How common are engine problems in the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek?

NHTSA lists 42 engine-related complaints for the 2018 Crosstrek, which is 22% of all 194 complaints filed for that model year.

At what mileage do 2018 Crosstrek engine problems usually occur?

The median mileage at failure for engine complaints is 16,500 miles.

Is there a recall for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek engine?

Yes. Recall 19V744000 covers an aluminum PCV valve that can come apart; Subaru dealers inspect and replace it free of charge.

Do the engine complaints involve crashes?

NHTSA records show 6 crashes associated with the 42 engine complaints for the 2018 Crosstrek, with no reported fires or injuries.

Is the engine problem rate worse in 2018 than other Crosstrek years?

The 22% share for 2018 is higher than most other model years listed, including 2017 at 14% and 2020 at 10%, though 2013 was higher at 46%.

2018 Subaru Crosstrek Engine Problems

Engine problems account for 42 of 194 complaints (22%) filed against the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, with a median failure mileage of 16,500 miles. A related recall (19V744000) covers a PCV valve that can come apart and cause oil leaks or engine issues, though it does not require drivers to stop driving the vehicle.

Engine complaints: 42; 22% of 194
Crashes reported: 6
Fires reported: 0
Injuries reported: 0
Median mileage: 16,500 mi
Related recalls: 1

Typical engine symptoms owners report

Vehicle stalls or loses power intermittently at low speeds, sometimes while turning or in stop-and-go traffic, in some cases leading to a crash.
Owners describe jerky, bucking, or hesitant acceleration and shifting, occurring in both forward and reverse gears with noticeable vibration around 1,700 rpm.
Some vehicles experienced sudden unintended acceleration while parking or pulling into a spot, resulting in collisions with objects or other vehicles.
Owners report abnormally high oil temperature readings, with dealers unable to find a cause despite repeat visits.
A computer malfunction disabled the vehicle while driving in traffic shortly after purchase, requiring repeated dealer visits without resolution.

When 2018 Subaru Crosstrek engine complaints were filed

First complaint Apr 26, 2018, latest Jul 7, 2026.

42 complaints filed with NHTSA from Apr 2018 to Jul 2026; peak Dec 2019 (6).

Engine recalls for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek

NHTSA 19V744000Oct 17, 2019Engine205,000 vehicles
Engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:emission control:crankcase (pcv)
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Impreza and 2018 Crosstrek vehicles equipped with an aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve. The PCV valve may come apart, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, possibly resulting in a loss of power while driving.
Risk: An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the PCV valve, free of charge. If the PCV valve has separated and the components cannot be found, the engine will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began December 2, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUP-01.

Engine complaints by Crosstrek model year

Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.

20122 (100%)
201312 (46%)
20143 (19%)
20156 (35%)
201620 (15%)
201713 (14%)
201842 (22%)
201942 (15%)
20207 (10%)
202119 (17%)
20225 (16%)
20236 (18%)
202411 (9%)
20250 (0%)

Frequently asked questions

How common are engine problems in the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek?: NHTSA lists 42 engine-related complaints for the 2018 Crosstrek, which is 22% of all 194 complaints filed for that model year.
At what mileage do 2018 Crosstrek engine problems usually occur?: The median mileage at failure for engine complaints is 16,500 miles.
Is there a recall for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek engine?: Yes. Recall 19V744000 covers an aluminum PCV valve that can come apart; Subaru dealers inspect and replace it free of charge.
Do the engine complaints involve crashes?: NHTSA records show 6 crashes associated with the 42 engine complaints for the 2018 Crosstrek, with no reported fires or injuries.
Is the engine problem rate worse in 2018 than other Crosstrek years?: The 22% share for 2018 is higher than most other model years listed, including 2017 at 14% and 2020 at 10%, though 2013 was higher at 46%.