AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2018 Subaru Forester
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $4,000–$8,000
The 2018 Subaru Forester is rated 'average' due to common issues with the visibility/wiper system and moderate airbag and electrical system complaints. Recalls highlight concerns with the fuel pump and airbag sensors. However, no pervasive critical failures exist, maintaining a standard reliability expectation for this model year.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| visibility/wiper | 40,000–60,000 miles | $150–$300 | very common |
| air bag sensor | 50,000–80,000 miles | $300–$600 | common |
| electrical system | 40,000–70,000 miles | $200–$500 | common |
| engine | 80,000–100,000 miles | $500–$1,500 | occasional |
| vehicle speed control | 60,000–90,000 miles | $400–$800 | occasional |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- oil change every 5,000 miles
- tire rotation every 10,000 miles
- brake fluid replacement every 30,000 miles
- coolant flush every 30,000 miles
- replace spark plugs at 60,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- wiper malfunction
- airbag warning lights
- irregular engine performance
- unexpected stalling
- loss of vehicle speed control
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/19/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.