2018 Subaru WRX

The 2018 Subaru WRX is a popular sport compact car known for its turbocharged engine, standard all-wheel drive, and engaging driving experience. The 2018 WRX features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Many owners appreciate the WRX’s performance and handling, but some common complaints include a rough ride, interior quality, and potential reliability concerns.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This is a common complaint across many model years of WRX. Symptoms include low oil level warning lights and the need to add oil more often than usual.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels frequently and using a higher viscosity oil can help. A more permanent fix may involve replacing the piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Knock/Detonation
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine knocking or pinging, especially under heavy acceleration, can indicate pre-ignition or detonation. This is often due to poor fuel quality or issues with the engine’s tuning.
  • Solution: Using premium fuel (91 octane or higher) and ensuring the engine is properly tuned can help. In some cases, a professional engine inspection and repair may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Purge Control Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The purge control valve, part of the evaporative emissions system, can fail. This can cause a check engine light and potentially affect engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty purge control valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Grinding During Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, especially into 1st or 2nd, accompanied by a grinding noise. This can be caused by worn synchronizers.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn synchronizers or rebuilding the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Jerky Acceleration/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report jerky acceleration or hesitation, especially at low speeds. This can be due to the CVT’s programming or issues with the transmission’s control system.
  • Solution: A CVT software update from the dealership may help. In more severe cases, the CVT may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $6,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Premature Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete CVT failure requiring replacement.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty CVT Transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Excessive Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling sounds coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. This can be caused by worn struts, bushings, or sway bar end links.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the components needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Head Unit Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or failure to connect to devices.
  • Solution: Updating the head unit’s software or replacing the unit if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,000+ depending on the solution
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially if the car sits for extended periods. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from an electrical component.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Rattle/Wind Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or excessive wind noise coming from the sunroof area, especially at higher speeds.
  • Solution: Adjusting or lubricating the sunroof mechanism. In some cases, replacing the sunroof seal may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Subaru WRX, while a fun and sporty vehicle, has its share of common issues. Engine-related problems like oil consumption and knocking can be costly to address, while transmission issues, particularly with the CVT, can lead to expensive repairs. Electrical glitches and suspension noises are also common complaints. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but potential buyers should be aware of these concerns and carefully inspect any used WRX before purchase.