Are there any recalls on 2018 Subaru Outbacks?

Yes. Some 2018 Subaru Outbacks have been subject to recalls, but whether your specific vehicle is affected depends on its VIN (vehicle identification number) and the particular campaign. Always verify with official sources before taking action.

This article explains how to check recall status for the 2018 Outback and outlines the common recall themes that have appeared in notices for this model, so you can determine if you need to contact a dealer for service.

How to check if your 2018 Outback is affected

Follow these steps to confirm whether your vehicle is included in any open recalls and to know what remediation is required.

1. Locate your VIN. It’s typically found on the lower left side of the dashboard near the windshield, on the driver’s door jamb, or on your vehicle registration and insurance documents.


2. Visit the official recall databases:


3. Enter your VIN in the search tool to check for open recalls specific to your vehicle.


4. If any recalls appear, review the remedy details and estimated timeline provided by the manufacturer or dealer.


5. Contact a Subaru dealer to schedule the free remedy if your VIN is listed or if you’re unsure.

If you don’t see any recalls for your VIN but notice a potential issue, monitor official notices and contact your dealer for guidance. It’s best to act promptly if a recall is indicated, as remedies are typically provided at no cost to the vehicle owner.

Notable recall categories that have affected 2018 Outback models

The following categories have appeared in recall notices for Outbacks in recent years. Not every vehicle is affected, so VIN verification is essential.

• Fuel system concerns, including potential leaks or vulnerabilities that could pose a fire risk.


• Airbag and supplemental restraint system components, including inflator modules and related sensors.


• Electrical and wiring concerns that could affect systems such as engine management or safety features.


• Safety-related components like seat belts or pretensioners that may not perform as intended in a crash.

Owners should treat any open recall as a priority remedy: contact a dealer, schedule service, and ensure the recall is completed to restore optimal safety and reliability.

Where to check for official information

To confirm current recall status for a 2018 Subaru Outback, use authoritative sources and enter your VIN for a precise match:

NHTSA SaferCar.gov recalls database — search by VIN to see open or completed recalls and remedy details.

Subaru official recalls page — access model-specific recall notices and dealer instructions.

Summary

In short, there are recalls that have involved some 2018 Subaru Outbacks. The critical step is to check your VIN against official recall databases and to contact a Subaru dealer for any remedies if an open recall is found. Because recall status can change and vary by VIN, owners should stay informed through official channels and schedule repairs at no cost when required.

What is the class action lawsuit for the 2018 Subaru Outback head unit?

$6.25M Settlement Reached in Subaru Starlink Lawsuit. The class-action lawsuit that claimed Subaru's Starlink infotainment systems are defective has reached a final settlement. The agreement affects the 2018 Subaru Forester, 2018 Subaru Outback, 2018 Crosstrek, 2018 Legacy, 2017-2018 Impreza, and 2018 BRZ.

What are the recalls on the Subaru Outbacks?

Recent Subaru Outback recalls include a 2020-2022 model year recall for potentially faulty passenger airbag sensors that could prevent the airbag from deploying. Other recalls involve issues such as potential driveshaft separation on 2023 models, backup camera malfunctions on 2021-2023 models, and a 2022 recall for windshield mounting. Subaru will repair the affected vehicles at no cost to the owner, and owners should receive an official notification by mail.
 
2020-2022 Outback

• Reason: Faulty occupant detection system (ODS) sensors that could prevent the front passenger airbag from deploying in a crash. 
• Action: A technician will replace the sensors at no cost. 
• Affected Models: 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy models. 

2023 Outback

• Reason: Potential front driveshaft separation and reverse light/backup camera malfunctions.
• Action: Dealers will replace the affected components.
• Affected Models: 2023 Outback and Legacy models. 

2022 Outback

• Reason: Potential failure to conform to windshield mounting standards, which could affect the windshield's integrity in a crash.
• Action: Subaru is conducting a safety recall for this issue.
• Affected Models: 2022 Outback and Impreza models. 

2021 Outback

• Reason: A faulty cable nut on the CVT select lever may not have been tightened properly, potentially allowing it to loosen. 
• Action: Affected vehicles will be repaired by a dealer. 
• Affected Models: 2021 Outback and Impreza vehicles. 

Other recalls

• 2020 models: A recall was issued for a loose or missing brake pedal bolt that could affect brake performance. 
• 2020 models: A software failure could cause the rearview camera to shut down. 
• 2021-2023 models: A recall was issued for backup camera malfunctions. 

How to check for recalls

• You can check the official National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for recalls by entering your vehicle's VIN. 
• You can also visit the Subaru website and enter your vehicle's VIN to check for recalls. 

Is there a recall on the 2018 Subaru Outback?

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling 2018 model year Legacy, Outback, and BRZ vehicles equipped with a certain combination of head unit hardware and software, due to the possibility of noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 111 – “Rear Visibility.”

What is a common problem with a Subaru Outback?

Common problems for the Subaru Outback include weak windshields, excessive oil consumption, and issues with the cooling system and CVT transmission, especially in specific model years. Other frequent complaints involve airbag defects, electrical problems like battery drain, and vibration during acceleration.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the history of Subaru head gasket issues: 1mMrSubaru1387YouTube · Aug 11, 2024
Engine and powertrain 

• Excessive oil consumption: Many models, particularly older 2.5L engines, may burn oil between oil changes due to leaks from seals. 
• Cooling system failures: Overheating can lead to blown head gaskets, and the cooling system itself is a common point of failure. 
• CVT transmission problems: Some model years are more susceptible to issues like rough shifting or failure. 
• Vibration during acceleration: Some owners report a shudder or vibration when accelerating. 
• Older head gasket issues: The EJ-series engines (roughly 1997–2012) had an inherent head gasket failure problem, though this was mostly resolved in later models. 

Body and electrical

• Weak windshields: The glass is prone to cracking from stress or minor impacts. 
• Airbag defects: Some models have a history of airbag problems, leading to recalls. 
• Electrical issues: Problems can include unexpected battery drain and issues with the ABS control module. 

Other common issues

• Oxygen sensor failure: The front O2 sensor can fail, sometimes leading to a recall. 
• Premature brake wear: Some models experience faster-than-average brake wear. 
• Suspension wear and tear: Like many vehicles, suspension components will eventually wear out.