2018 Subaru WRX STI

Introduction

The 2018 Subaru WRX STI is a performance-oriented sports car powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT). Despite its high performance capabilities, the WRX STI has been plagued by several issues that have been reported by owners.

Engine

• 2.5L Engine - Premature Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blown head gaskets causing coolant and oil leaks, overheating, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Engine rebuild or head gasket replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• 2.5L Engine - Piston Ringland Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or broken piston rings resulting in high oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Engine rebuild or piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 6-Speed Manual Transmission - Grinding Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, particularly into 2nd and 3rd gears, accompanied by a grinding noise.
  • Solution: Transmission repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Transmission - Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping during acceleration or upshifts, causing loss of power and erratic shifting.
  • Solution: CVT replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Control Arms - Premature Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive wear on rear control arms, leading to unstable handling, premature tire wear, and potential failure.
  • Solution: Control arm replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery - Premature Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shortened battery life, difficulty starting the vehicle, or electrical system failures.
  • Solution: Battery replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No significant issues found.

Interior

• Central Console Trim - Peeling
  • Description/Symptoms: The trim on the central console peeling or cracking.
  • Solution: Trim replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC System - Malfunctioning
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate control system malfunctioning, not responding to adjustments, or blowing cold air only.
  • Solution: HVAC system repair or component replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2018 Subaru WRX STI offers thrilling performance, it has been marred by several significant issues affecting various components. Engine and transmission problems, in particular, can be costly to repair. Additionally, suspension and electrical issues can compromise the car’s reliability and handling. Interior issues, although less severe, can still be annoying and detract from the overall user experience. Owners should be aware of these potential problems before purchasing or owning this vehicle.