Loading

How reliable is the Subaru Forester 2018?

The Subaru Forester 2018 is a reliable and well-regarded compact SUV that has consistently received positive reviews from both experts and owners. With its standard all-wheel-drive system, spacious interior, and reputation for safety, the Forester has established itself as a dependable choice in the crowded SUV market.


Reputation for Reliability


The Subaru Forester has long been known for its reliability, and the 2018 model is no exception. Subaru as a brand is consistently ranked among the most reliable automotive manufacturers by organizations like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. The Forester specifically has earned a reputation for its durability and longevity, with many owners reporting that their vehicles have lasted well beyond 100,000 miles with proper maintenance.


Safety and Crash Test Ratings


In addition to its reliability, the Subaru Forester is also highly regarded for its safety features and performance in crash tests. The 2018 Forester received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These accolades are a testament to Subaru's commitment to engineering vehicles that prioritize occupant protection.


Owner Satisfaction and Maintenance Costs


Owners of the 2018 Subaru Forester have consistently reported high levels of satisfaction with their vehicles. According to data from J.D. Power, the Forester scored above average in categories such as overall quality, reliability, and owner satisfaction. Additionally, the Forester's maintenance costs are generally considered to be on the lower end of the spectrum for compact SUVs, further contributing to its reputation for reliability and value.


Conclusion


In summary, the Subaru Forester 2018 is a highly reliable and dependable compact SUV that has earned a reputation for its safety, durability, and overall customer satisfaction. With its standard all-wheel-drive system, spacious interior, and strong safety ratings, the Forester is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and capable SUV that can handle a variety of driving conditions and needs.

What should I pay for a 2018 Subaru Forester?


2018 Subaru Forester Pricing

Original MSRPKBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.)
2.5i Limited Sport Utility 4D$30,310$15,845
2.0XT Premium Sport Utility 4D$30,410$13,973
2.5i Touring Sport Utility 4D$34,005$17,363
2.0XT Touring Sport Utility 4D$37,005$17,661



Where does the Subaru Forester rank in reliability?


The 2025 Subaru Forester has a predicted reliability score of 84 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.



How many miles can you get out of a 2018 Subaru Forester?


Forester models are known for their long-lasting performance, with many drivers achieving 200,000 miles with minimal issues. Impreza: The Subaru Impreza is a compact car available in both sedan and hatchback body styles.



Why does Subaru have a bad reputation?


Issues such as engine problems, failing oxygen sensors, Takata airbag recalls, transmission concerns, and rodent-attractive wiring can affect various Subaru models.



How long should a 2018 Subaru Forester last?


A well-maintained 2018 Subaru Forester can last around 250,000 miles, which is about 50,000 miles less than the long-lasting Toyota RAV4.



What are the weaknesses of a Subaru Forester?


A list of some of the most common issues Forester owners have to deal with.

  • CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery.
  • Unintended Acceleration.
  • Brake Light Switch Defect.
  • Cracked Windshields.
  • Lineartronic CVT Reliability.
  • Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires.
  • Subaru EyeSight Problems.
  • Subaru Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags.



Do subarus last as long as Toyotas?


And, Toyota was awarded the most reliable brand at the 2021 Auto Trader New Car Awards. Also, Toyota's can last well past 300,000 miles (think of the million-mile Tundra), while Subaru typically lasts around 200,000 miles.



Why are Subaru Foresters not selling?


Here is the reason why. Forester buyers are older than all car buyers' median age. The average age of a Forester buyer today is 62 versus 60 for the auto industry. The Crosstrek appeals to a younger demographic; however, many older buyers are purchasing the Crosstrek.



Is Forester expensive to maintain?


A Subaru Forester is third on the list and will cost about $8,337 for maintenance and repairs during its first ten years of service. This is more than the industry average for popular SUV models by $87. There is also a 23.97% chance that a Forester will require a major repair during that time.



What is the most common problem with the 2018 Subaru Forester?


The 2014-2018 Subaru Foresters' common problems include failure-prone transmission, burning oil, rear spring failure and short-lived wheel bearings. Most of these problems are worse for earlier model years - 2014s in particular.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.