2018 Subaru Outback Electrical System Problems
NHTSA lists 270 electrical-system complaints for the 2018 Subaru Outback, 33% of its 811 total complaints, with a median failure mileage of 16,250. A related recall (18V773000) covers a low-fuel warning software error, unrelated to most reported issues.
- Electrical System complaints
- 270
- 33% of 811
- Crashes reported
- 2
- Fires reported
- 3
- Injuries reported
- 0
- Median mileage
- 16,250 mi
- Related recalls
- 1
Typical electrical symptoms owners report
- Driver-side mirrors have smoked or caught fire, in some cases blowing a fuse and cutting power to the mirror, TPMS, remote locks, and interior lights.
- Keyless entry and key fobs stop responding after the hazard flashers are used while the car is locked, requiring the mechanical key and triggering the alarm.
- The infotainment/navigation touchscreen freezes in motion and does not respond to steering wheel or panel controls, sometimes requiring the engine to be shut off to reset.
- Some owners report sudden loss of engine power while driving at highway speed, with power returning after a few seconds.
- One owner reported the rear tailgate opening on its own at highway speed with no activation.
- A steering lock combined with brake failure was reported while backing out of a driveway, resulting in a crash.
When 2018 Subaru Outback electrical complaints were filed
First complaint Oct 31, 2017, latest Jul 15, 2026.
Electrical System recalls for the 2018 Subaru Outback
- NHTSA 18V773000Nov 1, 2018Electrical System228,648 vehicles
Electrical system:software
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.
Risk: 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.
Electrical System complaints by Outback model year
Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.
Frequently asked questions
- How many electrical complaints does NHTSA have for the 2018 Subaru Outback?
- NHTSA lists 270 electrical-system complaints for the 2018 Outback, which is 33% of the 811 total complaints filed for that model year.
- Is there a recall for the 2018 Subaru Outback electrical system?
- Yes. Recall 18V773000 covers a software error where the low fuel warning light and miles-to-empty display may not activate correctly; Subaru dealers reprogram the combination meter software free of charge.
- At what mileage do electrical problems typically show up on the 2018 Outback?
- NHTSA data shows a median mileage at failure of 16,250 miles for electrical-system complaints on this model year.
- Do the electrical complaints involve fires or crashes?
- NHTSA records 3 fire incidents and 2 crashes among the 270 electrical-system complaints for the 2018 Outback, with no reported injuries.