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2018 Subaru Impreza Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·24 Critical Recalls
2018 Subaru Impreza Report

Overall Score

7.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Standard all-wheel drive offers superior traction in adverse weather.
  • Excellent NHTSA safety ratings (5-star overall) provide peace of mind.
  • Significant recall history, particularly for fuel pumps and ECM software, warrants careful inspection.
  • High complaint volume for exterior lighting and visibility issues requires attention.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Subaru Impreza

The 2018 Subaru Impreza stands out in the compact segment with its standard all-wheel drive, a feature rare in its class, providing confidence in various weather conditions. It boasts a perfect 5-star NHTSA safety rating across all categories, underscoring its protective capabilities. However, this model year is not without its concerns. A substantial number of recalls (34) and complaints (178) point to potential ownership challenges. The reliability assessment is 'Below Average,' primarily due to significant recall activity concerning fuel pumps and ECM software, alongside a high volume of complaints related to exterior lighting and visibility. Prospective buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in potential repair costs, especially given the 135 Technical Service Bulletins issued for this model year.

Critical Failure Risk

The low-pressure fuel pump can fail due to an impeller defect, leading to engine stalling. Multiple recalls address this widespread issue.

Early detection can help you avoid a $611-$894 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls34
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

178
Exterior Lighting64
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
25
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
30
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.2/ 10

Practicality

6.2/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing all-weather capability and safety in a compact package.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal unexpected repair costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Subaru Impreza Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Subaru Impreza.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Manual 5-spd
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
25

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Most Common Issues

1. EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Most reported

Usage: 64 reports

2. Visibility

Usage: 33 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspection of wiper blades, fluid levels, and tire pressures

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

6,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
34 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Subaru Impreza reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Subaru Impreza is 6.2/10. Reliability score is 6.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 34. Owner complaints: 178.

How practical is the 2018 Subaru Impreza for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.2/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 567 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Subaru Impreza?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Subaru Impreza is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 6.6/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 6.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Subaru Impreza?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspection of wiper blades, fluid levels, and tire pressures at 6,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,500 - $2,500. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Pump (estimated cost Min: $611 • Max: $894).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Subaru Impreza?▾

Base MSRP is $21,295.

What engine is in the 2018 Subaru Impreza?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2018 Subaru Impreza use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Subaru Impreza, transmission is Manual 5-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Subaru Impreza?▾

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Subaru Impreza?▾

6 standard and 5 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2018 Subaru Impreza?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Subaru Impreza, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2018 Subaru Impreza?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Subaru Impreza, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Subaru Impreza use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Subaru Impreza, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 5-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Subaru Impreza?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Is the 2018 Subaru Impreza good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2018 Subaru Impreza is a practical all-wheel-drive car with limited tuning potential. Its naturally aspirated 2.

What are the most common exterior lighting problems on the 2018 Subaru Impreza?▾

Top complaint category: exterior lighting (64 reports, 36% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Subaru Impreza?▾

This model year has 34 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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