Subaru Crosstrek problems

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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.

photo of Subaru Crosstrek car production

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Subaru Crosstrek model years

subaru crosstrek 2024 photo
Crosstrek 2024
Subaru

39

2

25

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru crosstrek 2023 photo
Crosstrek 2023
Subaru

16

0

27

4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru crosstrek 2022 photo
Crosstrek 2022
Subaru

19

0

20

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru crosstrek 2021 photo
Crosstrek 2021
Subaru

87

1

29

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru crosstrek 2020 photo
Crosstrek 2020
Subaru

55

0

20

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru crosstrek 2019 photo
Crosstrek 2019
Subaru

254

7

32

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru crosstrek 2018 photo
Crosstrek 2018
Subaru

179

5

31

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru crosstrek 2017 photo
Crosstrek 2017
Subaru

94

1

14

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru crosstrek 2016 photo
Crosstrek 2016
Subaru

125

1

32

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru crosstrek 2015 photo
Crosstrek 2015
Subaru

0

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru crosstrek 2014 photo
Crosstrek 2014
Subaru

0

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru crosstrek 2013 photo
Crosstrek 2013
Subaru

25

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru crosstrek 2012 photo
Crosstrek 2012
Subaru

2

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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.

Subaru Crosstrek

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:

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

  1. Gillian Daniel 2025-04-14

    Vehicle year: 2019

    We purchased our first Crosstrek in 2017 and unfortunately, we noticed a persistent coolant smell almost immediately. Although there were no visible leaks, the smell was present both inside and outside the car. Despite the dealer's efforts, they were unable to identify the issue. Shortly after, we began to hear a thumping sound in the front end which was also felt by passengers. Unfortunately, the dealer was unable to replicate or resolve the issue. The final straw was when we were unable to shift the car out of Park. However, the dealer was very understanding and offered us a great deal on a 2019 Crosstrek, which we decided to take a chance on. Unfortunately, the 2019 model has also had its fair share of issues. We experienced a rattling noise in the front end which took three visits to the dealer to resolve. Additionally, the rear wheel bearings had to be replaced at only 15,000 miles and the radio has stopped working intermittently. Although Subaru has agreed to replace the radio, it was difficult to document the issue on video as I usually drive alone. As a result, we have decided to switch back to Honda as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

  2. Grover Rosenbaum 2025-04-05

    Vehicle year: 2019

    I drove a 2013 Ford C-Max Energi for six years, but I was looking for a PHEV with all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance. That's when I discovered the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. On the plus side, the Crosstrek has solid handling, generous ground clearance, and all-wheel drive, making it a great choice for those who love to explore. Additionally, its standard Eyesight safety features work well, providing peace of mind on the road. Although it could use more power, the Crosstrek Hybrid still accelerates sufficiently to get out of its own way when pushed hard enough. On the negative side, I have noticed some minor quality control issues with my Subaru, such as an annoying rattle coming from somewhere in the overhead center console and a section of blue trim on the passenger side that was loose from day one. Another issue I have encountered is the excessively loud pedestrian alert warning sound, which cannot be adjusted despite attempts by the dealership's service department. However, despite these minor issues, the Crosstrek Hybrid is a great car overall. While it may lack certain features found in other Subaru models, such as dual zone climate control, power rear hatch, rain sensing wipers, fully automatic speed sensitive door locks, and ambient noise sensitive radio volume, it still offers excellent value for its price point.Anyway, the Crosstrek Hybrid will do for now. I'm sure something even better will come along eventually!

  3. Art Deckow 2025-02-28

    Vehicle year: 2021

    I recently purchased a 2021 Crosstrek hybrid plug-in vehicle, but unfortunately, I have had some issues with it. During the first three months, it required several repairs, which was frustrating. I reached out to Subaru America for assistance, but unfortunately, they were not very helpful or concerned about my situation. Despite their promises to call me back, I was left waiting for a week without any response. I even wrote to Subaru in Japan, but unfortunately, I did not receive a response. As a loyal Subaru customer, I was disappointed with my experience, as I expected better customer service. I am still trying to figure out what to do with the car, as I am not entirely comfortable with its mechanical stability.

  4. Efren Greenfelder 2025-02-24

    Vehicle year: 2024

    This is my first Subaru and I know many people love them. I was excited to try it out, but unfortunately, it didn't meet my expectations. If you live near the woods or just drive around town, it could be an excellent choice. However, if you need to take a long road trip or require power to get into traffic, it may not be the best option. I found the engine lacked power even when using the [S] mode, and the seats were uncomfortable for anything more than a few hours on the road. Additionally, the road noise was surprising, especially if you're used to a quieter ride. Despite these issues, I appreciate the design and gas mileage. While it may not be the right fit for me, it could be a great choice for someone else in this price range. Thank you for considering my experience with the car.

  5. Fernando Halvorson 2025-02-15

    Vehicle year: 2024

    I have experienced some issues with my '24 premium where it has unexpectedly braked for invisible obstacles, which can be quite jarring. Unfortunately, the dealer has been unable to fix the issue as the car is functioning as programmed and there are no adjustments to be made. Turning off the system requires navigating through several layers of the menu on the touch screen, which can be unresponsive, and can result in multiple orange lights on the dash. Additionally, the car has some rattling from the dash and the exterior b pillar trim has started melting, with parts on order for 5 months now. It's important to note that the car has an always-on cellular connection that cannot be controlled, and pulling the fuse for it will disable the front speakers. Despite these issues, I find that the car runs and drives nicely, gets better mileage than my Kia Soul ever did, and is acceptably comfortable. However, I must admit that this experience has left me feeling disappointed as this is my first and last Subaru. It's worth noting that the car may qualify for the lemon law in my state.

Latest positive Subaru Crosstrek car reviews

  1. Edgar Auer 2025-04-16

    Vehicle year: 2017

    I'm really enjoying my new car! It's only been 250 miles, but I'm already impressed with its capabilities and personality. The crystal white exterior with black leather interior is a real head-turner, and I love the orange stitching on the seats. The navigation is clear and easy to use, and the moonroof adds to the overall feeling of spaciousness. The handling is excellent, and I've had no issues driving in snow or on the highway. The gas mileage is also impressive, and I feel secure with the Eyesight and other safety features. The only downsides are the hard cushion on the driver's seat and the manual adjustment for the seat. I also wish the seat warmer buttons were easier to reach. Overall, I'm thrilled with my beautiful and capable car! Update 7/6/17: I'm still loving my car and find the adaptive cruise control and traffic light beeper to be great features.The seats became even more comfortable after a few months of use. Although I have experienced some issues with the connection to Audible on my iPhone dropping, I am still very happy with my car. In fact, I would buy the exact same car again if given the chance!

  2. Monroe Brown 2025-04-10

    Vehicle year: 2021

    At first, I was planning on getting the Premium model. After test driving it, I found the cloth seats and 2.0 engine to be adequate for my needs. However, while waiting for the car to arrive from the port, I decided to check out the other models online. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the Limited model offered many more features for only a slightly higher price, so I made the switch. Now, I have the 2.5 engine which provides a lot of power, and I'm averaging an impressive 32.9 MPG combined. I also have an 8

  3. Efrain Torphy 2025-04-08

    Vehicle year: 2024

    I drive a 2024 Crosstrek Limited and it was definitely the right purchase! Assembled in Indiana, it is very well put-together with all seams and materials satisfying. The car is very quiet, rides smoothly, and has good handling and steering. While the interior appointments are not luxurious, they are durable and tight. Although the infotainment screen can be a bit laggy, it is easy to master and offers many options. I do regret not having the option of a heated steering wheel (Canadians have that!), but other than that, no other regrets. If you want a great little vehicle that you will appreciate, especially in the winter, this is the one!

  4. Timmy Turner 2025-04-08

    Vehicle year: 2018

    Not the fastest vehicle out there, but it is very fun to drive. It's also very quiet and handles well. With 10 thousand miles and still going strong, I have no issues or complaints. It's a well-built vehicle. I'm now averaging 30.4 MPG combined City and Highway, which is better than the listed 29 mpg. I strongly recommend it!

  5. Cedrick Rogahn 2025-04-08

    Vehicle year: 2016

    Small but roomy. And the best part? Great fuel economy!

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