2020 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.
Social links
Common 2020 Subaru Crosstrek problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Subaru Crosstrek 2020, several common problems have been reported:
- Excessive Oil Consumption: Owners of the 2012 to 2015 Subaru Crosstrek models have reported issues with excessive oil consumption. This problem requires owners to frequently top up their oil levels, as low oil levels can lead to permanent engine damage.
- Rust and Corrosion: Many Subaru models, including the Crosstrek, have experienced premature rust and corrosion issues. This problem is particularly prevalent in colder regions where road salt is used, contributing to the deterioration of the vehicle's body.
- Defective Brake Light Switch: A problem with the brake light switch has been identified in the Subaru Crosstrek, which may prevent the brake lights from functioning when the driver presses the brake pedal. This issue has led to a recall of 2.3 million vehicles to address the defect.
These issues highlight some of the common problems faced by owners of the Subaru Crosstrek 2020, impacting the vehicle's performance, safety, and overall reliability.
How reliable is the Subaru Crosstrek 2020?
How Reliable Is the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek? The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek has a predicted reliability score of 77 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What is the most common problem with a Subaru Crosstrek?
Common Subaru Crosstrek Problems
- Head gasket issue: This is one of the most significant issues of the Crosstrek and may also apply to other Subaru models. ...
- Excessive oil consumption: The Subaru Crosstrek models of 2012 to 2015 reportedly had issues with excessive oil consumption.
Why is Subaru discontinuing the Crosstrek?
Why is Subaru discontinuing the Crosstrek PHEV? It appears a lack of interest and sales have made Subaru discontinue the PHEV version of the Crosstrek.
How long will Subaru Crosstrek engine last?
Crosstrek models are known for their durability and longevity, lasting more than 250,000 miles, making them a popular choice among drivers seeking a reliable vehicle for daily commuting and outdoor adventures.
How reliable is the 2020 Crosstrek?
How Reliable Is the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek? The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek has a predicted reliability score of 77 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What is the common problem of Subaru Crosstrek?
Common Subaru Crosstrek Problems
Head gasket issue: This is one of the most significant issues of the Crosstrek and may also apply to other Subaru models. Specifically, the head gasket issue seems to occur with models with a 2.5-liter engine.
Why did Subaru discontinue Crosstrek?
Why is Subaru discontinuing the Crosstrek PHEV? It appears a lack of interest and sales have made Subaru discontinue the PHEV version of the Crosstrek.
Is A Subaru crosstrek a good buy?
Is the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek a Good SUV? Yes, the 2024 Crosstrek is a good SUV. Redesigned for 2024, it features small but noticeable improvements across the board. The well-built cabin has sufficient passenger space in both rows, and the seats are supple and comfy even on long trips.
2020 Subaru Crosstrek car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Crosstrek problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Subaru Crosstrek vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2020 Subaru Crosstrek
The NHTSA has received 55 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2020 Subaru Crosstrek vehicles.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-20
- VIN: JF2GTAMC3L8
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact's significant other owns a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated while his significant other was driving from a complete stop, several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring. The vehicle was taken to the dealer several times. The dealer replaced the battery, the fuel cap, and cleared the warning lights; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was being diagnosed. The vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 51,000.
ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-20
- VIN: JF2GTANC9L8
- Components: ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The auto engine shut off was disengaged by the dealer while doing some repair. When we picked up the car, noticed engine trouble icons signifying this. We called the dealer and advised of this situation. We had asked if it could be disconnected and was told no, it is forbidden and a safety issue. So when I advised it was turned off, the dealer then refused to work on the car any further or to turn it back on. THEY ARE THE ONLY LOCAL SUBARU DEALER IN KNOXVILLE. That certified mechanic is the one who DID NOT reconnect this safety feature and then refused to fix it. What ever measures need to be taken to this dealer (Grayson Subaru - Knoxville) I need to do so. This has created a huge safety issue with the car and driving and a authorized / approved Subaru dealer refuses to follow the law.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF2GTDNC5LH
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: This vehicle is a plug-in-hybrid. It should not be able to move while plugged in. Problem is attempting to move the vehicle when the charge cable is still attached and the vehicle is on an incline. Subaru does not display a warning message - instead it displays "check engine" and an ambiguous symbol (a red steering wheel). Subaru disables the power to wheels that would have enabled the driver to close the gap to the charging station. Instead the vehicle rolls away from the charging station, breaking power plug at the vehicle port. Even placing the car in Park does not prevent damage, the car will roll down hill until the Parking gear latches. I have now broken my power plug 3 times. I am a professional electrical engineer. This should not be able to happen Subaru should prevent the car from being able to move if the cable is still attached, and instead display a message that the cable is still attached. With the "check engine" message, I engaged my OBD diagnostics and it could not find a "check engine" flag. At this point, I put the car in gear, and even through Subaru disables power, the car then passively rolls down the driveway, breaking the cable at the power port. Instead of the ambiguous "red steering wheel" icon - Subaru needs to lock the car in Park and display a real message. When you finally turn the ignition off - Subaru displays a huge "Goodbye" message on the auxiliary display. I say finally because if you do restart the ignition with the cable attatched - you will not be able to turn off the ignition - only after exiting the vehicle, disconnecting the plug will you be able to turn off the vehicle. Not being able to turn off the ignition should not be permitted. Numerous errors in the control logic.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-09
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF2GTAPC6L8
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Car was thought to be placed in park, key was easily removed, and then the car became mobile and rolled downhill and could not be shifted back into park.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF2GTAEC4L8
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that while she was sitting in the parked vehicle on the side of the road, another vehicle driving at approximately 60-65 MPH rear-ended her vehicle. The contact's vehicle was pushed into the highway's first lane. The front driver's side seat belt failed to restrain the contact in her seat, causing her forehead to hit the steering wheel and the back of her head to roll between the A-Pillar of the front windshield and the front driver's side door. The contact attempted to depress the brake pedal when the front of her ankles hit the bottom of the dashboard. The air bags did not deploy. A police report was filed. The contact was transported by ambulance to the hospital and received medical attention for a brain injury, lower back pain, and broken blood vessels on her ankles. The contact was later diagnosed with craniocervical instability (CCI). The vehicle was towed to a body shop, where it was repaired. The vehicle was not deemed totaled by the insurance company. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-13
- VIN: JF2GTAEC9L8
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission began making a whining noise at low speeds accelerating/ and backing up. Slight hesitation when accelerating. Transmission failed at 6k miles- confirmed by dealer and replaced. Now again at 34k miles same issue- transmission confirmed to be issue again by dealer. Subaru is in the process of sending a technician to dealer to inspect. No warning or messages displayed. Unacceptable quality/safety for a vehicle purchased new and all of the maintenance schedule followed.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-22
- VIN: JF2GTANC7L8
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Driving the vehicle on the I-5 freeway, approximately 65mph, the sunroof glass suddenly shattered. It sounded like an explosion. The sunshade was closed , no glass shards entered the vehicle. There were no other vehicles close to mine, no tractor trailers in front of me.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-30
- VIN: JF2GTABC6L8
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The windshield has formed a crack in the top middle around the area of the rear view mirror with no incident to cause it. The problem is easily identifiable and may cause safety issues if the crack spreads. At this time insurance representatives and the manufacturer have not inspected the windshield. No warning lamps, messages or other symptoms prior. It just cracked out of nowhere.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-25
- VIN: JF2GTDEC0LH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated while shifting the vehicle into reverse, the vehicle launched forward without warning. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 12,000.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-03
- VIN: JF2GTDEC7LH
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I noticed my windshield spontaneously cracked, without any trauma. This was noticed in the morning after my car had been sitting in the garage overnight. There were no rocks or other debris that hit the car, and there does not appear to be a point of impact. The crack seems to have occurred spontaneously, with no precipitating event or warning. This is dangerous because it could impair visibility, the functioning of eye sight camera/safety system, and could easily expand and cause shattering of glass. It makes me concerned about the integrity of the windshield. Several other subaru owners have reported this problem of spontaneous windshield cracking online. This occurred on my car on 4/3/2023. I have photo evidence of the faulty windshield, it has not yet been inspected by a dealer.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-01
- VIN: JF2GTDNC0LH
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The windshield has cracked twice and had to be replaced. The first time was December 2021 and the second time was November 2022. Each time, we did not even see impact with a pebble. We just assume that was what caused the crack. My wife and I have been driving for fifty years and this is the first time we have had to replace a windshield. Subaru needs to fix this problem.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-01
- VIN: jf2gtacc5lg
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: My car was parked outside when one morning I noticed a 2-inch crack started from the edge of the windshield on the passenger side of my vehicle which grew to 19 inches in the following days. The crack feels smooth from the outside and to my knowledge didn't happen due to any impact. My vehicle is available for any inspection. I have not taken my car to the manufacturer regarding this issue yet.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-15
- VIN: JF2GTAPC7L8
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Repeatedly battery drains after a few days of not driving. Won’t start. Requires a jumpstart.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-26
- VIN: JF2GTDEC4LH
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was driving on the I-5 north. The car had already been in operation for over 2 hours by this point. While traveling around 70 mpg, the speed limit on that section of the highway, my front driver's side door, which had been locked, became unlocked and unlatched on its own — my car's "open door" warning went off and significant wind noise entered the car's cabin. Additionally, the cabin's interior lights all turned on, a normal feature that occurs when the car is stopped and the door opened, but incredible dangerous when traveling at night and at high speeds. I was in a safety corridor on the highway, so there was no shoulder to pull off to. If I tried pulling the door closer to the frame of the vehicle, I was able to get the "door open" indicator to turn off and the lights to dim, but the door would not latch. When I released my grip, however, the door returned to its unlatched/open state. Unable to tell how long the safety corridor would last, I was forced to open and close the door manually while still in motion to correct the problem. Had this been a one-lane section of the highway or had traffic been coming in the lane to my immediate left, it's possible this procedure would have caused an accident. I am unable to attach dashcam footage of this incident to this report, but have uploaded it here for you (and Subaru) to review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5vn_YOnpgI Please note that the time on the dash cam is incorrect - this occurred around 5 am.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-16
- VIN: JF2GTABC3L8
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated after entering the vehicle it was discovered that the front windshield had developed a crack extending approximately four inches from the top of the windshield to the rearview mirror attachment. The contact indicated that no object or rocks had made contact with the windshield to cause the crack. The cause of the failure was not determined. The windshield was not repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 13,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-02
- VIN: JF2GTDNC5LH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Car is a Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Car was connected to its electrical charge cable The connector is a type SAE J1772 When the connector is connected to the car, the ignition is supposed to be disabled, and the car is not supposed to be able to be removed from Park. Neither safety system was operable. When the car was moved, it broke the connector, exposing the bare pins. Hazard - potential exposure to electrocution or fire There is a small orange indicator on the display when the cable is connected. It should be RED, and it should inhibit the operation of the car.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF2GTAPC2LH
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owned a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that as attempted to park her vehicle at 5 MPH, the vehicle independently accelerated without warning and drove onto a boulder. The air bags did not deploy upon impact. Three of the contact’s front teeth were knocked out as a result of the failure. The police were called to her property; however, a police report was not filed since the failure happened on private property. The contact was able to make an appointment with a dentist where she was treated for a fractured jaw; in addition, two front teeth were extracted from her jaw. Once her jaw had healed, dental implants were used to replace her missing teeth. The vehicle was towed to an independent auto body mechanic and later sold the vehicle since she no longer felt safe driving it. The dealer was notified of the failure; however, they claimed to have never heard of such a failure. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The whereabouts of the vehicle are unknown. The failure mileage was 5,104.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-10
- VIN: jf2gtabc9lh
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: My 2020 Subaru crosstrek has repeatedly had its windshield crack for little to no reason. I have noticed my windshield crack in a similar spot (near the vin number area) multiple times with no incidents where a rock or other debris struck the windshield. This provides a visual distraction and safety issue while driving.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-30
- VIN: JF2GTDNCXLH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The vehicle has experience numerous times now, and has been to the dealer for repairs regarding an unanticipated loss of all ability to accelerate or maintain speed until the vehicle is shutdown and restarted. This has caused significant stress when traveling on a fast moving freeway in the fast lane and then having to quickly get to the shoulder to "power-cycle" the vehicle. The dealer has seen the vehicle 5 times for this issue in the 10 months we have owned it, starting at 6k miles and we just got it back from 2 weeks with the dealer; today it has 9k miles. The dealer has told is that the vehicle losing all power and ability to accelerate or maintain speed is a safety feature. I feel having my wife and three children in a vehicle the significantly increases the chances for collision as very much the opposite of a safety feature. We have tried working with the dealer over the past 6 months and 3k miles, but need the help of an advocate who can influence the dealer to correct the issue before someone gets hurt or worse. The date shown below is only the first instance of many instances of power loss.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-01
- VIN: JF2GTAMC0LH
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Windshield cracked across bottom portion. Many other Subaru owners have had the same problem.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-01
- VIN: JF2GTACCXLG
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Windshield defective/easily damaged. Minor roadway pebble created a pit. Seems to be an issue with many Subarus.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-16
- VIN: Jf2gtdnc0lh
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My front windshield cracked one day on its own sitting in my driveway.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-12
- VIN: JF2GTAEC6L8
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The windshield seemed to just start cracking for no known reason.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-20
- VIN: JF2GTAPC0L8
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Battery drains quickly.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-21
- VIN: Jf2gtaec6l8
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Windshield spontaneously cracked
Negative 2020 Subaru Crosstrek car reviews
Positive 2020 Subaru Crosstrek car reviews
-
PHEV is perfect if most of your driving is close by. No need for complicated chargers. The car rides beautifully and feels like affordable luxury.
-
I'm so glad to hear that you love your Crosstrek Limited! It's great to know that it's small yet roomy and dependable. I understand that you were considering trading it for a 2024 model, but unfortunately, the color selection isn't to your liking. I hope you find the perfect car for you soon!
-
I have no advice other than to suggest doing some research and following your instincts!
-
The car is a great choice, especially the base model which can be purchased for a low 20's price tag. This is an excellent value for the money. However, if you dress it up, it's easy to end up paying around 30k with tax. Before doing that, I would strongly recommend paying a little extra for a Forrester or Outback. These cars offer much more and are bigger than a compact SUV, but smaller and less roomy inside than full-size sedans. In certain circumstances, such as urban areas, a smaller car can be an advantage. Overall, it's a nice complement to my sedan and an excellent choice for my kids who are home using it until they can return to college.
-
My Crosstrek is a beautiful pearl white and has all the safety features I wanted. The car has not a scratch or dent on it. Don, my salesman, provided me with the Car Facts, the inspection report and prior maintenance performed on the car. What more could I ask for?!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2020 Subaru Crosstrek problems:
2020 Subaru Crosstrek Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Mar 3, 2023 ... It is very reliable car. We bought it for my wife. Great quality build. Drives good. Only has couple s. All issues. Sound insulation is not to ...
Has your Crosstrek had a lot of issues? : r/Crosstrek
Feb 8, 2023 ... Wheel bearings are somewhat known to be a common failure point on the Crosstrek. The 60k maintenance interval is standard operating procedure ...
Model Years 2012 to 2017 - 2014 Crosstrek Common problems ...
2014 Crosstrek Common ... #1 · Jan 31, 2020. I have a 2014 Crosstrek limited with the factory extended warranty to 7 years 100k ... Model Years 2012 to 2017 ...
Subaru Crosstrek Reliability? : r/subaru
Sep 12, 2021 ... Subaru Crosstrek Reliability? Buying Advice ... More recent Subarus don't have the same reliability problems. ... 2020 to repair some steering ...
2020 Subaru Crosstrek Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
Fritz Gusikowski 2024-11-29
I leased my Crosstrek Hybrid 6 months ago and have been disappointed with the fuel efficiency. My niece bought a new Crosstrek Sport around the same time and we've both taken our cars on long road trips, used for moderate commutes, and in town driving at lower speeds/more stops. Her fully gas engine has consistently gotten slightly better gas mileage than my hybrid, particularly on longer distance highway trips. I do quite a bit better on short in town trips, but still average below Subaru's claims. The absolute best gas mileage I have ever achieved in the car is 50mpg, doing urban driving in Portland, OR. Although the mpg on the window sticker and Subaru website claims the vehicle gets between 35-90mpg, I never expected to get 90mpg, we all know those claims are exaggerated. However, I never expected that my combined highway/city mpg would be less than 35mpg. The rest of the car is fine. It looks nice, it's comfortable, the safety features are fantastic, and the handling is actually a little better than expected. The drivetrain feels inconsistent though, sometimes runs smoothly and pleasantly unremarkable but other times it sounds and feels like it is working way too hard. I have reached out to Subaru with my concerns and they have been helpful in trying to resolve the issue. Although they were not able to find any defects, they have provided me with some tips on how to improve my fuel economy. I appreciate their assistance and hope to see an improvement soon!The staff at the dealership were very friendly and well-intentioned. However, I was surprised that they thought I didn't know that a plug-in hybrid needs to be charged. Additionally, I use an auto insurance app that monitors my driving, and even when I'm intentionally trying to get the best mpg with gradual starts/stops and consistent moderate speeds, I can't achieve better than 35mpg. That's with a lot of focus on how I'm driving, which isn't sustainable. On average, I get 27mpg, while my niece's Sport averages 34mpg. In this case, the hybrid seems to be worse for the environment, as it uses more gas and the materials used in a lithium battery are not exactly eco-friendly. I believe it involves mining and special disposal precautions, among other things. I reached out to Subaru corporate, but unfortunately, they declined to comment or respond, other than reiterating my lease terms. I'm quite disappointed.
Benjamin Jones 2024-04-24
There are a few things about this car that can be frustrating. I would not recommend getting the Rock Fosgate audio upgrade as it does not improve the sound quality. However, I do appreciate the compass feature which is a nice touch. Overall, I would give this car one star.
Lane O'Keefe 2024-03-17
The hatch is manual. However, the car is great overall. It is disappointing to pay 30k for a car and not have automatic features on the hatch release, but it does not detract from the car's other positive qualities.