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: 2015
We recently replaced our Jeep Wrangler with a new Crosstrek due to gas mileage, and we couldn't be happier with our first Subaru. The quality of the interior, ride, power, options, and overall look of the vehicle is evident. My wife drives it daily across mountains and loves how it handles. I'm confident in Subaru's safety record, and I know the Crosstrek still has the capability to handle bad weather. The controls and instrument panel are easy to use, and the view is exceptional. While there is a slight jolt between the electrical motor and the engagement of the gas engine after setting at a stop, the fuel savings make it worth it in my opinion. What a fun ride!
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Vehicle year: 2015
I recently test drove various Crosstrek models, including other Subaru cars, and found that the hybrid touring version was much more enjoyable to drive than the base model or the limited Crosstrek. In my opinion, it was a lot quieter and provided an overall great experience, which is why I ended up purchasing the 2015 Crosstrek Hybrid Touring. Although it may not be the fastest car out there, it doesn't bother me as I have a motorcycle for that. The cargo department is a bit lacking due to the hybrid battery taking up some of the space, but besides that, I am extremely happy with my purchase. Setting up the Bluetooth was a breeze (you can connect up to 5 devices), the speakers are not the most powerful, but they are more than enough for me, and the push button start is a nice touch. The navigation system works great too! I am averaging close to 33 mpg, which is amazing compared to my previous car that only got around 13 mpg (92 Nissan Pathfinder). I couldn't be happier with this car! (Well, maybe if it had a little more cargo room, but I can live with it).
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Vehicle year: 2015
I've only had my 2015 Limited since Dec. 31 and 600 miles but so far, it has exceeded my expectations. The Crosstrek is a practical vehicle with legendary AWD and durability, and it also boasts thoughtful design, comfort, and overall appearance. It handles great, is relatively quiet, and has impressive and still improving economy (+/- 30 mpg). The braking is excellent and it has more-than-adequate power/acceleration for real-world situations, all in this compact package. (Somewhat smaller than a Forester, CRV or the rest of that herd, it's the right size for me.) In short, I'm pleasantly surprised and delighted with my Crosstrek, and I'm looking forward to a long
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Vehicle year: 2013
I bought my SUV six months ago in the midst of an upper Michigan blizzard and I must say, it's a really decent vehicle. The exterior is nice looking, with lifted suspension and larger tires that make a difference over the typical Impreza. It performs very well in snow, whether it's deep or packed. The interior is somewhat plain, but that's to be expected at this price point. The seats are great, solid and with plenty of room for my 6'2
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Vehicle year: 2015
This vehicle may not be perfect for everyone, but it fits my needs perfectly. I have heard some complaints about the engine not having enough power, but I have not found it to be especially underpowered. In fact, I am getting up to 40 mpg on the freeway with the non-hybrid XV and around 34 mpg in mixed city driving if I am careful about not having a led foot. As my first subie, I did a lot of research before deciding on this vehicle. In my opinion, there is no other vehicle in its class that shines in every aspect that the XV does. I wanted a car that I could take on rough roads in the Sierras without having to worry about getting stuck or damaging my vehicle. At the same time, I drive several hundred miles a week and park on city streets. The XV Crosstrek is short enough that I can fit into tight spots in the City, gets good gas mileage, has a rack for my surfboard, and can go off-road with 8.7 inches of ground clearance. That's more like a jeep than a crossover SUV. Just to compare, the Jeep Cherokee trail rated has 8.7 and a Toyota Rav4 has 6.3 inches of ground clearance.
Are you having problems with your Subaru Xv crosstrek?
Lamar Luettgen 2025-04-19
Vehicle year: 2013
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I noticed that you were in the market for a new car. It's great to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your 2000 Impreza! I wanted to let you know that the 2012 Impreza with the 2.0 engine and CVT transmission is rated at an impressive 36 MPG, which is fantastic for an AWD vehicle. I test drove one myself, but wasn't completely sold on it at first. However, Subaru must have been listening because not long after, they introduced the Crosstrek. They fixed everything that I didn't like about the Impreza, including the shocks, brakes, and the fact that the base model didn't have cruise control. The Crosstrek has better suspension, huge killer brakes, a bigger gas tank and radiator, and a lower gear ratio. Plus, it has nice 17
Cristina Stroman 2025-04-03
Vehicle year: 2014
The sticker claimed 31mpgs, which is close to what was expected. Admittedly, I never looked at the MPGs, mostly just the price. The car barely gets 30mpg, which is not much better than my 2008 Forester. Like many car companies, Subaru wanted a hybrid in their line-up. So they picked the Crosstrek and rigged it as a hybrid, though it was never really designed as a real hybrid, like a Prius. Otherwise, it's decent enough and comfortable. I got the touring model, which has all the bells and whistles, some of which I don't understand, such as the entertainment system. The touch screen for the navigation system/entertainment system is clunky. After 5 years of ownership, the only repair needed was to replace a strut and two batteries - the normal battery in any car plus another one that restarts the engine when the car is in idle (at a stoplight). This latter battery, one of two that are only part of the hybrid system, is very expensive and not covered by the longer engine/transmission warranty. This is not the battery that can power the car, it's a smaller battery used only for re-starting the car. Since buying it, Subaru upped the oil change interval from 7,500 to 6,000 (upped, meaning more frequent change). The engine is a 2.0L - to me, it's very under-powered, especially living in a hilly area. I think the literature has it as 148 horse power - that's like a pony. A real oddity is that the doors don't lock automatically when the gas pedal is depressed. But it has everything I'd ever want in a vehicle plus other stuff. But, so far, it's not fulfilling the primary expectation of better gas mileage than a regular car. NOTE - the hybrid seems to have been discontinued as of 2017, so it must not have sold well and I can see why. It's a decent car, but not a good hybrid.
Quinn Harber 2025-04-01
Vehicle year: 2014
Please be aware that we do not recommend purchasing a Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid or a Crosstrek due to some quality issues that have been reported. It is important to note that Subaru is no longer building Hybrid models due to some faults in the hybrid system after 2016. This may result in higher repair costs and longer wait times for repairs. We suggest considering other options to avoid any potential issues. Thank you for your understanding.
Carleton Cartwright 2025-03-17
Vehicle year: 2014
We bought our Crosstrek brand new in 2013, and unfortunately, we've had issues with interior rattles since day one. Despite the dealership's efforts to fix the problem by adding extra foam to the A Pillars and speaker grills, the rattles persisted. These rattles were so loud that even passengers in the back seat could hear them, and they were incredibly frustrating. After multiple visits to the dealership, a technician discovered that a bolt in the dash area was rattling against the car frame. Although more padding was added, as of December 2014, we still have an annoying rattle in the dash. Despite this issue, we still enjoy using the car for all other purposes. However, we would not choose to purchase a Crosstrek again.
Peter Boyer 2025-03-14
Vehicle year: 2014
UPDATE: We really enjoyed our Crosstrek, in bright orange, but after driving it for a while, I noticed my arm was sore. At first, I didn't understand why, but I eventually figured out that it was pulling to the right upon any acceleration. As a car enthusiast, I remembered torque steer, and it was just like that but obvious at all levels of acceleration. Unfortunately, the dealer was unable to fix it, and the technicians denied that it was happening. However, I tried a brand new one and found no torque steer. So, the dealer traded it in for a new one and put the broken one on the lot as a non-certified pre-owned vehicle. I was happy with the replacement, but I felt bad for whoever bought the broken one after me. Anyway, the replacement was fine until someone stole the wheels and tires off of it while it was parked in front of my house. Those were some nice wheels. After that, I started driving it in I95 rush hour traffic and found that it couldn't handle the speed of I95 with as much grace as it should have; it felt wonky. So, I traded it in for a competitor's SUV. Despite losing some cash along the way, I am so happy I made the switch. The other problems that surfaced were on the second one. If you had the heater in the bi-level mode, the engine would run rough like it was going to stall. All other modes were okay. The engine has a 60K tune-up interval. When cold, it had a very fast idle, which reminded me of something from the 80s. That being said, I also had major problems with my feet hurting after driving for a while. At 5'11