Subaru Outback 2018 problems
The Subaru Outback is an automotive nameplate used by the Japanese automaker Subaru for two different SUV-themed vehicles: a Legacy-derived crossover station wagon, the Outback (1994–present, also sold as Legacy Outback (Japanese: スバル・レガシィアウトバック, Hepburn: Subaru Regashi Autobakku) in some markets), and an Impreza-derived off-road themed hatchback, the Outback Sport (1994–2011).
Most versions of the Outback wagon and Outback Sport have had all-wheel drive as standard equipment.
History
The original Outback station wagon was derived from the wagon variant of the second-generation Subaru Legacy. The first-generation Legacy, which made its debut in 1989, did not receive the cosmetic and suspension modifications to create an Outback version, although Subaru offered an Outdoor option package for the 1994 model year Legacy L all-wheel drive model, which added a compressed air strut height adjustable suspension, a luggage rack, a skidplate, and mud flaps.
Earlier, a raised-roof "Touring Wagon" variant had been offered on the preceding Subaru Leone for the 1988 and 1989 model years. Subaru also sold a raised-roof variant (chassis code BF) of the first-generation Legacy wagon outside the United States. North American Legacy wagons were only offered as the flat-roof variant (chassis code BJ) until a special "GT" model was marketed for the 1994 model year.
The second-generation Legacy wagon became the first generation of the Outback crossover series, called the "Legacy Grand Wagon" in Japan in 1995, and the "Legacy Outback" in most other markets. Compared to the existing Legacy wagon, the "Outback" variant added partial protective plastic side body cladding for off-road conditions, used a raised roof, and would later raise the suspension to provide additional ground clearance. It was introduced at the 1994 New York Auto Show. Aside from other small differences in trim, the Outback shares almost all of its components with the Legacy donor model.
When launched in Australia in 1996, the name "Legacy Outback" was shortened to "Outback", followed in other markets afterwards. In the United States, Subaru also retailed the Legacy SUS sedan between the 1997 and 2007 model years, with similar modifications to distinguish it from the equivalent Legacy model sedan. The Impreza Outback Sport was introduced at the 1996 New York Auto Show, but for the 1997 model year, the donor model names were dropped, and the cars were known as the "Outback" and "Outback Sport".
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Common Subaru Outback 2018 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2018 Subaru Outback, several common problems have been reported:
- Oil Leaks: Owners have reported oil leaking profusely from the left side cam carrier, leading to costly repairs. This issue raises concerns about the frequency of such leaks and the associated repair costs.
- Window Issues: Problems with the automatic front windows have been noted, where the windows may malfunction by going down halfway and then back up. This issue has been linked to faulty seals allowing water entry, requiring expensive repairs.
- Electrical Problems: Complaints include issues with the infotainment system freezing or malfunctioning, requiring resets or software upgrades. Additionally, some owners have experienced dead batteries, potentially due to parasitic drains in the car.
- Windshield Cracks: Several owners have reported unexpected windshield cracks, which could be a design or material issue. This problem has led to costly replacements and raised concerns about the durability of the windshield.
- Suspension and Wheel Issues: Complaints about wobbling front wheels, ripped seats, and other suspension-related problems have been mentioned. These issues impact the driving experience and raise questions about the vehicle's reliability.
- General Reliability Concerns: Overall, there are concerns about the reliability and maintenance costs of the 2018 Subaru Outback, with some owners expressing disappointment in the car's performance and quality compared to their expectations.
These reported problems highlight various issues that owners have faced with the 2018 Subaru Outback, ranging from oil leaks to electrical malfunctions and windshield durability concerns. Addressing these issues promptly and effectively is crucial to ensure customer satisfaction and maintain the reputation of the vehicle in the market.
What is the most common problem with the 2018 Subaru Outback?
Common problems found on the 2018 Subaru Outback include excessive battery drain, windshields which crack easily, as well as some stereo system issues. Overall, the problems are less severe than other SUVs, with lower repair costs as well.
How many miles will a 2018 Subaru Outback last?
between 250,000 and 300,000 miles
How Many Miles will a Subaru Outback Last? The Subaru Outback on average can last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles.
What year was bad for Subaru Outback?
2010 and 2011 Subaru Outbacks Stand Out as the Worst Years Due to High Recall Count, Excessive Oil Consumption, Head Gasket Failures, and Transmission Problems.
Are there any recalls on 2018 Subaru Outbacks?
RECALL ALERT: Learn More. There are 3 recalls on this vehicle.
Are there problems with the 2018 Subaru Outback?
Common problems found on the 2018 Subaru Outback include excessive battery drain, windshields which crack easily, as well as some stereo system issues. Overall, the problems are less severe than other SUVs, with lower repair costs as well.
What is the most common problem with Subaru Outback?
A: Common issues with Subaru Outbacks across various years include vibration during acceleration, problems with the AC system, O2 sensor failures, weak windshields prone to cracking, cooling system failures, headlight burnouts, excessive oil consumption, and unintended acceleration in specific models.
What year was bad for Subaru Outback?
2010 and 2011 Subaru Outbacks Stand Out as the Worst Years Due to High Recall Count, Excessive Oil Consumption, Head Gasket Failures, and Transmission Problems.
What are common Subaru Outback starting problems?
The most common reasons a Subaru Outback won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
Subaru Outback 2018 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Outback problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Visibility problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Outback 2018 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints Subaru Outback 2018
The NHTSA has received 736 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Outback 2018. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Outback 2018 vehicles.
BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 4S4BSANC8J3
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The infotainment screen has delaminated rendering it unusable and will intermittantly interrupt the backup camera while moving. This is the second screen already with this issue in my vehicle
BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-12
- VIN: 4S4BSANCXJ3
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The radio headunit which houses the backup camera freezes. When this happens, the backup camera does not work. Vehicle was brought to a Subaru dealership, and confirmed that radio unit freezes, and diagnostic did not improve system. Radio unit requires re-manufacturing. I have contacted Subaru and they refuse to address the problem. There is also documentation that talks about a recall on the Harmon Kardon unit we have.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-26
- VIN: 4S4BSANC1J3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The head unit on my 2018 Subaru Outback is pressing random buttons all over the screen by itself. It would constantly make the button noise as I drive leading me to lose track of the directions that was being provided from my Apple Maps. It would also disconnect me from CarPlay leaving me with no sense of direction as to where I should be going. I have gotten this fixed before at a Subaru dealership and they ended up replacing the head unit for me, however this is the second time it’s happening and there is obviously a serious problem with the all the units.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
- VIN: 4S4BSATC2J3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DSM drawing too much power from battery when car is parked. DSM drawing 0.151k ohms to 0.017. Have complained to Subaru of Santa Cruz about this 3x. First they said it was the battery under recall and replaced the battery. Second time they thought I was leaving the key fob in the car (The fob is kept with me not in the car ). Third time they said the DSM is pulling too much power from the battery. Subaru has an extended warranty for the DSM for 2016-2018 outbacks but does not include my VIN number. This power draw and dead battery has put me in San Francisco late at night without a functional car. I did not have this independently evaluated before Subaru did a "jump box replacement" for $775.73.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- VIN: 4S4BSENC2J3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The infotainment system screen has delaminated causing the screen to jump between sources, the backup camera to randomly not display . The problem started last month and is worsening
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-09
- VIN: 4S4BSANC4J3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: In past 3 years after not being driven for 3 days the car would not start. We had the battery charged and replaced twice . When I spoke to another Subaru owner I was informed of a lawsuit against Subaru concerning parasitic battery draw by the Starlink system. I contacted Subaru of America and was told there was no recall but I am entitled to extended warranty on the T 16 DCM unit (a fuse for Starlink). They said I would be responsible for any charges to fix the issue. When I called my local Subaru dealer they said I may have to pay for diagnostics even if it was the DCM fuse as the problem. I feel Subaru knew about this problem and should fix it without charge.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
- VIN: 4S4BSANC2J3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The head unit of the stereo/info system is malfunctioning. The screen is delaminating from the face of the LED touchscreen panel, which causes the unit to experience "phantom touches." These cause the screen to constantly change displays, zoom in/out of navigation software, and change audio settings & inputs, and disconnects phone calls or switches them from my speaker to my phone (forcing me to pick up the phone to correct the problem). It has rendered my hands-free interface with the entire vehicle essentially useless, which is a safety concern as now my attention is pulled away from driving to attempt to correct the problem. Additionally, the screen is constantly shifting & changing displays which is quite a visual distraction. This is a known problem & has been reported numerous times to Subaru. I've taken the vehicle to the dealer for them to inspect. Their suggestion was that I replace the unit for a cost of $2,526.16. At this point, it is very difficult to operate the vehicle safely, without near constant distractions from the problem with the unit.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-01
- VIN: 4S4BSACC7J3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The touchscreen is delaminated. The delamination makes the backup camera useless. This is a possible danger to me and anyone behind me- turning to look reputedly behind and at the sides doesn't help when cars are moving parallel to me. The 'media' switches between radio and CD, FM and AM, and switches into HD mode at random. There's no way to turn it off, so the beeping is a distraction while driving. The Subaru dealership is well aware of this issue. A replacement part was ordered in September 2023 but the part is yet to be replaced.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-04
- VIN: 4S4BSATCXJ3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: When I bought my car I had issues with the Head unit the screen would got out and I would have no backup camera or radio.The dealer had the car for Two months before I called Subaru to see if they could get my me unit.It was taken care of.Now the problem has come back the screen freezes, jumps goes dark (I have video) I can’t use the bluetooth to call anyone. I call Subaru of America about this and they say make an appointment with the dealership and we will go there when they know what’s happening…..
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-31
- VIN: 4S4BSACC8J3
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: In heavy traffic, we were rolling slowly along, when all of a sudden the engine began revving on its own, against the brake. I quickly moved the shifter into neutral, and the engine revved wildly without my pressing on the accelerator. We couls have easily slammed into the car in front of us had I not moved the selector to neutral.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-14
- VIN: 4S4BSAFC7J3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The car's display panel which I use to carplay to navigate google map randomly calling people on my contact list and randomly make commends such as play media or search maps as if I touched the panel screen to commend. The incidents happened while I was driving which caused me lost google map and almost lost control of the car since I tried to cancel the phone calls I didn't make. This is safety concern, please require Subaru to fix the panel. thanks
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-11
- VIN: 4S4BSANCXJ3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Ghost touches on the radio making radio inoperable. Prevent rear view camera from activating.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- VIN: 4S4BSANC1J3
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: When traveling on hwy at hwy speeds with cruise control on set for 70 mph and car in front is traveling 60 mph as am I. The road curves the car no longer identifies a car in front of me and accelerates to 70 mph, when the road becomes straight again and I am getting close the system slams on the brakes. When I'm going 70 mph and approach a car going 60 mph the car slows to keep a safe distance. As I change lanes the car begins to accelerate. As I am passing the slower car, if on a curve and the car identifies a car in another lane and slams on the brakes. This has caused road rage from drivers approaching from the rear in the passing lane thinking I'm braking to slow them down for no reason. The Dealership told me to turn my cruise control off on roads nort straight! This has happened since the car was new. This occurred on a recent trip across country on hwy US 40.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- VIN: 4S4BSACC7J3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Touchscreen on radio system is delamination causing the system to cycle through sources, ie: fm, am, sxm, and Bluetooth. This causes distractions while driving. Dealership is aware of issue and stated it was common. No warnings before malfunction. Malfunctions started a few months ago.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-23
- VIN: 4S4BSATC8J3
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Outback. The contact stated upon inspecting the vehicle, he noticed all 4 wheels showed signs of cracks on the rims and spokes. The low-pressure tire warning light had illuminated. In addition, all tires required air frequently. The vehicle was not repaired. The local dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 84,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-19
- VIN: 4S4BSANC6J3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Sterio and Navigation screen has formed bubbles and what appears to be a film under the screen and has also started delaminating. The screen is now rarely usable as it appears to have a mind and hands of its own as it makes its own selections on the screen and no longer allows me to control it. This is very dangerous as the Subaru touch screen offers setting adjustments that are being changed while on the road, without my control. It is my understanding that Subaru will not replace this unless you pay $2k+ out of pocket even though SEVERAL incidents are reported. Unfortunately, I am not in good standing to purchase another car right now so I will have to continue driving this car and praying that whatever settings that car adjusts during that drive won't have a negative impact.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- VIN: 4S4BSANC2J3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: 2018 Subaru Outback headunit is "delaminated" causing phantom touches on the headunit's touch screen. While driving, the headunit will act as if something is pressing random buttons, changing radio stations, opening/closing maps, going through settings panel and changing car settings, ultimately distracting the driver usually at highway speeds. Many other Subaru owners are reporting the same issue on the forums: [XXX] [XXX] Subaru is reporting the fault as "regular wear and tear" and charging customers $1200+ to replace the headunits. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-04
- VIN: 4S4BSETC3J3
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Reported to local Subaru Dealer there was a problem with the Parking Brake. While parked at red light, when I attempted to release the parking brake, it would NOT release, and had great difficulty getting to release and proceed. (This is in Traffic). They tested it and claimed it was ok, no problem. Fast forward, several weeks and I started the car, put it in Drive. Car would not move forward. Subaru sent Tow service. At dealership service manager says some debris had filtered down into the parking brake mechanism. I am Not a mechanic. This is what I had told them weeks earlier, [What I suspected]
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-19
- VIN: 4S4BSANC8J3
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CVT Transmission failed and shut off engine. 2018 Subaru Outback Limited with only 56,500 miles. On 5/19/24 at approximately 11:30PM, my family and I (5 members) were driving northbound on an interstate highway, when all of a sudden, the engine and transmission completely shut off with all warning lights flashing on the dashboard, while travelling at speeds of 65 miles per hour. When pressing on the accelerator, vehicle would not accelerate, rather the vehicle was decelerating. Fortunately, not many vehicles were on the highway at that time and our vehicle had enough momentum to move right towards the shoulder of the highway and came to a complete stop. When engine turned on and shift to D or R, vehicle does not move. Vehicle is at Subaru dealership being inspected and hopefully being repaired under warranty, which was extended by Subaru of America. SUBARU NEED TO FIX THIS, IT IS A DANGEROUS DEFECT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-18
- VIN: 4S4BSAKC3J3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: We have replaced the battery 3 times now in less than a year. The battery keeps dying, which is so bad it is ruining the battery such that it has to be replaced. My pregnant wife and child have been stranded several times. Subaru sent a class action lawsuit notice, but when we went to the dealer they claimed they knew nothing about it. They tested the battery and said nothing was wrong. Doing some digging it seems that numerous others have had this same issue. It is an issue with the alternator and the DCM causing parasitic battery drain. Subaru is doing nothing to fix the issue.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-17
- VIN: 4S4BSETC3J3
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The driver's side daytime running light has failed. This light is an LED designed to last the life of the car and cannot be repaired. Unfortunately, there is no indicator light inside the car to notify the driver of the failure. In hazardous weather conditions, it may appear as though the light is functioning based on the dashboard lights, but it is not. Regrettably, replacing the bulb is not an option and this poses a potential risk to the driver and others during inclement weather or low visibility situations. The dealership has inspected the vehicle and confirmed that it cannot be repaired. To resolve the issue, the entire unit must be replaced, which will cost over $1000. This model has experienced numerous instances of failure with the driver side daytime running lights, indicating a widespread safety concern that the manufacturer has yet to address in this particular year. Previous years have been recalled for the same issue.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-15
- VIN: 4S4BSAFC9J3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: We have experienced 3 cracked windshields within 4 months due to small rock debris kicked-up from passing vehicles. Each crack originated at the edge of the glass; 2 from outside edge passenger side and 1 from center bottom edge passenger side. Driving conditions were different for each incident, as each incident occurred during highway driving during light, medium, and heavy traffic flow. Passenger safety was not compromised. The dates for each incident were 15 February 2024, 28 April 2024, and 21 May 2024.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- VIN: 4S4BSANC4J3
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The cam tower seal on modern Subaru Outbacks fail at an incredibly high rate and the repair cost is typically higher than $3000. Subaru's standard warranty covers the repair up until 60,000 miles but a quick search on user forum's shows that this issues consistently pops up somewhere between 60 and 90 thousand miles.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-03
- VIN: 4S4BSANC0J3
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Outback. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the windshield cracked without impact. The contact took the vehicle to a dealer to have the windshield replaced; however, the failure recurred soon after the replacement. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-14
- VIN: 4S4BSANC3J3
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the Eyesight system had become inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the system was recalibrated. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the infotainment system screen was delaminated, causing the touchpad function to become inoperable. The contact was concerned because the Eyesight system could only be configured through the infotainment screen. Additionally, the contact stated that the infotainment system screen delamination had caused the infotainment system to activate vehicle functions independently. The contact stated that the rearview camera was still operable. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that it was a common failure. The dealer related the failure to an Extended Warranty. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 35,000.
Subaru Outback 2018 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the Subaru Outback 2018.
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
- Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21.
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Legacy, Outback, and BRZ vehicles. In the affected vehicles, a software issue may cause the audio display system to not initialize, resulting in the camera display remaining blank. If this occurs, the rearview image will not display while backing up the vehicle. As a result, the vehicles fail to comply with requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
- Consequence: Failure to display the rearview image while backing up increases the risk of crash.
- Remedy: Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will reprogram the audio system display software, free of charge. The recall began on February 5, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WTZ-85.
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles. Due to a software error, the low fuel warning light may not illuminate at the intended remaining fuel level and the miles-to-empty display may incorrectly indicate a positive number despite the tank being empty.
- Consequence: The inaccurate fuel display may cause a driver to unexpectedly run out of fuel and the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the combination meter software, free of charge. The recall began February 20, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WTW-82.
Negative Subaru Outback 2018 car reviews
Positive Subaru Outback 2018 car reviews
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Wow, it sounds like you're a true Subaru enthusiast! I'm so glad to hear that your 5th Outback and 7th Subaru is the best one yet. It's great to see a company like Subaru really listen to their customers and make improvements based on their feedback. Thank you for sharing your positive experience and recommendation of Subaru and the Outback!
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After researching for several months and test driving several cars, we ultimately decided on the 2018 Subaru Outback. It has a smooth ride, great acceleration for a 4 cylinder, and spacious 2nd row and trunk space. The safety features are impressive, including the rear cross traffic alert system which automatically breaks when reversing if it detects an object. Apple CarPlay works seamlessly, allowing me to send text messages using voice commands. The EyeSight safety system is also noteworthy, as well as the downhill assist and X mode. Overall, the Subaru Outback offers great value for the price.
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This is the best daily driver I've ever owned! It's so comfortable and easy to use, with a great driving position and logical controls. The safety features are all excellent, but what really makes this car stand out is how smooth, refined, and competent it is on the road. It's balanced and nimble, making it fun to drive, and it's smooth and quiet, making it fantastic in bad weather. I've owned previous cars from Mercedes, BMW, Toyota, Jeep, Suburban, etc., but this car is just the best all-around vehicle I've ever had. I love it! There's plenty of room for passengers and cargo, and the fantastic visibility makes it easy to use on a daily basis. With a 6-cylinder engine, I get about 25 mpg on average. I was initially concerned about the CVT, but the one in this car works just great with no droning or buzzing. The engine is very smooth and has a nice growl, and the car is very nimble and tossable for what it is. While my wife's GLC 300 handles a bit tighter, this is the better all-around vehicle in my opinion. Note: Update....after 4 years and 50K miles, I've had no problems with this vehicle.
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It would be really helpful if the blind spot warning could make a noise when the turn signal is on. Additionally, I was hoping that the interior lighting would be a bit better. The low blue light makes it difficult to see anything. Lastly, it would be great if there was a light in the trunk. At night, it can be quite difficult to see anything in there.
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I love my new Subaru Outback, despite the uncomfortable front seat that hits my back where the lumbar is located. Although I have driven 1500 miles and still struggle with this issue, the heavy weight of the back hatch is also a minor inconvenience. Overall, the car is awesome and I am willing to put up with the less-than-ideal gas mileage for the many benefits it provides.
Additional sources
More sources of information about Subaru Outback 2018 problems:
2018 Subaru Outback Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Dec 1, 2022 ... 2018 Subaru Outback Review: Comfortable and Safe Midsize SUV With No Mechanical Problems · The 2018 Subaru Outback lasts around 250,000 miles ...
Considering buying a 2018 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited need ...
Jun 23, 2022 ... ... problems for your Subaru Outbacks and if there was a fix for it? When I search the NHTSA it seems like it is a common complaint for owners ...
Gen 5 - 2018 limited problems | Subaru Outback Forums
Aug 31, 2021 ... Reported issues for the 2023 Subaru Outback include windshield cracking & starlink problems. Is your car a lemon? We can help you. www.google.
2018 model reliability : r/Subaru_Outback
Jun 15, 2022 ... r/Subaru_Outback icon. Go to Subaru_Outback · r ... No problems to speak of, other than the head ... 2018 subaru outback reliability." Looking at ...
2018 Outback tech issues | Subaru Outback Forums
Oct 16, 2017 ... According the field engineer the RAB gets "confused" by the fences, alleys and driveways and goes into the "malfunction" state which disables it ...
Other years of Subaru Outback
Are you having problems with your Subaru Outback 2018?
Sigrid Greenfelder 2024-10-19
Hey there! I wanted to share some news with you. Subaru just extended my CVT transmission warranty to 100000 miles or 10 years, whichever comes first. I also came across an article on Forbes that mentioned some issues with this transmission, specifically stalling. While it's definitely a safety concern, I'm glad that Subaru is taking steps to address it by offering an extended warranty. However, I do think it's important for companies to be transparent about any known safety issues with their vehicles. What are your thoughts on this?
Lonny Hand 2024-10-19
I completely understand where you're coming from. I recently test drove a 2018 Subaru Outback Premium (cloth seats/no sunroof) and a 3.6 Touring (top of the line model), as well as a BMW 3 Wagon. I currently drive a 2011 Volvo XC70 with cloth seats and no sunroof, and my wife drove a Saab 9-2X for several years, so we're quite familiar with Subaru. I was ready to buy or put in an order that day, but unfortunately, the seat comfort was a deal-breaker for me. It's truly awful. My mother uses various cushions to improve her Forester seat comfort, but I don't think that's a good solution. The BMW 3 Wagon is marginally better than the Outback because it has a little more adjustability, but neither compare with Volvo. I don't understand why Volvo and the now-defunct Saab are the only two car manufacturers who make cars with comfortable seats. If Subaru sub-contracted with the company used by Volvo (and/or Saab before them), they would finally have a car worth buying.
Enoch Jacobs 2024-09-28
I recently purchased a new 3.5 R Limited for 38K. While it runs great when in drive, there is an annoying click every time it slows down below 5 mph. Additionally, there is a forward lag and creaking noise when shifting from reverse to drive, especially on a slope. The infotainment system died after about 7 months, but it was replaced after 2-3 weeks and now it's running fine. Although it did freeze a couple of times before the replacement. I took it to the dealer once for the above issues, but they said the walk around and multi-point inspection was normal and everything functioned well, so they couldn't do anything. When the noises got louder, I called again and the dealer wants me to make an appointment for inspection again (with very limited options for appointments). I will probably do that and ask for a new car test drive. If these issues are not present in a new car, then I will call Subaru head office. I don't remember these issues when the car was new. For now, I would suggest staying away. I wish I had bought a Volvo or some other brand.
Grayson Zieme 2024-09-18
We have been leasing a Subaru Outback 2018 and unfortunately, we have experienced some issues with the car. The electronics inside the vehicle have been causing some inconvenience, such as the trunk not opening from the remote control and the abrupt stopping when getting closer to an obstacle. We have reported these issues to the Subaru dealer center and are currently waiting for a response. We understand that these issues can be frustrating, but we would like to assure you that we are doing everything we can to resolve them. Thank you for your understanding.
Jaquan Rath 2024-07-24
I had a 2011 Outback and put 250,000 miles on it without any problems. However, when I bought a 2018 Outback, I experienced some issues. Unfortunately, the gas gauge, both digital and old school, was not accurate, causing me to run out of gas twice. Additionally, the radio would stop working for different periods of time. Despite these issues, Subaru was very helpful and lemon lawed the 2018 Outback, giving me back everything I put into it. I am now driving a new 2018 Outback with five thousand miles on it and have had no trouble. Overall, the process was long, but definitely worth it.