The Subaru Crosstrek blends car-like handling with SUV capability, making it a popular choice for Bay Area drivers seeking an adventure-ready daily driver. However, even versatile crossovers have their weak spots. We’ve repaired every Crosstrek issue under the sun, so we want to provide Newark Crosstrek owners an insider’s guide to staying ahead of problems.
While later models have largely eliminated earlier issues, understanding the Crosstrek’s maintenance history can help you make an informed buying decision if you’re in the market for this capable crossover. For current owners, learn what issues may crop up by model year so you can catch repairs early. Let’s explore the Crosstrek’s record of reliability.
The Most Common 2013-2016 Crosstrek Issue: Faulty CVTs
The most widespread complaint from early Crosstrek owners centers on the Lineartronic CVT paired with the 148-hp 2.0L boxer engine in models made before 2017. Issues typically surface around 100k miles.
What are the symptoms of Crosstrek CVT failure? Owners cite stalling, jerky shifting, burning smells, and sudden loss of acceleration as red flags. These indicate slippage and imminent failure, so prompt inspection is key to avoid being stranded roadside.
The root cause ties to overheating and poor cooling of CVT fluid. Upgraded cooling systems and transmission tuning in the 2017 model year significantly improved reliability. But for 2013-2016 vehicles, premature wear remains a concern. Replacement or rebuild of the transmission may be required to restore proper function.
Our technicians recommend paying close attention to your Crosstrek’s shifting behavior and acting quickly at the first sign of trouble. Catching issues early can potentially reduce repair costs. We also suggest more frequent inspection of CVT fluid level and condition to stay ahead of overheating risks.
What About Other Drivetrain Components?
Beyond transmission woes, the Crosstrek drivetrain proves relatively robust once pitfalls of early CVT issues are addressed. One exception is premature clutch wear in manual transmission models. Signs like clutch slippage under acceleration, difficulty shifting, and high-rpm engine noise without acceleration point to a worn clutch needing replacement.
Among other major components, we see an occasional leaking head gasket in older models, leading to oil contamination and engine overheating. Water pump failures also sporadically occur. But on the whole, the Crosstrek powertrain earns good marks for longevity when properly maintained.
Any Recurring Suspension or Steering Issues?
Like other Subarus, some Crosstrek owners report uneven tire wear indicating possible alignment issues. This seems most prevalent after off-road use or impacts from potholes or curbs. While alignment improves the issue, we occasionally find worn steering and suspension bushings contributing to alignment problems in higher-mileage vehicles.
Some owners also cite vague steering feel or wandering, often traced to worn tie rod ends or ball joints. Any play detected in steering or suspension joints should be addressed promptly to avoid safety issues plus further component damage from looseness.
In terms of ride comfort, sagging springs or leaking shocks/struts can occur over very high mileages. But many Crosstreks stay tight and responsive for years, especially with periodic rotation and alignment. Overall, few chronic suspension flaws emerge if you keep up with maintenance.
Any Other Problem Areas to Watch?
Some minor electrical gremlins occasionally surface in Crosstreks, with glitchy infotainment systems and power windows among typical complaints. Battery drain seems more prevalent in earlier models as well. Check for warning lights staying on with the engine off or other symptoms of parasitic current draw.
Brake issues also come up, including warped rotors causing pulsation and vibration in the pedal. Aggressive driving in high temperatures can accelerate warping. We recommend using less brake and downshifting manually in downhill driving to reduce heat load whenever possible. This helps preserve your Crosstrek’s original brake components longer.
What About Recalls?
No major recalls have affected Crosstrek safety. However, Takata airbag inflator ruptures did impact Subaru models across the line. If your Crosstrek falls under the Takata recall, be sure to promptly schedule replacement of frontal airbags to avoid safety issues in a collision. You can check your VIN at NHTSA.gov for open recalls.
How Does Reliability Compare to Rivals?
The Crosstrek enjoys a better-than-average reputation for reliability among compact crossovers. It tends to rate near the top of its class according to outlets like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. Key rivals like the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-30 score comparably well for longevity.
For versatility-minded shoppers, we think the minor repair risks presented by the Crosstrek prove worthwhile given its go-anywhere AWD capability paired with car-like manners. Proper maintenance and care for issues in specific model years can help this Subaru go the distance as a daily driver.
Extending Your Crosstrek’s Service Life
To maximize reliability, we recommend Crosstrek owners follow their maintenance minder system closely rather than simply going by mileage intervals. This adjusts to your driving style and habits to optimize service timing. Quick action at the first sign of problems also goes a long way to reduce repair costs.
At Fremont Foreign Auto, we stock parts proven to meet or exceed OEM specs for optimal longevity. This prevents premature re-failure of components after repair. Investing in professional service now pays dividends through years of continued reliability.
The Crosstrek: Still a Sharp Pick Among Compact SUVs
Even with some pitfalls among earlier models, we feel the Subaru Crosstrek delivers better-than-average dependability compared to rivals. For Bay Area drivers needing an affordable, adventure-ready daily driver, it remains a standout choice in its class.
We hope this insider’s guide better equips Crosstrek owners to catch issues early while educating shoppers on the crossover’s repair history. Don’t hesitate to contact our service team with any other questions to help you make an informed decision and stay confident out on the road.
