2018 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek is a compact SUV known for its standard all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency, and decent off-road capability. Engine options include a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options are either a 6-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners generally appreciate the Crosstrek’s practicality, fuel economy, and Subaru’s reputation for reliability. Common complaints include the engine feeling underpowered, especially when fully loaded or driving uphill, and the infotainment system being somewhat dated.

Engine

2.0L Four-Cylinder Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners reported experiencing excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include the low oil level warning light illuminating, and the engine running roughly.
  • Solution: The potential solutions include replacing the piston rings or the entire short block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT Transmission

• CVT Hesitation/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced hesitation or jerking during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This may feel like the transmission is struggling to find the right gear ratio.
  • Solution: A software update to the TCM (Transmission Control Module) may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, CVT valve body replacement or complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Rear Wheel Bearings
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature wear of the rear wheel bearings, leading to a noticeable humming or grinding noise, especially at higher speeds.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear wheel bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 per wheel.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners reported experiencing battery drain issues, especially if the vehicle sits for a few days without being driven. This can lead to difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Potential solutions include replacing the battery, checking for parasitic draws, or updating the software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for battery replacement, additional cost for diagnostics and parasitic draw repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or crash unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Performing a system reset or software update. In some cases, replacing the head unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for reset/update) - $500+ for head unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the windshields on the 2018 Crosstrek are particularly prone to cracking or chipping easily.
  • Solution: Replacement of the windshield.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported water leaks around the sunroof area, particularly after heavy rain.
  • Solution: Cleaning and/or replacing the sunroof drain tubes or resealing the sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek has some common issues. The most serious issue appears to be excessive oil consumption, which can lead to costly engine repairs. Other issues, such as CVT hesitation, battery drain, and infotainment system problems, are less severe but can still be frustrating. Windshield cracking and sunroof leaks are also common. Overall, while the Crosstrek is generally considered reliable, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider them during the inspection process.