Subaru XV Crosstrek Problems by Year

Source: NHTSA · Updated Oct 3, 2026 · 264 owner complaints analyzed

Years with far more complaints than usual:

NHTSA has 264 owner complaints and 3 safety recalls on file for the Subaru XV Crosstrek, across 5 model years (2013–2017). The 2013 model year has the most complaints (98). The most reported problem area overall is engine.

Peak: 2013, with 98 complaints
2013: 982013982014: 812014812015: 792015792016: 3201632017: 320173

n = 264 complaints · Source: NHTSA

Subaru XV Crosstrek years to avoid? What the complaint data shows

These model years drew at least twice as many complaints as a typical XV Crosstrek year: 2013. Look at what owners reported before buying one, and check the VIN for open recalls.

Model years with the most complaints

  1. 2013 XV Crosstrek: 98 complaints, 2 recalls
  2. 2014 XV Crosstrek: 81 complaints, 0 recalls
  3. 2015 XV Crosstrek: 79 complaints, 1 recall

Complaint counts are not adjusted for how many cars were sold or how long each year has been on the road, so newer and less popular years naturally have fewer complaints. Use them to spot problem patterns, not as a safety ranking.

Most common Subaru XV Crosstrek problems (all years)

Problem areaComplaintsModel yearsCrashes
Engine6254
Power Train5440
Electrical System5150
Service Brakes2447
Steering1943
Air Bags1736
Vehicle Speed Control1748
Fuel/propulsion System1034
Electronic Stability Control (esc)831
Exterior Lighting830
Wheels820
Structure720
Visibility/wiper740
Visibility630
Suspension440
Seat Belts321
Seats320
Equipment220
Chest Clip, Buckle, Harness110
Equipment Adaptive/mobility110
Forward Collision Avoidance110
Hybrid Propulsion System110
Service Brakes, Hydraulic110
Tires110

All Subaru XV Crosstrek model years

Model yearComplaintsRecallsCrash ratingTop problemCompared with other years
2017 XV Crosstrek30—Engine
2016 XV Crosstrek30—Electrical System
2015 XV Crosstrek7915★Unknown or OtherMore complaints than other years
2014 XV Crosstrek8105★Electrical SystemMore complaints than other years
2013 XV Crosstrek982—EngineFar more complaints than other years

More from Subaru: all Subaru models · Subaru VIN decoder

Frequently asked questions

Which Subaru XV Crosstrek years should you stay away from?

By NHTSA complaints, 2013 (98) drew at least twice as many complaints as a typical XV Crosstrek year. Counts are not adjusted for how many cars were sold, and newer years have had less time to collect complaints.

What is the biggest problem with the Subaru XV Crosstrek?

Engine, with 62 complaints across 5 model years.

How many recalls does the Subaru XV Crosstrek have?

3 safety recalls across all model years. Each model year page lists its recalls and fixes.