Subaru Crosstrek problems
The Subaru Crosstrek (Japanese: スバル・クロストレック, Hepburn: Subaru Kurosutorekku) (also known as the Subaru XV globally for the first two generations) is a compact crossover SUV produced by Subaru since 2012. It is a successor to the Outback Sport in the United States and Canada, and the Impreza XV globally. Like the Outback Sport, the Crosstrek is a lifted Impreza hatchback with minor differences, though with a more substantial lift than the Outback Sport.
Initially, the vehicle was marketed as the XV globally, and as the XV Crosstrek in the United States and Canada. In 2015, Subaru dropped the XV moniker in the United States and Canada, marketing it simply as the Crosstrek for the 2016 model year and onward. In 2022, Subaru introduced the third-generation model, using the Crosstrek nameplate globally for the first time.
All generations of the Crosstrek are raised versions of the Subaru Impreza hatchback.
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Subaru Crosstrek model years
Common Subaru Crosstrek problems
The Subaru Crosstrek, a popular subcompact crossover SUV, has been praised for its stylish design, off-road capabilities, sedan-like handling, and efficient plug-in hybrid model. However, it is not without its share of issues. Here are the three most common problems reported by real owners:
- Malfunctioning Auto Start-Stop System: The auto start-stop system in the Subaru Crosstrek is designed to improve gas mileage by automatically stopping the engine when idling and then starting it up again when the driver presses down on the accelerator. However, many Crosstrek models have experienced issues with this system, causing it to work intermittently or not at all. This can lead to wear and tear on the engine, and while drivers can disable the system, it may get reactivated once the ignition is turned off.
- Brake Light Switch Failure: Another common issue reported by Crosstrek owners is brake light switch failure. This problem prevents the brake lights from illuminating when the driver presses the brake pedal. The cause of this issue is most likely due to cleaning products clogging up the switches that activate the brake lights. This can create safety concerns, as other drivers may not see the Crosstrek when it brakes or at night.
- Heavy Consumption of Oil: Subaru has acknowledged that some Crosstrek models with the F-series Boxer engine burn oil at a rate of a quart for every 1,200 miles. This is significantly higher than the average for all vehicles, which is around a quart every 3,000 miles. This can lead to the need for frequent oil top-offs, and if the oil gets too low, it can cause damage to the engine and other parts of the crossover SUV.
In addition to these issues, some Crosstrek owners have reported problems with the windshield, head gasket issues (particularly with the 2.5-liter engine), excessive oil consumption, rust and corrosion, and defective brake light switches.
Do Subaru Crosstreks have issues?
Common Subaru Crosstrek Problems
Although the Subaru Crosstrek is overall a reliable vehicle, it has its fair share of reliability issues that every potential buyer should know. Head gasket issue: This is one of the most significant issues of the Crosstrek and may also apply to other Subaru models.
Is a Subaru Crosstrek reliable?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 11% for the Subaru XV Crosstrek, compared to an average of 11% for compact SUVs and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
Why is Subaru discontinuing the Crosstrek?
Slow sales are one reason why SOA chose to drop the Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid trim level. The Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid is fuel-efficient, so why doesn't Subaru sell more PHEV models? One problem is the Crosstrek Hybrid was too expensive for subcompact SUV shoppers.
Does the Subaru Crosstrek have transmission problems?
Subaru Crosstrek manual transmission problems top the list of most common issues. Drivers report that the Crosstrek, specifically the model with manual transmission, takes a significant amount of time to get up to 60mph.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Subaru Crosstrek years
We have researched Subaru problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Subaru Crosstrek cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Subaru Crosstrek model years:
- Subaru Crosstrek 2019
- Subaru Crosstrek 2018
- Subaru Crosstrek 2016
- Subaru Crosstrek 2017
- Subaru Crosstrek 2021
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Subaru Crosstrek model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Subaru Crosstrek years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Subaru Crosstrek car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Subaru Crosstrek , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Crosstrek vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Crosstrek model years
A total of 39 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Crosstrek model years
There were a total of 13 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Crosstrek model years
There were a total of 19 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 895 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Crosstrek . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Crosstrek vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Subaru Crosstrek 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-20
- VIN: JF2GTACC6M9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The USB A outlets under the head unit that allow connection to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay Yes it is available for inspection upon request How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The connection when hooked up to a phone is intermittent. This results in driver distraction whenever it disconnects due to trying to get it to reconnect. Especially when using gps apps this means the driver may be "lost" until it can be reconnected, which means they will try to get it reconnected while driving which is dangerous. Sometimes it goes in and out every 60-90 seconds. Sometimes it won't connect at all until the vehicle is power cycled or the head unit is reset but neither of these guarantees a stable connection. The issue is not fixed by replacing the USB cable or the phone with a brand new phone. The cables and phone do not have this issue with any other USB port that they have been used on (in other vehicles). Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Not on my vehicle but there are hundreds of reports online for years with multiple Subaru models where it has been. I could get it reproduced easily, just haven't had the time. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No This happens every day, at any speed, and has been happening since I got the vehicle at 20000 miles and there are 35000 miles on it now (approximately).
Subaru Crosstrek 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-19
- VIN: JF2GTHSC1MH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shut off unintendedly and failed to restart. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the battery had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and opened a case. The approximate failure mileage was 27,000.
Subaru Crosstrek 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-12
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JF2GTANCXK8
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: I sent my Crosstrek to the dealer for the WRE21 recall. After retrieving the car from the dealership with the recall fix in place, the engine stalled while I was at a red light and I could see smoke coming out from the hood. This occurred after driving less than 4 miles from the dealership. I opened the hood and could see that one of the coil packs on the driver side cylinder bank was on fire. I called 911 and the Fire Department had to extinguish the fire. The fire has rendered the vehicle inoperable and smoke damaged.
Subaru Crosstrek 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 4S4GUHL63R3
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: I have noticed an issue with Driver side mirror housing, vibrates, and shakes while driving at any speed since I took delivery on September 27, 2024 from Subaru Of Clear Lake. It is making it hard to observe anything in that mirror, making it almost useless. Took it to Team Gilman Subaru north. They said that they tighten the mirror/ housing and that are confident that it is secure, but once I pull off lot it is still doing it! But I also was told that they would get me out quick and not have to do anything paperwork makes me wonder.
Subaru Crosstrek 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: JF2GTANC4KH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact called on behalf of her husband who owns a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact's husband stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, a cracking sound was coming from the center-right of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the transmission needed to be repaired. The contact referenced an unknown NHTSA Campaign Number relating to the transmission as possibly being related to the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage 74,000.
Subaru Crosstrek 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: JF2GUADC2RH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: My 2024 Subaru Crosstrek was stopped at a red light behind a car. My cruise was disengaged after the car stopped and my foot was on the brake. Suddenly, the car lurched forward on its own and only stopped when I pressed hard on the brake and moved transmission from drive to park.
Subaru Crosstrek 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: JF2GTHSC4MH
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Check engine light came on while idling. "Eyesight" tech turned off along with certain associated safety features. Next day, vehicle struggled to ignite. Came to a complete stop at an intersection, released brake, stepped on gas, and the car rolled forward as if in neutral and bucked up and down like a rodeo bull.
Subaru Crosstrek 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 4S4GUHT62R3
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I purchased the vehicle used on 8/7/24 with 4,507 miles on it. On 8/13/24 while stopped at a red light in the fast lane, the car failed to accelerate and all the warning lights on the dashboard illuminated including the AT oil temp light which according the to owner's manual indicates the transmission. It stands for automatic transmission oil temperature. After turning on my hazard lights, I put the car in park and turned off the car and restarted it and I was able to pull into a parking lot. I had it towed to Subaru who said it was code p1868 and was the transmission. They drained and refilled the transmission and said the fluid was dirty and contained metal debris. When I asked them why a car with such low mileage would have dirty fluid containing metal debris, I was told it could have had low fluid from the factory or the factory could have used "crappy" fluid. I was also told the reason so many warning lights come on is because those systems become disabled when there is a problem. I got the car back on 8/17/24 and then on 9/7/24 while driving, all the lights came on again including the AT oil temp light which was noted to be yellow and flashing. Subaru of America towed it to Subaru again. They said it was the same code and this time they're replacing the valve body. Today is 10/1/24 and Subaru still has my car. They said if it happens again, then they will finally replace the transmission. When it was towed to Subaru on 9/7/24, it had less than 6,000 miles on it. I will upload the invoice from the first incident but I don't have the invoice from the second incident since my car is still at Subaru being repaired.
Subaru Crosstrek 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: JF2GTACCXJH
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My car randomly blows white smoke put of the exhaust and supposedly had the PCV valve replaced in Jan 2020 by the Subaru service center. I am noticing drastically lower mileage as more white smoke seems to be coming out of the exhaust and cannot help but feel these are all related.
Subaru Crosstrek 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 4S4GUHM62R3
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: Driver side exterior mirror vibrates and blurs / distorts the visibility at higher speeds when on the freeway or interstate. This is on a brand new 2024 Subaru Crosstrek purchased less than a month ago. Dealer recreated the issue but will not fix because they said other new crosstreks do this as well and is a design flaw issue that does not have a repair???
Subaru Crosstrek 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-15
- VIN: 4S4GUHU65R3
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The SRH headlight system has a Dark square at the top of each side light pattern that is extremely distracting to the driver. As the vehicle is in motion and the headlights are moving back and forth due to steering inputs the dark spots appear almost as if an animal or object is running out in front of you. This constantly moving distraction is an accident waiting to happen
Subaru Crosstrek 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
- VIN: JF2GPABC1G8
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Our 2016 Subaru Crosstrek (Automatic Transmission) has had intermittent issues with it losing power despite our foot being on the accelerator. It will typically reengage if we take our foot off the accelerator for a bit and then hit the gas again. However, it has become a more frequent problem and feels increasingly unsafe to drive, particularly with our 2 small children in the car, because it loses power without warning so it leaves us vulnerable for being rear-ended while changing lanes, taking turns, etc. We have been working with our local dealership (Beyer Subaru in Alexandria, VA) to address the issue, but they have only been able to replicate the issue once in a 4-week period and they have not been able to document it. The one time they were able to replicate the problem the car was not hooked up to any computer/system. I have found this forum that documents similar problems with Crosstreks - [XXX] , as well as a Service Bulletin which references a similar issue in 2018-21MY Crosstrek 2.0L MT - https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2021/MC-10201030-0001.pdf. While the 2nd does refer specifically to Manual Transmissions, I feel like this is indicative of a trend that is not being acknowledged for other Model Year's and transmission types, but presents a serious safety issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Subaru Crosstrek 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF2GUADC0RH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owned a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that while driving at 15 MPH on the slow lane in the snow, he lost control. The brake pedal was depressed but failed to respond. The contact veered to the side of the road, off a slope, and then fell and crashed into a tree. There were no warning lights illuminated. There were no reported injuries or fire. The air bags deployed. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to an unknown location. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and the event data recorder was retrieved. The manufacturer was unable to determine the failure. The vehicle was deemed a total loss by the insurance company. The failure mileage was approximately 1,000.
Subaru Crosstrek 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
- VIN: JF2GUADC0RH
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
- Summary: 1. The headlights in this vehicle have shadows and this is exceedingly disconcerting and actually dangerous. Subaru insists the headlights are fine and yet other owners of this same model complain of the same issue which I discovered in doing internet research. AND 2. Due to the use of soy based materials in the engine of this 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, it has literally been assailed by rodents. This has caused extensive and very costly damage. It has become a job in essence trying to find solutions to this problem in order to try to prevent it happening again. In all the 28 years at my location and two previous vehicles, this Subaru Crosstrek has had INCOMPARABLE rodent attacks to the engine materials. Apparently, this vehicle had rodents getting into the engine right away once it came to my location and it had to be taken in twice, having been out here around a little over one month. It was unknown to me rodents were getting into the engine until the first incident of something not working. The second time it had to be towed in as it would have been dangerous to try to drive it due to the damage. Additionally, the loaner, another 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, was out here less than a week and suffered damage from rodents. This despite the fact that multiple rodent repellents, baits, bait traps, poisons, live traps, snap traps, etc., were used by myself personally and a professional pest control agency having been hired in addition. Using such attractants in vehicle manufacture is unethical, unprofessional, irresponsible, dangerous, constituting a hardship in several ways for customers and unconscionable. Naturally Subaru does not want to take accountability, despite it undeniably being their fault for choosing to use these materials while being fully aware they are rodent attractants. It also affects insurance rates adversely. Often you would not realize what damage and how much damage has been done to these vehicles until it might cause a breakdown on the road or worse.
Subaru Crosstrek 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 4S4GUHF60R3
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: My steering feels loose to the point it is pulling to the right when you drive excess 35mph. It is to the point where it doesn’t feel very safe because if sometimes if you hit a pothole, it will want to turn the wheel to the right and pull you in that direction. I had the issue repaired once at the Subaru dealer where they did an alignment and tire rotation and the issue returned after about 1000 miles. There is no warning lights but the vehicle steering is not correct in any means.
Latest 5 recalls Subaru Crosstrek
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 20 recalls for different components of the Subaru Crosstrek.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Subaru Crosstrek 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
- Consequence: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
- Model: Subaru Crosstrek 2024
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek, Impreza, 2023-2024 Forester, and 2023 WRX vehicles. The front driveshaft assemblies' outer race may develop cracks and break.
- Consequence: A broken driveshaft can cause a loss of drive power while driving or vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake engaged. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the left and right front driveshafts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRP-23.
- Model: Subaru Crosstrek 2024
- Report Received Date: 2023-08-04
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek and Impreza vehicles. Due to insufficient clearance, the instrument panel harness may contact the steering beam bracket, damaging the wire insulation and causing a short circuit.
- Consequence: A short circuit may cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the harness and install an additional clamp on the steering beam bracket. If damage is found, dealers will add protective tape or replace the instrument panel harness, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 3, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRL-23.
- Model: Subaru Crosstrek 2019
- Report Received Date: 2021-04-15
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid, and 2019 Forester vehicles. The rear stabilizer bracket bolts may loosen and detach.
- Consequence: Missing bolts may allow the rear stabilizer bracket to shift, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will retorque and replace any missing bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRD-21.
- Model: Subaru Crosstrek 2019
- Report Received Date: 2021-04-15
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Subaru Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, causing a short circuit.
- Consequence: A short circuit in the ignition coils may cause a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will update the ECM software, replace the ignition coils and, if necessary, the front exhaust pipe, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 1, 2021. Owners can contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE-21. Note: This recall includes all vehicles previously repaired under Recall 19V743.
Latest negative Subaru Crosstrek car reviews
Latest positive Subaru Crosstrek car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2021
Out of 1,000 reasons I wanted to buy this car, the seating was not that comfortable. If I were younger I would have bought it in a heartbeat. However, with 4 kids and collegiate tennis, my back has become a bit tricky and unfortunately, there is not any lumbar support in the front seats. Despite this, I still love everything about the car, but it wasn't going to age well with me or my back.
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Vehicle year: 2021
I recently purchased a loaded Crosstrek Sport in the stunning Plasma Yellow and I absolutely love it! The driving experience is super nice, with a smooth ride and plenty of power. Although not all my friends and family agree at first glance, I personally love the unique and eye-catching color. The vehicle has great features and a smart look and feel. I previously owned a Mini Countryman and while I do miss the slightly more luxurious feel of my European vehicles, I am still enjoying my Crosstrek and plan to drive it for a few years. So far, I have had no issues with the vehicle other than intermittent connectivity with Apple CarPlay, which can be frustrating when driving in unfamiliar areas. While the salesperson convinced me that I wouldn't need the nav feature upgrade because of CarPlay, I now wish I had it for those times when CarPlay disconnects. Overall, I am very happy with my purchase and would recommend the Crosstrek to others.
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Vehicle year: 2016
I've had the pleasure of owning several Subarus and I must say, I'm a big fan of their overall quality and drivability. My last one was an Impreza, but I recently traded it in for the CrossTrek and I couldn't be happier with my decision. The all-wheel drive and road clearance are top-notch, and the nimble handling makes for a fun driving experience. The new safety features, especially the lane changing warning system, work really well and address some of the visibility issues I had with the Impreza. The tie-downs in the storage area are also a nice touch, as I often carry a lot of cargo. Getting in and out of the CrossTrek is much easier due to its height. The only downside is the sound system and phone connection, which are mediocre at best. The software can be a bit clunky with some delays, and unfortunately, the best system for phone linkage with an iPhone, called CarPlay, is not available. I recently used a new GMC truck with CarPlay and it was a delight compared to the CrossTrek. Although the sound/phone system is better than last year's Impreza, it's still not up to par. I hope Subaru addresses this ongoing issue soon. It's surprising that they don't seem to acknowledge it as a problem. Perhaps they should try out some of the competition to see where they stand. Lastly, I find it odd that the USB socket is buried in the bottom of the bin between the seats. It would be much more convenient if it were located on the lower dash.
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Vehicle year: 2017
Great car for the price! I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying the responsive steering and improved traction and acceleration compared to your 2014 Nissan Juke Nismo. It's also great that you have more cargo and passenger space. Thanks for sharing your positive experience so far!
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Vehicle year: 2022
The car is beautiful, smooth, and the adaptive cruise control is a game changer! Enough for a small family and the engine is fuel efficient.
Are you having problems with your Subaru Crosstrek?
Jaime Grimes 2025-09-29
Vehicle year: 2018
I recently upgraded from a 2015 Crosstrek CVT to a 2018 Premium CVT. I opted for the Premium due to my preference for the cloth interior and wheel style over the Limited. The car feels significantly better overall, with a smoother ride, reduced noise, and improved brakes. The interior finish is also superior to the previous model, and the basic stereo boasts much better sound quality. The addition of Apple Car Play is a huge plus! However, I do feel that the car could benefit from a bit more horsepower, despite the added torque. Moving from the Limited to the Premium, I did notice a drawback in the digital readouts. While the ODO and MPH gauges are cool in red, the bright white gas gauge in the middle is bland and hard to read. At night, the brightness and style do not complement the other round gauges, which can be distracting. I have also experienced some static when listening to regular radio on the stereo, which I plan to have checked out. The biggest issue I have encountered is the oversteer/understeer balance, which was much better in my previous car. Although the handling feel is nice, I am going to speak to the dealer about this, as I know the car is now on the same platform as the BRZ, which should help. I am likely to keep this car for the long haul and will address the handling. Overall, I do like this series better than the previous one. It is a comfortable car to drive and performs well in the snow. I may just be a bit pickier than most!
Junior Hill 2025-09-03
Vehicle year: 2024
I purchased a brand new 2024 Crosstrek Premium from Subaru of Kennesaw three months ago. The Crosstrek is quite spacious compared to other vehicles in its price range and had ample cargo space to accommodate the luggage of my family of four on a weekend trip. The fuel economy averaged a little over 28 mpg, and the ride was smooth. The handling was more like a sedan than an SUV, which was a pleasant surprise. However, the acceleration has been described as 'pokey,' which is accurate. When accelerating onto a busy interstate, it feels like the engine is trying to catch up. Interestingly, there are no issues with acceleration when resuming the cruise control set speed. It seems the Crosstrek responds much better to the computer than to the gas pedal. Unfortunately, the computer is the MAJOR problem with this vehicle. After almost three months of driving it, the 'infotainment' or 'head unit' system died. When I say died, I mean that it has to be replaced with at least a one-month wait time for a replacement part. The car can be driven without this part, but it disables all of the safety and security features except for the locks. All A/C, phone, radio, and anything else accessed by that system is gone. Here's where insult was added to injury. I suggested that since the car was only three months old and already needing the equivalent of an auto brain transplant, the dealership allow me to have a different vehicle. They referred me to Subaru Corporate and the Customer Advocacy Team. What I experienced with that department was the opposite of customer advocacy. Their representative said they didn't replace cars due to a 'broken radio,' which is a little like calling my iPhone a fancy calculator. When I tried to ask for his manager, he gave me the old 'I am the manager' routine. When I asked to speak to 'someone above him,' he informed me there was no one above him and directed me back to the dealership because 'they should stand behind the cars they sell.' Apparently, Subaru does not.I'm currently in a bit of a limbo as the dealership and Subaru are working together to determine the best course of action in this situation. As a long-time Subaru owner, I've been generally happy with the Crosstrek, but this issue has left me feeling frustrated. While it's important for a company to stand behind their vehicles, I'm disappointed with the lack of action so far. Additionally, I have some concerns about the 2024 Crosstrek given this unexpected malfunction so early in its life. I'm curious to see if others have experienced similar issues.
Maverick Lemke 2025-08-03
Vehicle year: 2024
I've heard great things about Subarus, but unfortunately, the road noise on this model was beyond uncomfortable. Despite doing extensive research and test driving several other makes, I overlooked the notation of road noise. While I didn't notice it in the city, it became quite uncomfortable on the interstate, especially during my frequent long drives to visit friends and family. I've since taken a 400 mile road trip in a Toyota RAV 4 and found it to be a better fit overall. Although I'll miss my beloved Horizon Blue Pearl color, the RAV 4's hybrid feature will hopefully make up for it. If road noise isn't a concern and price is a factor, the Crosstrek would still be a great car for you. Thanks for considering my experience!
Emmett Leuschke 2025-07-17
Vehicle year: 2021
I've been searching for a new car since my beloved 2005 Subaru Impreza was destroyed in a rear-end collision last year. I was excited to learn that Subaru has started installing the 2.5L engine on the Crosstreck Sport and Limited models since 2021, so I went to a couple of dealerships to test drive both models. Overall, the car is cool, but I wasn't impressed with the engine power. You have to floor the gas pedal to get decent acceleration, and the interior materials feel cheap. During the test drive, I noticed that the automatic engine shutoff makes a clonking noise when the engine restarts, but it doesn't when you use the push-to-start button. Additionally, the shift lever was jammed and hard to disengage when shifting from D to R and vice versa. I found this very strange. It's worth noting that both models I tested were brand new and had the same issues. After considering everything, I decided not to get one.
Doug Hackett 2025-06-20
Vehicle year: 2016
This is an excellent car overall, with unbeatable symmetrical all-wheel drive and stylish exterior and interior. However, there are a few areas where Subaru could improve. Firstly, the durability of the plastic, both interior and exterior, could be better. Despite treating my car extremely gingerly, the plastic is already scratched and gouged. Secondly, the engine's power could be improved, as the acceleration is worse than a golf cart and the fuel economy is not as good as expected. Thirdly, the handling could be better, as it can be wobbly and difficult to keep between the lines on the highway. Finally, the manufacturer's warranty could be more comprehensive, as expensive repairs can occur within the first hundred thousand miles. Despite these minor complaints, the Crosstrek is still a great vehicle.This car is really nice and I absolutely love it! I can't wait to take it out in the snow next winter. It's been almost a year and a half since I got my Subie and I still feel the same way about it. The handling seems to have improved and it's been a great experience overall. Although, I have noticed that the acceleration is a bit slow and the paint quality isn't the best. I have some rusty rock chips and the paint came off in a few places. Even though I had a minor accident, my Subaru held up really well during Portland's snow storms last winter. It was amazing to see how well it performed on the highway. If there is an STI version available, I might consider getting a Crosstrek again in the future.