2018 Subaru Impreza

Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data

Engine
2L I4 Turbo
Oil Type & Capacity
0W-20 Full Synthetic (4.4 qts)
Transmission
Automatic (AV-S8)
Wheel Torque
89
ft-lbs

The 2018 Subaru Impreza maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Subaru Impreza.

For oil changes, the 2018 Subaru Impreza takes 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 4.4 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 3, the recommended coolant is Super Long Life Coolant (Blue), and transmission fluid is Subaru ATF. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.

When mounting wheels on the Subaru Impreza, torque the lug nuts to 89 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.

Owners of the 2018 Subaru Impreza have reported 5 common issues including "Windshield Spontaneous Cracking", "Windshield Bonding Defect from Incorrect Clearcoat" and "AC Compressor Engaging While Car Is Off". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.

Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.

The 2018 Subaru Impreza uses 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil (4.4 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 89 ft-lbs, takes DOT 3 brake fluid.

2018 Subaru Impreza Specifications
Motor Oil0W-20 Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity4.4 qt
Lug Nut Torque89 ft-lbs
Brake FluidDOT 3
CoolantSuper Long Life Coolant (Blue)
Transmission FluidSubaru ATF
Transmission Fluid
Fluid Type
Subaru ATF
Shop
Coolant
Fluid Type
Super Long Life Coolant (Blue)
Shop
Brake Fluid
Fluid Type
DOT 3
Shop
Washer Fluid
Windshield
Shop

Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2018 Subaru Impreza. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.

Service Item
Interval
Engine Oil & Filter
6,000 mi / 6 mo
0W-20 synthetic, 5.1 qt (2.0L boxer)
Tire Rotation
6,000 mi / 6 mo
Rotate every 6,000 mi; AWD requires matching tread depth
Cabin Air Filter
15,000 mi / 18 mo
Replace more often in dusty conditions
Engine Air Filter
30,000 mi / 36 mo
Inspect at 15,000 mi
Brake Fluid
30,000 mi / 30 mo
DOT 3 or 4
Transmission Fluid
60,000 mi
Lineartronic CVT or 5-speed manual; Subaru CVT or gear oil
Differential Fluid
30,000 mi
Front and rear differentials; 75W-90 gear oil
Coolant
110,000 mi
Subaru Super Coolant; then every 60,000 mi
Spark Plugs
60,000 mi
Replace at 60,000 mi
Serpentine Belt
75,000 mi
Inspect at 60,000 mi
Battery
60 mo
Inspect annually
DTC Code Lookup

Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2018 Subaru Impreza.

Common problems reported by 2018 Subaru Impreza owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.

1

Windshield Spontaneous Cracking

Windshields crack spontaneously without any impact event, even while the vehicle is parked in a garage or warming up. The cracks typically start from the edges and spread rapidly. This is the most commonly reported NHTSA complaint for the 2022 Impreza.

Solution

Full windshield replacement is required. Subaru may cover the cost under goodwill if it occurs within the warranty period. EyeSight-equipped models require camera recalibration after replacement at additional cost.

Est. Cost: $400 - $1,100 (includes EyeSight recalibration if equipped)
2

Windshield Bonding Defect from Incorrect Clearcoat

Incorrect paint clearcoat applied to the windshield bonding area may cause the windshield to be insufficiently bonded. This recall affects certain 2022 Impreza and Outback vehicles and creates a risk of windshield detachment in a crash.

Solution

Subaru issued a recall to inspect and re-bond or replace the windshield free of charge per FMVSS 212. Contact your dealer to check if your VIN is affected.

Est. Cost: $0 (recall)
3

AC Compressor Engaging While Car Is Off

The AC compressor engages involuntarily even with the car turned off, draining the 12V battery and leaving owners stranded. In severe cases, the compressor seizes, damaging the serpentine belt and releasing refrigerant.

Solution

Diagnosis and replacement of the AC compressor clutch relay or the compressor itself. A software update to the climate control module may prevent the unwanted engagement. Battery replacement if damaged from repeated draining.

Est. Cost: $200 - $1,200
4

EyeSight Lane Keeping Unexpected Activation

The lane keeping assistance activates unexpectedly, followed by EyeSight driver assist warnings and engine check messages. The system causes the vehicle to decelerate rapidly and may bring the car to a stop on the highway.

Solution

EyeSight camera recalibration and system software update at the dealer. Ensure the windshield is clean and undamaged in the camera field of view. A camera module replacement may be needed if recalibration fails.

Est. Cost: $0 - $500
5

Steering Wander and Oversensitivity

The vehicle wanders on straight roads and has difficulty maintaining lane position. The steering feels overly sensitive to small inputs, making highway driving tiring. Dealers have acknowledged the vehicle 'wanders' during test drives.

Solution

Alignment check and adjustment to updated specifications. Tire replacement with a brand less sensitive to road crown. In some cases, the electric power steering module requires recalibration or replacement.

Est. Cost: $100 - $500

Have the VIN?

Decode your VIN for even more detailed specs including trim-level data.

Decode a VIN
Impreza — Other Model Years
2026202520242023202220212020201920172016
See Also
2018 Subaru Impreza Lug Nut TorqueBest Oil for 2018 Subaru ImprezaAll Vehicles Using 0W-20 Full Synthetic OilAll Vehicles Using DOT 3Oil Change Guide: 2018 Subaru ImprezaWiper Replacement: 2018 Subaru Impreza