Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2018 Subaru Impreza
The 2018 Subaru Impreza generally holds up well, but watch for fuel pump, ECM, and exhaust system issues due to significant recalls and complaints about exterior lighting, electrical systems, and engine components.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2018 Subaru Impreza has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 152 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #22V624000 Damaged Lamp Reflectors/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V587000 Fuel Pump May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V264000 ECM Software May Cause Stall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V743000 ECM Software May Cause Stall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V744000 PCV Valve May Separate NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Exterior Lighting 64 complaints
- Visibility/Wiper 34 complaints
- Unknown or Other 25 complaints
- Electrical System 12 complaints
- Engine 11 complaints
- Structure 6 complaints
Of the 152 complaints on file, 5 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 152 complaints, owners report 2 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
PCV valve may break
How to check: Inspect the PCV valve for any visible cracks or separations.
ECM may short circuit
How to check: Check for any warnings or electrical malfunctions on dashboard.
Fuel pump failure risk
How to check: Test fuel system performance; listen for sputtering.
Headlight reflector inadequate
How to check: Inspect headlight reflectors for proper reflection.
ECM software issues
How to check: Ensure all electrical components function correctly.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or sputtering.
Red flag: Persistent knocking or sputtering sound
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check dashboard for warning lights.
Red flag: Any persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Observe if acceleration is smooth and consistent.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerkiness during acceleration
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure engine power is adequate without stalling.
Red flag: Engine stalls or lacks power
- 05
Braking test
What to check: Feel for smooth and effective braking response.
Red flag: Brakes feel spongy or ineffective
- 06
Parking maneuver
What to check: Check for steering response and ease of maneuvering.
Red flag: Steering feels stiff or unresponsive
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the fuel pump been replaced?
- Were there any ECM software updates done?
- Is the PCV valve inspected or replaced?
- Have there been any headlight issues?
- Any past electrical system repairs?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recent repair receipts
- Recall completion records
- Vehicle history report
- Previous owner information
- Maintenance records
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2018 Subaru Impreza at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2018 Subaru Impreza? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.