Subaru Crosstrek Common Problems

VISIBILITY/WIPER

Owners report frequent occurrences of windshield cracks in the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek, often appearing without any known impact or reason. Complaints frequently mention cracks originating from the bottom corners or edges of the windshield, with some forming while the vehicle is parked. Many owners describe having multiple windshield replacements, sometimes within a short time frame of purchasing the vehicle. There are reports of cracks affecting the functionality of safety features like the EyeSight driver assist technology. An injury was noted when a rear view mirror detached, although no crashes or fires are reported. This pattern of windshield issues is often noted regardless of mileage, suggesting potential concerns for used car buyers.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

VISIBILITY/WIPER

Owners of the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek frequently report issues with windshield cracking, often describing cracks that appear without any apparent impact or external cause. Symptoms include sudden cracks that start small and rapidly expand across the windshield, sometimes occurring while the vehicle is stationary or in motion. Many complaints do not specify mileage, but some mention the issue occurring within the first year of ownership. While no crashes or loss of control are reported, the unexpected nature of the cracks and the potential for visibility impairment are noted concerns. This information is relevant for used car buyers considering a 2018 Crosstrek, as windshield durability appears to be a common issue.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners report several electrical system issues with the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek, most notably premature parasitic battery drain often linked to the digital communication module (DCM) and Starlink technology, which persists even after battery replacement. Complaints frequently mention rapid battery discharge, requiring multiple jump starts or replacements, sometimes within days. Multiple owners describe problems with dashboard warning lights and infotainment system malfunctions, including random shutdowns and connectivity issues. These issues typically arise around 20,000 to 50,000 miles. Safety concerns include instances of vehicles not starting, sudden loss of power while driving, and potential lockout scenarios involving children, though no crashes or fires are reported.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek frequently report issues with windshield cracking and spontaneous glass shattering, including sunroofs and rear windows, often without any apparent cause or impact. Complaints also describe intermittent starting problems, where dashboard warning lights such as "Check Engine" and "RAB Disabled" appear, especially in colder weather or after sitting idle. Sudden acceleration incidents are noted, with one reported crash when the vehicle surged forward unexpectedly while parking. Additionally, there is a report of a fire occurring while driving on the highway. These issues typically arise in vehicles with mileage ranging from 25,000 to 40,000 miles, and they pose potential safety risks, including visibility impairment and loss of vehicle control.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 1 fire, 0 injury reports

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek frequently report issues with spontaneous windshield cracking, with several complaints noting that cracks appear without any apparent impact. This issue often occurs while the vehicle is parked, and the cracks can obstruct the EyeSight system, potentially affecting steering and alignment. Multiple owners also describe problems with the vehicle's electrical systems, including battery failures and starting issues, sometimes requiring battery replacement or jump-starts. Additionally, a few reports mention serious safety concerns, including a fire incident where the vehicle was left running with the air conditioning on, and an issue with the hood latch that opens while driving. These problems are noted around varied mileage ranges, but some occur as early as 60,000 miles.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 1 fire, 0 injury reports

VISIBILITY/WIPER

Owners report frequent occurrences of windshield cracking in the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek, with many describing cracks forming spontaneously without any apparent impact or trauma. Complaints commonly mention cracks originating near the edges or middle of the windshield, often around the rearview mirror or defrost vents. These issues are noted even in vehicles with low mileage, some as early as a few months after purchase. Safety implications include potential visibility obstruction and interference with the vehicle's eyesight camera system, though no crashes or loss of control are reported. Additionally, one owner reports window operation issues in cold temperatures, although this is less common. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers considering this model.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners of the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek frequently report issues with battery drainage, often occurring even after multiple battery replacements. Complaints describe the battery dying when the vehicle is left unused for a few days, with some attributing the issue to a parasitic drain from the data communication module (DCM). Another common problem involves the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) failing around 69,000 miles, with the system no longer providing low-tire-pressure warnings. Additionally, some owners mention problems with the factory alarm triggering unexpectedly and the radio malfunctioning, which may contribute to electrical drain. Safety implications include the risk of being stranded due to battery failure and the lack of tire pressure warnings, though no crashes or fires are reported. These issues often emerge after a few years of ownership, making them relevant considerations for used car buyers.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek frequently report issues with the infotainment system displaying intrusive SiriusXM advertisements while driving, which obstructs access to essential features like navigation, climate controls, and driver assistance settings. These ads require manual interaction to dismiss, causing significant distraction and posing a potential safety risk, especially in challenging driving conditions. Complaints indicate these incidents occur sporadically, often when the vehicle is in motion, and there is no straightforward way to opt out. Additionally, one owner reports a crash involving a loss of control, though it is unclear if this is related to the infotainment issue. Another owner mentions a recurring popping sound when making left turns, and some owners note concerns about windshield durability and paint quality.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports