What are the most common Subaru Crosstrek problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 3,080+ owner reports, the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek has 9 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: CVT Chain Stretch and Transmission Judder, Starlink Infotainment System Freezing and Unresponsive Touchscreen, Premature Wheel Bearing Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Subaru Crosstrek reliable?
The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek has 9 known issues documented across 3,080+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: CVT Chain Stretch and Transmission Judder. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Subaru Crosstrek problems?
Repair costs for known Subaru Crosstrek issues range from $0 to $8,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, CVT Chain Stretch and Transmission Judder, typically costs $200-$8,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2013-2021 Subaru Crosstrek CVT Chain Stretch and Transmission Judder?
The Lineartronic CVT (TR690) used in Crosstreks develops chain stretch over time, typically between 80,000-130,000 miles. The stretched chain causes slippage, resulting in judder during light acceleration, particularly between 20-45 mph. The issue worsens in cold weather and uphi… Repairs typically run $200-$8,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2018-2023 Subaru Crosstrek Starlink Infotainment System Freezing and Unresponsive Touchscreen?
The second-generation Crosstrek's Starlink infotainment system (both 6.5-inch and 8.0-inch units) frequently freezes, goes blank, or becomes unresponsive to touch input. The system can reboot randomly while driving, temporarily disabling the backup camera and Bluetooth. Software… Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2013-2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premature Wheel Bearing Failure?
Crosstreks are prone to premature wheel bearing failure, particularly on the rear wheels, often occurring between 50,000-90,000 miles. The AWD system places additional stress on wheel bearings. Contamination from road salt and water intrusion accelerates bearing wear. Failed whee… Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2023 Subaru Crosstrek Rear Brake Caliper Seizing?
The rear brake calipers on Crosstreks are prone to seizing, particularly in regions with road salt and wet climates. The caliper slide pins corrode and bind, causing the brake pads to drag on the rotor. This leads to premature pad and rotor wear on one side, reduced fuel economy,… Repairs typically run $150-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2018-2021 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0L Manual Transmission Hesitation/Lack of Power at 1500-3500 RPM (TSB 09-77-21R)?
2018-2021 Crosstrek 2.0L manual-transmission owners experience noticeable hesitation and lack of power in the 1500-3500 RPM range. Subaru TSB 09-77-21R (revised 8/19/21) traces it to the knock sensor misreading crankshaft vibration as detonation and retarding ignition timing. Fix… Repairs typically run $0-$200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Starlink Gen 3.0 Head Unit Freezing, Reboots and Audio Lockup?
2018 Crosstrek models equipped with the Harman-built Gen 3.0 Starlink head unit suffer touchscreen freezes, backup-camera blackouts, audio that comes on at full volume, Bluetooth dropouts, and complete system lockups. Subaru settled a $6.25M class action in 2021 covering 2017-201… Repairs typically run $0-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2013-2023 Subaru Crosstrek CVT Hesitation and Delay From Stop?
The Crosstrek's Lineartronic CVT exhibits a noticeable 1-2 second delay when accelerating from a complete stop, particularly at intersections. The hesitation is dangerous in situations requiring quick acceleration (merging, left turns across traffic). The issue is related to the… Repairs typically run $0-$4,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2018-2025 Subaru Crosstrek Windshield Stress Cracking?
The 2nd generation Crosstrek (2018+) has a windshield that is extremely prone to cracking, even from minor stone chips. The windshield's steep rake angle and thin design make it vulnerable to temperature-induced stress cracks. EyeSight-equipped models require dealer recalibration… Repairs typically run $500-$1,100. Severity: low.
What is the 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek Sunshine Orange (Code AK) Thin Paint Chipping on Hood and Roof?
2018-2019 Crosstreks painted in Sunshine Orange (Code AK) develop chips and clearcoat failure on the hood, A-pillars, and roof leading edge within the first few thousand miles. CarComplaints averages failure mileage at ~4,700 miles. Subaru issued TSB 12-256-19R (revised 05/30/19)… Repairs typically run $200-$1,500. Severity: low.
