Are there any problems with the 2018 Subaru Forester?
Yes—a 2018 Subaru Forester is generally reliable, but some owners report issues with the CVT transmission, higher oil consumption in the 2.5L engine, and occasional electrical or infotainment glitches, plus VIN-specific recalls.
Examining the model year, common problems, and safety recalls provides a clearer picture for buyers and owners. The Forester’s strengths include standard all-wheel drive, strong safety scores, and practical space; the caveats are maintenance-intensive parts like the transmission and oil management that require attentive service history.
Common mechanical concerns
The following issues are among the most frequently discussed by owners and reviewers of the 2018 Forester’s core systems.
- Transmission and CVT reliability: Some owners report CVT-related symptoms such as whine, shudder, or hesitation during acceleration, particularly as the vehicle racks up miles.
- Oil consumption in the 2.5L engine: A subset of cars equipped with the 2.5-liter boxer engine show higher-than-average oil use, prompting monitoring and, in some cases, service interventions.
- Electrical and infotainment glitches: Infotainment system freezes, Bluetooth connections drop, or occasional screen responsiveness issues have been noted by a number of owners.
These issues are not universal, and many Foresters of this year perform without notable problems. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to unusual symptoms can mitigate risk.
Recalls and safety campaigns
Recall activity for the 2018 Forester varies by vehicle identification number (VIN) and market. The campaigns cover a range of safety-related components and systems, and owners should verify any open recalls for their specific VIN before driving long distances.
- Airbag inflators and related safety components: Several campaigns target airbag systems and related sensors, depending on production dates and regions.
- Fuel system components: Some vehicles were recalled for concerns related to fuel pumps or lines that could affect starting, operation, or performance.
- Other safety-related components: Additional recalls have addressed various electrical, braking, or structural components as safety updates.
Because recall status is VIN-specific, prospective buyers or current owners should check SaferCar.gov and Subaru’s recall portal with the exact VIN to confirm which campaigns apply and what service is required.
Ownership experiences and reliability signals
Industry reviewers and consumer-pacing sources have generally given the Forester solid reliability marks for a compact SUV, with some variation by model year and trim. The 2018 model sits in a category that many buyers rate as above average for reliability in the small-SUV segment.
- Independent reliability ratings: Consumer and watchdog reviews typically position the Forester around the upper end of its class for long-term dependability, though not without caveats tied to the CVT and oil-maintenance concerns noted above.
- Official safety and consumer-satisfaction data: Subaru’s reputation for standard all-wheel drive and strong safety scores contributes to favorable overall impressions, even as specific model-year quirks are discussed.
As with any used vehicle, outcomes vary by maintenance history, driving conditions, and how quickly owners address issues. VIN-specific recall status and prior service records are critical factors in assessing risk.
How to evaluate a used 2018 Forester
For buyers and current owners, a careful evaluation can help separate well-maintained examples from those likely to need costly fixes soon.
- Obtain a detailed history report and verify all recalls have been completed using the vehicle’s VIN.
- Test-drive with attention to the CVT behavior: listen for unusual noises, check for smooth acceleration, and note any shuddering or slipping.
- Monitor oil levels between changes if the vehicle has the 2.5L engine; abnormal oil consumption warrants dealer inspection.
- Inspect the infotainment system and electronics for glitches, updates, and firmware availability.
- Have a qualified mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection focused on transmission, engine seals, suspension components, and brakes.
Thorough due diligence, including a dealer-backed maintenance history and a pre-purchase inspection, can significantly improve confidence in a used 2018 Forester.
Summary
The 2018 Subaru Forester offers practicality, safety, and standard all-wheel drive, making it a strong choice in its class. However, potential buyers should be aware of common concerns such as CVT-related symptoms, oil consumption in some 2.5L engines, and occasional infotainment glitches, along with VIN-specific recalls. By checking recall status, reviewing maintenance records, and conducting a careful inspection, buyers can make an informed decision and minimize unexpected repair costs.
