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: 2019
If you're looking for a car that offers excellent visibility, height in traffic, and clearance to prevent pothole damage, the Subaru Crosstrek is definitely worth considering. Not only does it offer a smooth ride, but it also comes equipped with excellent safety features, including Eyesight drivers' assist technology, which has a high rating for crash avoidance. This technology monitors traffic blind spots, adapts cruise control, warns of upcoming obstacles or lane drift, and will even apply brakes if necessary. Plus, with Apple CarPlay, the navigation system is easy to use with voice commands. As someone who values safety features, I'm committed to driving the Crosstrek. It's an automobile that I genuinely enjoy driving and often find myself looking for an excuse to take it out for a spin.
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Vehicle year: 2020
Hey there! I just wanted to share my experience with Subarus. This is actually my third one! I drive around 30,000 miles a year for work, so I tend to go through cars pretty quickly. My first Subaru was a 2014 Impreza and I absolutely loved it. Living in the northeast, all-wheel drive is a must-have for me, especially during the snowy months. After putting 100,000 miles on it, I sold it to my dad who needed a commuter car. I then bought a 2017 Impreza Sport, but to be honest, I didn't really enjoy it. The sport suspension system was cool at first, but it wasn't practical for me. Plus, there were so many recalls on that car during the three years I owned it. I was ready to move on from Subaru, but then I test drove the 2020 Crosstrek and it blew me away! I had test driven other cars like the Honda CRV, Toyota Rav4, Kia Sportage, Subaru Outback, and Hyundai Tuscan, but the Crosstrek handled better than all of them. I ended up getting a Cool Kahki Gray 2020 Subaru Crosstrek Premium with the moon roof package. The color is absolutely stunning and I get compliments on it everywhere I go! I didn't go for the Limited version, but the car still handles beautifully. I drive through some rough areas of road getting to different construction sites for my clients and I rarely feel the occasional pot hole that sneaks up on me. I thought I would hate the blind spot sensor and lane departure, but they've actually come in pretty clutch. Often times I'm on the road at 4am and the added safety features have come in handy. As someone who drives so much for work, MPG is pretty important to me. Overall, I'm really happy with my Crosstrek and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and stylish car!I was a bit worried about switching from the Impreza, which averaged 31 MPG, to the Crosstrek. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the larger gas tank means I'm actually filling up less often, even though I'm averaging around 27 MPG. The moon roof is a fantastic upgrade - I've never had a car with one before! I also had the dealership include a hitch, Thule bike rack, and Subaru Star Link. The bike rack is perfect for my husband and I, as we love to go mountain biking. I highly recommend asking the dealership to include Star Link - it allows you to start your car, control the temperature, and lock/unlock your doors from your phone, which has been incredibly convenient. Finally, the size of the Crosstrek is absolutely perfect for me. Even though it's virtually the same car as the Impreza, it feels much more spacious. My husband used to complain when we took my car, but now he actually enjoys it. I can't recommend this car enough - I went from being ready to move on from Subaru to encouraging others to get this car. The only small negative is that there are no air vents in the back seat, but I can easily turn on the air from my phone before getting in the car to keep my dog cool.
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Vehicle year: 2022
All the versatility of a big SUV in a gas efficient compact size! Sporty too! We're thrilled with our 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Sport. We don't usually drive much, but we're excited to plan new adventures!
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Vehicle year: 2024
Congratulations on your new Subaru Crosstrek Limited! It's great to hear that you're enjoying the updated interior and exterior. The driver's side lumbar support on the front seats sounds like a fantastic feature, and I'm glad to hear that the infotainment tablet display and stereo system are working well for you. It's also great to hear that the ride is smoother and quieter than your previous Crosstreks, and that you find the steering to be great in the city. I'm sure you'll have a fantastic time on your next road trip in your Crosstrek. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2023
We were fortunate to find the exact trim level we wanted with Subaru's 3% financing just a few days before the deal ended, even though we couldn't get the color we preferred. With a $20k down payment, we were able to purchase the car we wanted while keeping the payments reasonable. Although the car is primarily for my wife, who is a busy grandma caring for two grandchildren, I also appreciate the safety features that help her. However, some of these features can be a bit overbearing for experienced drivers and should have quieter ways to be disabled. For instance, the smart braking system started beeping when I took a quick exit to the right the other day, even though there was a line of stopped cars to my left. Drivers don't need noisy warnings in the middle of a lightweight maneuver! The 2.5 motor is just right, with a good balance of power and economy. As a retired auto shop teacher, race car fleet manager, race driver, and electrical engineer, I have a real appreciation for the tech and driveline qualities of a car. The interior can be a bit noisy at highway speeds, and the moon roof could use a functional quieting air dam. We have to close it at anything above 30mph, which can be a bit inconvenient. The Subaru handles decently, with excellent braking, and gives a soft, comfortable ride over bumps, potholes, and off-road terrain. The paint chips easily, which is a common issue among other forum owners. The mileage is a bit lower than expected, but with only 4,000 driven miles, the motor is still breaking in, and this should improve. Our leather seats could be somewhat more comfortable for longer trips. The build quality is excellent, both inside and out. We especially appreciate the LED lighting and believe that this important safety feature should be offered as an option on all trims.While all the switches, buttons, indicators, lights, and levers can be a bit overwhelming, overall design and usability are very good. Don't forget to read the manual! We would have appreciated power adjustments for both front seats and the steering wheel for our limited trim. Generally, we love the car and feel we got a lot of value from it.
Are you having problems with your Subaru Crosstrek?
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.
Guillermo Williamson 2025-06-14
Vehicle year: 2016
We purchased the 2016 Crosstrek Hybrid with the Touring package five years ago. Here are some things I like about it: The interior of the touring model feels very luxurious compared to our last car. It handles really well on wet streets, which is great since it has been raining a lot lately. It's also very comfortable to come back to after a hike in the rain. The front and back windshield wipers and exterior lighting system are really good, although the settings can be a bit confusing. I also appreciate the size of the car. It fits in our small San Francisco garage and is easy to park, but the interior is roomy enough for my dog/child. It also performs well on dirt roads, with good ground clearance that gets us to our hiking and skiing destinations. However, there are some downsides to the car. It has not been very reliable, with the driver side axle breaking four times in the last six months, leaving us stranded on the freeway and resulting in $2,200 in repair bills. Additionally, if you are used to Google Maps, the navigation system may seem clunky and inaccurate. The gas mileage has also been disappointing, with us often getting 10 mpg lower than the advertised numbers of 20-24 mpg in the city and 30-34 mpg on the freeway. The engine also has some flaws, such as abruptly turning off while waiting at a traffic signal and jerking the entire car. The hybrid engine also seems to have some issues, with the engine racing for no reason at times. The heat sensor has also broken twice, causing the car to think it was overheating on mountain passes. While the Subaru repair guys are super nice, I would have preferred to not have to visit them so often. Lastly, I appreciate the phone interface, but it can be a bit clunky and sometimes takes three minutes to read a text message to me.The voice activated calling feature needs improvement as it struggles to understand my commands such as 'call mom' or 'call Jessica'.
Neil Davis 2025-06-09
Vehicle year: 2020
That's a really great car! The ride is fantastic and there's not a lot of road noise. However, I did notice that the CVT transmission has a very loud high-pitched whistle, which can be a bit annoying.