2018 Subaru Crosstrek
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Visibility/wiper is the leading concern among 194 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 2nd highest complaint count among 14 Crosstrek model years with reports.
Of the 2018 reports, 10 involved a crash and 1 involved a fire. 1 person was injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Electrical system, softwareApr 15, 2021
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.
A short circuit in the ignition coils may cause a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
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 19V743.
Campaign 21V264000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearApr 15, 2021
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.
Missing bolts may allow the rear stabilizer bracket to shift, increasing the risk of a crash.
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.
Campaign 21V263000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, softwareOct 18, 2019
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.
If a short circuit occurs while driving, the vehicle may stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
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 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUQ-02.
Campaign 19V743000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine cooling, exhaust system, emission control, crankcase (pcv)Oct 17, 2019
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.
An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.
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.
Campaign 19V744000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakesNov 7, 2017
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.
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.
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.
Campaign 17V701000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
194 reports, newest first.
Vehicle speed control, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 29, 2022
This morning August 29 2022 I started my 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, when I put it in gear the car just took off before I could stop it. The idle when about 5000 RPM and then up and down. I was able to get the vehicle stopped and parked. I tried starting the vehicle again and the same. The vehicle is on its way to Crews Subaru North Charleston. Even the tow truck driver wouldn't drive the vehicle. This makes the vehicle unsafe. What if someone was walking past my driveway when this happen? It took about 40 feet to get the car stopped with my foot on the brake hard and to park the car. I have a video showing the RPM at 3900 but could upload it to your site. The consumer stated he would like the complaint removed, the floor mat holding the accelerator down was the problem.
Other or unspecified, Jul 29, 2022
My car was parked in the covered garage at the Denver airport. I left for 3 days and came back to a large crack in the windshield stemming from the lower driver side to the middle of the windshield. Nothing had hit it. It spontaneously cracked.
Visibility/wiper, Jul 24, 2022
Windshield cracked almost all the way across to other side and then down. This vehicle has the eyesight package. I do not remember date it happened but will state 2 years ago. When it happened it quickly moved across windshield.
Chest clip, Buckle, Harness, Jul 23, 2022
was loosening the shoulder strap to get my child out of the seat and one of the straps came completely off of the seat. the strap hadn't broken, just had come unattached from the seat. now only one strap is usable. sent pictures to cybex and because it was 2 months out of the 2 year warranty, they couldn't replace it.
Visibility/wiper, Jul 17, 2022
A windshield that was replaced July 14, 2021 at a Subaru dealership developed a crack for no apparent reason within 6 months (December 2021). The crack began at the bottom passenger-side edge and as of July 17, 2022 the crack has now extended 3/4 the distance across the windshield (upwards towards the top edge of the windshield). This is a very expensive replacement cost ($1,400) at the Subaru dealership. I am concerned about replacing the windshield again if the replacement windshields are defective and prone to cracking.
Steering, Other or unspecified, Jul 12, 2022
This issue has happen 2 other times one time last year where Suburu Tow Truck had to be called, 2nd time May 2022 in Larchmont, NY and a Police Office Had To Come Help Me. And, the 3rd time on July 4, 2022, in the super market of Key Food, Throggsneck, NY a stranger had to help me. When, I park my car and I turn off my ignition and the steering wheel is to the left it will lock. The manual says when the steering wheel locks to insert the key and slightly turn the wheel and it will unlock. Well I am not strong enough to do it. Usually, men come to assist me and they have trouble unlocking it. There is something definately not right. I should never have to go through so much trouble and why is my steering wheel locking. I also have issue with my car staining in various places. I don't eat in my car and my car is under a port in a shaded area. I have taking it to the dealer and reported it to suburu they said nothing. But, my car keeps staining. I had my car since 2017. And, I had multiple problems with it. The air conditioner doesn't cool enough, even when it is 70 degrees inside or out, the hose has be change multiple times, my tires rotors have always been black and I never take to a car wash i wash it at home and dry it wheel by wheel, and the back door does open properly and I have been hit in the head several times. I had computer problems where it keeps being reprogramed. But, the steering wheel is freaking me out I have a child and being lockout of my vehicle because I can't turn it on is very dangerous. Please assist. I have a video. it won't let me upload the video? Why [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Visibility/wiper, Jun 12, 2022
A very, very small pebble hit the windshield while driving and caused a ~9 inch fracture in the windshield. I see that Subaru has had a class action lawsuit for defective windshields, but for some reason did not include the 2018 Crosstrek — but I can assure you, it's the same glass on these vehicles and the smallest pebble caused a nearly foot long crack.
Other or unspecified, Apr 6, 2022
The windshield cracked across the whole front of the car while it was parked in a private lot. There is no sign of impact.
Visibility, Mar 4, 2022
The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that upon entering his vehicle after a light snowstorm, he noticed a vertical crack had from the bottom passenger’s side of the windshield. The contact stated that the crack had expanded further up the windshield and obstructed his vision while driving. The dealer was notified of the failure and claimed they never heard of such a failure. The contact stated that he was also informed that the windshield was not covered under warranty and was provided an estimate for the repair. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
Visibility/wiper, Jan 21, 2022
I got a cracked glass on the empty road and this is a same problem like at Impreza
Electrical system, Visibility, Structure, Jan 13, 2022
The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that after a heavy rain and starting the vehicle several warning messages appeared on the instrument panel such as the assist braking and eyesight driver assist needed servicing. The contact also stated that the steering wheel was hard to maneuver. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that a sensor in the wheel caused the failure. The sensor was replaced however, the failure reoccurred after heavy rains a month a later. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer who stated that the failure reoccurred due to the computer sensor in the rear driver’s side wheel that was replaced was not reset. The contact stated that in December water was noticed on the driver’s side floor and condensation after a heavy rain. The vehicle was taken to the dealer again where the failure was diagnosed as clogged sunroof draining ports. The contact stated that the sunroof port needed to be replaced and unclogged. The manufacturer was notified, and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 32,000.
Visibility/wiper, Jan 3, 2022
Windshield cracked in cold weather.
Other or unspecified, Visibility/wiper, Dec 16, 2021
This is the second time my windshield has spontaneously cracked since buying my 2018 Crosstrek. Both the first and this time, the windshield appears to crack for no apparent reason and the crack grows every day until it crosses the entire windshield. These are costly to repair and should NOT crack without any visible damage.
Other or unspecified, Dec 11, 2021
Cowl panel separates from windshield. Taken to dealer on 4/21/21, paid $410 for replacement, 8 months later, 12/11/21, noticed separation again. At dealer to have it replaced. Same issue reported with Impreza, NTSHA IDs: 11408233, 11193248. Cowl separation probably allows water intrusion into engine compartment, possible degradation of window seal and further fogging of windshield.
Power train, Dec 7, 2021
under light throttle, car jerks at approximately 25 mph.
Engine, Nov 12, 2021
ECM reprogramming. I have sent in a report of 2018 Crosstrek manual transmission models like mine with acceleration delay and hesitation. There has been numerous reports of this issue among the owners. It creates hazardous condition when the driver is unexpectedly experiencing power loss or acceleration delay on lane merging situations. My car hesitates at around 2000 RPM during acceleration. I have approached Subaru dealer last year at approximately 28K miles. The car was deemed " normal". Then I called Subaru of America and I was told no such issues were reported. However, after my own research online on Crosstrek forum, this has been a known issue. In fact, tehre is a Subaru issued service bulletin on the issue described above. The Subaru service bulletin states " applicability: 2018-21 MY Crosstrek 2.0L MT Subject: Lack of power / hesitation during acceleration Number 09-77-21R Date 7/28/21 Revised 08/19/21. It also included 2017-21 MY Impreza 2.0L MT. The service bulletin describes the same problem I have experienced and described above and an ECM reprograming is needed to fix the issue. Subaru of America has not issued a recall on these models. It should have. It should have done so in 2019 or 2010 when owners of these vehicles like me has brought the issue to their attention. Please investigate and contact Subaru of America so potential accidents, hazards can be avoided. These cars need to be recalled.
Engine, Nov 11, 2021
There are many online posts of the same issues as my 2018 Crosstrek acceleration hesitancy, stumbling at around 2000 RPM or under light acceleration. This is particularly hazardous when entering highways. The Subaru dealership cannot find any issue with diagnostic error codes. I called Subaru of America they also reports no such recalls on the complaint above. Please investigate this for the Model year 2015 and newer Subaru Crosstreks. Many many people who owns this model has complained this on the online forum for same issue and no response or fix from Subaru. Below is a sample of what other Crosstrek owners experienced what I have experienced also: Subaru XV Crosstrek Engine hesitates during acceleration ...https://www.yourmechanic.com › ... › XV Crosstrek An engine that is hesitating to accelerate is most likely dealing with a fuel/air mixture that is too lean. Engine's that are running inefficiently will begin ... Hesitation during Subaru Crosstrek acceleration - victoriamgclubhttps://victoriamgclub.com › hesitation-during-subaru-c... Feb 24, 2020 — Another possible explanation why you experience hesitation during Subaru Crosstrek acceleration, whether you are driving, stationary, hot, cold ... Engine hesitation after ignition coil recall service - Subaru XV ...https://www.clubcrosstrek.com › threads › engine-hesita... May 30, 2020 — Hi...does the Crosstrek have multiple ignition coils...like one per cylinder, or just one? I had the impression that it was a single one? Problem with Accelerating/Going up hills - Subaru XV ... Sep 17, 2020 Rough Starts regardless of condition? - Subaru XV Crosstrek ... Dec 3, 2014 Engine Stumble? | Subaru XV Crosstrek Forums Apr 11, 2014 Sporadic Starting Problems | Subaru XV Crosstrek Forums Feb 5, 2014 More results from www.clubcrosstrek.com 2019 Subaru Crosstrek - Hesitates - Maintenance/Repairshttps://community.cartalk.com › 2019-subaru-crosstrek... Jun 7, 2019 — 825 miles and the car occasionally hesitates when m
Seats, Oct 13, 2021
I recently 10/7/2021 had my Subaru serviced for an oil change, and a couple of safety recalls that were needed. I also had a loose center console, and a loose wobbly drivers seat. Ramsey Subaru, Urbandale IA performed the service. Upon picking the vehicle up on the above date I was informed that all services were performed and fixed with the exception of the drivers seat. I was informed that the drivers seat needed to be replaced because “The welds on the bracket had broken.” With that said they said that would not come under warranty because my Subaru has 51,000 miles on it and it is past the 3 years 36,000 mile warranty. I get that, my assumption when I had the car serviced that the bolts on the seat bracket just needed tightened. I was told by the service advisor that the seat bracket would cost over $800.00 to be fixed. How is a weld defect a consumer issue? That is why I’m contacting you. This is a safety issue for the drivers of Subaru’s and other motorists and Subaru needs to be held accountable and fix this issue with a mandatory recall. Please feel free to contact me at [XXX] or by email in regards to this very serious safety issue. I have read on the internet that isn’t the first issue with the seat bracket welds. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Structure, Other or unspecified, Oct 4, 2021
The third windshield we've had on this car cracked again for now reason. This is available for inspection, and we have documentation of the previous issues, including when Subaru paid part of the second one because they determined there was no reason the windshield should have cracked. Windshield cracked while in the driveway (we were in the car), determined unsafe to drive.The problem keeps occurring. Each windshield replacement has been performed by the dealership we bought the car from. The vehicle has been inspected by the State Farm insurance folks for payment of the first windshield repair. There was no warning for the crack.
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Sep 22, 2021
The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would not properly accelerate. The failure occurred while operating the vehicle in warmer humid weather. The contact indicated that the failure occurred after the vehicle was serviced under the NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V264000 (Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling) which included replacing the and updating the EMC software. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The approximate failure mileage was 58,000. Consumer stated vehicle is still at the dealer.
Visibility, Sep 13, 2021
The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that while her husband was approaching the parked vehicle, he noticed a crack on the upper driver’s side of the windshield. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 23,000.
Engine, Aug 6, 2021
The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Crosstek. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number:21V264000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The part was on backorder because of a previous recall for the ignition coil as well. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed the backorder of the part for the recall. The manufacturer also informed the contact that their case would be escalated. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts distribution disconnect.
Electrical system, Jul 13, 2021
The battery in my Crosstrek inexplicably drains and sometimes won't hold a charge. I've had to buy a charger/booster after replacing the battery twice. 7/20/2020 and 9/18/2020
Power train, Engine, Jun 17, 2021
Purchased used in August 2019 - Premium 6MT. Issue has been present since purchase. There is hesitation with acceleration, not only with extremely slow acceleration, but jerking and surging at times. Dangerous when trying to pull out into traffic and driving in general. Appears to be an issue mostly between 2k-3k and then seems to rev properly after 3k, but have noticed jerking up around 4k and over. Had taken to dealer several times before issue was reproducible, then told to be issue with buildup of carbon in fuel lines. Had fuel lines blown, problem lessened, but did not resolve - this was roughly a year ago, problem has continued and worsened. Changed air filter with no change in problem. Multiple other owners on Subaru forums have this same issue, as well as have posted on this website. Subaru needs to recognize this as an issue and resolve. No dashboard lights appear, no sensor issues have been reported. There is also a "knock" or "bloop" sound that comes from the passenger rear of the car, near the gas tank input, when pulling forward from reversing. Not sure if that is part of issue, perhaps too much air is getting into system? It's a very annoying issue; if I had known, I would have kept my Jetta.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jun 17, 2021
UNKNOWN My Subaru has always had a little hesitation when accelerating. I brought this up to the dealer and they are telling me it is normal. However, in the last few months, it has gotten worse. Sometimes, when trying to accelerate into traffic, the car feels like it's going to stall or die, then it kicks in and I am able to accelerate. This is intermittent, so I never know when it's going to happen. This is a safety issue, since the hesitation could cause me to get hit.