2018 Subaru Impreza: Reliability, Recalls, Known Issues & Cost to Own
Data last updated 2026-07-04 · sources listed throughout · based on public NHTSA data
Practical AWD hatchback let down by frequent headlight failures and windshield cracking reports. 3 known issue patterns are documented below, with frequency and the mileage windows where they typically appear. New, the 2018 Subaru Impreza ranged from $18,495 to $24,195 depending on trim (base MSRP, before options and destination).
This listing
Context from the listing you were viewing, not a market-price judgement.
Practical AWD hatchback let down by frequent headlight failures and windshield cracking reports.
Sources (3)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=imprez…
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/subaru/impreza
- cargurus.comhttps://www.cargurus.com/research/articles/subaru-impreza-buying-guide
Known issues
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Premature low-beam headlight and exterior-lighting failures are the most-reported problem, sometimes leaving drivers without headlights at night until bulbs or units are replaced.
widespread · 62 NHTSA complaints · electrical
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Spontaneous windshield cracking from minor impacts or temperature swings is frequently reported; replacement is costly because the EyeSight camera must be recalibrated.
commonly reported · 53 NHTSA complaints · body
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Assorted electrical complaints including Starlink infotainment freezes or reboots and battery drain appear across these years.
occasional · 19 NHTSA complaints · electrical
Based on public NHTSA complaint data and AI synthesis: patterns, not guarantees.
Sources (4)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=imprez…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=imprez…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=imprez…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=imprez…
Recalls & safety
Recall history hasn't been loaded for this model year yet.
Whether a recall is still open on a specific car depends on its VIN. Check it free at NHTSA's VIN lookup (nhtsa.gov/recalls), or ask the seller for proof the repair was done.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Composed, low-center-of-gravity handling from the boxer engine layout.
- Practical hatchback with one of the roomier interiors in the compact class.
- Excellent crash-test scores and standard EyeSight safety technology on most trims.
- Standard all-wheel drive and strong wet-weather traction set it apart from front-drive rivals.
Cons
- Fuel economy trails front-wheel-drive compacts.
- Modest acceleration from the 2.0L engine and a droning CVT.
- Road and engine noise intrude more than in quieter competitors.
- Premature headlight failures and spontaneous windshield cracking are common owner complaints on these years.
Trims & original pricing
| Trim | Original base MSRP | New today | Engine | MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | $18,495 | discontinued | — | — |
| Premium | $21,295 | discontinued | — | — |
| Sport | $22,095 | $26,595 | — | — |
| Limited | $24,195 | discontinued | — | — |
Prices are base MSRP for each trim's standard configuration. Options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Sources (2)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/2018-subaru-impreza-price
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/subaru-impreza-price
Depreciation
Move your cursor along the line to see the estimated value for any year.
This listing sits above the typical depreciation curve. Common for heavily-optioned cars and for 2021-2023 model years (pandemic-era pricing); the curve is anchored at base MSRP, which excludes options.
Curve anchored at the entry-trim base MSRP ($18,495). Higher trims started higher (up to $24,195), and options added more.
The curve's data ends 10 years in, so the line levels off after that. Treat the tail as a floor, not a forecast: asking prices for older cars depend mostly on condition, mileage, and the current market, and often sit well above it.
Sources (1)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/subaru-impreza/resale-value
Cost to own
| Repairs (rises with mileage) | ≈ $650–700/yr |
| Insurance (medium tier) | ≈ $1,800–1,900/yr |
| Expected lifespan | ~200k miles |
National-average estimates based on public data. Your costs vary by region, driver, and condition.
Sources (2)
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/subaru/impreza
- moneygeek.comhttps://moneygeek.com/insurance/auto/subaru-impreza-insurance/
Frequently asked questions
What problems does the 2018 Subaru Impreza have?
Documented issue patterns include: Premature low-beam headlight and exterior-lighting failures are the most-reported problem, sometimes leaving drivers without headlights at night until bulbs or units are replaced; Spontaneous windshield cracking from minor impacts or temperature swings is frequently reported; replacement is costly because the EyeSight camera must be recalibrated; Assorted electrical complaints including Starlink infotainment freezes or reboots and battery drain appear across these years. Frequency is based on public NHTSA complaint data: patterns, not guarantees.
Is the 2018 Subaru Impreza reliable?
Practical AWD hatchback let down by frequent headlight failures and windshield cracking reports.
How much did the 2018 Subaru Impreza cost new?
Between $18,495 and $24,195 depending on trim. Those are base MSRPs for each trim's standard configuration; options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Is the Subaru Impreza expensive to maintain?
Estimated repairs run roughly $650–700/year as mileage climbs.
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Estimates are based on public data: patterns, not guarantees. CarVitals is not affiliated with NHTSA, CarMax, AutoTrader, or Cars.com. Issue frequencies come from public NHTSA complaint data, which has no denominator, so they describe reporting patterns, not failure probabilities. Always have a used car inspected before buying. How we build these reports.