2018 Subaru Forester Safety Report
2018 SUBARU FORESTER Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2018 Subaru Forester
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2018 Subaru Forester. 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.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (3) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (480) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 27 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Visibility/Wiper | Compare visibility/wiper issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2021 | Compare against the 2021 Subaru Forester with 197 complaints and 0 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2019 | Check the 2019 Subaru Forester before buying across this generation. |
Subaru Forester 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 Forester years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Subaru Forester | 828 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2017 Subaru Forester | 564 | 1 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2020 Subaru Forester | 588 | 0 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2016 Subaru Forester | 400 | 3 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2021 Subaru Forester | 197 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2015 Subaru Forester | 604 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2018 Subaru Forester Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2018 Subaru Forester, 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
123 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Visibility/Wiper issues Subaru onlyAir Bags
55 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Air Bags issues Subaru onlyUnknown Or Other
51 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Subaru onlyElectrical System
46 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System issues Subaru onlyVisibility
18 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Visibility issues Subaru onlyAir Bags,Seats
17 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Air Bags,Seats issues Subaru onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Subaru Forester
Reliability Score
The 2018 Subaru Forester 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 Forester
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.
Known Issues for the 2018 Subaru Forester
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Subaru Forester:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Pump Recall Subaru is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, and 2018-2020 Impreza vehicles for a fuel pump issue. |
Medium | Rare | 30k-60k miles |
| Airbag Sensor Recall Subaru is recalling certain 2015-2018 Forester vehicles equipped with heat for an airbag sensor issue. |
Medium | Rare | 30k-60k miles |
| Ac Compressor Failure Multiple reports of AC compressor seizing up and causing belt breakage in 2018 Foresters. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Data Communications Module Issue Defect in the DCM attempting to communicate with 3G networks, causing intermittent airbag light issues. |
Medium | Common | 30k-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 Forester:
Fuel pump recall affecting 30k-60k miles.
Airbag sensor and passenger seatbelt issues.
AC compressor and condenser failures.
Issues with 3G network communication.
Recall Details for the 2018 Subaru Forester
The following 3 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Subaru Forester by NHTSA:
Summary: 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.
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Forester vehicles equipped with heated seats. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may loosen.
Consequence: If the connection loosens, the front passenger airbag may deactivate even though the seat is occupied, increasing the risk of injury to the front passenger in the event of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the ODS sensor mat harness, free of charge. The recall began February 11, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUM-98.
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Subaru Forester vehicles. The Certification Label may indicate the incorrect wheel size, tire size, and air pressure. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence: Installing incorrect tires or applying incorrect tire air pressure may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will install a corrected label, free of charge. The recall began July 26, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WTS-78.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2018 Subaru Forester
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2018 Subaru Forester with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 2 complaints involved crashes. 1 reported injuries or fatalities.
Cascading air conditioning system failures in my 2018 Subaru Forester. The failures occurred in the following sequence: 1. Expansion Valve Failure – The AC expansion valve failed, requiring repair. 2. Evaporator Core Failure – Shortly thereafter, the evaporator core failed, causing complete loss of air conditioning and requiring a second very costly repair. 3. AC Compressor Failure – Then the comp...
My drivers side seatbelt broke in a minor fender bender and was replaced.
The A/c compressor seized up causing the belt to break. Looked up online and it seems it's a common occurrence with this year and model.
Airbag light comes on due to some failure in the passenger seat. This vehicle year has had a recall on the same issue but this VIN number was not included for some reason. Another consumer posted his assessment which I have attached. My vehicle falls under his category. He has sold his since his was never resolved.
Passenger front seat. Airbag light is on when someone is sitting in the seat and seatbelt indicator dings when nothing is in the seat.
The CVT parking brake switch has failed. The failure leads to the inability to remove the key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in park. This happens repeatedly, with the only temporary solution being to restart the car, and force the shift lever from "park" to "drive" and back again rather violently. Yes, the problem was confirmed by the dealer and by Subaru of America; the latter issu...
The AC compressor/condesor needs replaced and I see a lot of complaints on-line about this specific model- 2018 Forester. My kids and I were on a road trip in August 2025 when it stopped working. It was extremley hot even with the windows down and heat stroke became very real while we were sitting in bumper to bumper traffic. There was already a recall on this but now with the new part the AC stop...
The defect presents itself when the equipped data communications module (DCM) attempts to communicate with 3G cellular networks. As 3G networks within the U.S. are no longer functioning, the call will continuously fail even after the vehicle has been turned off, draining the battery and resulting in a no-start safety risk for drivers but in order to replace the DCM to the 4G it will cost upwards o...
The AC compressor needs replaced and I see a lot of complaints on-line about this specific model- 2018 Forester so I am reporting in case it may help with a recall. Cost to repair is $2,000+. Right now it may only be covered under warranty or through a TSB goodwill. I will need to pursue with Subaru but wanted to report this in case it's helpful as there seems to be a lot of reports on this spe...
Unknown
I was driving on the interstate when car started vibrating and making a terrible sound. Dealership advised both front lower control arm bushings were worn and had play. Had them replaced but because they are rubber technician advised this will most likely happen again. My car has only 46k. I bought it new in 2017.
The defect presents itself when the equipped data communications module (DCM) attempts to communicate with 3G cellular networks. As 3G networks within the U.S. are no longer functioning, the call will continuously fail even after the vehicle has been turned off, draining the battery and resulting in a no-start safety risk for drivers. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMA...
The passenger airbag light in my 2018 Subaru Forester intermittently turns off and on, even when the seat is occupied. The vehicle has never been in a crash, and the airbags have not deployed. This issue raises serious safety concerns, especially since it may prevent the airbag from deploying in an accident while a passenger is in the seat. I raised this concern to a local Subaru Dealer, and they...
On October 3, 2023, I purchased a used 2018 Subaru Forester (VIN: [XXX] ) from Hengxin Auto Group, 210 39th St, Brooklyn, NY 11232, for about $19,500 including tax and fees. The dealer stated the mileage was 65,800 and printed that number on the contract. However, both the official NY DMV Title Record and the Carfax report showed 86,588 miles at the time of sale. This clear discrepancy proves the ...
Air bag warning light comes on intermittently so passenger air bag system is off.
The passenger seat Occupant Detection System (ODS) sensor failed, turning off the airbag and illuminating the SRS light. This is a known safety defect covered by Subaru recall 19V701 / WUM-98 for 2015–2018 Foresters built through August 1, 2017. My vehicle, a 2018 Forester XT Touring (VIN [XXX] ), has the same defect but Subaru and NHTSA do not list it as part of the recall. I waited nearly a yea...
- Steering and suspension were affected. The car is available for inspection upon request. - My safety and the safety of others were affected by the fact that the car was shaking rather intensely while driving at highway speeds. I was worried a steering failure could occur. - My licensed mechanic diagnosed the problem as a right front lower control arm assembly problem with torn bushing. (Please s...
While driving the vehicle I began to hear a loud grinding noise from the engine compartment when the A/C was engaged. I pulled over to look under the hood and it sounded like the noise was coming from the serpentine belt. Upon inspection by a Subaru dealership it was determined that the A/C compressor is failing. I was informed that there was a known issue with the 2018 Forester A/C compressor ...
1. The car's steering could be malfunctioning . The car is available for inspection upon request. 2. The steering wheel occasionally and without warning suddenly FEELS loose and "disconnected" from its ability to steer the car -- until I turn the steering wheel about a quarter to a half an inch and the steering FEELS normal again. I worry the issue (which so far has not interfered with steering th...
Passenger seat occupancy detection sensor failure. Known recall for the issue from same year 2018, my vin not included. Delaership stated 5300 dollars to repair. Subaru of America to provide goodwill gesture of 2000 dollars. Remaining amount is 3500 to repair ODS.
Showing 20 of 480 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2018 Subaru Forester
NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.
Component: Air Bags:Frontal:Passenger Side:Inflator Module
Opened 2019-08-06 · Closed 2020-01-22
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE19-009 to investigate 51 complaints and additional Early Warning Report (EWR) data related to allegations of front passenger seat Occupant Detection System (ODS) malfunctions in model year (MY) 2016 through 2018 Subaru Forester vehicles. These vehicles use a capacitive type ODS, which is intended to classify the occupant of the passenger seat as either full-sized, small stature, a child seat or other object. The complaints reported the ODS faile...
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Subaru Forester
Has the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER been recalled?
Yes, the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER has 3 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 FORESTER have?
The 2018 SUBARU FORESTER has 480 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 26 involved crashes. 9 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER?
The 2018 SUBARU FORESTER 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 FORESTER?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER involve visibility/wiper (123 complaints), air bags (55 complaints), unknown or other (51 complaints). Other affected components include electrical system, visibility, air bags,seats.
How many crash reports does the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER have?
There are 26 crash reports associated with the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER out of 480 total complaints (5.4% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER have?
There are 1 fire reports for the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER out of 480 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER.
How many injuries are reported for the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER?
9 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2018 SUBARU FORESTER?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER is research thoroughly before purchasing. It has 480 complaints, 3 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 FORESTER?
The components with the most failures on the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER are: 1. VISIBILITY/WIPER (123 complaints), 2. AIR BAGS (55 complaints), 3. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (51 complaints), 4. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (46 complaints), 5. VISIBILITY (18 complaints). VISIBILITY/WIPER is the single most-reported problem area with 123 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2018 SUBARU FORESTER?
Be aware of potential recalls and common issues like airbag malfunctions and AC compressor failures. Check for recalls and have the vehicle inspected. The 2018 SUBARU FORESTER has 480 NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER?
The 2018 SUBARU FORESTER receives a reliability score of 85/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 480 owner complaints, 3 recalls, and 27 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Fuel Pump Recall and Airbag Sensor Recall.
What are the known issues with the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER?
Known issues with the 2018 SUBARU FORESTER include: Fuel Pump Recall, Airbag Sensor Recall, AC Compressor Failure, Data Communications Module Issue. These are based on patterns found across 480 NHTSA complaints. 3 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Subaru Forester?
Yes, there are recalls for fuel pump and airbag sensor issues.
What are the most common issues with the 2018 Subaru Forester?
Common issues include visibility and wiper problems, airbag malfunctions, and electrical system issues like AC compressor failures.
How much does a 2018 Subaru Forester typically cost?
The cost can vary, but a used 2018 Subaru Forester can range from $15,000 to $25,000.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be aware of potential recalls and common issues like airbag malfunctions and AC compressor failures. Check for recalls and have the vehicle inspected.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Subaru Forester
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Subaru Forester. The data includes 480 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 26 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 9 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Subaru Forester 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