELIABILITY SCORE: 71/100 (GOOD)

2018 Subaru WRX Reliability Report

Name: 2018 Subaru WRX
Brand: Subaru

The 2018 Subaru WRX scores 71/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 40 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

13.9per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$682

Annual Fuel Cost

$3,000–$3,850

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity61/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact80/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity85/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)
ENGINE (8)
STEERING (7)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Refresh

2018 is 1 year after the facelift refresh.

Year 4 in the Fourth generation (VA) (2015–2021).
Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
4th generation WRX (US).

What this means for buyers

Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.

2015: Fourth generation (VA) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2017: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2018: This Model Year

2018 is 1 year after the facelift refresh.

2019: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2018 Subaru WRX?

At 71/100, the 2018 Subaru WRX lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2018 is 1 year after the facelift refresh.

Owners log 40 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (8). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2019 Subaru WRX, which scored 1 points higher.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+Infrequent unscheduled repairs
+Low major repair risk (14%)
+Low recall count

Cons

−Above-average repair costs for its class
−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (8 complaints)
−ENGINE: Frequent engine failures in the 2018 Subaru WRX, primarily due to rod bearing... (8 complaints)

Compare 2018 Subaru WRX With

2018 Volkswagen Golf

Reliability: 69/100

Good

2018 Mazda 3

Reliability: 79/100

Good

2018 Honda Civic

Reliability: 71/100

Good

2018 Hyundai Elantra

Reliability: 76/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

2 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)
ENGINE (8)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

The 2018 Subaru WRX carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

13.9

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 24.9

LowAvgHigh

Moderate

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2018 Subaru WRX Recall Details

2 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Subaru WRX. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

22V5220002022-07-21

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2021 WRX vehicles. The backup light switch may corrode and become inoperative, which can result in the backup lights not illuminating and the rearview camera image not displaying when the vehicle is in reverse.

Consequence

Inoperative backup lights and an inoperative rearview camera can reduce vehicle visibility and driver awareness, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the backup light switch, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE-22.

21V5870002021-07-29

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Consequence

Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2018 Subaru WRX? Check its history first

Every 2018 Subaru WRX has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2018 Subaru WRX NHTSA Safety Ratings

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Rollover risk: 0.0%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)torso/pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Not Available)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Not Available)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Subaru WRXRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$682

vs $526 avg for compact cars

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.3

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

14%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

WRX

$682

Category Avg

$526

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

18–23 MPG

Running cost: $3,700–$4,550/yr

Fuel + repair

16–21 city / 22–27 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
WRX 2.0L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	21	27	23	$3,000
WRX 2.0L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AV-S8)	18	24	21	$3,300
WRX 2.5L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	17	22	19	$3,650
WRX STI Type RA 2.5L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	16	22	18	$3,850

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Subaru WRX.

Inspect for engine knocking or rod bearing failure
Check for transmission hesitation or surging during acceleration
Test battery for drainage issues by leaving the car off for a short period
Examine clutch for wear or unusual noises, especially the throw-out bearing
Inspect for fuel odors inside the cabin, indicating potential leaks
Check for windshield cracks, especially after cold weather
Verify if all recalls have been completed, especially for the fuel pump

2018 Subaru WRX Common Problems by Component

40 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)ENGINE (8)STEERING (7)POWER TRAIN (6)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)VISIBILITY/WIPER (3)FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2)FUEL SYSTEM (1)Other (2)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

8 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Subaru WRX frequently report issues with battery drainage, with multiple complaints describing the vehicle becoming inoperable after short periods of non-use or shortly after being turned off. Symptoms include the vehicle failing to start, requiring frequent battery replacements, and needing jumps to restart. These issues appear across a wide range of mileages, from as low as 5,000 miles to higher mileages like 96,000 miles. Additionally, one owner mentions a problem with the vehicle incorrectly indicating reverse gear while driving forward, activating the backup camera and reverse lights. Safety implications include the risk of being stranded in unsafe locations and potential hazards from unexpected vehicle behavior.

8 complaints total

ENGINE

8 complaints

Owners report frequent engine failures in the 2018 Subaru WRX, primarily due to rod bearing issues. Typical symptoms include engine knocking, sudden loss of power, and in some cases, complete engine failure, often occurring around 32,000 to 67,000 miles. Additional complaints describe a strong fuel odor linked to a high-pressure fuel pipe leak, posing a potential fire hazard. Safety implications include risks of being stranded and loss of vehicle control. Buyers should be aware that these issues may require significant repairs or replacements, even at relatively low mileage.

8 complaints total

STEERING

7 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2018 Subaru WRX frequently report steering issues, with several complaints describing instances where the steering wheel locks up, often leading to a loss of control. These incidents typically occur during turns or while driving at moderate speeds, with some reports indicating the problem may be linked to the vehicle's safety systems activating unexpectedly. Complaints often involve crashes, and two reports mention injuries, suggesting significant safety implications. The issues are noted at various mileage points, with some vehicles having as few as 1,055 miles. Buyers should be aware of these reported steering malfunctions and the potential for accidents when considering a used 2018 Subaru WRX.

7 complaints total5 crashes2 injuries

POWER TRAIN (6 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

6 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report several power train issues with the 2018 Subaru WRX, particularly involving the transmission. Complaints frequently mention problems with acceleration, including hesitation and surging, especially noticeable when merging onto highways or accelerating from a stop. These issues are often linked to the CVT transmission, with one owner experiencing three replacements by 47,000 miles, and a manual transmission defect involving the throw-out bearing and fork, which in one case resulted in a fire. The manual transmission issue is reported to cause the vehicle to stop unexpectedly in traffic, posing a significant safety risk. Additionally, transmission fluid leaks and slippage are noted, with some repairs delayed by months, potentially leading to further damage. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for buyers considering a used 2018 WRX, particularly in vehicles with higher mileage.

6 complaints total1 fire

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Subaru WRX report several issues in the UNKNOWN OR OTHER category, with clutch and sunroof problems appearing prominently. Owners frequently mention clutch failures, specifically the throw-out bearing, with symptoms like a chirping sound occurring shortly after replacement, often around 50,000 miles. Another complaint involves the sunroof exploding while driving on the highway at approximately 65 mph, under specific weather conditions involving recent snowfall and temperature changes. An additional report highlights a check engine light indicating a cylinder misfire due to ringland piston failure, with spark plug damage noted. While no crashes or injuries are mentioned, these issues could be concerning for potential buyers, particularly those considering vehicles with similar mileage.

3 complaints total

VISIBILITY/WIPER (3 complaints)

VISIBILITY/WIPER

3 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Subaru WRX report issues with windshield cracking under various conditions. Complaints frequently mention cracks appearing overnight, particularly after cold weather, or while driving on highways without any visible or audible impact. Some owners suspect these incidents are linked to a known defect in Subaru windshields. The reports do not specify mileage ranges, but the need for windshield replacement is a common outcome. There are no reports of crashes or loss of control related to these issues, but the necessity of replacing the windshield suggests potential visibility concerns for drivers.

3 complaints total

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints)

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

2 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Subaru WRX report issues related to fuel vapors and a potential fuel pump recall. One owner describes a strong raw gasoline odor entering the cabin shortly after purchase, particularly near the driver's side rear seat and wheel well, which persists despite multiple repair attempts and component replacements. This issue is noted to cause dizziness and headaches, with the dealership unable to identify the source. Another owner mentions being informed of a fuel pump recall during a DMV visit, indicating a potential risk of fuel pump failure. These complaints suggest safety implications due to toxic fumes and potential fire hazards, which used car buyers should consider.

2 complaints total

FUEL SYSTEM (1 complaints)

FUEL SYSTEM

1 complaint

2024-05-15

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?

EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

2023-01-05

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.

AIR BAGS (1 complaints)

AIR BAGS

1 complaint

2018-10-07

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.

When Do 2018 Subaru WRX Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

32,000–67,000 milesEngine rod bearing failure

47,000 milesTransmission issues

5,000–96,000 milesBattery drainage

Best & Worst Subaru WRX Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Subaru WRX Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Subaru WRX year is 2026 with a reliability score of 81/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2024 (78/100) and 2025 (77/100).

Top Pick

Excellent

Subaru WRX Years to Avoid

No Subaru WRX years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Subaru WRX maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

See full Subaru WRX years-to-avoid analysis

Subaru WRX Reliability Score Trend

Subaru WRX reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 75/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Subaru WRX reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	71/100	Good
2019	72/100	Good
2020	75/100	Good
2021	75/100	Good
2022	73/100	Good
2023	75/100	Good
2024	78/100	Good
2025	77/100	Good
2026	81/100	Excellent

Subaru WRX Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	81/100	+4	Excellent	0	0
2025	77/100	-1	Good	0	1
2024	78/100	+3	Good	0	13
2023	75/100	+2	Good	1	6
2022	73/100	-2	Good	1	23
2021	75/100	0	Good	1	12
2020	75/100	+3	Good	1	17
2019	72/100	+1	Good	2	27
2018(selected)	71/100	—	Good	2	40

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2018 Subaru WRX reliable?

The 2018 Subaru WRX has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 71/100. It is reasonably reliable with 2 recalls and 40 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2018 Subaru WRX?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 Subaru WRX include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8 complaints), ENGINE (8 complaints), STEERING (7 complaints), POWER TRAIN (6 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2018 Subaru WRX have?

The 2018 Subaru WRX has 2 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2018 Subaru WRX expensive to maintain?

The 2018 Subaru WRX has estimated annual repair costs of $682/year, which is $156 more than the compact cars average of $526. With a reliability score of 71/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2018 Subaru WRX without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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