The Subaru Crosstrek has been a go-to choice for American drivers since its debut in 2013 as the XV Crosstrek. Combining the off-road capability of Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system with the versatility of a compact SUV, it quickly gained a loyal following. It’s a favorite among adventure enthusiasts, city commuters, and families. Thanks to its rugged design, good fuel economy, and reliability, the Crosstrek stands out in a crowded market. Despite its accolades, though, not all Crosstrek model years are created equal. Certain years stand out for their high volume of owner complaints and reliability concerns, documented by resources like CarComplaints.com and the NHTSA. Here, we’ll explore three Subaru Crosstrek years to avoid, detailing their major issues and why they could be a headache for potential buyers.

The Crosstrek legacy

The Crosstrek made its U.S. debut as the 2013 XV Crosstrek, designed as a crossover sibling to the Impreza hatchback. Featuring 8.7 inches of ground clearance, it provided serious off-road capability in a compact package. By 2016, Subaru dropped the “XV” prefix, and the model simply became known as the Crosstrek. Its combination of car-like driving dynamics, an adventurous aesthetic, and Subaru’s signature symmetrical all-wheel drive appealed to a broad audience.

Over the years, Subaru has updated the Crosstrek with more advanced technology, better safety features, and improved engines. However, not all updates landed well with drivers. Below, we examine three model years that disappointed owners, ranking them based on frequent complaints, repair costs, and severity of issues.

2016 Subaru Crosstrek: Drivetrain and Electrical Woes

The 2016 Crosstrek is remembered for its frustrating drivetrain problems and persistent electrical issues. According to CarComplaints.com, drivers frequently reported vibrations and shudders while accelerating. This was traced back to the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which struggled with maintaining smooth power delivery. Many owners described a jerky driving experience, particularly when merging onto highways or during stop-and-go traffic.

Electrical System Glitches: Electrical issues were also a significant pain point. Faulty infotainment systems led to frozen screens and unresponsive touch controls. Owners reported problems with Bluetooth connectivity and navigation systems, which became particularly problematic for those relying on modern conveniences during long trips.

Drivetrain Complaints: The drivetrain received 17 complaints to the NHTSA, with many citing vibrations during acceleration or a lack of responsiveness when shifting power between the front and rear wheels. These problems not only hurt fuel efficiency but also detracted from the smooth driving experience Subaru is known for.

While the 2016 Crosstrek retained Subaru’s hallmark durability, these persistent issues make it a model year to avoid for anyone seeking a worry-free ownership experience.

2018 Subaru Crosstrek: High Oil Consumption and Electrical Issues

The 2018 Crosstrek received an alarming number of complaints (287 on CarComplaints.com) about excessive oil consumption, earning it a spot on this list. The issue stems from the 2.0-liter Boxer engine, which many owners reported required constant top-offs between oil changes. Some even experienced engine damage due to oil starvation, resulting in costly repairs or complete engine replacements.

Oil Consumption Challenges: Excessive oil consumption isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a red flag for potential engine wear. Owners noted that their vehicles burned through a quart of oil in less than 1,000 miles, which is far above industry norms. Subaru issued technical service bulletins to address the problem, but for many owners, the solution didn’t resolve the underlying concern.

Infotainment Failures: Electrical problems plagued the 2018 model, particularly with its touchscreen display. Drivers reported frozen screens, malfunctioning Bluetooth connections, and backup camera failures. For a vehicle marketed as a tech-friendly adventure companion, these glitches undermined its appeal.

The combination of mechanical and technological issues makes the 2018 Crosstrek one of the more troublesome model years.

3. 2020 Subaru Crosstrek: CVT and Sensor Failures

Although newer, the 2020 Crosstrek isn’t without its problems. Many complaints focused on the CVT, which exhibited jerky performance during acceleration and deceleration. Drivers frequently noted a lack of smooth power delivery, particularly in urban stop-and-go traffic.

Transmission Problems: Subaru’s CVT issues continued to haunt the 2020 model, leading to uneven driving dynamics. Complaints about premature wear on the transmission components surfaced, with some drivers facing costly replacements before reaching 100,000 miles.

Faulty Sensors: Another major issue was with the car’s exterior sensors and cameras. Malfunctioning backup cameras and inconsistent lane-keeping assist systems were common complaints. For a vehicle marketed with advanced safety features, these failures raised concerns about long-term reliability.

Despite its sleek design and updated tech, these persistent issues overshadow the positives, making the 2020 Crosstrek a questionable choice for used car buyers.

What makes these years stand out?

• 2016 Crosstrek: Drivetrain vibrations and faulty infotainment systems create an unreliable and frustrating driving experience.
• 2018 Crosstrek: Excessive oil consumption and glitchy tech lead to high repair costs and diminished trust in Subaru’s engineering.
• 2020 Crosstrek: CVT issues and faulty sensors tarnish the reputation of a newer model, raising doubts about its long-term durability.

What to look for instead?

If you’re set on a Subaru Crosstrek, consider model years that have fewer complaints and better reliability ratings. The 2014, 2019, and 2021 Crosstrek models, for example, are well-regarded for their reliability, smooth driving experience, and advanced safety features. Always research a vehicle’s maintenance history, and consider having a trusted mechanic inspect a used car before purchasing. Finally, be sure to check out MotorBiscuit’s seamless car-buying tool to compare listings and find the best deal near you.

The Subaru Crosstrek remains a favorite for those seeking a versatile, rugged, and fuel-efficient compact SUV. However, no car is perfect, and some model years carry more baggage than others. The 2016, 2018, and 2020 Crosstrek models stand out as years to avoid, primarily due to drivetrain, engine, and electrical problems. By staying informed and choosing a reliable model year, you can enjoy the adventure-ready performance that makes the Crosstrek so beloved without the headaches of frequent repairs.