2018 Subaru Forester Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2018 Subaru Forester offers standard all-wheel drive and a practical SUV package, but its reliability is a significant concern for used car shoppers.
- A prevalent issue is spontaneous windshield cracking, often without apparent cause, leading to costly replacements and potential impacts on safety systems like EyeSight.
- Owners report numerous issues with the airbag system, specifically the occupant classification sensor, which can lead to the passenger airbag deactivating unexpectedly.
- Electrical system problems, including battery drain and intermittent dashboard warning lights, are also frequently cited.
2018 Subaru Forester
Critical Failure Risk
Widespread reports of windshields cracking spontaneously or from minor impacts. This can impair visibility and affect safety systems like EyeSight.
Early detection can help you avoid a $200-$1,800 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing standard all-wheel drive and practicality over long-term reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Subaru Forester Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Subaru Forester.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Manual 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- EPA Combined MPG
- 24
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Most Common Issues
1. Visibility
Most reportedUsage: 135 reports
2. Airbags
Usage: 85 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Exterior Lighting - Inspect Suspension - Inspect Steering Components - Inspect Belts - Inspect Hoses - Inspect Wipers and Washer Systems - Service Battery Terminals
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Subaru Forester reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Subaru Forester is 5.1/10. Reliability score is 5.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 13. Owner complaints: 644.
How practical is the 2018 Subaru Forester for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.2/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Subaru Forester?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Subaru Forester is 6.6/10. Overall score is 6.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.4/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.2/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Subaru Forester?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Exterior Lighting - Inspect Suspension - Inspect Steering Components - Inspect Belts - Inspect Hoses - Inspect Wipers and Washer Systems - Service Battery Terminals at 6,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Windshield (estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $926).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Subaru Forester?
Base MSRP is $22,795.
What engine is in the 2018 Subaru Forester?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.
What transmission does the 2018 Subaru Forester use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Subaru Forester, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Subaru Forester?
EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Subaru Forester?
9 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2018 Subaru Forester?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Subaru Forester, seating capacity is 5.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Subaru Forester use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Subaru Forester, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Subaru Forester?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2018 Subaru Forester good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2018 Subaru Forester, while a capable SUV, offers limited avenues for significant performance tuning. Its naturally aspirated 2. Popular platforms: Forester XT (Turbocharged models).
What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2018 Subaru Forester?
Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (135 reports, 21% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Subaru Forester?
This model year has 13 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Subaru Forester?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Toyota RAV4 and 2018 Honda CR-V.