2016 Subaru Crosstrek Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Electrical3728.5%
- Powertrain (other)1813.8%
- Engine1410.8%
- Steering1310.0%
- Driver assistance86.2%
- Fuel system86.2%
- Visibility64.6%
- Brakes53.8%
- Body & structure53.8%
- Interior & seats43.1%
- Airbags43.1%
- Suspension43.1%
- Other / unspecified32.3%
- Exterior lighting10.8%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
Full electrical power steering failure
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
Windshield spontaneously cracked
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
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).
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
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)
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
Hood latch failed causing hood to fly open, smashing and breaking my windshield.
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
See attached document from complainant
Premature rear wheel bearing failure, both rear wheels at 29,000 miles. Dealer service technician states vehicle is unsafe to drive.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
EVERY 4 MONTHS I'M CHANGING HEAD LAMP LOWER BEAM,,
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .