2018 Subaru WRX STI

The 2018 Subaru WRX STI is a performance-oriented sedan known for its turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and sporty handling. It’s equipped exclusively with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine producing 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Owners often praise its engaging driving experience and rally-inspired heritage, but some criticisms include its firm ride, dated interior, and relatively poor fuel economy. Common complaints include engine reliability issues, particularly related to ringland failure, and a notchy transmission.

Engine

2.5L Turbocharged Boxer Engine (EJ257)

• Ringland Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of compression in one or more cylinders, often accompanied by misfires, rough running, excessive oil consumption, and potentially white smoke from the exhaust. Can lead to catastrophic engine failure if not addressed.
  • Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement. Typically requires new pistons, rings, and potentially cylinder head work.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups between oil changes.
  • Solution: Could range from replacing PCV valve, checking for leaks, or requiring an engine rebuild to address worn piston rings or valve seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of boost, whistling noises from the turbo, reduced power, and potentially black smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Knock Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced performance, engine knocking sounds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the knock sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Notchy Shifting/Grinding Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, especially when cold, and grinding noises during shifts.
  • Solution: Some owners have success with aftermarket transmission fluids. More severe cases may require transmission rebuild or replacement of synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Throwout Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squealing or chirping noise when the clutch pedal is depressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the throwout bearing, typically done in conjunction with clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, leaking fluid from struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Strut/shock absorber replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Control Arm Bushing Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the rear suspension, especially over bumps. Can lead to imprecise handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of rear control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Head Unit Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Reset the head unit, software update, or head unit replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight.
  • Solution: Diagnose parasitic draw, replace faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, often near the windshield.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair (dashboard covers).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2018 Subaru WRX STI, while a fun and capable car, suffers from some significant reliability concerns, most notably engine-related issues like ringland failure and oil consumption. These engine problems can be quite expensive to repair. The transmission can also exhibit issues, albeit usually less severe. Suspension and electrical issues are less common but still present. Overall, the STI requires careful maintenance and inspection, and potential buyers should be aware of the potential for costly repairs.