Subaru Crosstrek Years to Avoid

Why 2019 made the avoid list

2019 Subaru Crosstrek

AvoidTop issue: visibility · 49% of complaints · median 12,000 miles

Owners describe engines stalling or shutting off unexpectedly, sometimes losing power steering or brakes, often alongside battery drain, ignition coil or ECM trouble and infotainment resets. Many say repairs didn't stick, and some report windshields cracking rapidly with little or no impact.

Full 2019 report ›

Questions owners ask

Which Subaru Crosstrek years should you avoid?

Counting complaints owners filed with NHTSA in each year's first five years on the road, per vehicle sold, the 2019 Crosstrek drew the most: each more than twice the rate of a typical Crosstrek year, spread across more than one problem area.

What is the best year for a used Subaru Crosstrek?

The 2020 Crosstrek drew the fewest complaints for its time on the road and the number sold (0.5× the rate of a typical Crosstrek year), followed by the 2013 and 2015. Years from 2022 on haven't had five years on the road, so they aren't rated yet.

What is the most common problem with the Subaru Crosstrek?

Across every year, the problem area owners report most is visibility (glass, wipers, mirrors) (32% of complaints), followed by the electrical system (15%) and the engine (11%). A complaint can name more than one area.

Has the Subaru Crosstrek been recalled?

Yes. NHTSA lists 19 recall campaigns covering Crosstrek model years 2013 to 2026, the most recent in July 2026. Enter a vehicle's VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to see whether its repairs were done.