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.
Social links
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
-
Vehicle year: 2015
I recently had to replace my VW Golf TDI due to reliability issues. I needed a car that could meet a lot of requirements, including good fuel economy, off-road capability, trailer towing capacity, superior safety features, creature comforts (such as navigation, Sirius, Bluetooth, backup camera, heated leather seats, and keyless start), room for my 80lbs dog, easy access for older folks, and good road holding for driving around in the hills and back roads. The XV Crosstrek met all these requirements and more, at a reasonable price. I love the technology packed into this car, especially the EyeSight technology and related features, which are wonderful. With the adaptive cruise control, the car basically drives itself on the freeway. This car is built to carry a heavy load and drives and handles better with many bags of gravel in it than when empty. The hill hold feature is without a doubt the most awesome driveability convenience that I have ever experienced. When driving on jeep trails and other unpaved roads, the handling and ride comfort are truly impressive. Overall, I really love this car. However, there are a few things I don't like. The seats are not uncomfortable, but having owned several VW Golfs, they are no match for the comfort and supportiveness of a VW seat. The controls for the moon roof are the worst I have ever seen, both in function and placement, making them impossible to find while driving without taking your eyes off the road. Similarly, the heated seat controls are awkward and difficult to operate while driving. The middle rear seat belt retractor mounted in the rear hatch area is also inconvenient. I hope Subaru will consider using a seat-integrated middle seat belt retractor like the rest of the civilized world. Finally, at times I have a love-hate relationship with the CVT in this car. Most of the time, the shifting is great and the car moves quickly and responsively, but other times the car seems to bog down when leaving from a stop.I found the paddle shifters to be quite helpful while driving in mountain passes as they prevent the CVT from constantly jumping around in search of the right gear ratio. Although I tried to love this car and still believe it's an excellent vehicle, it wasn't the right fit for me. Perhaps if I had purchased it with a manual transmission, I would still be driving it. However, with the CVT, the car feels dangerously unresponsive and underpowered. It needs at least 30 more horsepower, if not 50. Additionally, in my area, there are many Crosstreks of the same color as mine, and they are almost never driven by men. Driving this car just didn't feel right, and it was bumming me out. So, I decided to trade it in for a new VW GTI, which actually saved me money on my monthly payment and insurance. Although I no longer own a Subaru Crosstrek, I still think they are great cars, and I'm sure I will own one again someday, hopefully a faster one.
-
Vehicle year: 2014
For the past decade, I've owned a variety of turbocharged vehicles, some of which I've modified. However, I've grown tired of dealing with temperamental turbos, too much power in slow traffic, and the exorbitant cost of fuel. What I really needed was a reliable AWD vehicle that could handle the winter months in the mountains, provide good ground clearance, fuel economy, and withstand my outdoorsy lifestyle. I'm happy to report that after 1000 miles, I'm thoroughly impressed with this vehicle. It's surprisingly peppy, and the 145 hp rating is deceiving. It handles mountain roads with ease and never shows any signs of losing power. Plus, I'm getting about 30-32 mpg at 75 mph. I absolutely love it!
-
Vehicle year: 2014
When I first started looking for a car, I didn't even consider the Crosstrek or Subaru. As a real estate agent, I wanted something nice but not the standard luxury car that everyone seems to drive. However, when a family member recommended the Forester, I decided to test drive it. While at the dealership, I saw this little beauty and fell in love. It's perfect for carting around my clients and all my Realtor stuff, and it's also very comfortable and safe. The fact that you can sit up high is a plus, especially when you drive 20k miles a year. I highly recommend the GPS option, which comes with an upgraded sound system and a backup camera. I absolutely love my Crosstrek!
-
Vehicle year: 2015
I love it! Very good acceleration and performance. Very stable. Excellent design. Better mileage than advertised. I was a Honda CRV owner before, and was afraid to change makers, however there is NOTHING I am disappointed in my Crosstrek. I am a one happy Subaru owner!
-
Vehicle year: 2013
This is a really nice little SUV with a cool look! It has sufficient power, although it's not a sports car. Applying the pedal steadily instead of jamming it down eliminates most of the comments about droning or response. The front seats are very comfortable and it has great road hugging performance! However, it rides rougher than expected and it's quite small, so with two adults and a toddler on a road trip it can get really packed. As Edmunds review said, it does not get advertised mileage, but you can expect an average of 25.5-26 MPG. Using 89 octane brings it up to 27-28. Unfortunately, you can't power or remote entry lock without arming the alarm, which can be a bit of a hassle. If you use a sub key/non remote entry key, the alarm can wake up your neighbors at 5 AM. Additionally, manual locking is not available on the rear hatch and there are no air vents for rear passengers.
Are you having problems with your Subaru Xv crosstrek?
Maverick Farrell 2025-09-06
Vehicle year: 2013
I bought this Subaru brand new and initially liked it, but soon discovered that it uses a lot of oil. I was informed that this is due to the light oil it uses. I have to add oil to this car more frequently than any other car I've owned, despite taking extremely good care of it. I travel 80 miles to and from work five times a week. I have always been diligent about having the oil and filters changed at the dealership as per their recommendations, as well as having the tires changed or rotated/balanced and brakes checked frequently and replaced. I have always taken it to a Subaru dealer and trusted them completely. However, at 70,000 miles, I began hearing noises in the front end when making a turn. I brought it to the Subaru dealer and was informed that the front axles are worn to the point of needing replacement. This is unheard of in a 2013 car! I plan on taking this $1000 fix to the Subaru corporate HQ. Please be aware of these issues before purchasing this car.
Humberto Heaney 2025-09-04
Vehicle year: 2014
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with the Hybrid Touring that I purchased about a month ago. Despite the brutal weather we've been having here in the Northeast, I've already put over 1,400 miles on it! Overall, I'm really happy with how the car drives. It's super quiet and the steering has good feedback without being too stiff. Plus, it has a really nice exterior look. I have to say, the traction has been great too! The only downside has been the mileage, which has been averaging about 27 MPG. However, I'm not too worried about it yet since it's still early days and the weather has been really cold. Even with highway only trips, I haven't been able to average over 29 MPG, but I'm not a super fast driver. Thanks for listening!
Fernando Considine 2025-09-01
Vehicle year: 2013
Although I have had some issues with my 2013 cross trek, such as having to replace both front axels and experiencing a malfunction that prevented the car from going out of park, I am confident in Subaru's ability to address these issues. While it did take some effort to get the cost of the repairs covered, Subaru ultimately came through. I have driven many cars over the years, and while this one has had its challenges, I still believe in the quality of Subaru's vehicles.
Unique Tremblay 2025-08-03
Vehicle year: 2014
I owned a subaru forester from 1999-2004...loved the car. Not the nicest looking car but I lived in Colorado at the time and it was the perfect car to commute with as well had drive to the mountains. Since then I moved back east and stuck with toyota/lexus. With the new hybrid crosstrek I thought I would give it another try. I bought the car as a demo model so I did get a great deal, but long story short I was very disappointed. I kept the car only a few months and traded it back in. What a piece of junk. First.. no where near the 29/33. I averaged 23 mpg. The interior of the car was like a toy car. Very low quality. Overall the car is a piece of junk. Beware.
Brock Lesch 2025-08-02
Vehicle year: 2014
I purchased my 2014 Subaru just over a year ago. During this past winter, I noticed that the heat system was not working as well as I had hoped. My feet and legs would get quite cold, and I even considered using a heating blanket. Additionally, the heating system is quite noisy at highway speeds, making it difficult to listen to my audio books. Finally, some of these issues might be more tolerable if the MPG was better than 23 using 87 octane. However, the service representative informed me that the computer indicates 26 MPG, despite the winter weather.