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    GREEN CHOICE

    Subaru Crosstrek

    EPA MPG: NA

    RECALL ALERT:
    There is 1 recall on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    The 2016 Crosstrek is less reliable than other cars from the same model year.

    The 2016 Subaru Crosstrek has been recalled 1 time by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2016 Subaru Crosstrek owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    What Owners Say

    A/C compressor

    "No cold air"

    Anonymous, NY (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Unsure 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "There is a known issue with the A/C. Subaru wants to replace the compressor instead of performing a less costly fix. I put off the repair because it was cost-prohibitive. I will get it fixed this year but I will NOT go to the dealer. They did not appear honest or truthful. Which is the opposite of what you expect from the dealer. Instead I will go to a local shop that has gained my trust. It should be under warranty in my opinion but that's also a HUGE frustration/disappointment."

    Anonymous, MN (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Unsure 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    ""Sorry, I don't have details. The shop fixed it and it cost about $600.""

    Anonymous, WA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Touring 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

    ""2 years ago, the car's system stopped cooling. We had to go to a specialist to get it fixed.""

    Anonymous, QC (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Unsure 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "A/C started to blow hot air when turned on and required the A/C compressor and condenser to be replaced. Issued started about 115k on the vehicle."

    Anonymous, RI (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "The A/C stopped at lights, blowing hot air. Dealer said I worsened the problem by forcing it on. That is unexeptable"

    Anonymous, NY (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Blower (fan) motor

    "The blower fan stopped working when the speed was turned up above 3. At 4 it shuts the entire blower off. Started in 2023."

    Anonymous, MA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Other climate system problem

    "I think it was the condenser. There was a problem in getting cold air. It may be the other problem. All fixed for about $600."

    Anonymous, WA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Touring 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
    Refrigerant leaks

    "System was recharged and have not had a problem since."

    Anonymous, NY (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    ""A/C ceased operation due to refrigerant leak. DIY replaced seals, recharged and worked again. Normal wear and tear.""

    Anonymous, NC (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    ""Coolant leaked 2 times in the last 3 years, to the point where the AC no longer blew cool air.""

    Anonymous A., TX (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "Lost of refrigerant gas. No more cold from AC."

    Anonymous, QC (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    ""Last summer, it just stopped working. I took it into a shop. They found a leak fixed it and its been working fine since.""

    Anonymous, (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Suspension/Steering

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    What Owners Say

    Other steering/suspension problem

    "I have had three of the four rotors need to be replaced in the last couple of years"

    Anonymous, NS (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Shocks or struts

    "It was not a boot or CBD joint but it was a support bracket on both sides near the tires. Found on a routine oil change $3000"

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Unsure 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Steering linkage (includes rack and pinion)

    "Steering sloppy. Not direct from steering wheel turn. Dealer replaced rack and pinion system."

    Anonymous, ON (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Tie rods

    "had to be replaced"

    Anonymous, NS (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Tire wear is uneven

    "Issues with control arm bushing wear lead to uneven tire wear and vibration"

    Anonymous A., TX (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Wheel bearings

    ""I noted excessive noise approximately 2 1/2 years ago, which I thought was related to the tires. I changed the tires, but the noise continued with no effect on the driving, steering, or any other function of the vehicle. When I mentioned the noise during a general service visit, the service technician suggested getting the wheel bearings checked. Two wheel bearings needed replacement, which cost over$2000.""

    Anonymous A., PA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "Had to replace wheel bearing in 1 wheel"

    Anonymous, CO (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "The rear bearings on this car were always very, very loud, from the day it was new. They started failing and needed to be replaced. Now the ride is peaceful."

    Anonymous, NJ (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Muffler

    "The muffler had holes in it. The dealership said that that mid-pipe was needed too"

    Anonymous, MA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Other/unsure

    "Radio goes on and off randomly; over the past couple years , any control over it has decreased. Dealer wanted thousands to replace it, so I have not. Secondly, from the first day I purchased, when in reverse, and switching to drive, the car continues to move back a few seconds (like a free fall) with no engagement/control. Dealer says that's just how they are. Feels very unsafe"

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited Unsure)

    "Sorry; there was 1 serious problem but I don't remember what it was."

    Anonymous, (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Unsure)

    "Could not unlock steering wheel and key unable to turn to start."

    Anonymous, ON (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Pipes

    "The dealership did not explain what was wrong with the mid-pipe. It is a lesson for me to ask more questioins"

    Anonymous, MA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "A rattling heat shield led the dealer to discover a cracked exhaust pipe. To replace the pipe, they have to replace the muffler too to the tune of about $1000. This seems like a poor design for a part that does not last forever."

    Anonymous, MA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    Display screen goes blank

    "The screen display started having a problem a couple years ago but it cost too much to fix. It became very hard to see with a pattern over the screen. It started when it was hot outside or sunny and then became an issue all the time. Got to the point it was barely visible."

    Anonymous, MA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Radio

    "Radio goes out when applying brakes"

    Anonymous, OH (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Voice control commands

    "Randomly, a call wont disconnect and the buttons for the infotainment system stop working g. It stays this way until I turn the car off and restart it. The screen will freeze and my voice commands do nothing. Its very annoying and inconvenient."

    Anonymous A., TN (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    What Owners Say

    Master cylinder

    "Past several months the pedal has to be pressed closer to the floor. Problem is not yet resolved."

    Anonymous, MB (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Parking brake

    ""You could pull the parking brake farther than normal. The dealership stated they would repair it. Once they did, they found that the back end brakes were in need of repair. Then the wheel seized. I had the car towed to the dealership and they took care of the issue.""

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Rotors

    ""The car was not serviced and the parking brake didn't work. One month after purchase the back passenger side tire seized. Definitely previous owner driving style. They were able to repair the parking brake and the rear brakes. I selected earlier that I probably wouldn't buy this car again- the reason is that I need a larger car! After the repairs, I love driving this car.""

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    What Owners Say

    Clutch replacement

    "Bearing failure"

    Anonymous, NH (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Transmission rebuild or replacement

    ""Transmission completely failed and needed replacement. Wed been notified by manufacturer in advance that this might happen and that our warranty would be extended. While we were unhappy about the failure and having the car in the dealer shop for a long time, the repairs were fully covered by warranty. We give credit to Subaru for responsibly acknowledging and addressing the defect.""

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Oil leaks

    "Engine consumes 1 quart of oil every 1200 miles. I brought it to Subaru to do a consumption test. They verified the amount of oil it consumes and said Subaru considers this "normal." The low oil light failed to illuminate."

    Anonymous A., ME (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "Cam box was leaking oil and was dripping on the oxygen sensor. Started about one year ago and had repaired 6 months ago. Required the engine to be dropped and cam box resealed."

    Anonymous, RI (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other minor transmission & clutch problem

    "This problem has been ongoing for a number of years. We have taken it to a dealer and independent shop to try to solve the problem where it will almost stall, lurch, and shift hard when idling in traffic or going from 0 - 10 mph. They have tried a lot of solutions, but nothing has solved it completely. We just avoid driving it into the city or long distances to reduce risk."

    Anonymous, MA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Rough shifting

    "This is the replacement clutch. Long throw to engage"

    Anonymous, NH (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    What Owners Say

    Other major engine problem

    "Car missfiring and stopping. Twice engine work 3000. Did not hapen in Florida but twice here in hilly New York"

    Anonymous, NY (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Paint/Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Rust

    "Severe rust on the unibody frame given age of vehicle. Rear hatch has rusted through."

    Anonymous A., ME (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Noises/Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Air or water leaks

    "Roof drain was plugged so rain water entered the car."

    Anonymous A., FL (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    What Owners Say

    Other body problem

    "Bearing joint or wheel well issues"

    Anonymous, NJ (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium Unsure)

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    What Owners Say

    Headlights

    ""The lights on this car, headlights, and other exterior lights go out much faster than the previous Subaru I had""

    Anonymous A., WA (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Limited Unsure)

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    What Owners Say

    CV joint

    "Back in June of last year, a loud clunking sound was heard while turning. It was determined to be the CV joint. In July it was replaced w/a non-Subaru part which worked for about an hour, then the clunking returned. In August, a Subaru part replaced that one, and it's been fine since."

    Anonymous, (2016 Subaru Crosstrek Premium 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    2016 SUVs Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Subaru vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
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    Overall Reliability Verdict

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    Engine Major
    Engine Minor
    Engine Cooling
    Engine Electrical
    Transmission Major
    Transmission Minor
    Drive System
    Fuel System/Emissions
    Exhaust
    Suspension/Steering
    Brakes
    Climate System
    Build Quality
    Electrical Accessories
    Body Hardware
    Paint/Trim
    Noises/Leaks
    In-car Electronics
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    EXTERIOR LIGHTING
    Feb 28, 2019
    Brake lights that do not illuminate properly will not alert other drivers that the vehicle is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of crash.
    Summary:
    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.
    What should you do:
    Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 19V149000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 1303530
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