2018 Subaru Crosstrek

Routine

Owners filed 195 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the wipers. It has been recalled 5 times.

Not among the Subaru Crosstrek years to avoid. Which Subaru Crosstrek years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
18,000 milesMedian miles at failure

117 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2018 Subaru Crosstrek problems

59 of the 195 complaints (30%) are about the wipers.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Visibility/Wiper · wipers59
000
Electrical System30
000
Unknown or Other28
211
Engine24
100
Structure › Body · body and frame9
100
Power Train · transmission8
100
Visibility › Windshield7
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration6
200
Wheels4
000
Seats4
000

5 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Suspension › Rear21V263000
Filed Apr 15, 2021408,271 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.

Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid, and 2019 Forester vehicles. The rear stabilizer bracket bolts may loosen and detach.

Risk. Missing bolts may allow the rear stabilizer bracket to shift, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will retorque and replace any missing bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRD-21.

Electrical System › Software21V264000
Filed Apr 15, 2021466,205 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.

Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Subaru Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, causing a short circuit.

Risk. A short circuit in the ignition coils may cause a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will update the ECM software, replace the ignition coils and, if necessary, the front exhaust pipe, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 1, 2021. Owners can contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE-21. Note: This recall includes all vehicles previously repaired under Recall 19V743.

Electrical System › Software19V743000
Filed Oct 18, 2019466,205 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.

Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, which could result in a short circuit and blown fuse.

Risk. If a short circuit occurs while driving, the vehicle may stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will update the ECM software and inspect and replace the ignition coil, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, on vehicles with confirmed ignition coil damage and a certain stored diagnostic trouble code (DTC), Subaru will replace the front exhaust pipe, free of charge. The recall began December 4, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUQ-02.

Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Crankcase (pcv)19V744000
Filed Oct 17, 2019205,000 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.

Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Impreza and 2018 Crosstrek vehicles equipped with an aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve. The PCV valve may come apart, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, possibly resulting in a loss of power while driving.

Risk. An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the PCV valve, free of charge. If the PCV valve has separated and the components cannot be found, the engine will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began December 2, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUP-01.

Service Brakes17V701000
Filed Nov 7, 20172,367 vehiclesSubaru of America, Inc.

Defect. Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Crosstrek vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with an incorrect floor mat retention bracket, allowing the floor mat to move out of position and interfere with the accelerator or brake pedal operation.

Risk. If the floor mat moves out of position and interferes with the accelerator or brake pedal operation, it can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will inspect the floor mat retention bracket and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 14, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTR-77.

All 5 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Wheels
Filed Oct 2, 2026CA

Wheel studs, continually Shearer off because of mismatched threads between bolt and nuts common problem among a lot of of Subaru

Electrical System
Filed Jul 7, 2026CO

On 06/26/26, while traveling at highway speeds, the vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic loss of motive power in active traffic due to a blown out/melted Cylinder 4 ignition coil. This unexpected engine failure forced raw fuel into the exhaust system, causing an immediate internal thermal meltdown of the catalytic converter, rendering the vehicle entirely undriveable and creating a severe highway safety hazard. This vehicle was previously serviced under NHTSA Campaign 21V264000 (Subaru Recall WRE-21), which was intended to permanently remedy an ECM software defect that over-energizes and melts the ignition coils. Subaru of America (Case # 260630-2101598) is denying coverage, claiming that because the recall was executed 90,000 miles/5 years ago, and because the current software Calibration ID (CID) matches their post-recall database, the thermal melting is standard "wear and tear." I am filing this complaint because a safety recall remedy must be permanent and effective. The physical evidence, a melted plastic coil housing with a hole blown through it, is an engineering impossibility under normal wear and tear and proves that the original software patch failed to permanently mitigate the high-voltage overloading defect. Over a 5-year period of gradual thermal degradation, the defect reoccurred, creating the exact highway hazard the recall was mandated to prevent. I request a federal investigation into the long-term efficacy and failure rates of the WRE-21 software reflash.

Unknown or OtherCrash1 injured
Filed Apr 25, 2026FL

2018 Subaru Crosstrek rapidly accelerated unexpectedly while pulling into a parking space with the foot on the brake. Hit a concrete pole and sustained vehicle damage and injuries.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 20, 2026NY

3/3!2026 while driving heat stop working. Called Milea Saburu spoke to Christian made an appointment for 3/5/2026 they had nothing sooner. Told her what happened. Brought in they gave me loaner 12 days later on 3/18/2026 pick up car. Paid bill they told me everything done no problems. I would get my 250 dollars for the car back in 30 days. Even though they said it was a hold it went through. I live 15 minutes from home. I got in the car heat was blasting turned it off and waited turned it on it worked. Pick up time 4 pm. Drove home parked next day 3/19/2026 turned on car made a tapping nouse after five minutes went away call dealer left message on Andrew manager answering service. Car parked at work 8 15 am to 3 40 pm. Drove home got home at 3 50 am turned off heat heart rushing water like down a creak. Turned off car looked in the front some liquid gushing out car smelled like it was burning. Put paper under car with rock to see color of fluid it was blue new it was coolant call dealer againt went to voice mail manager Andrew hung up went to dealer. Arrived at 4 40 pm Chris service Advisor check said was not save to drive burning smell still there got another loaner another 200 dollar on top of the 250. Called saburu customer advocacy this morning spoke to Latoya 11 15 am 3/20/2026 case number XXX-XXX waiting for someone to call me by Tuesday. I requested a 3 year gold plus warranty as a goodwill gesture to restore my confidence in the vehicle and protect my engine integrity

Engine
Filed Mar 11, 2026MA

Dangerous stall in traffic due to ignition coil failure. Ignition coils and spark plugs were replaced during the WRE21 recall campaign only 13k miles ago back in 2021. Stopped at red light awaiting to turn left when the vehicle started shaking violently. No check engine light came on though. When the light turned green, the vehicle was barely able to move forward then it completely stalled before pulling over to the curb. Since the tail of the car was sticking out into traffic a bit, it was a downright dangerous situation. Car had to be towed to dealership and took them 5 days to diagnose and fix the problem. Ignition coil and spark plug replacements costed $1500. Don't think the recall fixed the root problem and this could potentially happen again.

Suspension
Filed Mar 10, 2026PA

Starting at around 75,000 mileage on my 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, a persistent howling noise is heard while driving. This noise comes from the rear of the vehicle and occurs at nearly all driving speeds, measuring at around 90.0dB while on a highway (a dangerous level for prolonged exposure). A service shop and the dealership have both diagnosed the noise as an issue with the rear wheel bearings (consistent with Subaru Service Bulletin 05-70-19R). In January 2026, my low tire pressure warning light appeared on my dashboard. I checked the tire pressure with a gauge and found no issue. I assumed (and later confirmed while getting a tire changed) that the tire pressure sensor had a dead battery, and that the warning light was related to this dead sensor rather than an issue with the tire pressure. Before getting the sensors replaced, I drove for a week with the low tire pressure warning light on my dashboard. I ignored this sensor because I confirmed daily with a pressure gauge that the tire pressure was fine. However, one day while driving in February 2026, I got a flat tire on the front passenger side. I drove with this flat tire for at least six miles, not knowing I had a flat. The howling noise from the rear wheel bearings masked the noise from the flat tire, and I could not audibly distinguish anything out of the ordinary with my car. Unfortunately, this occurred in the same period of time that my tire pressure warning light was giving false flags for low tire pressure. I feel

Exterior Lighting
Filed Mar 4, 202690,000 milesCO

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the headlight warning light illuminated, and the contact noticed that the passenger's side LED headlight had become inoperable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where a headlight assembly replacement was recommended. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 27, 2026MA

Wheel bearing issue in 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Identified by Subaru but not full recall We were not informed Risk REAR WHEELS WILL FALL OFF Contacted Subaru Advocacy after determining the backing plate was modified due to risk of failure Internet indicated courtesy repair for vehicles under 100,000 miles with new corrected part Repair was denied without full payment not even willing to supply NON DEFECTIVE part at no cost

Power Train
Filed Feb 14, 2026PA

Vehicle was maintained by dealer and out of the blue, started bucking intermittently while driving resulting in an unsafe driving experience. took it to the dealer to evaluate, told us, "They could change the transmission fluid and filter to see if that fixes the problem." they were not sure that would fix the issue. After researching issue, saw there were numerous complaints about the transmission in the 2018 crosstreks. Call a professional transmission shop and will be making an appointment with them in the near future. They told me (and I found out through my own research) if is was the transmission filter and fluid, it would act up all the time, not just intermittently. And... the dealer wanted to charge me $665 to change the filter/fluid and not sure it would fix the problem, seriously? so now I have to wait and see what the transmission shop says. I have also seen post about the ignition box also gives issues, so who knows, maybe it is the ignition cutting out causing it to "buck" every here and there. Either way, the vehicle is unsafe to drive and could potentially cause a major accident if the transmission locks up or the ignition totally cuts out. Should be a recall either way and Subaru should be responsible for it. This is nothing we have done that could've prevented this issue.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Nov 19, 2025OK

The front windshield spontaneously developed a crack about 5 inches long which later suddenly increased to about 15 inches in length. It is our understanding that this problem has occurred in the windshields of other Subaru models. The internet states that Subaru windshields have had a tendency to crack without impact due to the windshield's angle or thinness to accommodate Eyesight technology.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 4, 2025KY

All four tire pressure monitoring sensors failed on my 2018 Subaru Crosstrek at approximately 69,000 miles. The TPMS light remains illuminated, and the system no longer provides low-tire-pressure warnings. Subaru of America acknowledged the issue but declined full repair coverage, offering only partial “Goodwill assistance.” Because TPMS is a federally mandated safety system, a full-system failure poses the risk of operating the vehicle without tire-pressure warning capability. The dealership quoted approximately $1,000 to restore the system. Subaru’s decision to deny full coverage leaves the safety defect uncorrected.

Seats
Filed Aug 13, 2025CA

Driver seat has came loose from its structure, this has been reported by many other owners, the seat track fail and the seat rock back, hopefully it don't fall off track while driving and injure someone, VERY UNSAFE! the other SAFETY issue with our Subaru is the Infotainment system goes on and off intermit with no warning while driving and radio goes on HIGH VOLUME creating health and HEARING damage, very unhealthy for anyone in vehicle when this happens, Dealership says there is no recall for these items, well there should be, let's keep AMERICA safe again, thanks!

Electrical System
Filed Jun 22, 2025FL

Factory alarm is triggered late in the evening while in my garage regardless if vehicle is locked or unlocked

Engine
Filed Mar 9, 2025CA

I have a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, I am the second owner, the first owner bought it in 2019, I am having acceleration problems, I have already taken it to two different mechanics, they say it is a problem with the computer, they have already checked and scanned it and they tell me that you have to reprogram the ECM for DTC P1603 / Engine idle drop or stall, when the car accelerates it makes a jerky or knocking noise when I go 15 miles or stop and move forward again the car locks, this only happens when the car is already warm and has been used for about 10 minutes

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 5, 2025IL

I have had my car jumped twice in the last 7 days. Today I will be replacing the battery with AAA. Is there a recall on my vehicle? I saw an article there is a recall for starting issues and the coils. Please advise. Thank you.

Power Train
Filed Feb 2, 2025FL

I am writing to formally raise a significant safety concern regarding my 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. I recently discovered a malfunction in the transfer case (pictures attached), specifically involving the center differential gear set, which necessitated immediate replacement. This issue first became apparent while driving at low speeds when I heard a loud, distinctive "clunking" noise, indicating a possible malfunction within the transmission. As a precaution, I took the vehicle to my service mechanic for further diagnosis. After thorough inspection, my mechanic at Roberts Auto Shop (invoice attached) promptly identified the transfer case as the source of the problem. Subsequently, I contacted my local Subaru dealership, North Tampa, where I have previously serviced my vehicle, to inquire whether this issue is known to affect earlier models of the Crosstrek. The service manager expressed surprise that this problem occurred in my manual transmission vehicle, noting that it is typically documented in vehicles with CVT transmissions but rarely in manual models. I further inquired about the availability of any extended warranties or safety recalls related to this known issue. The manager informed me that the vehicle's powertrain warranty covers only up to 60,000 miles or five years, both of which I have exceeded, as my vehicle currently has just over 70,000 miles. My primary safety concern arises from the discovery of metal shavings inside the defective transfer case during its repla

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 30, 2024WA

My car randomly blows white smoke put of the exhaust and supposedly had the PCV valve replaced in Jan 2020 by the Subaru service center. I am noticing drastically lower mileage as more white smoke seems to be coming out of the exhaust and cannot help but feel these are all related.

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 7, 2024CA

The main head unit display (8") that controls the climate, audio and other control functions as well as the backup camera video feed is poorly made and subject to rapid delamination at edges and center. We reported and showed this problem to a Subaru dealer multiple times in past and they simply indicated it as 'temporary moisture' yet it is NOT moisture related and a design/manufacturing flaw. The car is now out of warranty and the problem only exacerbated with time to point where rear view camera functionality / visibility is impaired ... not ot mention the unsightly look of the main center display. This is a common widespread problem among many Subaru users as reported in various online forums, however, Subaru continues to deny fault/liability with fixing what is surely inferior design/quality on their side.

Seats
Filed Jul 9, 2024WA

The driver seat has been rocking back and forth a bit for a for a couple of weeks and lately started rocking a lot, enough that it rocks back while accelerating and rocks forward while braking causing unintentional excessive breaking. This feels like a safety issue. This is a 2018 car and my previous car (Audi A4) that I had for 14 years never had such a thing ever happen, so this is not normal. Here's a video of the rocking: [XXX] I called the dealer (Eastside Subaru, Kirkland WA, phone: (425) 820-8993) to see if there are any safety recalls about it but they said there are not any, and they are not providing priority appointment to inspect/fix even though I told them . I feel there should be a recall for this .. if the seat breaks while driving, it can cause accidents. A google search reveals a few others complaining about it as well. [XXX] Can you please look into this issue, and if you also feel it is a safety problem, ask Subaru to investigate, recall and fix? Thanks, INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Jul 2, 2024HI

I was driving to a friends house . When the engine started sputtering billowing blue smoke , the engine just stopped . I had it towed to my mechanics shop.maui fix auto 808-877-3731 Wailuku Maui Hawaii . He told me engine failed , extended warranty thru geico would not cover. I work as the equivalent of a park ranger. For the state of Hawaii being a first responder this is techically my 3 Subaru purchased from the dealer . This vehicle died at 60,000. Miles and 5 years I bought this car for reliability , to get to work and respond asap . My car is dead I wish some one in Subaru had “love “ like they do in commercials. I need help fixing my car please .

Unknown or Other
Filed May 19, 2024CT

The passenger window switch on the drivers side door panel is loose and is jammed (will not depress). Nearly impossible to get passenger window to go down.

Structure › Body
Filed May 16, 2024CO

While driving on a 71 degree, clear day on 16 May 2024, out of nowhere and without prior warning, my sunroof/moonroof glass on my 2018 Subaru Crosstrek limited, (50th anniversary edition) just exploded. See pics attached.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 27, 2024CA

Hello, My subaru crosstrek 2018 has been brought to Subaru service departments in both CA and MA for the same issue. I have brought in my car 3-4 times for recurrent problems where the battery in the car dies. The battery has been replaced multiple times and I have brought it to Subaru Service departments both in Massachusetts and California, all of whom tell me that the battery needs to be replaced, over and over again. I called and filed a report with Subaru of America who directed me to a third party representative who deals with claims regarding subarus and their recurrent battery issues and was informed that my subaru is not eligible for reimbursement for recurrent issues with batterys, nor is it a model that is eligible for an extended warranty given the battery issues. This is a huge safety issue for me. I have found myself in empty parking garages at night with a dead battery where I have had to stay locked in my car while I call a tow/AAA service to come and jump my car. I have missed countless days of work due to this issue. I have been late to pick up my child from daycare. I have spent thousands of dollars missing work, getting ubers while my car is in the shop, using rental cars, calling tow companies while this issue has been ongoing for two years. In addition, I have spent hundreds of dollars on portable battery chargers so that I do not get stranded with a battery-less car. I have raised this issue to the Subaru service departments multiple times, as well as S

Wheels
Filed Mar 6, 2024NC

On [XXX], 1 wheel lug nut seized up on the lug and then the lug snapped off when trying to remove the nut. On [XXX], 3 lug nuts seized up on the lugs when attempting to remove the lugs. On both occasions, I have had to bring the vehicle in for repairs to have the lugs and nuts replaced. Total cost of these repairs approx $250. On [XXX], I called Subaru of America (1-800-782-2783) to report the issue of lugs nuts seizing up on my Subaru (3 today and 1 in December 2022). The representative took down my information but other than that, was not very helpful. I asked if she could have an investigation done to see if this is a systemic problem with the 2018 Crosstreks or with Subaru in general. Her response was for me to “Google the issue myself” and then call them back if I found out anything. She offered essentially no help. In more than 40 years of working on cars, I have never had a lug nut seize up on a lug stud. Since this has now happened 4 times in the last 15 months, on the same vehicle, this seems to be a systemic problem and should be investigated. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Feb 25, 2024VA

While driving home in the evening, I was startled by a sudden cracking sound that I heard. Although nothing appeared to have impacted the windshield, I speculated that it may have been caused by a plastic bag in which I stored trash in my vehicle on occasion. The following day, my partner noticed a significant crack in the windshield as he loaded bags into the car. I recounted the previous night's experience of hearing the disturbing sound that had caught my attention. The crack in the windshield continued to expand, causing me great distress and anxiety about the potential safety implications. As someone who relies on my vehicle for work-related commitments, the thought of the windshield shattering while I was driving deeply concerned me. This experience exacerbated my chronic pain and added financial worries due to the unexpected repair costs. Despite the absence of any apparent cause for the crack, I sought assistance from my car dealership, only to be advised that an independent service center would offer a more cost-effective solution and repair quicker. Following the windshield replacement process, which was completed by an independent service center. I have documented the progress of the crack through photographs. This unforeseen issue, with no prior indicators, caused significant distress for someone who struggles with change and is reluctant to have their vehicle undergoing repairs, beyond routine maintenance. While the windshield has been successfully replaced, I re

Electrical System
Filed Jan 30, 2024MA

I noticed that my 2018 Subaru Crosstrek battery keeps draining when the car sits for several days (something that typically has not happened in the past until my son recently went off to college). I called AAA and they checked out the battery and indicated that the battery was good still, but was borderline. Would likely need to be replaced soon. Since it was the original battery and it would need to be replaced soon - I had them replace it. Even after the battery replacement - the battery drains when the car sits for a few days. I took the car in to my local Subaru dealer and they indicated parasitic drain from DCM is depleting the battery. They tried performing a factory reset on the DCM, but it was unsuccessful. The dealer quoted me $1200 to replace the DCM and had to order it. I also noticed several class-action lawsuits for other Subaru models (which sound like the same issue). I called Subaru Customer Advocacy to inform them of the situation and currently awaiting a response.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 30, 2024MA

Dealer indicated control arm bushings needed to be replaced because they were cracked. I've owned about 20 cars and have never replaced a control arm bushing...much less on a car that is only a few years old (2018). I was told this needed to be fixed because the failing control arm bushings could cause me to lose control of the car. I realize things breakdown and need to be repaired, but as I said I've had about 20 cars over my lifetime and never replaced or been told that I needed to replace a control arm bushing. I question if that part is defective on Subaru Crosstrek (especially when I consider that my local mechanic indicated Subaru has had all kinds of problems with their control arm bushings).

Wheels
Filed Jan 29, 2024WV

I have had to replace 3 back wheel bearings in less than a year. I replaced both back wheel bearings at different times, and the I just had to replace another one. The parts were brand new. If they had broken while I was driving my 45 minute commute on [XXX] to work, it would have killed me. Or if it had broken while transporting my 15 year old daughter, it would have killed us both. There is absolutely no reason for wheel bearings to have to be replaced within 100,000 miles. I had just reached 78,000 when I had to replace the first one. I'm so frustrated with this car that I will NEVER own another subaru. The only sign that they were going bad was a loud hum while driving it. No warning lights or anything came on. I had them all replaced by an automotive garage. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Nov 16, 202354,000 milesSC

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to immediately respond before abruptly accelerating forward. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure and unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 54,000.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 12, 2023FL

Purchased NEW car 2018 and ALWAYS serviced at dealership. No problems until January 2022, radio issues. Dealer replaced radio - ever since then, the battery of the car keeps dying. The radio was replaced at least 3 times. Approximately Jan 21, 2023, I had to pay to replace the battery because service department said it needed to be replaced. Jan 23rd, the car was dead in my garage - they replaced the battery. On Jan 27th, car was dead again in the garage. Dealer had car towed and they kept until Jan 31st, when they had a “specialist” from Tampa look at the problem - another battery. Oct 3 again dead in the garage. Even the TEO KEYFOBS has to be replaced as they were drained of power. There obviously is an ELECTRICAL PROBLEM somewhere in the engine and we are afraid that the car might stop running WHILE I AM DRIVING IT, or AIR BAGS DEPLOY or maybe an ENGINE FIRE. THERE IS A SERIOUS ELECTRICAL ISSUE WITH THE VEHICLE. I reported it to Subaru Corporation and their executive said to “just keep bringing it in when the battery has died”! How does that resolve the electrical POTENTIALLY UNSAFE ISSUE? As of today, 11/12, in the evening you can see on the radio screen a type of “glow” or “backlight” coming from the screen WITH THE RADIO TURNED COMPLETELY OFF. We are seniors who are not afraid to drive this car because of potential safety issues or being “stranded” somewhere if it is not operational. I contacted Subaru Corporation and all they will do is issue a “goodwill” credit of $1,

Service BrakesCrash
Filed Oct 27, 2023MI

WAITING IN LINE TO PICKUP PRESCRIPTION, STOPPED WITH FOOT ON BRAKE AND VEHICLE ACCELERATED INTO CAR APPROX 15 FT IN FRONT OF ME. EYE SIGHT BRAKING DID NOT STOP CAR, NOR DID IMMINENT COLLISION WARNING ENGAGE. CAR IS AT DEALERSHIP AND THEY CONDUCTED TEST; FOUND NOTHING. AWAITING SUBARU ENGINEER TO PULL AND CHECK "BLACK BOX".

Electrical System
Filed Oct 20, 2023OH

Was told I needed a new ecm due to corrupt learning. My vehicles check engine light, traction control light, and cruise control all turned on/ stopped working. My vehicle has received all necessary maintenance in a timely manner, no missed oil changes and no accidents. The dealership stated it was due to damage but this can’t be possible since the only place service has been completed was at the dealership, if it was damaged it would have been caused by the dealership. I have seen multiple threads online stating the same issue with their vehicle same model and similar years and the cost to replace is not cheap.

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 6, 2023NY

Front hood latch opens while driving. This happens often. There is a secondary latch, so the hood does not swing fully open. But the first latch (connected to the open lever in the car) pops open by itself. I worry that secondary latch might fail, and front hood would open blocking vision. When I brought it to Subaru dealer in June 2023, they "cleaned and lubed hood latch" charging me for service. It still opens while driving. I am in the shop now. They say they will lube again. They would have to order a new latch and charge me over $200. Should I do this?

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 6, 2023OK

Several times the car wouldn’t start but all the lights came on but the engine would not turn over. If I waited a while it finally started.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 18, 2023NY

Premature starter failure as noted in TSB 07-198-21 due to failed clutch in starter motor. Only had 35, 750 miles. Defective starter. Issue known to Subaru. Could leave drivers stranded and at risk. This known/ common starter motor failure problem should be a recall.

Unknown or OtherFire
Filed Aug 18, 2023NC

8/17/23 I left my vehicle on with the air conditioning running. Left on because my dogs were in the car. Came out of restaurant after 40 minutes & car was on fire inside the vehicle. Opened back door on drivers side & back seat was on fire. Black smoke coming out of the car. Car was put out by fire department. It could have blown up. Car is total loss. FD & PD investigated. No foul play. Unknown reason. Happened in Carthage NC 28327 notified State Farm insurance but haven’t notified Subaru yet

Vehicle Speed ControlCrash
Filed Jul 31, 202385,000 milesKY

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that while at a light, the vehicle crashed into an unknown vehicle in front of her. While sitting in traffic at another light, the failure recurred. The vehicle reeved up forward and crashed into an unknown utility vehicle. A claim was submitted to the insurance company. While pulling into a parking spot, the vehicle lunged forward over the parking block, crashed into the concrete wall and railing, and stopped. There was an abnormal burning smell. There were no warning lights illuminated. There were no reported injuries, air bag deployments, police reports, or fires in either incident. The vehicle was taken to an independent body center, which stated there was an electrical issue but declined to accept the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to her residence. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. They will check the block box. The manufacturer was contacted, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.

Visibility
Filed Jun 8, 202353,000 milesPA

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that upon inspection, a crack was discovered on the front windshield. The contact stated that the crack was located above the rearview mirror and extended approximately twelve inches. The contact stated that there was no impact on the windshield to cause the windshield to crack. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were not yet notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 53,000.

Electrical System
Filed May 2, 2023CO

The horn quit working, everything else on my steering wheel and steering column work just not the horn, no way to warn approaching traffic, safety issue, puts myself and family in harms way.

Steering
Filed Jan 19, 2023NY

This is the 4th Time Since 2022, that my steering wheel has locked after driving. If the steering wheel is to the left when I go to turn it off and not in the middle it will lock. I had to call again Suburu assistance. The first time was in Hartsdale, NY 2022, the 2nd time was in Larchmont, NY had to call the police, the 3rd time was 2022 in Key Ford in Buhre and Westchester Avenue, and the 4th time in my driveway 2023. Each time it took forever for the men to unlock the steering wheel, I am a women and my girlfriend tried with no avail. I am terrified I will be on a road trip with my son and get stuck. When you put in the key and turn it supposed to unlock. Each man had to force the wheel with heavy pressure to unlock the vehicle. I have a video. This is the 2nd report I made of this.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 19, 2023NY

I was driving on Tuesday, January 17 and my steering made a pooping nose strug and swirl to the right then continue driving. I found it strange but this never happened. Then on Thursday, January 19, 2023, I put my vehicle into the driveway, my engine was not even off yet, my steering wheel to the left with key still in the ignition it locked. I know how to unlock my wheel but with this I can't this is the 4th time it has happened. It is freaking me out because every time my son is in the car. If this happens when I am driving it going to take the grace of God to save us. The first time was in Hartsdale, NY parking lot Subaru assistance was called, he made a report, 2nd time it happened by Trader Joes Larchmont, NY Police came out they made a report, 3rd time a Man in KeyFood Bronx, NY 2022,help me and 4th Time January 19, 2023 Entourage Automotive Corp tow was called. He wants to tow my car in the morning to Subaru Service because he says it too stiff and hard to turn. He had to lean his body on it and then turn it hard. I can't do that and it not suppose to do that. In December 21, 2022, my car was park under the port, when I went out the hand rest was wrinkled. When I took my car in for 4 tires I indicated this to Will the service guy and he said I could buy a new one and have it replace. It was strange he never hard of it. Well know through some research this is a big issue with vehciles from 2017 to 2022 and they have a cover for it now. but it should have been a recall t

Unknown or OtherCrash
Filed Jan 17, 2023NC

On Nov 9 2022 the owner was pulling into a parking space at a mall and the Subaru Crosstrek 2018 suddenly accelerated and slammed into the wall of a store. The airbags did not go off. The driver was going at a slow speed and putting on the brake. The driver and occupant suffered some impact from the seat belts but no other injuries. If pedestrians had been on the sidewalk in front of the parking space there could have been injuries. The wall was not damaged and no police report was filed.The incident was reported to the insurance company and the car was repaired for $11,710. On Jan 17 2023 the owner was pulling into a parking space at a mall and there was a quick sudden acceleration but not as forceful as before and putting on the brake stopped the car.

Engine
Filed Jan 13, 2023TX

-driving at moderate pace between 30 and 40 mph when vehicle engine shut off without warning. loss of power, no steering and all warning lights illuminated. difficulty getting vehicle over to side of road so not in way of traffic. braking was difficult once on side of road.

Engine
Filed Jan 12, 202350,000 milesCT

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 60 MPH, he heard a grinding sound and the vehicle started to shutter and spin. The contact then stated that he had to shift gear into neutral to stop the spin and rolled down the exit ramp and stalled. The vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that a hole was in the engine and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the contact was denied service due to no service record was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that he was twelve days over warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 4, 2023PA

Battery drain when car isn’t in use for 2 days went through 3 high CCA AGM batteries since I purchased new. also the manufacturer OEM battery. I only have 16,400 miles on the car and went through 4 total batteries. I had to pay for all the batteries and now I need another one.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Nov 26, 2022MT

The passenger side headlight stopped working 2 months ago. I have the OEM LED system that tracks through turns. I finally got in for service and mentioned it. Also mentioned I had something similar in 2019 after a service at the dealer and they said it was “fixed”. Only had one or two moments where is didn’t work and just turned off car and back on and seemed to resolve. This recent service they looked into fixing it and found out it’s an entire sealed assembly and quoting the part us $1900(CAD) plus labour. Their mechanic drove it around anfter replacing fog lights and it worked for a moment then when I started and drove away it stopped. I have one working headlight but I live where winters are dark so I’m nervous.

Structure › BodyCrash
Filed Nov 5, 2022CA

While I was doing parallel parking, the car on its own went into involuntary, sudden, uncontrolled acceleration & hit a tree & bushes resulting into considerable body damage. Then I called Subaru national customer relations representative & I was told to go to the local Subaru dealer where I had purchased the car about four and a half years ago. The mechanic there told me that he had never heard such incident & he said that since there is no engine light on, there is nothing to scan. And he thought the car was okay. So, I am driving it very cautiously. But, I am concerned. We thought the newer such cars are safer with the high-tech computers on board but I countered this safety problem that I had never come across before.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Oct 17, 202239,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated while driving at approximately 50 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. While driving on a ramp at slow speeds and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to accelerate and stalled. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the ignition fuse needed to be replaced. The fuse was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but provided no additional assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 39,000.

Engine
Filed Oct 2, 2022MI

When I attempted to start the car, the starter would spin but fail to engage the flywheel, leaving me stranded in a parking lot. The car needed to be towed to a repair shop. The repair shop confirmed the problem and replaced the starter with an OEM replacement part. I am told that the manufacturer has redesigned the part. The car has less than 55,000 miles on it. I was unaware of any symptoms of the impending failure of this engine component.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 31, 2022FL

BATTERY ISSUES

Complaints 1-50 of 195, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2019
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202611100Do not drive
202547000Routine
2024120220Routine
202336000Routine
202231000Routine
2021115120Routine
202071000Routine
2019286730Above average
2018 — this page195510Routine
201794120Routine
2016132130Routine
201517100Routine
201416110Routine
201326120Routine
20122000Routine

Compare every Crosstrek year →

Reading this record

No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Apr 15, 2021. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.