2018 Subaru Crosstrek engine problems
32 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek — 16% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“On 06/26/26, while traveling at highway speeds, the vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic loss of motive power in active traffic due to a blown out/melted Cylinder 4 ignition coil. This unexpected engine failure forced raw fuel into the exhaust system, causing an immediate internal thermal…”
filed Jul 7, 2026
“Dangerous stall in traffic due to ignition coil failure. Ignition coils and spark plugs were replaced during the WRE21 recall campaign only 13k miles ago back in 2021. Stopped at red light awaiting to turn left when the vehicle started shaking violently. No check engine light came on though. When…”
filed Mar 11, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related recalls
- PCV valve may come apart, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, possibly…Campaign 19V744000 · Oct 17, 2019
Related service bulletins
This bulletin provides updated parts information and a service procedure to follow for removing accumulated carbon deposits from fuel injectors and internal engine components (e.g. intake valves and / or manifold, and…
02-193-24R · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Jun 30, 2026This bulletin provides updated parts information and a service procedure to follow for removing accumulated carbon deposits from fuel injectors and internal engine components (e.g. intake valves and / or manifold, and…
02-193-24R · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued May 13, 2026
Engine problems in other Crosstrek years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Crosstrek | 4 | 4% |
| 2023 Crosstrek | 5 | 16% |
| 2022 Crosstrek | 3 | 10% |
| 2021 Crosstrek | 16 | 14% |
| 2020 Crosstrek | 5 | 7% |
| 2019 Crosstrek | 34 | 12% |
| 2017 Crosstrek | 10 | 11% |
| 2016 Crosstrek | 13 | 10% |
| 2013 Crosstrek | 11 | 44% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.