How many problems does the 2016 SUBARU Crosstrek have?

The 2016 SUBARU Crosstrek currently has 131 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.

What are the most common problems with 2016 SUBARU Crosstrek?

The most common problems reported for the 2016 SUBARU Crosstrek are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.

Where does this 2016 SUBARU Crosstrek problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2016 SUBARU Crosstrek comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.

2016 SUBARU Crosstrek Problems

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

28 complaints

Our 2016 Subaru Crosstrek (Automatic Transmission) has had intermittent issues with it losing power despite our foot being on the accelerator. It will typically reengage if we take our foot off the accelerator for a bit and then hit the gas again. However, it has become a more frequent problem and feels increasingly unsafe to drive, particularly with our 2 small children in the car, because it loses power without warning so it leaves us vulnerable for being rear-ended while changing lanes, taking turns, etc. We have been working with our local dealership (Beyer Subaru in Alexandria, VA) to address the issue, but they have only been able to replicate the issue once in a 4-week period and they have not been able to document it. The one time they were able to replicate the problem the car was not hooked up to any computer/system. I have found this forum that documents similar problems with Crosstreks - [XXX] , as well as a Service Bulletin which references a similar issue in 2018-21MY Crosstrek 2.0L MT - https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2021/MC-10201030-0001.pdf. While the 2nd does refer specifically to Manual Transmissions, I feel like this is indicative of a trend that is not being acknowledged for other Model Year's and transmission types, but presents a serious safety issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Sep 06, 2024

I have a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek 5 speed manual transmission and it only has 64000 on it. The clutch went out and I took it to the dealership to have the car worked on and hopefully repaired. At first they said it was the clutch and master cylinder. Then they called me back and said the entire transmission needed to be replaced and it would cost $9000! Seriously? At only 64000 miles? Somehow some kind of "snout" broke off and they needed to replace the whole thing. Blue Book on this car is only slightly over $9000 and I need to spend what it is worth to repair? I may never own another subaru ever again if this is what happens at such a low mileage.

Mar 16, 2024

Driving down the freeway I had cruise control set. All of the sudden the cruise control shut off and it was like the car was in neutral. When I pushed on the gas it just revved I was able to coast to an exit and right before the top of the hill, all the indicator lights went on and the car shut off. I had the vehicle towed to a Subaru dealership the next morning when they went to work on the car, the car started fine. They were unable to find anything wrong with the vehicle when they plugged it into the computer. My gas levels were low, but I still showed 90 miles to empty.

Oct 14, 2023

I have a 2016 Crosstrek. It hestitates when you start after a stop. I have taken it to the dealership. They feel the hesitation but do not know what the problem is. The cost they estimated to fix was over $1,000, BUT with no guarantee they could fix it because they do not know what the problem is. It is not the fuel. After looking online Subaru problems, this seems to be a problem with Subaru. The safety issue, I am afraid of, when you are at a busy intersection and start to pull out in traffic what if the car stalls. It hasn't stalled yet, so far just hesitating upon initial acceleration.

Sep 07, 2023

While driving down the highway, the hood popped open and slammed backwards, shattering my windshield, damaging both fenders (to the point where the hood could not be lowered back down), and wrinkling the roof. I was in the middle lane and had to navigate blindly over to the shoulder, while covered in glass; miraculously, I was able to do so safely. It is a miracle I was not hurt or killed and that others around me were not hurt or killed. There was very real potential for a multi car pile up that day. I'm not aware of reproduction or confirmation of the problem. Police responded, but stated since I did not hit anything, there would be no accident report. My insurance inspected the vehicle at least twice, as did my mechanic throughout the course of his estimation and repair. At my last oil change at the dealership (months prior), the desk agent mentioned the auto techs had a hard time getting my hood closed but recommended no further service to me.

Aug 11, 2023

+ 23 more complaints for this component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

23 complaints

A/C Control Head and connector burned on both ends. Dealer service center stated it was a significant safety/fire hazard if we had not immediately taken in to be checked. No warning, no fuses out. Only indication something was wrong is a/c turned on but only on 1,2 and 4. Then, same day, only on 4. Next day took to Subaru service center. When we asked how would replacing parts stop this from happening again, we were told original parts had a “Design Flaw” and was “Defective”. Replacement/New parts wiring system actually corrects the OEM defect.

Nov 05, 2025

Battery drain Bought new battery Got dcm update Pulled dcm fuse Still battery goes dead Thousands of vehicles involved Suburu knows the cause To expensive to fix Please help3/3

Jul 10, 2024

Horn failed to sound. It sounds when hitting the lock button three times, but doesn’t when the steering wheel is pressed. This was identified during a near miss accident when we tried to alert another driving that was weaving into our lane and couldn’t.

Jun 15, 2024

The contact owns a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that while coming to a stop at a traffic signal, the vehicle was idling roughly. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent but had become a recurring failure. The contact stated that the failure occurred frequently whenever the A/C was running. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the throttle body needed to be cleaned. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure returned, and the vehicle was taken back to the same dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the alternator and belt tensioner needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 32,000.

Apr 22, 2024

Since at least 2009 all Subaru models have a faulty air bag Clockspring. The horn doesn’t work due to this. Subaru knows about this issue. Even 2018 Forester is still using the faulty clock spring. We almost had an accident because the horn didn’t work. After researching the issue, I cannot believe a recall has not been issued. Tried to get it fixed at Subaru today. Still not fixed. We cannot drive until the horn is fixed it is dangerous driving in [XXX] and not having a horn to give a warning when you are about to be hit. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Mar 02, 2024

+ 18 more complaints for this component

POWER TRAIN

11 complaints

2016 SUBARU CROSSTREK, KEY BECOMES STUCK IN IGNITION. MUST MOVE SHIFT LEVER OUT OF AND INTO P(ARK) POSITION SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE KEY CAN BE TURNED TO THE PROPER POSITION TO REMOVE IT. COMMONLY HAPPENS WHEN PARKING VEHICLE.

Sep 11, 2020

I PUT MY CAR INTO PARK AND I TRY TO TURN MY CAR OFF THE KEY TURNS HALF WAY AND STOPS. I CAN'T GET THE KEY OUT. I TRY AGAIN BY TURNING THE CAR ON AND OFF. SOMETIMES THAT WORKS. SOMETIMES PUTTING IT INTO DRIVE AND AND THEN PARK AGAIN WORKS. IT IS BECOMING A PROBLEM MORE AND MORE FREQUENT. IT CAN TAKE UP TO 3 MINUTES OF FIDGETING TO GET THE KEY OUT OF THE IGNITION.

Jul 20, 2020

SUBARU CROSSTREK 2016 CAR HAS HAD POWER TRAIN FAILURE 3 TIMES. THE LATEST CAUSED A REAR END COLLISION INTO MY CAR ON 2/28/2020. VEHICLE LOST POWER WHILE TRAVELING APPROX 35 MPH ALTHOUGH THE ENGINE REMAINED ON AND POWER STEERING ALSO WORKED. CAR WAS IN DRIVE BUT NO POWER TO THE WHEELS. REAR ENDED BY A HONDA SUV WHILE DRIFTING TO SIDE OF ROAD. LUCKILY NO INJURIES...ABOUT $1500 WORTH OF DAMAGE TO HONDA SUV. NO REAL DAMAGE TO THE REAR OF MY CAR. HAS BEEN TO THE DEALER TWICE BUT NO TROUBLE CODES OR DIAGNOSTIC INFORMATION. VEHICLE IS UNDER WARRANTY. SEEMS TO BE A MYSTERY PROBLEM AND THE DEALER HAS NO SOLUTION AT PRESENT. TRYING TO GET A RESPONSE FROM SUBARU. SYMPTOMS ARE THE SAME FOR ALL THREE FAILURES. POLICE REPORT NUMBER AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.

Mar 04, 2020

Crash: 1

THIS IS THE SECOND INCIDENT. THE FIRST, I DID NOT REPORT, BUT WAS IDENTICAL IN OCCURRENCE. WHILE DRIVING IN THE HIGH SPEED LANE OF A MAJOR INTERSTATE HIGHWAY @ APPROX. 70MPH, THE CAR SUDDENLY LOST ACCELERATION AND POWER, AS IF TO BE IN NEUTRAL. THE GEAR SHIFT WAS NOT JARRED, MY FOOT WAS NOT ON THE BRAKE, THIS WAS NOT OPERATOR ERROR. THE CAR SLOWLY LOST SPEED AS PRESSING ACCELERATOR ONLY REVVED THE ENGINE WITH NO RESULTS. I IMMEDIATELY PRESSED THE HAZARDS AND MY INDICATOR TO MOVE TO THE RIGHT SHOULDER OF THE HIGHWAY. THANKFULLY ARRIVING THERE SAFELY ALTHOUGH OTHER VEHICLES ON THE HIGHWAY WERE REQUIRED TO REACT. UPON GETTING TO THE SHOULDER, I SHUT OFF THE CAR, AND TURNED IT BACK ON. ACCELERATOR WORKS AS IT SHOULD AND I WAS LUCKILY LEAVING THE HIGHWAY AT THE NEXT EXIT. THE FIRST INCIDENT WAS APPROXIMATELY 4 MONTHS AGO. I REPORTED IT TO MY DEALER WHO WAS REPAIRING A BRAKE LIGHT RECALL, THE SERVICE MANAGER LAUGHED IT OFF AS OPERATOR ERROR. I ASSURE YOU IT WAS NOT. IN HINDSIGHT, THIS COULD BE A FAR MORE TRAGIC SCENARIO HAVING YOUR CAR LOSING POWER WITHOUT NOTICE ON A HIGHWAY. ALL POWER STEERING AND INDICATORS ON THE DASH WERE UNAFFECTED, ONLY THE ABILITY TO ACCELERATE.

Feb 10, 2020

CANNOT TURN OFF CAR AND REMOVE KEY AFTER SHIFTING INTO PARK. PROBLEM IN INTERMITTENT. HAS HAPPENED NUMEROUS TIMES.

Oct 17, 2019

+ 6 more complaints for this component

STEERING

7 complaints

Full electrical power steering failure

Apr 15, 2025

NO POWER STEERING BACKING UP AFTER STARTING THE CAR. WARNING LIGHT CAME ON. TURNED ENGINE OFF AND BACK ON STILL NO POWER STEERING. PARKED WAITED 15 MINUTES TRIED AGAIN AND THE STEERING WORKED ONLY FELT A LITTLE LOOSE.

Mar 19, 2021

POWER STEERING FAILS WHEN FIRST STARTING VEHICLE.HAS HAPPENED ON MANY OCCASIONS.LOSS IOF POWER STEERING LASTS FROM A FEW SECONDS TO 10 TO 15 SECONDS,RESOLVES BY ITSELF.HEARD ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS FROM DEALER THAT THEY CAN NOT REPRODUCE PROBLEM. FEEL IT IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM MAY LEAD TO LOW SPEED ACCIDENT.STEERING WARNING LIGHT DOES COME ON.DOES GENERATE ERROR CODES PER DEALER.DEALER(JOHNSON SUBARU DUBOIS PA 15801) HAS ATTEMPTED REPAIR X 5 W/O RESOLUTION.STATE THEY HAVE REPLACED ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE,REPLACED THAT WITH A NEW AND IMPROVED ECM AND STATE THEY HAVE REPLACED THE POWER STEERING RACK.EPISODES OF LOSS OF STEERING CONTINUE. HAVE CONTACTED SUBARU OF AMERICA ADVISING THEM OF PROBLEM.THEY SUGGEST RETURNING VEHICLE TO DEALER EVEN THOUGH THE PROBLEM HAS NOT BEEN CORRECTED IN THE PREVIOUS 5 VISITS

Sep 04, 2020

WHEN TRYING TO TURN OFF THE CROSSTREK IT WOULD NOT LET THE KEY COME OUT OF THE IGNITION. IT FORCES YOU TO TAKE IT OUT OF PARK AND PUT IT BACK INTO DRIVE THEN BACK INTO PARK A FEW TIMES TO TAKE THE KEY OUT. I WENT TO SUBARU AND THEY SAID IT WAS A COMMON PROBLEM, WHICH THEY HAVE A FIX FOR. THIS PROBLEM IS SEEN IN MANY OF THE OLDER MODEL SUBARUS I HAVE SEEN THE SAME PROBLEM IN MANY YOUTUBE VIDEOS. THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM AND HAS NOT BEEN ADDRESSED BY SUBARU. SUBARU DEALER TOLD ME THE PROBLEM IS A STICKY PLATE CYLINDER.

Aug 15, 2019

TOTAL POWER STEERING FAILURE AT 40,076 MILES. DEAL READ CODE C2532. DEALER REPLACED FULL STEERING SYSTEM; RACK, CONNECTORS. STILL DID NOT WORK. REPLACED 80 AMP FUSE ON POSITIVE TERMINAL. NOTE THAT STEERING FAILURE OCCURRED WHILE VEHICLE WAS OFF. MAJOR CONCERN IF IT HAD HAPPENED DURING OPERATION.

Jul 17, 2019

+ 2 more complaints for this component

ENGINE

6 complaints

My friend and I drove from Minneapolis to Duluth for a two-day short trip (Oct 20 - 21, 2022). On our way back, my car suddenly slowed down (from 70 m/h to 40 m/h and was non-responsive), and shut down completely at the intersection between Highway I-35 W and Lino Lake, MN 55038, about 30 miles away from TC around 8:30 pm, Friday night. And then I cannot start my car at all. Originally I thought it was the gas issue but the screen indicated there were at least 100miles to drive. Therefore, I called 911 right after (see EXHIBIT 1) and asked for help as well as Subaru roadside service (see EXHIBIT 2 ). Fortunately, my car stopped at the shoulders and we were not involved in a crash. This happened three days AFTER I had my car maintenance (Oct 17 at 10:15 am, Morrie's Minnetonka Subaru, 12520 Wayzata Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55305), and according to the report from that maintenance, the car was functioning well and had no red flag (see EXHIBIT 3). My car is currently located at Morrie's Minnetonka Subaru for further inspection. However, as far as I know so far (from the dealership mechanics), they have no clue what happened and they need to ask for additional help to figure out why the car engine suddenly lost power. In addition, I saw this is not a solo accident, many other Subaru Crosstrek Owners have encountered similar situations (i.e., lost power completely on the highway or freeway after regular car maintenance). Please see EXHIBIT 4 for detailed information.

Oct 30, 2022

At 89,000 the transmission was replaced because of a “known issue” and I was having problems. The car would lurch and hesitate coming off traffic stops. This prompted me to go to the dealer who called Subaru who offered to replace transmission, no further questions asked. Less than 20,000 miles later, this new transmission is causing problems again to the tune of $12,000! They refuse to replace it at no charge when they KNOW the CVT transmissions have issues

Jul 26, 2022

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 SUBARU CROSSTREK. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE HIGH TEMPERATURE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DCH SUBARU OF THOUSAND OAKS (3725 AUTO MALL DR, THOUSAND OAKS, CA 91362) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH THE ENGINE SHORT BLOCK NEEDING TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, UPON RETRIEVING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE CORRECTLY WITH A LOUD KNOCKING SOUND WAS COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE SAME DEALER 4 MONTHS LATER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VALVES NEEDED TO BE ADJUSTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT BACK TO THE SAME DEALER FOR ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 118,000.

May 11, 2021

THE IGNITION KEY DOES NOT COME OUT AFTER TURNING OFF THE CAR. SOMETIMES I HAVE TO START IT ON AND TURN IT OFF MULTIPLE TIMES UNTIL IT DOES COME OUT. BTW, MY SISTER OWNS THE SAME CAR, AND SHE HAS THE SAME PROBLEM. I HAVE HAD THIS ISSUE FOR ABOUT FIVE MONTHS.

Sep 29, 2020

WHILE PUTTING MY VEHICLE IN PARK THE KEY WILL NOT RELEASE FROM THE IGNITION. IT TAKES MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS OF GOING BACK AND FORTH TO GET THE KEY TO RELEASE FROM THE IGNITION. FROM WHAT I HAVE READ, NUMEROUS PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS ISSUE AND SUBARU HAS YET TO ISSUE A NATIONAL RECALL. I HAVE ATTACHED A DOCUMENT THAT DETAILS THE PROBLEM.

May 04, 2020

+ 1 more complaint for this component

VISIBILITY/WIPER

5 complaints

Windshield spontaneously cracked

Feb 01, 2022

THE GLASS OF MY SUNROOF EXPLODED WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY. I WAS NOT CLOSE BEHIND ANY CAR AND I WAS NOT GOING UNDER AN OVERPASS. LUCKILY THE INSIDE OF THE SUNROOF WAS CLOSED SO THE EXPLODING CLASS DID NOT HIT ME.

Feb 07, 2019

EXCESSIVE CONDENSATION ON THE FRONT WINDOW WHILE THE CAR IS PARKED DURING COLD WEATHER. THE CAR IS PARKED OUTSIDE, AND INSIDE OF THE DRIVERS WINDOW WILL BE COVERED WITH MOISTURE. THERE ARE NO "WET" ITEMS IN THE CAR, AND THE AIR CONDITIONER AND DEFROSTER ARE USED WHEN THE CAR IS IN USE. IT BLOCKS THE OCCUPANTS VISION, AND THE WORK AROUND IS HAVING A TOWEL TO DRY THE WINDOW. IF THE TEMPERATURE IS BELOW FREEZING, THE INSIDE OF THE WINDOW IS COVERED IN ICE. ALL OTHER WINDOWS IN THE CAR DO NOT HAVE CONDENSATION. WE USED THE CAR AFTER IT WAS PARKED FOR A WEEK, AND HERE IS AN IMAGE OF THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE FRONT WINDOW. THIS IS MY DAUGHTERS CAR AND SHE HAS COMPLAINED ABOUT THIS, BUT THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME I WITNESSED THE CONDITION.

Jan 03, 2019

WHEN DRIVING TO WORK THIS MORNING ON THE HIGHWAY, TRAVELING ABOUT 50 MPH (APPROX 10 MILE DRIVE, MOSTLY HIGHWAY) I HEARD AND FELT A LOUD CRACK ON MY ROOF, AS IF SOMETHING HEAVY HAD HIT THE ROOF AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED. I IMMEDIATELY LOOKED BEHIND ME TO SEE IF THE CARS NEARBY HAD BEEN AFFECTED, BUT DIDN'T SEE ANYTHING UNUSUAL. WHEN I ARRIVED AT WORK APPROX 3 MINUTES LATER I DISCOVERED MY SUNROOF WINDOW WAS SHATTERED, WITH PIECES OF GLASS SCATTERED ACROSS THE ROOF OF MY CAR AND A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF SHARDS COLLECTED ON THE SUNROOF FABRIC COVER. I ASSUMED IT WAS A ROCK THROWN FROM ABOVE BUT COULD NOT SEE WHERE IT HAD LANDED OR BOUNCED ANYWHERE ELSE ON THE ROOF OF MY CAR, ESPECIALLY AS THERE WAS ONLY THE ONE LOUD BANG AND NO OTHER REACTION FROM CARS IN TRAFFIC. THE POLICE HAD NO RECORD OF ANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT ROCKS BEING THROWN FROM THE HILL ABOVE. UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION I DISCOVERED SEVERAL CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ABOUT SUBARU SUN AND MOONROOFS EXPLODING FROM THE INSIDE DUE TO FLUCTUATIONS IN TEMPERATURE, AS WELL AS SEVERAL OTHER CAR MANUFACTURERS INVOLVED IN CLASS ACTION LAWSUITS FOR THIS SAME ISSUE. IT WAS APPROX. 30 DEGREES THIS MORNING AND I HAD THE DEFROST/FOOT HEAT SELECTION ON, SET TO LOW. WHEN I RETURNED TO MY CAR TO INVESTIGATE I NOTICED THAT THE GLASS IS BOWED OUT ON THE RIGHT HAND SIDE, CONSISTENT WITH AN INTERNAL EXPLOSION. THE GLASS IS EXTREMELY FRAGILE AND CRUMBLES UPON TOUCH.

Nov 13, 2018

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 SUBARU CROSSTREK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, THE REAR WINDOW SHATTERED AS THE DEFROSTER WAS ACTIVATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WAS REPLACED RECENTLY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 13,000. ...UPDATED 03/13/17 *BF *CN

Jan 23, 2017

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

5 complaints

ON FREEWAY, CAR SUDDENLY DID NOT WANT TO ACCELERATE WHEN PUSHING ON THE GAS. CAR THEN DECELERATED UNTIL I PULLED OVER ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, ALMOST COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP, AND THEN I PUSHED ON GAS AND IT ACCELERATED AGAIN.

Mar 12, 2021

I WAS DRIVING TO A TOWN ABOUT 12 MILES AWAY VIA THE HIGHWAY. AFTER 10 MILES MY ACCELERATOR NO LONGER FUNCTIONED AND THE ABS LIGHT, THE VEHICLE DYNAMICS CONTROL LIGHT, AND THE HILL START ASSIST WARNING LIGHT COME ON. I TOOK THE CAR OUT OF GEAR SO I COULD COAST TO A SPOT TO PULL OFF THE HIGHWAY AND AFTER PUMPING THE ACCELERATOR A FEW TIMES, THE ENGINE STARTED TO RESPOND. I PUT IT BACK IN DRIVE AND CONTINUED ON. THIS HAPPENED FIVE TIMES BEFORE I FINALLY SHUT THE ENGINE OFF. AFTER 5 MINUTES WHEN I RESTARTED, THE WARNING LIGHTS WERE OFF AND DIDN'T COME BACK ON WHEN I DROVE BACK HOME 12 MILES. THE SAME THING HAPPENED THE NEXT DAY.

Aug 07, 2019

CAR INTERMITTENTLY LOSES THE ABILITY TO ACCELERATE OR MAINTAIN SPEED AT A RANGE OF SPEEDS FROM 30MPH TO 75MPH+ IN MY EXPERIENCE. NO RESPONSE WHEN PUSHING THE GAS PEDAL AND ENGINE DOESN'T RESPOND WHATSOEVER TO GAS PEDAL INPUT. IT'S AS IF I HAVE REMOVED MY FOOT FROM THE GAS AND I'M ALLOWING THE VEHICLE TO COAST. THIS LASTS FOR A FEW SECONDS UNTIL NORMAL FUNCTION RESUMES. THIS MOSTLY OCCURS AT ON THE HIGHWAY AND WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A STOP AT A LIGHT OR STOP SIGN. THIS IS INCREDIBLY DANGEROUS AND UNPREDICTABLE, BUT SUBARU WILL DO NOTHING UNLESS THEY'RE ABLE TO REPRODUCE THE ISSUE THEMSELVES. IT'S BEEN IN THE DEALERSHIP ONCE ALREADY. THE ISSUE IS INTERMITTENT AND ONLY HAPPENS EVERY FEW DAYS, SO IT'S HARD TO MAKE IT HAPPEN WHEN YOU WANT IT TO. I HAVE A BAD VIDEO RECORDING OF HALFWAY THROUGH IT HAPPENING, BUT I'M ATTEMPTING TO GET A BETTER RECORDING.

Jun 19, 2019

WHILE STOPPING AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT AND FOOT REMOVED FROM THE GAS PEDAL, THE TRANSMISSION SURGED VIOLENTLY. HAD TO APPLY BRAKES AS CAR WAS TRYING TO MOVE FORWARD INTO A HIGHWAY. MANAGED TO SHIFT IN PARK AND SURGE EVENTUALLY STOPPED.FIRST TIME I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER,THEY SAID NOTHING WRONG. IT HAS HAPPENED AGAIN WHILE TO PARK. THIS TIME I HAD TO SHUT THE ENGINE OFF. FLAWED DESIGN, FEEL VERY UNSAFE IN THIS CAR.

Nov 04, 2018

APRIL 2018 WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY THE GAS PEDAL SUDDENLY STOPPED FUNCTIONING BUT THE ENGINE WAS STILL RUNNING AT IDLE. RESTARTING THE CAR FIXED THE ISSUE BUT IT HAPPENED AGAIN 10MIN LATER. BOTH INSTANCES ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. AFTER THE SECOND TIME IT HAPPENED THE CAR WOULD NOT START AND IT HAD TO BE TOWED TO A DEALERSHIP. THE DEALERSHIP SAID THAT NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH IT AND RETURNED THE VEHICLE, NOW ONE MONTH LATER THE ACCELERATOR STOPPED FUNCTIONING WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY ALMOST CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START AND HAD TO BE TOWED TO DEALER.

May 31, 2018

STRUCTURE

3 complaints

How was your safety or the safety o others put at risk? On [XXX], I bought a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek. Unfortunately, I fell into the bad and abusive practice of buying a car as is since at no time did that used car dealer in Raleigh inform about the correction and rust that is underneath the car. If they had said so, I would not buy the car since it cannot be fixed and at the Subaru dealer where I live, they told me that the car should not have been sold for use on the road due to the degree of correction and rust it presents. In September, when it did not pass the inspection, I came to find out about the situation of the poor condition underneath the car. It had a leaking muffler and they had to repair it so that the car could pass inspection. I present other situations; but the worst is the state of deterioration. BBB and Consumer Protective, I made complaints and nothing was the result; Because they offered through BBB a settlement at a supposedly low price (I did not accept because I did not trust the sale due to bad faith) and through Consumer Protection, they told me to go to court. I went to court because up to $10,000.00usd, they will see the case without legal assistance; I did not qualify because that dealer sold the car for more than $10,000.00usd. The government could veto the law on car sales as it is, because they abuse and continue selling risky cars and the problem falls on the buyer. Please!! I need a help in this situation. Thank you. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Dec 03, 2024

Engine Hood-Latch disengaged while driving at speed. The secondary (emergency) latch failed to keep the hood down, causing it to fly open, shattering the windshield, and completely blocking a view of the highway. (The hood latch had an issue where it would not close 10 months prior, and it was serviced by Subaru at that time)

Oct 27, 2021

WHILE DRIVING MY 2016 SUBARU ON A HIGHWAY IN THE RAIN, THE SUN ROOF UNEXPECTEDLY EXPLODED OUTWARD. THERE WASN'T ANY SIGN OF BEING HIT BY DEBRIS TO CAUSE THE GLASS TO SHATTER. BROKEN GLASS FLEW ALL OVER. I TOOK PHOTOS OF THE GLASS ROOF THAT CLEARLY SHOWS THE SHATTERED ROOF BROKE UPWARD.

Nov 15, 2016

SUSPENSION

3 complaints

See attached document from complainant

Oct 24, 2023

Premature rear wheel bearing failure, both rear wheels at 29,000 miles. Dealer service technician states vehicle is unsafe to drive.

Sep 29, 2022

THE WHOLE CONTROL ARM BROKE AND THE CAR ONLY HAD 44 000 MILES ON IT HAD TO REPLACE IT AND THE RADIATOR CRACKED TOO WITH SO MANY LITTLE MILES CONTACTED SUBARU NO ANSWER THEY WONT EVEN REIMBURSE ME PAID OVER 2 GRAN TO FIX IT VERY UNRELIABLE CAR

Dec 11, 2021

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

3 complaints

While driving on the highway with a quarter tank of gas, without warning, my vehicle's engine turned off. As I was in the left lane at the time, I was forced to pull over onto the small shoulder. There were two other occupants in the car and the nearest roadside assistance was an hour away. There were no warning lights or messages prior, and my gas gauge said I had 80 miles until empty. This is the third time this has occurred. I believe this is related to a faulty fuel pump, because my gas tank was not empty. It has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police or insurance.

Jun 14, 2021

MY VEHICLE (2016 SUBARU CROSSTREK, 74K MILES) BECAME COMPLETELY UNRESPONSIVE DURING HIGHWAY SPEEDS TWICE IN ONE WEEK. I WAS TRAVELING APPROX. 80MPH ON THE INTERSTATE WHEN THE GAS PEDAL STOPPED WORKING. MY VEHICLE STARTED TO DECELERATE FOR A FEW SECONDS BEFORE COMPLETELY SHUTTING DOWN AND I WAS ABLE TO COAST TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE RESTARTED ALMOST IMMEDIATELY AND I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE REST OF THE WAY HOME WITHOUT INCIDENT. I CALLED A SUBARU DEALERSHIP IMMEDIATELY THE NEXT MORNING AND BROUGHT IT IN THAT SAME DAY WHERE THEY FOUND NOTHING WRONG: NO CODES, NO BULLETINS, OR RECALLS, AND THEY SAID IT WAS PROBABLY JUST DRIVER ERROR. THE VERY NEXT DAY IT HAPPENED AGAIN, THE EXACT SAME SCENARIO: DRIVING 80MPH WHEN MY GAS PEDAL BECAME UNRESPONSIVE, THE VEHICLE DECELERATED THEN DIED WHERE I HAD TO COAST OFF THE ROAD. THIS TIME THE CAR WOULDN'T START FOR ABOUT 30MIN DESPITE MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS (IT WOULD CRANK BUT NOT TURN OVER). THEN AFTER SITTING FOR ABOUT 30 MIN, IT STARTED JUST FINE AND I DROVE TO MY DESTINATION WITHOUT ANY TROUBLE. I CALLED AND MADE AN APPOINTMENT WITH A SUBARU DEALER (A DIFFERENT ONE) FIRST THING, TOOK IT IN, AND WAS TOLD ONCE AGAIN THAT NOTHING WAS WRONG. AFTER DOING SOME INTERNET RESEARCH I FOUND A FORUM OF CROSSTREK OWNERS THAT HAVE THE EXACT SAME ISSUE, SO I KNOW IT ISN'T "DRIVER ERROR" AND I KNOW THAT IT ISN'T ISOLATED. I DON'T KNOW WHAT PART OR SYSTEM WOULD BE FAILING IN THIS PARTICULAR INCIDENT. HERE IS THE LINK TO THE FORUM HTTPS://WWW.SUBARUXVFORUM.COM/THREADS/SHUTTING-DOWN-WHILE-DRIVING.106065/ I ALSO CALLED SUBARU OF AMERICA TO TRY AND GET THEM INVOLVED, ALTHOUGH THEY REALLY DIDN'T DO ANYTHING AND NOW I HAVE 2 SEPARATE CASE NUMBERS WITH THEM. THE FIRST BREAKDOWN OCCURED 11/14/2019 AND THE SECOND INCIDENT OCCURRED 11/16/2019.

Dec 09, 2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 SUBARU CROSSTREK. WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE FUEL GAUGE FAILED TO DISPLAY THE PROPER READING AND THE VEHICLE CEASED. THE CONTACT CALLED DELLENBACH SUBARU (LOCATED AT 3103 S COLLEGE AVE, FORT COLLINS, CO 8052, (970) 226-3100) AND WAS WAITING TO SCHEDULE A DIAGNOSTIC APPOINTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 24,000.

May 06, 2019

SERVICE BRAKES

3 complaints

THIS IS A COMPLAINT ABOUT SUBARU DEALERS NOT RESPONDING TO A RECALL IN WHAT I WOULD CALL A TIMELY MANNER. I CANNOT TELL WHERE ON YOUR WEBSITE TO SUBMIT THIS. IT IS VERY CONFUSING. IT SAYS TO SUBMIT A COMPLAINT OF THIS TYPE, BUT DOESN'T TELL WHERE. I GOT A RECALL FOR THE BRAKE LIGHT ISSUE. I CONSIDER THIS A VERY HIGH PRIORITY. THE DEALER SAID THEY COULD SEE ME IN A WEEK. THAT SEEMS UNREASONABLE CONSIDERING THE NATURE OF THE RECALL. I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED IN SUBARU, AND IN YOUR CALL-IN SYSTEM WHICH SEEMED TO PROVIDE NOT HELP.

May 06, 2019

HAD TO HAVE REAR BRAKES REPLACES ON VEHICLE AT 36,000 MILES. FRONT BRAKES SHOULD WEAR OUT BEFORE REAR BRAKES. ROTORS WERE RUSTED OUT. ALSO THE DOWNHILL ALERT LIGHT WOULD COME ON RANDOMLY ON FLAT SURFACES WHICH CAUSES REAR BRAKES TO ENGAGE. BECAUSE THE LIGHT IS SPORADIC, DEALER WOULD NOT DO ANYTHING.

Apr 18, 2019

WAS STANDING IN THE LINE OF OTHER CARS ON THE STOP SIGN FOR SEVERAL MINUTES, BRAKE PEDAL LOST IT'S HEIGHT AND DEPRESSED BY ITSELF, CAUSING MY FOOT TO SLIP FROM BRAKE TO DRIVE PEDAL AND SUBSEQUENTLY CAUSED A DAMAGE TO MY CAR AND A CAR IN FRONT OF MINE. I WAS LUCKY THAT THERE WERE NO PEDESTRIANS AT THE TIME.

Aug 09, 2016

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

2 complaints

In three separate incidents while car only shows 70 in fuel indicator, my 2016 Crosstrek stalled while driving on a highway. I have brought my car to Subaru dealer, but they cannot find anything wrong with my 2016 Crosstrek. In each of the three separate instances after waiting on the side road for 30 minutes, I was able to restart the car and drive home. My car just had a new engine air filter replaced.

Jan 05, 2024

HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES, MAJORITY OF IT HAD BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY, AND I EXITED OFF THE HIGHWAY. I WAITED AT A STOP LIGHT AND THEN TURNED ONTO A SECONDARY ROAD. THE CAR ALL OF A SUDDEN GAVE ALL WARNING LIGHTS WITH THE HYBRID SYSTEM AND I LOST ACCELERATION IN THE VEHICLE. IT MADE IT VERY HARD TO STEER, AND WHEN STEPPING ON THE GAS IT BARELY HAD ANY POWER TO ACCELERATE THE VEHICLE. FELT LIKE I LOST THE MAIN POWER A D WAS USING ONLY THE HYBRID BATTERY TO POWER THE VEHICLE. I PULLED OFF ON A SIDE STREET PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF. I WAITED A FEW MINUTES AND THEN TURNED THE CAR BACK ON AND EVERYTHING WAS FINE. THIS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AND IF IT HAD HAPPENED TWO MINUTES EARLIER I WOULD'VE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND IN REAL TROUBLE.

May 01, 2021

WHEELS

2 complaints

While at posted highway speeds through twisting roads, the vehicle developed a wheel vibration. Stopped to inspect the wheels, found right rear wheel missing 4 of 5 lug bolts. Lug bolts were sheared off. Vehicle has 81,000 miles, tires rotated 7 months prior to this event.

Oct 08, 2023

WHEN TURNING CLICKING NOISE WAS COMING FROM WHEEL AREA. CAR HAS ONLY 50,000 MILES. WHEN I TOOK CAR IN FOR OIL CHECK MECHANIC CHECKED IT OUT FOR ME. THEY ENDED UP REPLACING THE PASSENGER CV AXLE.

Jul 26, 2020

AIR BAGS

2 complaints

On 3/30 my steering column started to make a grinding sound when I turned my steering wheel over 90 degrees to make a turn. On 3/31 the airbag light went on and I made an appointment to bring it in to get looked at by my nearest Subaru dealership (Tacoma Subaru). I was told the light meant the airbags would not deploy if I got into a car accident so I didn’t drive my car until I needed to pick up grocery order on 4/2. On 4/2 I was making a slow right hand turn into the parking lot and my airbag deployed as I turned and hit/burned my forearm through a heavy sweatshirt. I didn’t bump it, experience an impact or accident of any kind. It simply deployed while I was turning without any warning.

Apr 03, 2023

Injuries: 1

This is a suspected problem with the side airbags located in the driver/front passenger seats. The seat upholstery has two straps that guide the airbag into the upholstery seam when the airbag deploys. Over time, the straps chafe on the sharp edges of the seat frame and wear through. As a result, there is a risk that the seat airbag will not deploy correctly. I discovered this problem when I was performing the following procedure https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2018/MC-10140486-9999.pdf.To be clear, my airbag has not deployed and I do not know what would happen had the airbag deployed. I'm attaching some photos. The photos show the two straps, one of which is mostly worn through. They also show the straps in their intended install location. There is a photo with some arrows and comments. Another thing to note is that I have seen multiple seats with this problem from cars with much lower mileage. I have another set of seats from a Subaru WRX that also has this issue. Subaru seats share a common architecture and the airbags are the same on Crosstrek/Impreza/WRX/Forester. In addition, a fix seems rather simple. This would involve applying some strong tape to the sharp edges of the seat frame to cover the sharp edges.

Jun 10, 2021

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2 complaints

Ignition Key stuck in the ignition cannot be removed from ignition after parking. This problem never occurred in previous 5 years of ownership. It happens nearly every time the car is driven, and has been reported widely on the internet by Subaru owners. In many cases, owners have not been able to remove the keys at all, and have had to call for assistance. On the advice of a repair tech, we replaced our battery, which, at 5 years old, was probably due to be replaced. This has not solved the problem.

Nov 10, 2021

NOT ABLE TO REMOVE KEY FROM IGNITION HAVE TO TAKE THE VEHICLE OUT OF PARK PUT IT BACK IN PARK IN PARK AND SOMETIMES REPEAT THEN ABLE TO REMOVE KEY FROM IGNITION. DEALERSHIP SAYS IT'S NOT COVERED UNDER THE MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY THE SERVICE ADVISOR NEE EXACTLY WHAT THE ISSUE WAS AS THEY JUST DID THE REPAIRS TO ANOTHER VEHICLE THE PART IS TRANSMISSION PLATE GUIDE ASSEMBLY LOCATED IN THE SHIFT CONSOLE THAT COST $50 AND $350 FOR LABOR WITH A TOTAL OF $400. MY VEHICLE IS NOW AT 40,000 MILES.

Aug 09, 2019

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

WHILE PUTTING MY VEHICLE IN PARK THE KEY WILL NOT RELEASE FROM THE IGNITION. IT TAKES MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS OF GOING BACK AND FORTH TO GET THE KEY TO RELEASE FROM THE IGNITION. TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH "FAILURE TO PARK POSITION, AND NEEDED TO REPLACE THE MICRO SWITCH PLATE" WITH A COST OF APPROXIMATELY $800.00 DOLLARS. *TR

May 21, 2020

MY KEY GETS STUCK IN THE IGNITION ON THE ACC POSITION, SO I CAN NOT LEAVE MY CAR WITH THE KEY IN IT BECAUSE THE BATTERY IS STILL ON. THE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY AND IN PARK. I TURN THE KEY COUNTER CLOCKWISE TO TURN THE CAR OFF AND REMOVE THE KEY, THE KEY WILL NOT GO FURTHER THAN THE ACC POSITION, AND NO, IT IS NOT THAT I'M NOT PUSHING IT IN ENOUGH OR THE STEERING WHEEL LOCK. I AM ESSENTIALLY STUCK IN MY CAR OR AT RISK OF IT BEING STOLEN. IT HAPPENS FREQUENTLY (AT LEAST ONCE A DAY) BUT NOT EVERY SINGLE TIME I DRIVE THE CAR. IT HAS MADE IT IMPOSSIBLE TO DRIVE, AND FOR FEAR OF DAMAGING THE TRANSMISSION OR ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS FURTHER I TRY NOT TO DRIVE IT. SUBARU IS AWARE OF THIS ISSUE ACROSS FIVE OTHER SUBARU MODELS OVER FIVE YEARS (2013-2018; LEGACY, OUTBACK, IMPREZA, CROSSTREK, FORESTER, WRX - UNTIL RECENTLY THEIR ENTIRE LINEUP!) AND ISSUED A SERVICE BULLETIN LAST YEAR (ATTACHED). IT IS AFFECTING SO MANY OTHER CUSTOMERS, YET THEY WILL NOT FIX IT. THE SERVICE BULLETIN ANNOUNCED A DESIGN CHANGE TO THE CVT SELECT LEVER DUE TO PARK-RANGE SWITCH INTERNAL COMPONENTS. THEY CLAIM IT IS "ISOLATED" BUT A QUICK SEARCH ON THE INTERNET PROVES THIS IS NOT THE CASE.

Aug 08, 2019

SEATS

2 complaints

TRACKING NUMBER 11217079:THIS IS TO ADD PHOTOS SHOWING THAT SEAT HEIGHT ADJUST LEVER AFTER WEAR PROTRUDES FROM SEAT BASE CASTING, AND CATCHES PANTS CUFF ON EXITING CAUSING TRIPPING.

Jun 05, 2019

LEVER TO ADJUST DRIVER SEAT HEIGHT HAS TIP AT FRONT EDGE OF DRIVER SEAT. LEVER LOOSENS AND TIP PROTRUDES SUCH THAT ON EXITING CAR IT OFTEN TRAPS PANTS CUFF AND HAS NEARLY DUMPED ME ONTO HIGHWAY IF I AM DISTRACTED AND NOT CONCENTRATING ON AVOIDING THIS. SUBARU CORRECTED ON LATER MODELS BY MOVING TIP 3 INCHES BACK OUT OF CUFF RADIUS, WHICH DOES NOT HELP WITH MY 2016. AXLE OF LEVER FURTHER BENDS OR GOES OFF AXIS TO EXACERBATE PROBLEM. FOR WARRANTY CORRECTION DEALER CLAIMS 'THAT IS THE WAY IT WAS DESIGNED, NOTHING WE CAN DO. THEY COULD PUT IN THE SEAT WITH CORRECTED LEVER POSITIONING. TO NOTE BELOW: PROBLEM IS ON EXITING PARKED CAR. PROBLEM IS POSITION AND DESIGN OF MANUAL DRIVER SEAT HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LEVER. THAT IT BENDS AWAY FROM ORIGINAL POSITION OF FLUSH AGAINST SEAT BASE AND THE TIP PROTRUDES JUST AT THE EDGE WHERE THE LEFT LEG DRAGS BY ON EXITING, AND THE PANTS CUFF GETS CAUGHT BETWEEN THE LEVER AND THE MOLDED SEAT BASE. AS THE RIGHT LEG IS SWINGING OUT IN EXPECTATION THAT THE LEFT IS HEADING TOWARD THE ROAD, I TRIP AND START TO FALL TOWARD THE ROAD. THIS HAS GOTTEN WORSE AS EACH TIME IT BENDS THE AXLE OF THE LEVER A BIT FURTHER OUT, INCREASING THE GAP BETWEEN LEVER AND SEAT BASE.

May 31, 2019

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

1 complaint

Within 24 hours of purchase, the exhaust pipe became detached underneath the vehicle and exhaust fumes and odor were entering the cabin while driving. This created a potential carbon monoxide exposure risk to me and passengers. Subaru inspected the vehicle and confirmed the exhaust issue existed before I purchased the car. The selling dealership did not disclose this safety defect and refused to unwind the sale when notified.

Dec 10, 2025

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 complaint

Hood latch failed causing hood to fly open, smashing and breaking my windshield.

May 05, 2025

STEERING,POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

The CVT valve body was diagnosed as defective by the Subaru Dealership service department. The car was taken to the dcealership when the A/T OIL EMP, HILL ASSIST, ABS and TRACTION CONTROL, STABILITY CONTROL lights came up. The valve body is still available for inspection. The car was taken to the dealership for a Brake Light Switch recall that has the same simptoms.

Apr 29, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS

1 complaint

I have a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek. Unfortunately I have had a couple of issues. The main thing being the horn. The location of the problem is affecting my air bag, AND my rear window defroster. I don’t know if Subaru has a faulty clockspring and relays, that malfunction after a certain amount of time. But for everyone’s safety, it would seem that the Subaru Corporation would implement a recall. As a result of the horn not working, I was involved in a fender bender accident, I was unable to alert a driver that they were merging into my lane of traffic. I’ve searched mechanics and auto parts stores, the cost is exorbitant, especially for a senior on a fixed income. I don’t know to whom these reports are or if they are forwarded, but I certainly hope someone in a decision making capacity will help the loyal owners of Subarus. I still, because I have no other option, drive, however I am so very cautious. And I limit my “outings” to as few as possible. It’s a hindrance, a rather very often at inopportune times. Hopefully there will be a chance for Subaru to do the correct thing.

Jul 11, 2024

Crash: 1

STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 complaint

Driving at 55 miles per hour and the hood safety latch failed. Hood smashed the windshield and rained glass down inside the car. The hood hyper extended damaging the fenders on the right and left. It also damaged the plastic around the wipers. Terrifying experience. Zero visibility caused me to slam on my breaks almost causing another vehicle to hit my car.

Feb 08, 2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE

1 complaint

Car caught fire from what seemed to be an electrical issue. Car became engulfed in flames within a few seconds. Fire department was called to extinguish the fire. I was lucky myself to make it out in time. The fire became so big, so quickly, I was concerned for the safety of the surrounding property. Luckily, no one was injured and no property damage took place. Car was inspected and totaled by insurance. The headlights were constantly needing to be changed. Otherwise the car was fine. I had just replaced the battery and just a few hours later the fire happened. The fire appeared to start somewhere under the hood on the passenger side.

Apr 14, 2023

Fire: 1

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

My car has stopped working while driving 70 mph on the interstate in so separate occasions. Both times it has been driving fine, with fuel in the tank, and all of the sudden it shuts off and completely loses power. All of the warning lights on the dash light up and the only thing to do is to coast to the shoulder of the highway. Couldn’t start the car back up (cranked, no start). Battery is fine. Fuel level is fine. First time it happened it had to be towed. Towed to mechanic who ran diagnostics on it the next day but nothing threw a code. It started fine the next day. I’ve had certified Subaru mechanics tear this thing apart trying to figure out what causes the issue but they can’t find anything wrong. I’m scared this is going to happen again and will put me in a dangerous situation in the middle of a highway or on the side of the road. This is definitely an issue putting myself and others at risk. It seems similar to other issues Subaru crosstreks have had in close model years to mine (20 where recalls have been issued for fuel pump malfunctions etc. Please look into this, this could cause a terrible wreck and needs to be resolved ASAP.

Mar 09, 2023

VISIBILITY

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that the windshield had cracked without impact. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 72,885.

Jan 17, 2023

STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

I was driving on the highway and my hood opened and flew back into the windshield. This caused my windshield to break. It was very dangerous and scary since I was driving on the highway. I was very lucky that I did not hit anything or anyone and also that no one else hit me. The tow truck driver said that the hood latch was broken. I have never had any issues with my hood closing prior to this and had no idea it was broken. There were no warning lights and the hood appeared to be closed, it looked the same as the hood always does, not lifted up or anything. The vehicle is still being fixed so I would think it could be further inspected if needed. The damage to my car is extensive. It needs a new hood, new windshield, fenders, and roof. The hood hit so hard that it caused the above mentioned parts to be distorted and bent. The part that failed on the car is the back up hood latch to prevent this from happening if the hood does open without warning like this.

Feb 14, 2022

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

On Jan 7th, during rush-hour traffic on the highway, without any warning all of my vehicle lights began to dim. The power steering and brakes went out. I was able to steer to the side of the road. Then, all of the lights went out and the car shut off. I was unable to shift the vehicle into park, and as I was going up a hill at the time, I was forced to roll backwards slowly and engage the emergency brake. Only luck prevented a serious, perhaps fatal accident. It was also below freezing in Ohio so I had to sit in the frigid temperatures until a tow truck arrived. After being towed to two separate dealerships, the Subaru dealer believes this was caused by a faulty hybrid battery, alternator, or both. An inspection is available by request. The problem did flag multiple error codes (confirmed by the dealer) but it is very frightening that there was absolutely NO warning and I feel unsafe driving this vehicle, even after it will be repaired. Next time, myself or others, may not be so fortunate. The alternator is being recalled in 2017+ Subaru Crosstrek for this very issue, but not the 2016 (my vehicle).

Jan 11, 2022

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

1 complaint

KEY IS UNABLE TO BE REMOVED FROM IGNITION AFTER SHIFTING TO PARK. SOMETIMES REQUIRES YOU TO SHIFT IN AND OUT OF PARK SEVERAL TIMES TO GET THE KEY TO RELEASE. SEEMS TO BE A COMMON COMPLAINT AND A DEFECTIVE PARK POSITION SENSOR.

Apr 24, 2021

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

VEHICLE TURNED OFF/STALLED AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS ON 2 OCCASIONS, 2 MONTHS APART. NEEDED TO BE TOWED. SIGNIFICANT SAFETY ISSUE. BOTH TIMES, DEALER STATED NO ISSUES WERE FOUND. FIRST TIME THEY SAID IT MAY BE THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH WHICH WAS REPAIRED UNDER RECALL. SECOND TIME THEY SAID IT MIGHT BE THE FUEL PUMP OVERHEATING BUT SAID PUMP LOOKED FINE. I DO NOT TRUST THE CAR AND WILL NOT DRIVE IT.

Jan 04, 2021

STEERING,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

THERE IS A GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM ONE OF MY WHEELS . I'M PRETTY SURE IT'S A BAD WHEEL BEARING . NOTICED THE NOISE AFTER BRAKING VERY HARD TO AVOID A COLLISION .HAVE HAD THE SUV LOOKED AT TEST DRIVEN BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC . HE BELIEVES IT IS THE WHEEL BEARING

Nov 21, 2020

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

1 complaint

MY BATTERY KEEP DRAINING ALL THE TIME SINCE I BOUGHT THE CAR I HAVE CHANGED 3 OF THEM. TWO OF THE BATTERY WERE STILL OKAY BUT I STILL CHANGED THEM. ALSO, ALL THE WARNING LIGHTS ON THE DASHBOARD KEEP ON AND OFF WITHOUT THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. I BROUGHT THE CAR TO THE DEALER AND THEY FIXED THE BRAKE SWITCH RECALL AND I ALSO MENTION THE PROBLEM TO THEM BUT THEY COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR. FEW DAYS LATER, I BROUGHT THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER BECAUSE THE WARNING LIGHTS WERE ON AND OFF ON THE DASHBOARD. THEY DIAGNOSED THE CAR AND SAID THE CAR NEED TO REPLACE THE VALVE BODY TRANSMISSION WHICH I DOUBT THAT MY CAR HAS PROBLEM WITH THE TRANSMISSION. I ALSO HAVE DONE SOME RESEARCH AND A LOT OF PEOPLE WHO OWN THE SUBARU HAVE THAT SAME ISSUE. I PERSONALLY USED TO OWN THE SUBARU BRZ AND THAT CAR ALSO HAS THE PROBLEM WITH THE BATTERY AND THE DEALER JUST REPLACED IT FOR ME.

Aug 12, 2020

Crash: 1

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE

1 complaint

THE VEHICLE WAS LOSING POWER AND GETTING CLOSE TO THE POINT OF STALLING BUT NEVER STALLED. IT WOULD PERIODICALLY NOT SWITCH GEARS AS WELL. SEEMS LIKE IT COULD HAVE BEEN A FAULTY BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH. APPARENTLY I WAS TOLD THAT MY VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED UNDER THE RECALL PUT OUT EARLIER FOR THIS ISSUE. SO I HAD TO PAY OUT OF POCKET.

Dec 12, 2019

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

EVERY 4 MONTHS I'M CHANGING HEAD LAMP LOWER BEAM,,

Nov 28, 2019

STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint

WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT AROUND CURVES AT ABOUT 15-20 MPH THE STEERING WHEEL KIND OF LOCKED, AND COULD NOT GO BACK STRAIGHT. HAD TO STOP, TURN THE CAR OFF IN ORDER TO THE STEERING WHEEL FEEL NORMAL. IT DID IT A COUPLE OF TIMES, ALSO WHILE PARKING IT MADE LIKE A CLICKING NOISE BY THE FRONT PASSENGER WHEEL. HAD IT FIX, SUBARU REPLACE RELIEF VALVE, ELECTRIC OIL PUMP. EVEN THOUGH SUBARU IS AT FAULT, I HAD TO PAY ALMOST $600 TO HAVE THIS FIX BECAUSE MY CAR HAD A CONDITION THAT WAS NOT COVERED BY THEIR WARRANTY. IT ISN'T FAIR. I BOUGHT THIS SUBARU BECAUSE OF THEIR RELIABILITY. IT SHOULDN'T HAVE DEFECTS. THIS SITUATION EXPOSED MY DAUGHTER'S LIFE AND MINE. I HOPE NOBODY ELSE GOES THROUGH THIS RISKY SITUATION. THANK YOU.

Nov 12, 2019

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint

EXPERIENCING SAME ISSUES AS MANY OTHERS. KEY WILL NOT PULL OUT UNLESS TURNED BACK ON AND CHANGE GEARS; THEN WHEN TURNED BACK OFF KEY WILL PULL OUT. STARTED HAPPENING IN 2019. AGAIN, SAME AS OTHER PEOPLE, HEAR CLICKING WHEN TURNING LEFT. TAKING TO DEALERSHIP TOMORROW BUT SEEMS LIKE IT WILL BE THE AXLE FROM WHAT OTHERS ARE EXPERIENCING.

Sep 23, 2019

POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

VEHICLE WAS PLACED IN REVERSE TO BACK OUT OF DRIVEWAY. AFTER BACKING INTO STREET THE VEHICLE CANE TO A COMPLETE STOP THEN THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION WAS SHIFTED INTO DRIVE. I PRESSED ON THE GAS PEDAL AND THE VEHICLE STALLED FOR A FEW SECONDS THEN QUICKLY ACCELERATED AT A VERY FAST SPEED. THIS WAS ON A BUSY ROAD AND THE VEHICLE APPROACHING MY REAR HAD TO SLAM ON ITS BRAKES TO AVOID A COLLISION. LATER IN THE SAME EVENING IN A PARKING LOT THE SAME GEAR CHANGE PROBLEM HAPPED AGAIN. AFTER GOING FROM REVERSE THEN COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP THE VEHICLE WAS SHIFTED TO THE DRIVE POSITION. THE GAS PEDAL WAS PRESSED THEN THE VEHICLE CAME TO A NEAR STALL. AFTER A LONG DELAY THE VEHICLE JOLTED FORWARD. A PERSON WALKING THROUGH THE LOT NOTICED MY HESITATION AND THOUGHT I WAS LETTING THEM CROSS IN FRONT OF ME. MY VEHICLE CAME WITHIN A COUPLE FEET OF ALMOST STRIKING THE PEDESTRIAN.

Jul 08, 2019

STEERING,SUSPENSION

1 complaint

CAR HAS 67,000 MILES, IS THREE YEARS OLD, THE FRONT LEFT AND RIGHT AXLES HAD TO BOTH BE REPLACED. THERE WAS A LOUD CLICKING WHEN STEERING THE VEHICLE. ON BOTH SIDES OF THE CAR. ANY TURNS WHETHER WITH SPEED OR SLOW THE AXLE WOULD MAKE A LOUD CLICKING NOISE. I WAS NOT IN AN ACCIDENT NOR HITTING POTHOLES ETC. JUST MAKING BASIC TURNS ONTO ROADS AND HIGHWAYS.

May 28, 2019

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

1 complaint

WHILE DRIVING THE CAR AT 70 MPH ON A FREEWAY IT SUDDENLY VEERED TO THE RIGHT. QUICK ACTION ON MY PART KEPT THE CAR FROM RUNNING OFF THE ROAD ONTO THE SHOULDER. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE LOCAL SUBARU DEALER AT THE FIRST AVAILABLE APPOINTMENT. THEY INSPECTED THE CAR AND FOUND THE ON-BOARD COMPUTER SHOWED AN INDICATION OF A STEERING ANGLE SENSOR FAULT. THEY KEPT THE CAR OVERNIGHT AND ROAD TESTED IT BUT BECAUSE THEY COULD TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM THEY MADE NO REPAIRS TO THE VEHICLE. AT A MINIMUM, I FEEL THEY SHOULD HAVE REPLACED THE STEERING ANGLE SENSOR AND ASKED THEM TO DO SO AND THEY REFUSED. I CONSIDER THIS CAR UNSAFE TO DRIVE.

Jun 11, 2018

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

THE DURATION OF TIME THAT IT TAKES TO GO FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE IS UNACCEPTABLE AND DANGEROUS. EVERY MORNING I DRIVE MY CHILD TO DAYCARE AND THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS OCCASIONS WHERE I FEARED THAT WE WOULD GET REAR-ENDED (WHICH WOULD INJURE MY CHILD) DUE TO THE SLOW RESPONSE TIME GOING FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE. EVERY MORNING I HAVE TO BE 100% SURE TO TIME MY REVERSAL WHEN BACKING OUT AND MAKE SURE THERE ARE NO CARS ANYWHERE NEAR ME SO I DON'T GET CRASHED INTO. THIS IS DANGEROUS AND NEEDS TO BE FIXED BEFORE THERE ARE ANY DEATHS OR INJURIES FROM THIS. ALSO, THIS IS A MINOR INCONVENIENCE BUT THE MOONROOF/SUNROOF DOESN'T OPEN 100% ALL THE WAY WHEN I CLICK THE AUTO OPEN BUTTON/FEATURE...IT OPENS AND THEN STOPS ABOUT 1 INCH BEFORE BEING FULLY OPEN. IN OTHER WORDS, IF YOU PRESS THE AUTO OPEN BUTTON TO OPEN THE MOONROOF, IT WILL STOP AT 90-95% OPEN THEN YOU HAVE TO MANUALLY PRESS IT AGAIN TO GET IT FULLY OPEN ANOTHER INCH TO 100%. WHEN I TOOK MY CROSSTREK TO THE DEALER TO HAVE THEM REPROGRAM MY TELEMATICS FOR THE TELEMATICS/COMPUTER REPROGRAMMING RECALL I HAD THEM TAKE A LOOK AT THE MOONROOF AND THEY SAID THAT IT IS "WORKING AS DESIGNED". WHY WOULD A MOONROOF NOT FULLY OPEN 100% BY DESIGN? IT CAN'T BE A SAFETY ISSUE, SO THIS JUST DOESN'T MAKE ANY SENSE AND LEADS ME TO BELIEVE THAT THE DEALERSHIP WAS BEING COMPLACENT AND LAZY AND DIDN'T FEEL LIKE HAVING TO ADJUST IT OR SIMPLY DIDN'T KNOW HOW.

May 13, 2016

2016 SUBARU Crosstrek Problems & Complaints

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