2018 Subaru Impreza Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
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.
2018 Subaru Impreza
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.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
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.
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 reportedUsage: 64 reports
2. Visibility
Usage: 33 reports
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
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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.