2018 Subaru Crosstrek Safety Report

2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK Safety Report

192Complaints
5Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
85/100Reliability Score
9Crash Reports
1Fire Reports
Most reported components: Visibility/Wiper (56)Unknown Or Other (24)Electrical System (18)Engine (15)Power Train (6)Visibility (6)Vehicle Speed Control (5)Exterior Lighting (4)Structure (4)Seats (3)

Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek

This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.

2018 Subaru Crosstrek Safety Signal Summary
SignalValueWhat to inspect next
Recall burdenHigh (5)Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below.
Owner complaintsHigh (192)Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates.
Crash and fire reports10Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item.
Primary component hubVisibility/WiperCompare visibility/wiper issues across vehicles.
Cleaner nearby model year2022Compare against the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek with 28 complaints and 0 recalls.
Riskier nearby model year2019Check the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek before buying across this generation.

Subaru Crosstrek Year-by-Year Comparison

The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Subaru Crosstrek years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.

Nearby Subaru Crosstrek Model Years
Model YearComplaintsRecallsUse case
2019 Subaru Crosstrek 274 7 Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year.
2017 Subaru Crosstrek 97 1 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2020 Subaru Crosstrek 64 0 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2016 Subaru Crosstrek 131 1 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2021 Subaru Crosstrek 100 1 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2022 Subaru Crosstrek 28 0 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.

2018 Subaru Crosstrek Complaint Theme Map

Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.

Visibility/Wiper

56 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Visibility/Wiper issues Subaru only

Unknown Or Other

24 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Unknown Or Other issues Subaru only

Electrical System

18 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Electrical System issues Subaru only

Engine

15 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Engine issues Subaru only

Power Train

6 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Power Train issues Subaru only

Visibility

6 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Visibility issues Subaru only

AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK has accumulated 192 complaints and 5 recalls in the NHTSA database. It received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Among the complaints, 9 involved crashes and 1 involved fires. The most frequently reported problem areas are visibility/wiper (56 complaints), unknown or other (24 complaints), electrical system (18 complaints). Visibility and wiper issues are common, with reports of heat stop working and headlight warning lights illuminating. Electrical system problems, particularly with software, are frequent, leading to stalls and other issues. Engine and power train issues are less common but still occur. A persistent howling noise from the rear and wheel bearing issues have been reported. Service brakes and exhaust system problems have also been noted. Key known issues to be aware of include Electrical System: Software, Engine and Power Train, Service Brakes. Be aware of potential electrical system and engine issues, especially around 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Regular maintenance can help prevent these problems.

Reliability Score

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek receives a reliability score of 85 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.

NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.

Overall
★★★★★
5/5
Frontal Crash
★★★★☆
4/5
Side Crash
★★★★★
5/5
Rollover
★★★★☆
4/5

Known Issues for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Electrical System: Software
Software issues in the electrical system can lead to stalls and other problems, particularly around 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
Medium Common 30k-60k miles
Engine And Power Train
Engine and power train issues, such as a howling noise and wheel bearing problems, have been reported but are less frequent.
Low Occasional 75k-100k miles
Service Brakes
Service brake issues have been reported, particularly around 50,000 to 70,000 miles.
Medium Occasional 50k-70k miles
Exterior Lighting
Exterior lighting issues, such as headlight warning lights, have been reported around 40,000 to 60,000 miles.
Medium Occasional 40k-60k miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek:

Electrical System 23% of complaints

23% of reported issues are related to the electrical system.

Engine And Power Train 15% of complaints

15% of reported issues are related to the engine and power train.

Service Brakes 13% of complaints

13% of reported issues are related to service brakes.

Exterior Lighting 4% of complaints

4% of reported issues are related to exterior lighting.

Recall Details for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek

The following 5 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek by NHTSA:

Electrical System:Software
Campaign #21V264000 15/04/2021

Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Subaru Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, causing a short circuit.

Consequence: A short circuit in the ignition coils may cause a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will update the ECM software, replace the ignition coils and, if necessary, the front exhaust pipe, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 1, 2021. Owners can contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE-21. Note: This recall includes all vehicles previously repaired under Recall ...

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
Suspension:Rear
Campaign #21V263000 15/04/2021

Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid, and 2019 Forester vehicles. The rear stabilizer bracket bolts may loosen and detach.

Consequence: Missing bolts may allow the rear stabilizer bracket to shift, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will retorque and replace any missing bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRD-21.

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Emission Control:Crankcase (Pcv)
Campaign #19V744000 17/10/2019

Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Impreza and 2018 Crosstrek vehicles equipped with an aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve. The PCV valve may come apart, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, possibly resulting in a loss of power while driving.

Consequence: An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the PCV valve, free of charge. If the PCV valve has separated and the components cannot be found, the engine will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began December 2, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUP-01.

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
Electrical System:Software
Campaign #19V743000 18/10/2019

Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, which could result in a short circuit and blown fuse.

Consequence: If a short circuit occurs while driving, the vehicle may stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will update the ECM software and inspect and replace the ignition coil, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, on vehicles with confirmed ignition coil damage and a certain stored diagnostic trouble code (DTC), Subaru will replace the front exhaust pipe, free of charge. The recall began December 4, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-...

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
Service Brakes
Campaign #17V701000 07/11/2017

Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Crosstrek vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with an incorrect floor mat retention bracket, allowing the floor mat to move out of position and interfere with the accelerator or brake pedal operation.

Consequence: If the floor mat moves out of position and interferes with the accelerator or brake pedal operation, it can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will inspect the floor mat retention bracket and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 14, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTR-77.

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.

NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek

Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 4 complaints involved crashes. 1 involved fires.

Crash Reports: 4 Fire Reports: 1
Electrical System
03/20/2026

3/3!2026 while driving heat stop working. Called Milea Saburu spoke to Christian made an appointment for 3/5/2026 they had nothing sooner. Told her what happened. Brought in they gave me loaner 12 days later on 3/18/2026 pick up car. Paid bill they told me everything done no problems. I would get my 250 dollars for the car back in 30 days. Even though they said it was a hold it went through. I ...

ODI #11725821
Engine
03/11/2026

Dangerous stall in traffic due to ignition coil failure. Ignition coils and spark plugs were replaced during the WRE21 recall campaign only 13k miles ago back in 2021. Stopped at red light awaiting to turn left when the vehicle started shaking violently. No check engine light came on though. When the light turned green, the vehicle was barely able to move forward then it completely stalled bef...

ODI #11723589
Suspension
03/10/2026

Starting at around 75,000 mileage on my 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, a persistent howling noise is heard while driving. This noise comes from the rear of the vehicle and occurs at nearly all driving speeds, measuring at around 90.0dB while on a highway (a dangerous level for prolonged exposure). A service shop and the dealership have both diagnosed the noise as an issue with the rear wheel bearings (c...

ODI #11723204
Exterior Lighting
03/04/2026

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the headlight warning light illuminated, and the contact noticed that the passenger's side LED headlight had become inoperable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where a headlight assembly replacement was recommended. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not co...

ODI #11722003
Unknown Or Other
02/27/2026

Wheel bearing issue in 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Identified by Subaru but not full recall We were not informed Risk REAR WHEELS WILL FALL OFF Contacted Subaru Advocacy after determining the backing plate was modified due to risk of failure Internet indicated courtesy repair for vehicles under 100,000 miles with new corrected part Repair was denied without full payment not even willing to supply NON DE...

ODI #11720935
Power Train
02/14/2026

Vehicle was maintained by dealer and out of the blue, started bucking intermittently while driving resulting in an unsafe driving experience. took it to the dealer to evaluate, told us, "They could change the transmission fluid and filter to see if that fixes the problem." they were not sure that would fix the issue. After researching issue, saw there were numerous complaints about the transmissio...

ODI #11718031
Visibility/Wiper
11/19/2025

The front windshield spontaneously developed a crack about 5 inches long which later suddenly increased to about 15 inches in length. It is our understanding that this problem has occurred in the windshields of other Subaru models. The internet states that Subaru windshields have had a tendency to crack without impact due to the windshield's angle or thinness to accommodate Eyesight technology.

ODI #11700276
Electrical System
11/04/2025

All four tire pressure monitoring sensors failed on my 2018 Subaru Crosstrek at approximately 69,000 miles. The TPMS light remains illuminated, and the system no longer provides low-tire-pressure warnings. Subaru of America acknowledged the issue but declined full repair coverage, offering only partial “Goodwill assistance.” Because TPMS is a federally mandated safety system, a full-system failur...

ODI #11697529
Seats,Lane Departure
08/13/2025

Driver seat has came loose from its structure, this has been reported by many other owners, the seat track fail and the seat rock back, hopefully it don't fall off track while driving and injure someone, VERY UNSAFE! the other SAFETY issue with our Subaru is the Infotainment system goes on and off intermit with no warning while driving and radio goes on HIGH VOLUME creating health and HEARING dam...

ODI #11680430
Electrical System
06/22/2025

factory alarm is triggered late in the evening while in my garage regardless if vehicle is locked or unlocked

ODI #11668419
Engine
03/09/2025

I have a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, I am the second owner, the first owner bought it in 2019, I am having acceleration problems, I have already taken it to two different mechanics, they say it is a problem with the computer, they have already checked and scanned it and they tell me that you have to reprogram the ECM for DTC P1603 / Engine idle drop or stall, when the car accelerates it makes a jerky o...

ODI #11647243
Unknown Or Other
03/05/2025

I have had my car jumped twice in the last 7 days. Today I will be replacing the battery with AAA. Is there a recall on my vehicle? I saw an article there is a recall for starting issues and the coils. Please advise. Thank you.

ODI #11646465
Power Train
02/02/2025

I am writing to formally raise a significant safety concern regarding my 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. I recently discovered a malfunction in the transfer case (pictures attached), specifically involving the center differential gear set, which necessitated immediate replacement. This issue first became apparent while driving at low speeds when I heard a loud, distinctive "clunking" noise, indicating a po...

ODI #11640184
Unknown Or Other
09/30/2024

My car randomly blows white smoke put of the exhaust and supposedly had the PCV valve replaced in Jan 2020 by the Subaru service center. I am noticing drastically lower mileage as more white smoke seems to be coming out of the exhaust and cannot help but feel these are all related.

ODI #11617374
Unknown Or Other,Lane Departure,Back Over Prevention
08/07/2024

The main head unit display (8") that controls the climate, audio and other control functions as well as the backup camera video feed is poorly made and subject to rapid delamination at edges and center. We reported and showed this problem to a Subaru dealer multiple times in past and they simply indicated it as 'temporary moisture' yet it is NOT moisture related and a design/manufacturing flaw. ...

ODI #11607107
Seats
07/09/2024

The driver seat has been rocking back and forth a bit for a for a couple of weeks and lately started rocking a lot, enough that it rocks back while accelerating and rocks forward while braking causing unintentional excessive breaking. This feels like a safety issue. This is a 2018 car and my previous car (Audi A4) that I had for 14 years never had such a thing ever happen, so this is not normal. H...

ODI #11600484
Unknown Or Other,Engine
07/02/2024

I was driving to a friends house . When the engine started sputtering billowing blue smoke , the engine just stopped . I had it towed to my mechanics shop.maui fix auto 808-877-3731 Wailuku Maui Hawaii . He told me engine failed , extended warranty thru geico would not cover. I work as the equivalent of a park ranger. For the state of Hawaii being a first responder this is techically my 3 Subaru p...

ODI #11598100
Unknown Or Other
05/19/2024

The passenger window switch on the drivers side door panel is loose and is jammed (will not depress). Nearly impossible to get passenger window to go down.

ODI #11589529
Structure
05/16/2024

While driving on a 71 degree, clear day on 16 May 2024, out of nowhere and without prior warning, my sunroof/moonroof glass on my 2018 Subaru Crosstrek limited, (50th anniversary edition) just exploded. See pics attached.

ODI #11589191
Electrical System
03/27/2024

Hello, My subaru crosstrek 2018 has been brought to Subaru service departments in both CA and MA for the same issue. I have brought in my car 3-4 times for recurrent problems where the battery in the car dies. The battery has been replaced multiple times and I have brought it to Subaru Service departments both in Massachusetts and California, all of whom tell me that the battery needs to be repla...

ODI #11579749

Showing 20 of 192 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek

Has the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK been recalled?

Yes, the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK has 5 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.

How many complaints does the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK have?

The 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK has 192 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 9 involved crashes. No injuries or deaths have been reported.

What is the safety rating for the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK?

The 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.

What are the most common problems with the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK involve visibility/wiper (56 complaints), unknown or other (24 complaints), electrical system (18 complaints). Other affected components include engine, power train, visibility.

How many crash reports does the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK have?

There are 9 crash reports associated with the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK out of 192 total complaints (4.7% of complaints involved crashes).

How many fire reports does the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK have?

There are 1 fire reports for the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK out of 192 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.

Are there any deaths reported for the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK?

No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK.

How many injuries are reported for the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK?

No injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK.

Should I buy a 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK is acceptable with caveats. It has 192 complaints, 5 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.

What components fail most on the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK?

The components with the most failures on the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK are: 1. VISIBILITY/WIPER (56 complaints), 2. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (24 complaints), 3. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (18 complaints), 4. ENGINE (15 complaints), 5. POWER TRAIN (6 complaints). VISIBILITY/WIPER is the single most-reported problem area with 56 complaints.

What should I know before buying a 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK?

Be aware of potential electrical system and engine issues, especially around 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Regular maintenance can help prevent these problems. The 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK has 192 NHTSA complaints and 5 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).

How reliable is the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK?

The 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK receives a reliability score of 85/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 192 owner complaints, 5 recalls, and 10 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Electrical System: Software and Engine and Power Train.

What are the known issues with the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK?

Known issues with the 2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK include: Electrical System: Software, Engine and Power Train, Service Brakes, Exterior Lighting. These are based on patterns found across 192 NHTSA complaints. 5 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.

Are there any recalls for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek?

Yes, recalls have been issued for electrical system and suspension issues. Check for specific recalls related to your vehicle.

What are the most common issues with the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek?

Common issues include electrical system problems, engine and power train issues, service brake problems, and exterior lighting issues.

Can the factory alarm be a safety concern?

The factory alarm being triggered late at night is not a safety concern but may be a privacy issue. Check the vehicle's security settings.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Be aware of potential electrical system and engine issues, especially around 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Regular maintenance can help prevent these problems.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Subaru Crosstrek

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. The data includes 192 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 9 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.

Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.

Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16