WORST Subaru Crosstrek Years To Avoid, as per Real Owner Complaints

Did you know that Subaru Crosstrek owners have reported over 500 complaints about the 2016, 2017, and 2018 models? These years are known for problems like transmission issues and high oil consumption.

If you’re looking for a reliable car, it’s important to know which models to avoid. Understanding these problems can help you make a better decision.

Let’s look into why knowing which years to avoid might save you from a lot of trouble and costly repairs.

Key Takeaways

Avoid the 2016 Crosstrek because it has transmission problems and doesn’t perform well.
The 2018 Crosstrek uses a lot of oil and has some safety issues.
Crosstreks from 2013 to 2017 have repeated problems with their CVT transmissions.
The 2017 Crosstrek has recalls for brake lights and safety issues related to that.
Models from 2013, 2014, and 2018 need frequent oil top-ups, which hurts their reliability.

Quick Answer: Years to Avoid

When looking at a Subaru Crosstrek, it’s best to avoid the 2016, 2017, and 2018 models due to various problems. The 2016 model has performance and transmission issues, making it a risky choice.

The 2018 model suffers from oil consumption problems and safety concerns, hurting its reliability. Additionally, first-generation Crosstreks (2013-2017) have CVT issues, leading to expensive repairs and lower performance. The 2013 and 2014 models are particularly problematic.

To ensure a more reliable driving experience, it’s smart to skip these model years.

Safe Model Years

If you’re looking for a reliable Subaru Crosstrek, consider the 2017, 2019, 2020, or 2021 models. These years have great performance and fewer reported problems. By choosing one of these, you’ll likely have a smoother driving experience with fewer issues.

Here are four reasons to pick these models:

Better safety features: Advanced technology for your peace of mind.
Improved performance: Better handling and driving feel.
Fewer reported problems: Lower chance of mechanical issues.
Updated technology: Stay connected and comfortable.

Investing in a 2017, 2019, 2020, or 2021 Crosstrek means you’re choosing reliability and performance.

Problematic Model Years

When deciding which Subaru Crosstrek years to avoid, there are some major reliability and safety issues to keep in mind.

The 2016 model had performance problems, and the 2018 model had issues with oil consumption.

First-generation models, especially the 2017, had trouble with the CVT and brake light recalls, which increased risks.

Major Reliability Issues

The 2016 Subaru Crosstrek has significant performance issues and transmission problems, so it’s best to avoid it.

The 2018 Crosstrek also has high oil consumption and some safety concerns.

Additionally, first-generation Crosstreks (2013-2017) are known for problems with their CVT transmissions, which affects their reliability.

The 2013 Crosstrek in particular had a lot of initial problems, making it a less appealing choice.

Key issues to consider:

2016 Crosstrek: Transmission problems and poor performance.
2018 Crosstrek: High oil consumption and safety concerns.
2013-2017 Crosstreks: Recurring CVT transmission issues.
2017 Crosstrek: Brake light recalls and related safety concerns.

For a more reliable driving experience, it’s best to avoid these specific model years.

Significant Safety Concerns

If you’re thinking about getting a Subaru Crosstrek, it’s important to know about some major safety issues with certain years.

The 2013 model had early problems, so you might want to avoid that one.

The 2014 model still had issues, making it less reliable.

The 2018 Crosstrek had trouble with its infotainment system.

More recently, the 2020 Crosstrek had problems with its CVT, adding to reliability concerns and making it a year to avoid.

However, the 2015 Crosstrek is known for its sturdy design and high safety ratings.

To have a safe and reliable driving experience, it’s best to steer clear of these troublesome years.

Crosstrek Problem Counts

Several Subaru Crosstrek model years have had some serious problems, making them a hassle for owners. The 2012 to 2015 models are especially known for using too much oil, which hurts engine performance and raises maintenance costs. Faulty brake light switches are another safety issue seen in various years.

Here are the main problems to watch out for:

Head gasket failures that can cause the engine to overheat or even fail.
Excessive oil consumption that lowers engine performance and hikes up maintenance costs.
Faulty brake light switches that pose a safety risk.
Rust and corrosion that can weaken the vehicle’s structure.

Dealing with these issues can make owning a Crosstrek quite expensive and frustrating.

Common Issues

When looking at the Subaru Crosstrek, you’ll notice some common problems. These include head gasket failures, using too much oil, and faulty brake light switches. These issues can hurt the car’s performance and be expensive to fix.

Knowing about these problems can help you decide if this car is right for you.

Head Gasket Failures

In Subaru Crosstrek models, especially those made between 2012 and 2015, head gasket failures are common and can cause the engine to overheat and suffer significant damage. This often leads to engine failure and high oil consumption, which can be both expensive and frustrating. It’s important to fix head gasket problems quickly to avoid serious issues.

Here are some of the effects of head gasket failures:

Engine Overheating: Constant overheating can cause permanent engine damage.
High Repair Costs: Repairing head gasket issues can be costly due to the amount of work and parts needed.
Safety Risks: A faulty head gasket can affect your car’s performance and safety.
Lower Resale Value: Ongoing head gasket problems can greatly reduce your car’s resale value.

Stay alert to prevent these costly and troublesome issues.

Excessive Oil Consumption

Besides head gasket failures, another big issue for Subaru Crosstrek models from 2012 to 2015 is that they use too much oil. Owners often have to add more oil, which means higher maintenance costs and possible engine problems. This can make the car less reliable in the long run, leading to more time and money spent on upkeep than you might expect.

Using too much oil not only costs more but can also cause serious engine problems if not fixed quickly. Subaru knows about this issue and has offered solutions, but it’s still a big concern for people thinking about buying these models. Overall, it’s best to avoid these years if you want a reliable Crosstrek with low maintenance costs.

Brake Light Switch

A common problem in Subaru Crosstrek models is a bad brake light switch, which can seriously affect safety and reliability. The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek, specifically, had a recall because the brake lights weren’t working properly, which increased the chance of accidents.

Fixing the brake light switch issue is crucial for safe driving. Here are the main safety concerns related to this problem:

Higher Risk of Accidents: Broken brake lights can cause rear-end crashes.
Lower Reliability: The 2017 model’s reliability went down due to this issue.
Safety Recalls: Subaru recalled cars to fix the faulty brake light switch.
Driver Awareness: If your brake lights don’t work, other drivers won’t know when you’re stopping.

These points show why it’s important to fix brake light switch problems quickly.

Head Gasket Problems

Head gasket problems in Subaru Crosstrek models from 2012 to 2015 are a big issue that can cause serious engine damage or overheating. These head gasket problems are common among Crosstrek owners and often lead to expensive repairs and lots of time without your car.

If you have one of these models, you might notice coolant leaks, white smoke from the exhaust, or a drop in engine performance. Fixing head gasket problems early is essential to avoid major engine damage. It seems that the materials and design Subaru used for the head gaskets during these years are the main cause.

Regular maintenance and keeping a close eye on things can help reduce some risks, but this issue is still a major concern for these model years.

Oil Consumption Issues

If you’re thinking about getting a Subaru Crosstrek, keep in mind that some years, like 2013, 2018, and 2020, have had problems with using too much oil.

Knowing why this happens can help you decide if this car is right for you. Here are a few tips to help you deal with these issues.

Common Affected Model Years

The 2013, 2014, and 2018 Subaru Crosstrek models are known for having oil consumption problems, which can hurt engine performance and increase maintenance costs. As an owner, you might find yourself constantly checking and adding oil, which can be annoying and expensive. Here are some reasons to be concerned:

Frequent oil top-ups: You’ll need to keep adding oil to your 2013, 2014, or 2018 Crosstrek regularly, which can be a hassle and can add up in cost.
Engine performance issues: Using too much oil can cause your engine to wear out faster and not run as well.
Higher maintenance costs: You’ll likely spend more on service visits and repairs because of the increased oil usage.
Risk of engine damage: If you don’t keep an eye on your oil levels, it could cause serious damage to your engine, leading to expensive repairs or even needing a new engine.

Causes of Oil Consumption

Subaru Crosstreks can use up oil for a few key reasons: worn-out piston rings, leaky valve seals, or bad gaskets. If these problems aren’t fixed quickly, they can cause serious engine damage.

Worn piston rings let oil seep into the combustion chamber, which increases oil use and might cause the engine to misfire. Leaky valve seals can make oil burn with the exhaust, leading to visible smoke and lower fuel efficiency. Bad gaskets can cause oil leaks, making the issue worse.

Regularly checking your oil levels and fixing any leaks right away is crucial. Not keeping enough oil in your engine can lead to bigger problems and expensive repairs later on.

Tips for Potential Buyers

If you’re thinking about buying a Subaru Crosstrek, especially from the years 2013 to 2018, be aware that these cars are known for using up too much oil. This can lead to expensive repairs if you don’t keep an eye on it.

Here are some simple tips to protect your purchase:

Check Oil Levels Often: Keep an eye on your oil so you can spot any quick drops.
Look for Extended Warranties: Subaru knows about this problem and offers extended warranties for cars that have it.
Ask for Maintenance Records: Make sure the previous owners have regularly changed the oil and done other needed services.
Test Drive and Inspect: When you take the car for a test drive, look out for warning lights and check for oil leaks.

Following these steps can help you avoid future problems.

Rust and Corrosion

For some Subaru Crosstrek model years, rust and corrosion have really affected the car’s exterior, especially in places with tough weather and lots of road salt. People have noticed rust showing up early, particularly on the roof welds and other important spots.

This isn’t just about looks; it can weaken the car’s structure over time. If you live in an area with harsh winters or where road salt is used a lot, these issues can get worse. Regular maintenance and quick treatment are essential to fix these problems.

Ignoring rust and corrosion can cause serious damage, cutting down the car’s lifespan and safety. So, it’s important to keep these issues in mind if you’re thinking about getting a Crosstrek.

Brake Light Switch Defects

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek had a big safety issue because of a problem with the brake light switch, leading to a major recall. This faulty switch caused the brake lights to stop working correctly, making it more likely for accidents to happen.

Subaru’s recall aimed to fix this serious problem by offering free inspections and replacements at their dealerships.

If you own a 2017 Crosstrek, here’s why you should act:

Higher accident risk: If your brake lights don’t work, other drivers can’t see you stopping.
Legal problems: Broken brake lights can get you a traffic ticket.
Crash danger: You’re more likely to get rear-ended.
Peace of mind: Fixing the problem means safer driving.

Taking care of the brake light switch recall right away is crucial for your safety.

Reliability Concerns

When thinking about buying a Subaru Crosstrek, you should know about some common problems with certain model years.

For example, the 2016 model had issues with the transmission, and the 2013 and 2018 models had problems with using too much oil.

These issues can lead to frequent repairs and higher maintenance costs, which can affect your overall experience with the car.

Common Mechanical Issues

If you own a Subaru Crosstrek or are thinking about getting one, there are some common mechanical problems in certain years that you should know about. These issues can affect how reliable and well the car performs.

Here are the main problems to look out for:

2016: This year had issues with the transmission, which can make driving less smooth.
2018: Some owners reported that the car uses too much oil, which can lead to engine problems.
2013: There were a lot of complaints about the car using too much oil, which could mean engine troubles.
2015: This year had problems with the suspension, affecting how the car handles and rides.

Knowing about these problems can help you make better decisions and avoid expensive repairs later on.

Frequent Repair Expenses

If you’re thinking about buying a used Crosstrek, be aware that repair costs for the 2013 and 2014 models can be pretty high. These years are known for having reliability problems, like head gasket issues and using too much oil. These problems can lead to frequent and expensive repairs, making it less cost-effective to own one.

Maintenance costs can also add up quickly, putting more strain on your budget. It’s important to consider these reliability issues before you decide to buy a used Subaru Crosstrek from these years. By understanding the potential financial impact, you can make a better decision and possibly avoid the problems that come with the 2013 and 2014 Crosstrek models.

Safety Issues

Over the years, some Subaru Crosstrek models have had serious safety problems that you should know about before buying. These issues range from airbags not deploying to problems with the brakes, which can make the vehicle unsafe.

Here are some concerning problems:

2013 Subaru Crosstrek: Airbags mightn’t deploy in an accident, which could leave you unprotected.
2014 Subaru Crosstrek: Brake issues that could make it harder to stop the car quickly.
2015 Subaru Crosstrek: Visibility problems, making it difficult to see pedestrians and other vehicles.
2016 Subaru Crosstrek: Issues with electronic stability control, which could lead to losing control of the car.

These aren’t just minor issues; they pose real risks to drivers and passengers. Be informed and careful if you’re thinking about these models.

Performance Problems

Performance problems in some Subaru Crosstrek model years have hurt the driving experience and reliability.

The 2018 Crosstrek, for example, had issues with acceleration, making it slow and unresponsive, which could be annoying when trying to overtake or merge.

The 2015 model year had engine stalling problems, causing the car to shut down unexpectedly and making driving less predictable.

The 2014 Crosstrek had transmission problems, leading to rough or delayed gear changes that disrupted smooth driving.

These issues have damaged the Crosstrek’s reputation for reliability and performance.

If you’re thinking about buying a used Crosstrek, be especially wary of these model years to avoid potential problems.

Interior Quality

When it comes to the inside of the Subaru Crosstrek, some model years have had issues that might affect how much you enjoy driving it. If you’re thinking about getting a Crosstrek, keep these common problems in mind:

2014: Rattling noises inside that can get really annoying.
2016: Seats that wear out quickly, making them look bad and uncomfortable.
2017: Cracking dashboards, which can make the car look old and hurt its resale value.
2015: Problems with the heating and cooling system, which can make the cabin less comfy.

These issues show why it’s important to check out a used Crosstrek carefully before buying. The quality of the interior can really affect how happy you’re with the car, so be aware of these potential problems.

Exterior Concerns

When thinking about the outside of the Subaru Crosstrek, be aware of a few problems that have come up in different years.

In 2014, some owners noticed the paint peeling, which made the car look bad.

The 2015 Crosstrek had issues with rust, which hurt its durability.

For the 2016 model, many people reported windshield cracks, which affected the car’s safety.

These problems change from year to year, but they can really affect how happy you’ll be with the car and how long it will last.

Pay attention to these issues so you can make a better choice and avoid expensive repairs.

Always check these things carefully before buying a used Crosstrek to make sure you don’t get stuck with these problems.

Cost of Ownership

When looking at different Subaru Crosstrek years, you should also think about how much it will cost to own one. Some models are more expensive over time because of high maintenance costs, frequent repairs, and insurance rates.

Here are some key points:

2013 Model: This year is particularly costly due to high maintenance costs.
2014 Model: Frequent repairs make this year more expensive to own.
2015 Model: The cost of replacing parts adds up, making ownership pricier.
2016 Model: Higher-than-average insurance rates increase the cost of ownership.

Additionally, the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek has a lower resale value, which affects your long-term finances. Keep these points in mind to make a smart and cost-effective choice when picking a Crosstrek.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Biggest Complaint About the Subaru Crosstrek?

The biggest complaint about the Subaru Crosstrek, based on customer reviews, is problems with the head gasket. This often causes the engine to fail or overheat, leading to expensive repairs and a lot of frustration for owners.

What Are Good Years for a Subaru Crosstrek?

Imagine driving the ideal car! For the Subaru Crosstrek, go for models from 2018 and newer. They have the best features, fewer common problems, and cool upgrades like the 2.5 engine in the 2021 model.

Is a Subaru Crosstrek a Reliable Car?

Yes, the Subaru Crosstrek is usually a reliable car. It has good gas mileage, can handle off-road driving well, and comes with good safety features. But, you should look into specific model years to check for any problems before you buy one.

Why Is Subaru Discontinuing the Crosstrek?

There are no reasons for stopping the Subaru Crosstrek. It’s still popular, versatile, and an important part of Subaru’s lineup. Subaru hasn’t said anything about ending this model; it keeps getting updates.

When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Subaru Forester, Subaru Impreza, Subaru Legacy and Subaru Outback. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.

Conclusion

If you’re thinking about getting a Subaru Crosstrek, it’s best to avoid the 2016, 2017, and 2018 models. These cars have had issues with their transmissions, used too much oil, and had some safety recalls.

Picking a different year can save you from a lot of headaches and costly repairs down the road. Taking these steps now can help you avoid big problems later.

About the author

David Lawrence

David grew up among mechanics and off-road enthusiasts, gaining deep knowledge in car mods, off-roading techniques, and automotive engineering, making him a trusted 4x4 expert.