2018 Subaru Outback
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Electrical system is the leading concern among 811 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 4th highest complaint count among 26 Outback model years with reports.
Of the 2018 reports, 27 involved a crash and 4 involved a fire. 19 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, fuel pumpJul 29, 2021
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.
Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
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.
Campaign 21V587000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, rearview mirrors/devicesDec 31, 2018
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Legacy, Outback, and BRZ vehicles. In the affected vehicles, a software issue may cause the audio display system to not initialize, resulting in the camera display remaining blank. If this occurs, the rearview image will not display while backing up the vehicle. As a result, the vehicles fail to comply with requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
Failure to display the rearview image while backing up increases the risk of crash.
Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will reprogram the audio system display software, free of charge. The recall began on February 5, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WTZ-85.
Campaign 18V935000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, softwareNov 1, 2018
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles. Due to a software error, the low fuel warning light may not illuminate at the intended remaining fuel level and the miles-to-empty display may incorrectly indicate a positive number despite the tank being empty.
The inaccurate fuel display may cause a driver to unexpectedly run out of fuel and the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the combination meter software, free of charge. The recall began February 20, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WTW-82.
Campaign 18V773000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
811 reports, newest first.
Other or unspecified, Sep 12, 2026
Infotainment unit in my 2018 Subaru Outback has had a recurring freeze/black-screen defect since new, and it directly affects the backup camera display and interaction with EyeSight safety features, creating a rear-visibility hazard while reversing and a driver-distraction hazard while underway. Documented history: On 6/4/2018 at 6,071 miles, the dealer proactively installed a radio software update with no complaint from me, indicating Subaru was already managing known issues with this head unit. On 9/21/2018 at 13,487 miles, I reported the radio was still blacking out after that update; the dealer found the radio inoperative, physically replaced the audio unit, and filed a failure report with the vendor. On 3/18/2019, the dealer performed Service Campaign WUA86 (head unit software reprogram) and completed Recall WTW82. On 3/16/2020, I returned with the same failure, the service record states my complaint verbatim: "the speakers will buzz and the infotainment center go black and reset itself", and the dealer performed another head unit software reprogram. This visit fell within the active HK Gen 3.0 Warranty Extension coverage window (1/1/2020–2/27/2023), a warranty extension tied to a related class action settlement (Udeen v. Subaru of America, Case No. 1:18-cv-17334) covering this exact head unit generation. Subaru also issued Technical Service Bulletin 15-228-18R specifically for "Display Screen Freeze-Up or Black (Blank) Concerns" on this head unit, confirming the defect was known and documented internally. Despite one full hardware replacement and multiple software reprogramming attempts across four documented visits from 2018–2020, the defect was never permanently resolved. The infotainment screen now has delamination, continued freezing, unresponsive/phantom touch input ("ghost touch"), Bluetooth failure, and navigation failure. Because this system controls the backup camera display and interacts with EyeSight, an unpredictable freeze or blackout is unsafe.
Engine, Sep 11, 2026
The car started to make very loud engine noises and then the engine completely failed. The car was no longer able to accelerate and lost the ability to go in both forward and reverse. Luckily, my son had just arrived home when the car completely lost power, but it began to have acceleration issues as he was driving home. No warning lights came on until after the car had completely failed. Less than a week prior to the incident, the car had an oil change and inspection by the dealership and no issues of concern were noted. The car was towed to the dealer. The technician said that the oil contained metal shavings, indicated an engine block failure.
Structure, Sep 9, 2026
I was driving on the highway going 70 MPH when the hood latch suddenly came unlatched. The hood flew up and smashed into the windshield, blocking my view. I was able to slow down and pull onto the shoulder, but there was damage to my hood, windshield, rear view mirror, body panels, sunroof, roof, and trim.
Structure, Sep 8, 2026
Infotainment screen is delaminated and doesn’t work
Other or unspecified, Aug 1, 2026
I am reporting a safety defect involving the infotainment touchscreen in my 2018 Subaru Outback). The touchscreen has developed visible "bubbles" under the screen lamination, with lines and bubbling appearing beneath the surface of the display. As the weather got warmer, the issue worsened, and the screen constantly registers false touch inputs (“ghost touches”) without any physical contact. While driving, the infotainment system repeatedly activates buttons and menus on its own. The vehicle will unexpectedly: - Change radio stations - Rapidly cycle through menus and settings - Trigger Bluetooth phone functions - Attempt to call contacts from my phone when connected via Bluetooth This creates a significant driver distraction and safety hazard. The screen behavior is unpredictable and often continuous while driving, forcing me to repeatedly look away from the road to determine what the system is doing. The issue is especially concerning because the system can initiate phone calls or rapidly switch screens while the vehicle is in motion, making it difficult to safely operate the vehicle without distraction. Based on online research, this appears to be a widespread issue affecting multiple Subaru vehicles with similar infotainment systems, suggesting a possible design or manufacturing defect rather than isolated wear and tear. I believe this defect presents an unreasonable safety risk because it creates repeated and unavoidable distractions for the driver while the vehicle is in operation. This is my fist Subaru, I cannot believe how many times I have heard that this is a "common issue" and yet Subaru will not admit fault. This is a worse distraction than texting and driving and should be approached with the same respect when it comes to safety.
Other or unspecified, Jul 26, 2026
The infotainment touchscreen in my 2018 Subaru Outback has developed severe internal delamination and persistent phantom or ghost touches. The screen randomly changes navigation routes, places telephone calls, changes audio selections, and moves between menus without driver input. These events create substantial distraction while the vehicle is moving. The condition has now progressed to the point that the rear backup-camera image is obscured and cannot be reliably viewed when the vehicle is placed in reverse. The camera activates, but the defective, delaminated display and make the image unusable. Subaru previously extended warranty coverage for the Harman Gen. 3 head unit under Service Bulletin 15-263-20, but Subaru has denied my request for replacement. This creates a risk of a backing collision because the driver cannot reliably use the rearview image. It also creates continuing driver distraction from uncontrolled navigation, audio, and telephone activity. No collision has occurred to date, but the system has caused repeated distracting incidents and can no longer be relied upon for rear visibility.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Jul 15, 2026
2018 Subaru Outback Infotainment center glass delamination causing the system to come on by itself start malfunctioning switching between channels or apps and potentially startle / distract the driver. Incident has been ongoing for over 8 months..
Engine, Jul 14, 2026
Engine cam carrier seals are leaking. Repair cost is $5,700 plus tax. Vehicle is well cared for and well maintained with only 96,000 miles The Subaru Manufacturer was contacted and will do nothing to fix and does not admit engineer defect nor manufacturing defect. Basically, 96,000 and needs a new engine. Please put out a national recall.
Electrical system, Jun 26, 2026
The car screens are delaminating and bubbling due to fault of the manufacturer. This is a widespread issue and causes safety issues due to the screen moving erratically while driving, messing with volume and function controls.
Other or unspecified, Jun 25, 2026
I am reporting a safety defect involving the infotainment touchscreen in my 2018 Subaru Outback (VIN [XXX]). The touchscreen has developed visible internal delamination, with lines and bubbling appearing beneath the surface of the display. As the delamination worsened, the screen began registering false touch inputs (“ghost touches”) without any physical contact. While driving, the infotainment system repeatedly activates buttons and menus on its own. The vehicle will unexpectedly: - Change radio stations - Rapidly cycle through menus and settings - Trigger Bluetooth phone functions - Attempt to call contacts from my phone when connected via Bluetooth This creates a significant driver distraction and safety hazard. The screen behavior is unpredictable and often continuous while driving, forcing me to repeatedly look away from the road to determine what the system is doing. The issue is especially concerning because the system can initiate phone calls or rapidly switch screens while the vehicle is in motion, making it difficult to safely operate the vehicle without distraction. I have attached video evidence showing the touchscreen activating controls on its own without user input. Based on online research, this appears to be a widespread issue affecting multiple Subaru vehicles with similar infotainment systems, suggesting a possible design or manufacturing defect rather than isolated wear and tear. I believe this defect presents an unreasonable safety risk because it creates repeated and unavoidable distractions for the driver while the vehicle is in operation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Jun 23, 2026
This is my fourth Subaru Outback windshield. The car has 80K. I had it replaced in 2019 when a rock hit the screen by safelight. I had another crack (no rock) fixed in July 2021 and another crack (unclear source) fixed in August 2025, both by Subaru. This weekend I got my fourth crack in the windshield, no rock. The last two times, the crack extended across the screen. This time the crack is so bad, it is hard to drive. Each time Subaru fixes my windshield, it is $1100. I don't know anyone who has broken a windshield, never mind four of them. There was a lawsuit but for some reason it did not include cars older than 2020.
Engine, Jun 15, 2026
Acceleration was very sluggish and un-responsive Gears would strangely slip on the highway resulting in engine racing up Rotating sound would come and go
Other or unspecified, Jun 5, 2026
I am writing to report a severe, escalating safety defect regarding the "ghost touching" / phantom input malfunction of the infotainment head unit on my Subaru Outback. This electronic defect has escalated from a minor distraction into a severe hazard that directly compromises the operational safety features of the vehicle, putting myself and my children at imminent risk of a crash. When this problem initially began, I investigated whether a safety recall had been issued. At that time, I was informed that my vehicle was outside of its standard warranty coverage period. Since then, the defect has degenerated significantly. The system now suffers from continuous, uncontrollable phantom inputs ("ghost touching"). Even when I manually power the radio off, the system overrides my command, turns itself back on, and initiates constant, rapid beep sequences. This continuous, high-volume auditory glitch creates a dangerous critical safety failure: the nonstop beeping totally masks and completely drowns out the vehicle's actual auditory collision avoidance and driver-assist safety alerts. Because of this defect, I am entirely unable to hear the safety tones meant to warn me of immediate hazards, including blind-spot detection alerts, lane-departure warnings, and cross-traffic alerts. This vehicle has become an active hazard to drive, as I am deprived of the core safety features I rely on to protect my family. I contacted Subaru of America to resolve this dangerous equipment failure, but they refused to offer any financial assistance or repair support. Subaru Corporate documented this refusal under Subaru Case #260603-1600711. Because Subaru refuses to address a known component failure that actively disables crash-avoidance warning systems, I am petitioning the NHTSA to investigate this defect as a systemic safety hazard before it results in severe injuries or a fatal accident. I can share video, but it won't allow me to upload down below. Thank you.
Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Jun 4, 2026, crash
Report on Accident [XXX] 4TH DISTRICT wHEATON MARYLAND [XXX] [XXX] I was driving west on [XXX] at approximately [XXX]. As I approached the intersection at [XXX] the TRAFIC light cars were stopped . I was in the left hand lane because I was going to turn on to [XXX] . As approached the intersection I applied the brakes the pedal went close to the floor but the car did not slow down. I tried pumping the brake pedal with no effect. No collosion avoidance alert To try and slow the vehicle ran the wheel against the curb of the median which slowed the car down a little . I pressed the parking brake button with no effect. The collision avoidance system did not engage. I clipped the rear of the Toyota Corolla as I jumped the curb to avoid cars using the friction against the curb and move further left when oncoming cars were clear and was able to stop the car. (The car may have stopped because the front control arm bent which made the car drag. ) I am unsure whether the master cylinder failure or ABS overrode braking, but the car would not stop. I do not know if the black box captured the data as the there was no airbag deployment. The collision avoidance system did not engage to slow the car any time. I did not see any lights light on the dashboard did not check specifically as I was busy avoiding a collision other cars . Basically, pedal went down not all the way to the floor but car was not slowing down. I checked the master cylinder reservoir, and it still had fluid. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Jun 2, 2026
The infotainment system on my Outback has become a complete distraction when driving. It calls people from my contacts on its own, it cuts off my navigation in the middle of a drive and it freezes up preventing cancelling of operation. This is the hub of the vehicle and makes using hands free devices next to impossible. I took the vehicle into the Subaru dealership and they confirmed the issue. They had me reach out to Subaru of America and they refuse to cover the cost to replace the malfunctioning unit in the vehicle. Upon researching this online, it is caused by delamination of the head unit and has plagued this vehicle. The issue started happening outside of warranty. I feel like this is a well documented problem and Subaru refuses to do a recall on it.
Back over prevention, May 27, 2026
infotainment display complete failure including ghost touches and input failure.
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, May 20, 2026
"I own a 2018 Subaru Outback VIN [XXX] . I have experienced a recurring failure with the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) three times within the same year. In January 2026, I brought my vehicle to the dealership and had to replace the TPMS sensors. Shortly after, the issue returned and I had to replace the TPMS module. I picked the vehicle up on Monday, May 18, 2026, and by Wednesday, May 20, 2026, I had to return it to the dealership again for the same recurring problem. This is the third repair for the same system failure within 2026. I have open case with Subaru of America regarding this matter (Case Number: [XXX]). Despite multiple repairs, the root cause has not been resolved. I am concerned this is a safety issue as a malfunctioning TPMS system can fail to alert the driver to dangerous tire pressure conditions while driving. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether this is a widespread defect in 2018 Subaru Outback vehicles. I have spent over $2,000 out of pocket costs to date. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical system, May 12, 2026
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2018 Subaru Outback. The owner located a torn receipt with the discrepancy located in the vehicle. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 91,000 and at the time of it being discovered the mileage was 148,234. A Carfax report was received. The Sherriff was notified about the matter in Oregon.
Electrical system, May 6, 2026
The 2018 Subaru Outback 8" Starlink infotainment system is beeping, switching between the screens, try to disconnect my phone, changes radio stations doesn't recognize when I touch a button on the screen. That it is a distraction while driving as it is one annoying, two I try to get it to stop eventually just have to turn it all off so then I drive with no navigation screen or radio. I am well aware this is a widespread known issue affecting 2018–2019 Outbacks and Legacies, This has been an ongoing issue for the last 6 months in my vehicle.
Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Fuel/propulsion system, Apr 29, 2026, crash
Driving slowly in a parking lot, I applied the brakes as I approached a parking space. Instead of slowing down, the car inexplicably accelerated quickly and did not respond to increased pressure on the brakes. The car was propelled into a metal post, resulting in my glasses flying off and a seat belt bruise, although the airbag did not deploy. I was examined by ambulance personnel at the scene. The car was towed, inspected by an insurance adjuster and eventually declared a total loss. There were no warning lamps prior to the incident and no reproduction of the incident was possible due to damage. The car has been relinquished to the insurance company. This was the first such incident occurring during 8 years of driving this vehicle.
Back over prevention, Apr 21, 2026
Our Subaru backup camera screen is suffering from a factory defect delamination issue which has caused the screen to become hazy and difficult to see. In daylight, the screen is often completely obscured by the defect. Subaru issued a warranty extension from 2020 to 2023 due to class action litigation regarding this issue, but we were never made aware of the extension. Subaru has refused to repair this factory safety defect simply claiming it is out of warranty.
Back over prevention, Apr 14, 2026
The infotainment head unit in my 2018 Subaru Outback has experienced internal adhesive delamination, resulting in frequent "ghost touches" and unpredictable system malfunctions that pose a severe safety hazard. Most critically, the backup camera display intermittently disappears or freezes while the vehicle is in reverse, causing a total loss of rear visibility during low-speed maneuvering. While the vehicle is in motion, the unit executes unauthorized commands without driver input, including making random outgoing phone calls to my contacts, switching screens away from the GPS navigation during active routing, and cycling through radio stations and apps at high volumes. These uncommanded actions create extreme driver distraction and a loss of access to essential vehicle safety interfaces. The failure is persistent and prevents the reliable use of mandated safety equipment and navigation.
Exterior lighting, Apr 13, 2026
The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal to park the vehicle, the brake lights failed to illuminate as designed. While returning to the vehicle after the vehicle was parked and attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start due to a safety feature that disabled the starter when the brake lights failed to operate as designed. An AAA-certified mechanic was called, and after inspecting the vehicle, the mechanic diagnosed that the brake indicator switch had failed, causing the rear brake lights to fail to illuminate. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact researched and became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V149000 (Exterior Lighting). The manufacturer was informed of the failure, and it was confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer referred the contact back to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.
Back over prevention, Apr 8, 2026
The head unit (infotainment system) in my vehicle is experiencing delamination, where the screen is peeling, separating, or forming bubbles. This causes: •Touchscreen malfunctions, making it difficult or impossible to operate controls such as audio, climate, navigation, and backup camera. •Distraction risk while driving due to unresponsive or erratic screen behavior. •Intermittent failure of vehicle systems that rely on the infotainment interface, increasing potential safety hazards. This is a known defect affecting multiple 2018 Subaru Outbacks and can occur even in properly maintained vehicles. The defect reduces safe operability of the vehicle while driving. Request / Action: I am submitting this complaint to ensure NHTSA is aware of this potential safety issue and to assist in any investigation or recall consideration. Additional Information: •Dealer attempts to repair or replace the head unit were declined. •The issue is reproducible and ongoing.
Back over prevention, Apr 1, 2026
Infotainment system is completely delaminated, and the backup camera is slow to start, if starts at all. System will go beserk, make calls, change stations, volume, navigation, and more.