2018 Subaru Outback Premium+ES+M/R+NAVI
VIN: 4S4BSAHC3J3228237 | 2018 | Subaru of America, Inc. | LAFAYETTE, INDIANA, UNITED STATES (USA)
2018 Subaru Outback Premium+ES+M/R+NAVI — 2.5L 4 Cyl, 4x4, Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV].
C
63/100
Safety & Recall Score: Fair
This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →
Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.
⚠ 3 recall campaigns
⚠ 816 owner complaints (high)
✓ VIN fully verified
VIN Decoded
VIN Verified- Official VIN decode record located
- Type: MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
- Body: Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
- Plant: LAFAYETTE, INDIANA, UNITED STATES (USA)
NHTSA Recalls
3 Recall Campaigns- Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018...
- Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018...
- Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020...
Owner Complaints
816 filed with NHTSA- Was notified by the dealer upon completion of an...
- The multimedia device/infotainment system (Harman-Kardon) which controls the radio,...
Fuel Economy
28 MPG Combined- City: 25 MPG
- Hwy: 32 MPG
- Combined: 28 MPG
- Fuel: Gasoline
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
4S4BSAHC3J3228237
Model Year
2018
Make
Subaru
Model
Outback
Trim
Premium+ES+M/R+NAVI
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Doors
4
Seats
Not reported by manufacturer
Seat Rows
Not reported by manufacturer
Drive Type
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Engine
2.5L 4 Cyl
Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
Plant Location
LAFAYETTE, INDIANA, UNITED STATES (USA)
Country of Origin
UNITED STATES (USA)
VIN Breakdown
Position 1 — WMI Region
4 → United States
Position 2 — Manufacturer
S → Subaru of America, Inc.
Position 3 — Vehicle Type
4 → MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor
BSAHC → Outback Premium+ES+M/R+NAVI
Position 9 — Check Digit
3 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
J → 2018
Position 11 — Plant Code
3 → LAFAYETTE, INDIANA, UNITED STATES (USA)
Positions 12–17 — Serial
228237 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Engine Model
U5
Cylinders
4 Cyl
Displacement
2.5 L
Displacement CC
2500.0
Displacement CI
152.55936023683
Horsepower
175 hp
Transmission Style
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drive Type
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel Type Primary
Gasoline
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Combined MPG
28 MPG
City MPG
25 MPG
Hwy MPG
32 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,300
5-Yr Fuel Cost
$11,500
GHG Score
6/10
CO₂ Emissions
320 g/mi
Barrels/Year
10.63
Safety & Driver Assistance
ABS
Not reported in manufacturer data
ESC
Not reported in manufacturer data
Traction Control
Not reported in manufacturer data
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Forward Collision Warn
Not reported in manufacturer data
Lane Departure Warning
Not reported in manufacturer data
Lane Keep System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Blind Spot Monitoring
Not reported in manufacturer data
Blind Spot Intervention
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Not reported in manufacturer data
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not reported in manufacturer data
Parking Assist
Not reported in manufacturer data
Dynamic Brake Support
Not reported in manufacturer data
Pedestrian AEB
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Auto Braking
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto Reverse System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Daytime Running Lights
Not reported in manufacturer data
Adaptive Driving Beam
Not reported in manufacturer data
Keyless Ignition
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto High Beams
Not reported in manufacturer data
Front Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Side Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Curtain Airbags
1st and 2nd Rows
Knee Airbags
Not reported in manufacturer data
Seat Belt Type
Manual
Pretensioner
Not reported in manufacturer data
Brake System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Steering Location
Not reported in manufacturer data
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Doors
4
Towing & Utility
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Drive Type
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Wheels & Tires
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Manufacturing & Identity
Manufacturer
Subaru of America, Inc.
Manufacturer ID
2593
Make ID
523
Model ID
2233
Plant Company
SIA
Plant City
LAFAYETTE
Plant State
INDIANA
Plant Country
UNITED STATES (USA)
Vehicle Descriptor
4S4BSAHC*J3
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
3
Recall Status
Recall campaigns found
Recall Campaigns
3 recall campaigns identified
VIN repair status unknown — verify open recalls with NHTSA or a Subaru dealer.
✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist
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Get a Vehicle History ReportUnlock accident history, title status & odometer records with VIN Pro Plus for $4.99 — scroll down to get it.
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Verify All Recalls Are FixedVisit the Subaru dealer with this VIN to confirm all 3 recalls are resolved.
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NICB Stolen Vehicle CheckFree check at nicb.org to confirm no theft, salvage, or total-loss history.
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Negotiate Using This ReportUse the 3 recall campaigns as leverage for a lower price.
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Review Title & Lien StatusEnsure no outstanding liens before transfer. Your state DMV can verify title.
Estimated Market Value
Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions
Market estimate
$9,400–$13,500
Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
💡 This is a general estimate, not real data for this specific vehicle. Get the real, transaction-based Verified Market Value with VIN Pro Plus — $4.99 →
📚 Helpful Vehicle Resources
Safety Ratings
Overall Rating
5 Stars
Front Crash Rating
5 Stars
Side Crash Rating
5 Stars
Rollover Risk
4 Stars
Safety Recalls
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Legacy, Outback, and BRZ vehicles. In the affected vehicles, a software issue may cause the audio display system to not initialize, resulting in the camera display remaining blank. If this occurs,...
Risk: Failure to display the rearview image while backing up increases the risk of crash.
Remedy: Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will reprogram the audio system display software, free of charge. The recall began on February 5, 2019. Owners...
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...
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...
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...
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Risk: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call...
Service bulletins and open investigations aren't part of this report. You can search them for free on NHTSA's site.
Finance & Cost Estimates
🔧 Service & Parts for this 2018 Subaru Outback
$1,350/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$6,750
Maintenance (5yr)
$7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA)
$11,500
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$6,075
⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator
🏢 Find Subaru Dealers
Get this VIN's recalls resolved, service appointments, and CPO program details from an authorized Subaru dealer.
Find Subaru Dealers →NICB VINCheck is a free federal database. Run a check to confirm this VIN has no theft, salvage, or insurance total-loss history.
Run Free NICB Check for 4S4BSAHC3J3228237 →State Emissions & Lemon Law
Emissions Testing & Lemon Law by State
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OBD-II Check Engine Code Lookup
🔧 Check Engine Light Code Lookup
Enter a code from your OBD-II scanner, pick from the dropdown, or tap a common code chip below.
Common:
Owner Complaints
Was notified by the dealer upon completion of an...
Was notified by the dealer upon completion of an oil change, on May 20, 2026, that the driver side front daytime LED running light was not functioning. The...
The multimedia device/infotainment system (Harman-Kardon) which controls the radio,...
The multimedia device/infotainment system (Harman-Kardon) which controls the radio, navigation maps, back-up camera, etc, is again showing issues with the screen, "delamination," which causes the radio channels to...
SUMMARY OF SAFETY DEFECT: The vehicle exhibits severe, premature...
SUMMARY OF SAFETY DEFECT: The vehicle exhibits severe, premature corrosion and rust perforation of the front subframe (crossmember) assembly. This structural component is deteriorating at an accelerated rate,...
The touchscreen has delamination and ghost touching of the...
The touchscreen has delamination and ghost touching of the apps. I spoke with my dealer and was first told it was covered by Subaru to replace, as it...
The 8-inch Gen 3 Harman STARLINK touchscreen is delaminating/bubbling....
The 8-inch Gen 3 Harman STARLINK touchscreen is delaminating/bubbling. It registers phantom touch inputs and becomes unresponsive on its own while the vehicle is in motion, changing audio,...
Infotainment unit in my 2018 Subaru Outback has had...
Infotainment unit in my 2018 Subaru Outback has had a recurring freeze/black-screen defect since new, and it directly affects the backup camera display and interaction with EyeSight safety...
The car started to make very loud engine noises...
The car started to make very loud engine noises and then the engine completely failed. The car was no longer able to accelerate and lost the ability to...
I was driving on the highway going 70 MPH...
I was driving on the highway going 70 MPH when the hood latch suddenly came unlatched. The hood flew up and smashed into the windshield, blocking my view....
Showing 8 of 816 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Maintenance Schedule
Current
Oil & Filter Change
Every 5,000 mi
Subaru recommended interval
Due Now
Air Filter (Engine)
Every 15,000–30,000 mi
Dirty filter reduces fuel economy by up to 10%
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000–25,000 mi
Affects AC, heat, and air quality
Due Soon
Tire Rotation
Every 5,000–7,500 mi
Extends tire life by 25–40%
Due Soon
Brake Inspection
Every 12 months or 15,000 mi
Brake pads typically last 30,000–70,000 mi depending on driving
Due Now
Spark Plugs
Every 30,000–100,000 mi
Copper plugs every 30k; iridium/platinum every 60–100k
Due Now
Coolant Flush
Every 30,000 mi or 5 years
Old coolant becomes acidic and damages the cooling system
Due Now
Transmission Fluid
Every 30,000–60,000 mi
Neglected fluid leads to expensive transmission repairs
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point
Due Now
Battery Test
Every 3–5 years
12V batteries typically last 3–5 years
Due Now
Drive Belt Inspection
Every 60,000–100,000 mi
Serpentine belt failure leaves you stranded
Due Now
Timing Belt/Chain Service
Every 60,000–105,000 mi (belt) or per manufacturer schedule (chain)
CRITICAL if belt-equipped — timing belt failure destroys engine. Confirm whether this engine uses a belt or chain (chains typically don't require scheduled replacement) before assuming this interval applies.
This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Additional Tools & Information
Estimated depreciation for this 2018 SUBARU Outback based on vehicle class and age. These are projections from today’s general estimate, not past sale prices. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
Now
$11,500
+1 yr
$10,100
-12%
+2 yr
$9,000
-22%
+3 yr
$7,800
-32%
Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.
Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.
Insurance
$1,350/yr
20%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
23%
Fuel/Energy
$2,300/yr
35%
Depreciation
$1,215/yr
18%
Registration
$250/yr
4%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$6,615/yr
National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.
8.2
/ 10
Rank #5 overall
26 issues / 100 vehicles
Subaru Reliability
Subaru reliability varies by model. Recent models score well; older FB-series boxer engines had known head gasket concerns.
General editorial reference for this manufacturer, not a live or VIN-specific measurement — see the sources below for detailed, current data.
Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.
Dec 31, 2018
Jan 11, 2018
Jul 29, 2021
Vehicles in a similar class to the 2018 SUBARU Outback:
This vehicle is older, so current-market prices for these alternatives wouldn't be a fair comparison — research period-correct pricing for each instead.
Private Party
$8,300–$12,400
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$9,900–$14,900
Some warranty · Financing available
CPO / Certified
$10,200–$15,500
Manufacturer-backed limited warranty · Inspected · Best protection
Negotiation tip:
This vehicle model has 3 recall campaigns on file. Use this as leverage — ask the seller to confirm this specific VIN's recalls are resolved, or reduce the price accordingly. Unresolved recalls cost dealers time and money to fix.
Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.
✓
Check digit (position 9) validates
✓
VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓
No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓
Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓
Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓
Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
33 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Rear Tires
33 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI (typical)
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires
Recommended rotation interval: every 5,000–7,500 miles. Rotate with every other oil change for best results.
❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Service AWD/4WD differential and transfer case fluids
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ Inspect fuel lines and check for water in fuel system
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Check transmission fluid color and level
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Subaru Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
3yr/36k
Has likely ended
Powertrain
5yr/60k
Has likely ended
Corrosion / Rust
5yr/unlimited
Has likely ended
Estimated from the model year only. Factory coverage runs from the vehicle's original sale date, which this report can't confirm, and mileage limits can end coverage sooner. Verify remaining coverage with a Subaru dealer using the VIN.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
CARCHEX
Get Quote →
A+ BBB-rated. 6 plan tiers, up to 500k miles.
Endurance
Get Quote →
Direct-pay at any ASE-certified mechanic.
AUTOPOM!
Get Quote →
Month-to-month plans, high-mileage coverage.
Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 2018 SUBARU Outback.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 2018 SUBARU Outback:
📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
🚗 Professional detail
A full detail ($150–$300) typically returns $500–$1,500 in perceived value, especially on dark-colored vehicles.
📷 Photograph in good light
Listings with 20+ high-quality daylight photos get 3x more inquiries than listings with poor photos.
🗂 Vehicle history report link
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🔍 Price using real comps
Search AutoTrader and CarGurus for same year/make/model/trim within 100 miles. Price within 5% of the median.
⚠ Check recall status first
This vehicle model has 3 recall campaigns on file. Confirming this specific VIN's recalls are resolved before listing typically increases sale price by more than the time spent.
No model-specific issue notes in our database for this year. The 816 NHTSA complaints filed provide the best available signal — review them in the Owner Complaints section above.
NHTSA offers free recall alerts by VIN. Sign up to be notified the moment a new recall is issued for this vehicle.
🔔 NHTSA SaferCar Alerts
Official government recall notifications. Free, direct from NHTSA. Covers safety recalls, investigations, and bulletins.
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VIN 4S4BSAHC3J3228237:
3 recall campaigns currently on file. Sign up to track when they are resolved.
Get competing insurance quotes for this exact vehicle. Rates vary by 30–60% between carriers for the same driver profile — comparing saves real money.
Estimated national average for this vehicle: $1,350/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN 4S4BSAHC3J3228237 decode to?
VIN 4S4BSAHC3J3228237 decodes to a 2018 SUBARU Outback Premium+ES+M/R+NAVI, assembled in LAFAYETTE, INDIANA, UNITED STATES (USA).
How many recalls does this 2018 SUBARU Outback have?
NHTSA shows 3 recall campaigns associated with the 2018 SUBARU Outback. This reflects campaigns issued for this model/year — it does not confirm whether this specific VIN's repairs have already been completed. Contact a SUBARU dealer with this VIN to check.
Is it safe to buy a 2018 SUBARU Outback with recall campaigns on file?
A recall campaign doesn't necessarily mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive, but any unresolved recall should be addressed promptly. Contact a SUBARU dealer with this VIN to confirm which specific recalls apply and whether they've already been completed — repairs are always free of charge.
What is the estimated value of this 2018 SUBARU Outback?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 2018 SUBARU Outback Premium+ES+M/R+NAVI is estimated at $9,400–$13,500. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free?
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 2018 SUBARU Outback get?
According to EPA data, the 2018 SUBARU Outback gets approximately 28 MPG combined (25 city / 32 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $2,300.
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