Subaru Xv 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 Xv crosstrek model years
Common Subaru Xv crosstrek problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Subaru XV Crosstrek, here are some common problems associated with this car:
- Dangerous Steering in Slush/Snow/Ice: Owners of the 2013 XV Crosstrek have reported dangerous steering issues in slush, snow, or ice conditions, with an average cost to fix around $200 and an average mileage of 29,000 miles.
- Engine Failure: The 2013 XV Crosstrek has also been associated with engine failure issues, with an average cost to fix around $5,500 and an average mileage of 94,000 miles.
- Excessive Oil Consumption: Models from 2012 to 2015 have been known to have problems with excessive oil consumption, requiring owners to frequently top up their oil levels to prevent engine damage.
- Rust and Corrosion: Premature rust and corrosion have been reported in Subaru models, including the Crosstrek, especially in colder regions where road salt is used, leading to potential structural issues.
- Defective Brake Light Switch: A problem with the brake light switch has been identified, which may prevent it from functioning correctly when the driver presses the brake pedal, affecting safety. This issue led to the recall of 2.3 million vehicles.
These problems can impact the performance, safety, and longevity of the Subaru XV Crosstrek. Owners should be aware of these issues and take necessary precautions to address them promptly to ensure the optimal functioning of their vehicles.
What is the common problem with Subaru XV?
One of the most common issues with the Subaru XV is dirty oil. Dirty oil can cause the engine to overheat and can shorten the lifespan of your engine. Luckily, you can prevent this issue by changing the oil regularly.
What is the common problem of a Subaru Crosstrek?
Inside the plastic. Molding. This issue can cause the EPS light to illuminate in the instrument panel. And in some cases the electric power steering assist can become disabled.
How reliable is a Subaru XV Crosstrek?
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.
Do Subaru Crosstreks 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 Xv crosstrek years
We have researched Subaru problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Subaru Xv crosstrek cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Subaru Xv crosstrek model years:
- Subaru Xv crosstrek 2014
- Subaru Xv crosstrek 2015
- Subaru Xv crosstrek 2013
- Subaru Xv crosstrek 2016
- Subaru Xv crosstrek 2017
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Subaru Xv crosstrek model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Subaru Xv crosstrek years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Subaru Xv crosstrek car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Subaru Xv crosstrek , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Xv crosstrek vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Xv crosstrek model years
A total of 20 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 Xv crosstrek model years
There were a total of 5 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 Xv crosstrek model years
There were a total of 10 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 280 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Xv crosstrek . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Xv crosstrek vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: JF2GPAKCXD2
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: The recall Type: Safety Service Campaign:WTY84 NHTSA Campaign: 18V772000 FB20 Valve Spring Replacement was reported completed by the manufacturer Subaru has no record of it being done. My car is now experiencing symptoms of this recall when I had no issues prior and want me to pay to look into the problem further. Now my vehicle has a check engine light for a recall that was potentially not done as I have no proof that it was completed.
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: JF2GPBKC3EH
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Horn does not work. No warning indicating malfunctioned horn. Unable to signal other vehicles to prevent car crash. The broken horn has been inspected by mechanic.
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: JF2GPAKC6D2
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The key will not come out of the ignition when turned off and in park. The battery runs with no way to turn it off. This is a known issue with a defective part. Subaru will not cover the repair.
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-09
- VIN: JF2GPBKC9EH
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Passenger side seatbelt stopped locked up and stopped retracting from the device that rolls up the strap into the box.
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-28
- VIN: JF2GPAKC4D2
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2.0L Engine Valve Spring Fracture may Cause Engine stall and excessive oil leaks that migrates in the catalytic converter causing fumes that linger inside the car with a very strong smell.
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-08
- VIN: JF2GPAVC0D2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The electrical harness to the variable fan speed switch overheated melting the harness and switch.
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-17
- VIN: JF2GPAFCXFH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Oil leaking into coolant system. Car has been through several repairs but the problem continues even after multiple repairs of possible source of leakage. Potential hazard or car catching on fire with leaking oil fluid.
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-17
- VIN: JF2GPAVC2EH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The electrical system and engine flickers on and off or sometimes dies entirely. The trigger is unknown and the underlying cause is unknown. It is unsafe because this has occurred while the vehicle is moving. The problem was confirmed and reproduced by a Subaru service center. They were unable to diagnose the issue. There is no warning when it will happen.
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-06
- VIN: JF2GPAPC9F8
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: While driving on the freeway (no overpasses) my sunroof suddenly exploded. when I was able to stop and look at the damage, the remaining part of the sunroof was arched upward. There was no evidence of an object having hit the glass.
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-01
- VIN: JF2GPACC2E8
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Ignition key keeps intermittently locking into ignition when trying to retrieve key. Putting vehicle in park, key will turn engine off, but then will not turn all the way to release the key. Key has a key fob, vehicle is placed on parking gear. Sometimes restarting vehicle can help, sometimes shifting gears and driving vehicle again can help. Sometimes turning steering wheel helps. Sometimes all you can do is wait a few to five minutes to be able to turn off vehicle and retrieve car. No warning lights. After my warranty expired was when I noticed the problem. Bought vehicle used less than a year ago. It can be a safety risk if I cannot retrieve my key and then anyone could jump in and steal it as their is no other way to lock the vehicle unless I automatically locky myself out.
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-28
- VIN: JF2GPAVC8E8
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I started having issues with my car when I could not turn it off -- the key was stuck in the ignition and I was unable to turn the car fully off. This continued to happen and the only fix I found to get the car off was to turn the car back on, shift the gear into drive, then try to turn it off again. Sometimes it would take repeated tries of turning the car on and trying to turn it off. The problems then got worse when I started to have issues starting the car as well; the car would struggle to start and I lost confidence in the vehicle. Every workday I have to drive my car to a location where I have to turn off my vehicle while a security check is performed -- one day I got stuck at this checkpoint when I could not start my car. I was afraid to drive my car, thinking I could get stuck somewhere with it running or with it unable to start. A certified Subaru repair shop confirmed the issue is a known problem with Subaru parts described in a Technical Service Bulletin [XXX] ). There were no warning lights before these problems began and the Subaru dealer told me when they initially ran a diagnostic on the car it came back as having no issues. Since having the part in the gear shifter replaced at personal expense all problems have been resolved. Since Subaru knew of the faulty part in their vehicles, I think they should have issued a recall or at minimum warned their drivers. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-15
- VIN: JF2GPASCXF8
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: During a near collision, attempted to warn other driver of the situation, but the Crosstrek horn did not work. This appears to be a common problem with these vehicles, that the horn does not work reliably in all normal steering wheel positions. Given the horn is an essential piece of safety equipment, this is a significant problem.
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-26
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-27
- VIN: JF2GPASC0F8
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Sunroof spontaneously exploded while driving 65mph on highway.
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-11
- VIN: JF2GPAGC3E8
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Airbag deployed for no reason, while pulling forward slowly from a parking spot. An airbag that deploys when there is no impact or collision is a clear risk to the safety of the driver, passengers and other drivers on the road.
Subaru Xv crosstrek 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-15
- VIN: JF2GPAVC7D2
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: For the record I'm going to list the items here I'd rather them go down in writing then for my words to not have a witness. 1- safety : the Bluetooth connection is busted and crackling for both me and the caller 2- Automation: nothing happens automatic in this car the locks do not go down when I get in motion . the sunroof and the windows do not roll up in auxiliary power after the key is off. 3- Oil: every thousand Miles the oil light to show up I cannot live like that carrying oil in my car when I run a thousand miles every 3 weeks. 4- DENT REPAIR : have asked you to schedule the date guy to pull this dent out of the front driver wheel well and that hasn't happened yet 5- locking mechanism: the trunk has to be slammed closed every time. The passenger side seat belt noise comes on even if I put a bag of to go food in the seat. 6- sanitation: these seats are infected with something I have cleaned them multiple times and my passengers are complaining of itching and feeling a bite when they ride. 7- the front passenger seat has obviously some strong stain that resembles body fluid because it will not come up even when i clean up in the seat of the cushion it keeps reappearing to the surface. 8- overhead: when it rains above my head you can hear sounds of rain as though it's literally trickling in at the driver door. More than I have noticed that sound I'm not sure what's going on in the overhead but it shouldn't sound like that. PLEASE AND THANKS
Recalls Subaru Xv crosstrek
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the Subaru Xv crosstrek.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Subaru Xv crosstrek 2013
- Report Received Date: 2018-11-01
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Subaru Impreza, 2012-2013 Impreza Stationwagon, 2013 Subaru BRZ, XV Crosstrek and Toyota Scion FR-S vehicles. The engine valve springs in these vehicles may fracture causing an engine malfunction or a possible engine stall.
- Consequence: An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. Toyota will notify the FR-S owners. Dealers will replace the valve springs, free of charge. The recall began December 26, 2018. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614, Toyota owners may contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-888-270-9371. Subaru's number for this recall is WTY-84.
- Model: Subaru Xv crosstrek 2015
- Report Received Date: 2015-06-12
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: CRASH IMMINENT BRAKING
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015 Legacy vehicles manufactured March 10, 2014, to April 16, 2015, Outback vehicles manufactured February 24, 2014, to April 16, 2015, Impreza vehicles manufactured September 9, 2014, to April 14, 2015, XV Crosstrek vehicles manufactured October 16, 2014, to April 15, 2015, and 2016 WRX vehicles manufactured March 23, 2015, and equipped with the Eyesight Driver Assist System. If the switch that activates the brake lights fails, the automatic pre-collision braking component of the driver assist system will not function.
- Consequence: If the automatic pre-collision braking system does not function as intended, the vehicle will not react to an obstacle in its path, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the driver assist system, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQS-54.
- Model: Subaru Xv crosstrek 2013
- Report Received Date: 2013-02-25
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with an automatic or CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory, certain model year 2012-2013 Impreza vehicles equipped with a CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory, and certain model year 2013 XV Crosstrek vehicles equipped with a CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory. Additionally included are certain model year 2013 Legacy and Outback vehicles that may have received replacement RES fobs. If the RES fob is dropped, the fob may malfunction and randomly transmit an engine start request without pressing the button.
- Consequence: The engine may inadvertently start and run for up to fifteen minutes. The engine may continue to start and stop until the fob battery is depleted, or until the vehicle runs out of fuel. If the vehicle is parked in an enclosed area, there is a risk of carbon monoxide build-up which may cause headaches, dizziness or, in extreme cases, unconsciousness and/or asphyxiation.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RES key fobs, free of charge. The recall began on April 22, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
Latest negative Subaru Xv crosstrek car reviews
Latest positive Subaru Xv crosstrek car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2014
I absolutely adore my 2014 Plasma Green Crosstrek Hybrid! It's truly awesome! The hybrid system works better than any other hybrid I test drove. It's used for power and torque augmentation, which makes it stand out. I believe Subaru under-reported their MPG figures on purpose. Even though the car isn't broken in yet, I'm already getting almost 38 MPG on the highway and about 31.7 MPG with downtown driving. The CVT and electric motor work together like magic, making the driving experience seamless. The car has
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Vehicle year: 2014
I've put around 60k miles on my Crosstrek and wanted to share my review. As an avid outdoorsman who frequently brings my dogs along for the ride, I find the car to be pretty good. The MPG is impressive, averaging around 24 City and 34 Highway, which is much better than most SUVs in the area. The car handles well in braking, corners, and mountainous terrain. As a kayaker, I often find myself in tough spots, but the Crosstrek's ground clearance really comes in handy. It handles mud holes, muddy and soft ground with ease. However, I have been disappointed with some aspects of the SUV. For example, turning blinkers on the side of the car or mirrors are not included, which is surprising given Subaru's focus on safety. The interior is also quite cheap, lacking overhead lights on the sun visors and featuring easily stained chair material and thin, hard-to-clean carpet. I would recommend investing in seat covers. Additionally, the radio only holds one Bluetooth link, which can be inconvenient for multiple drivers. The engine and transmission are also lacking, struggling to handle even small mountains. There is little pickup, making passing and emergency situations difficult. Unfortunately, there are no performance upgrades available for the engine at this time. Overall, I would recommend the Forester XT to my brother, as it features the WRX engine and provides the power needed for tough situations.The CVT takes a few minutes to warm up and it's important to avoid going over 4k rpm during this time. You can either let it idle until it's ready or drive at less than 4k rpms. Personally, I wouldn't buy another CrossTrek with the CVT and 2.0i engine. I'm actually considering selling it this spring and going with a Forester XT instead.
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Vehicle year: 2014
I've been a loyal Subaru customer for years, but this time I decided to switch things up and go for something other than a Forester. While the engine performance is average, the gas mileage is exceptional, averaging 29 mpg even on rural back roads. The seats are incredibly comfortable and the cabin feels much more spacious compared to my previous Foresters. The doors are also large and provide easy access in and out of the car. I've received many compliments on the aggressive exterior styling, although the interior is more utilitarian and the radio readout is a bit disappointing. Overall, the more I drive it, the more I love it!
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Vehicle year: 2013
The Crosstrek is a fantastic car that handles rough roads with ease. It's easy to maneuver and park, with a tight turning radius that makes it perfect for city driving. On the highway, it feels solid and holds its own at high speeds. The AWD is amazing in snow, making it a great choice for winter driving. The gas mileage is accurate, but with a little effort, I can get even better results: 26-30 in mixed driving and 32-34 on the highway. The interior is comfortable, with all the basic features you need included as standard. The acceleration is surprisingly quick, especially if you wind out the gears, although hills may require a downshift. The gas pedal is more responsive than the rubbery CVT pedal. While it may not be as spacious as our 2014 Forester, it gets way better gas mileage and the wheels are sure to turn heads!
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Vehicle year: 2013
The Crosstrek may not be a Ferrari, but it is still quite quick off the mark, going from zero to 30-40mph in no time. However, it does lose some of its acceleration in the mid-speed range before reaching 60-70 mph. If you want to maintain a decent rate of acceleration, you will need to push down a bit further on the gas pedal. Nevertheless, the acceleration is more than adequate for merging into freeway traffic. Don't listen to the reviewers who say otherwise. For the vast majority of customers who are conscious about gas mileage and looking for a small SUV with a great AWD system, this car is hard to beat. If you don't care about gas mileage or AWD or prefer a larger SUV, then you may want to look elsewhere.
Are you having problems with your Subaru Xv crosstrek?
Kristian Crooks 2025-11-29
Vehicle year: 2014
Hello! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We're sorry to hear that you had some issues with your 2014 XV Crosstek. We understand that the steering and/or chassis problem was unrepairable and that the dealership attempted to fix it but was unable to do so. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused you. We hope that we can work together to find a solution that works for you. Please let us know if there's anything we can do to help.
Dorthy Hickle 2025-11-10
Vehicle year: 2014
I had a different experience with my Crosstrek Hybrid, but I can definitely relate to another user's issues with the navigation. Unfortunately, my car has been plagued with rattles all over, especially with the plastic covering the speedometer and tachometer displays. Passengers in my car often comment on the noise, but I'm hoping that since mine was delivered in November, it's just an early manufacturing issue that has since been resolved. I've had some trouble getting Subaru to help me with these issues, but I'm still hopeful that we can find a solution. Thank you for sharing your experience!
Keshaun Abbott 2025-10-24
Vehicle year: 2013
Let me start by sharing my experience with my Subaru. While I have had some mechanical issues, such as having to replace the lower part of the engine and several wheel bearings, the dealer has been helpful in resolving these issues. However, dealing with these problems has been frustrating and irritating. Despite this, I have found some positives with the car, such as the decent MPG, heated seats, and the perfect amount of room for me. I also appreciate the higher ground clearance, which makes it easier for me to get in and out of the car with my bad back. Additionally, the car performs amazingly well in the snow and ice we get here in Pa. Although there are some negatives, such as uncomfortable seats and dull headlights, I still find the car to be a good fit for my needs. Overall, while my experience with my first Subaru has had its ups and downs, I am still satisfied with my purchase.
Everardo Leffler 2025-10-04
Vehicle year: 2014
Based on recommendations from family members who have owned multiple Subarus, I purchased the Crosstrek Hybrid for its winter handling performance. While I cannot speak for the standard Crosstrek, I have noticed that the hybrid places the heavy battery components in the back, which changes performance dynamics. The car has a tendency to hop and skip with any imperfection in the road, and sometimes I feel like the car is catching air. However, the car is comfortable on the inside and has a decent fit and finish. I have had some issues with the car, such as winter braking and low MPG, but overall, I am satisfied with my purchase.Rear cargo space is limited, so a roof shell may be necessary for family vacations. However, it's important to note that the Hybrid Crosstrek may not perform as well in winter conditions. Despite my personal experience, I appreciate your interest in Subaru and encourage you to do your own research before making a decision.
Geovanny Stoltenberg 2025-10-04
Vehicle year: 2015
At just under 80k miles, my Crosstrek's CVT transmission failed, just past the power train warranty. Despite only using it for highway miles to and from work, the cost to fix it was a staggering $8000. While it's a good car, I was surprised to experience such a quick transmission failure. UPDATE: Subaru replaced the CVT and covered the bill, which was a relief. However, I still have an oil consumption issue that Subaru claims is normal, but I find myself adding nearly a quart between changes. UPDATE 2: Even after running the oil consumption test twice more, I'm still putting in almost two quarts of oil between changes at 102k miles. Despite Subaru's claim that it's acceptable, it's a hassle to carry oil around. FINAL UPDATE: I traded in the Crosstrek with 133k miles on it due to excessive oil consumption, which was not resolved even after replacing the piston rings. The transmission also started to fail, and the catalytic converter was failing due to the oil consumption. The total cost of repairs would have been almost $10,000, which was not worth it. I switched to a Toyota and now make it a habit to check my oil every weekend. In conclusion, I found Subaru to be unreliable.