The Crosstrek is Subaru’s compact crossover-style SUV and has been a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers. The third generation arrived in the U.S. for the 2024 model year. Popular as it is, the Crosstrek is not free of known issues.
The information presented here comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Subaru press releases, owner and technician forums like Subaru XV Forum and ClubCrosstrek, and related social media groups.
Crosstrek Engine & Transmission Problems
The 2024 and 2025 U.S. Crosstrek offered 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engines, also called boxer engines. The 2.5-liter engine became standard across the non-hybrid lineup for 2026. Production location varies by version, with vehicles built in Japan and Indiana.
Non-hybrid models pair their engines with a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. The 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid uses a separate 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain with electric motors and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. Subaru rates combined output at 194 horsepower.
Driveshaft Defect (23V-754): Affects some 2024 Crosstreks. The front driveshaft assemblies’ outer race may develop cracks and break, leading to a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway when parked.
Oxygen Sensor Fault Codes: Subaru bulletin 09-115-24R includes the 2024 Crosstrek and describes revised oxygen sensors for codes P0137, P0138, P0140 and P0141. A technician must confirm the vehicle and sensor are covered before applying the repair. It does not establish that all 2024–2026 models share the issue.
Major Recalls for the Crosstrek
The following campaigns affect specific vehicles within the 2024–2026 range. They do not apply to every Crosstrek, and this overview does not replace a current VIN check. The driveshaft recall noted above applies to certain 2024 vehicles; dealers inspect and replace affected front driveshafts as needed.
Hybrid Fuel Cap Leakage (26V-106): This campaign covers certain 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid and 2025 Forester Hybrid vehicles. Fuel expansion in a nearly full tank can cause a leak at the filler cap. Until the repair is completed, affected owners should park outside and away from structures and keep the fuel level at or below 50%. Dealers replace the fuel-cap gasket free of charge.
Incorrect Weight-Rating Label (26V-436): Certain 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid vehicles have an incorrect gross axle weight rating on the certification label. Incorrect information can lead to overloading. The remedy is a corrected overlay label, which owners can apply or have a dealer install free of charge.
Wiring Harness Damage (23V-551): On certain 2024 Crosstrek vehicles, insufficient clearance can cause the instrument panel harness to contact the steering beam bracket. This can damage wire insulation, cause a short circuit, or trigger a blown fuse and cause the vehicle to stall.
Crosstrek Technical Service Bulletins
A technical service bulletin (TSB) gives technicians diagnostic or repair guidance. It is not a recall or proof that every vehicle has a defect. Applicability and warranty coverage depend on the vehicle and the specific bulletin.
Infotainment Software: If the screen lags or a phone repeatedly disconnects, ask the dealer to check the installed software and applicable updates. Record the conditions under which the problem occurs so the technician can reproduce it.
Owner-Reported Subaru Crosstrek Problems
The following symptoms appear in owner discussions in the forums linked above. These are anecdotal reports, not a measure of failure rates or a confirmed diagnosis. They may overlap with issues addressed by service updates.
Sluggish Touchscreens: Some owners report lag from the 11.6-inch portrait display at startup, including delays accessing climate and audio controls. Equipment varies by trim and model year.
Connection Drops: Some owners report wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto disconnecting or failing to recognize their phones.
Windshield Cracks: Owners discuss cracks after impacts or temperature changes. These reports alone do not establish a manufacturing defect or the likelihood of a windshield failure.
How To Check For Recalls On Your Subaru
The easiest way to check for current recalls that may affect your Crosstrek is to visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Recalls page and enter your license plate or 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) to run a search. You can also do this at the Subaru recalls page.
