2016 Subaru Crosstrek

132 complaints on file, page 1 of 7.

1. Filed Sep 29, 2026Failure Sep 22, 2026Los Angeles, CAEngine

   While driving my 2016 Subaru Crosstrek (VIN: [XXX]) at approximately 70,000 miles, the vehicle experienced a sudden, catastrophic cooling system rupture on the roadway without any prior dashboard warning light. A radiator hose burst, resulting in rapid, complete loss of engine coolant and steam, creating an immediate safety hazard and forcing an emergency roadside stop. A subsequent diagnostic teardown by an independent specialist confirmed the root cause was premature degradation of internal engine seals (the upper oil pan and internal coolant crossover O-rings inside the FB20 engine block). These internal seals failed prematurely, allowing pressurized engine oil and coolant to cross-contaminate. The chemical exposure deteriorated the cooling system hoses from the inside out until structural failure occurred. The failure required an emergency tow, an entire engine-out reseal, cylinder head machining, and replacement of all compromised cooling components at a cost of $5,000 out of pocket. Premature degradation of internal coolant crossover seals in Subaru FB-series engines is a recognized safety defect that causes sudden fluid loss, loss of forward propulsion, and severe hazard on active roadways at relatively low mileage. Subaru of America has declined to issue a recall or assist (Case #XXX). I request a formal NHTSA defect investigation into premature internal coolant crossover O-ring failure on 2013–2018 Subaru Crosstrek vehicles." INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

   NHTSA complaint 11767861
2. Filed Dec 10, 2025Failure Nov 30, 2025Chicago, ILExhaust system

   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.

   NHTSA complaint 11704175
3. Filed Nov 5, 2025Failure Oct 20, 2025Suffolk, VAElectrical system

   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.

   NHTSA complaint 11697638
4. Filed May 5, 2025Failure Mar 23, 2025Presque Isle, WILatch

   Hood latch failed causing hood to fly open, smashing and breaking my windshield.

   NHTSA complaint 11658990
5. Filed Apr 29, 2025Failure Dec 10, 2024Chicago, ILPower train, Steering, Unknown or other

   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.

   NHTSA complaint 11657595
6. Filed Apr 15, 2025Failure Feb 10, 2025West Glacier, MTSteering

   Full electrical power steering failure

   NHTSA complaint 11654714
7. Filed Dec 3, 2024Failure Sep 25, 2024Fayetteville, NCBody

   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)

   NHTSA complaint 11628719
8. Filed Sep 6, 2024Failure Aug 13, 2024Annandale, VAUnknown or other

   Our 2016 Subaru Crosstrek (Automatic Transmission) has had intermittent issues with it losing power despite our foot being on the accelerator. It will typically reengage if we take our foot off the accelerator for a bit and then hit the gas again. However, it has become a more frequent problem and feels increasingly unsafe to drive, particularly with our 2 small children in the car, because it loses power without warning so it leaves us vulnerable for being rear-ended while changing lanes, taking turns, etc. We have been working with our local dealership (Beyer Subaru in Alexandria, VA) to address the issue, but they have only been able to replicate the issue once in a 4-week period and they have not been able to document it. The one time they were able to replicate the problem the car was not hooked up to any computer/system. I have found this forum that documents similar problems with Crosstreks - [XXX] , as well as a Service Bulletin which references a similar issue in 2018-21MY Crosstrek 2.0L MT - https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2021/MC-10201030-0001.pdf. While the 2nd does refer specifically to Manual Transmissions, I feel like this is indicative of a trend that is not being acknowledged for other Model Year's and transmission types, but presents a serious safety issue.  INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

   NHTSA complaint 11613015
9. Filed Jul 11, 2024Failure Jul 29, 2022Bellevue, NEAir bags, Electrical systemCrash

   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.

   NHTSA complaint 11601238
10. Filed Jul 10, 2024Failure Mar 3, 2021sterling heights, MIElectrical system

    Battery drain Bought new battery Got dcm update Pulled dcm fuse Still battery goes dead Thousands of vehicles involved Suburu knows the cause To expensive to fix Please help3/3

    NHTSA complaint 11600905
11. Filed Jun 15, 2024Failure Jun 15, 2024Tigard, ORElectrical system

    Horn failed to sound. It sounds when hitting the lock button three times, but doesn’t when the steering wheel is pressed. This was identified during a near miss accident when we tried to alert another driving that was weaving into our lane and couldn’t.

    NHTSA complaint 11594555
12. Filed Apr 22, 2024Failure Sep 19, 202332,000 milesMount Pleasant, PAAlternator/generator/regulator

    The contact owns a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that while coming to a stop at a traffic signal, the vehicle was idling roughly. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent but had become a recurring failure. The contact stated that the failure occurred frequently whenever the A/C was running. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the throttle body needed to be cleaned. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure returned, and the vehicle was taken back to the same dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the alternator and belt tensioner needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 32,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11584403
13. Filed Mar 16, 2024Failure Mar 4, 2024Colorado Springs, COUnknown or other

    I have a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek 5 speed manual transmission and it only has 64000 on it. The clutch went out and I took it to the dealership to have the car worked on and hopefully repaired. At first they said it was the clutch and master cylinder. Then they called me back and said the entire transmission needed to be replaced and it would cost $9000! Seriously? At only 64000 miles? Somehow some kind of "snout" broke off and they needed to replace the whole thing. Blue Book on this car is only slightly over $9000 and I need to spend what it is worth to repair? I may never own another subaru ever again if this is what happens at such a low mileage.

    NHTSA complaint 11577815
14. Filed Mar 2, 2024Failure Feb 26, 2024Centreville, VAElectrical system

    Since at least 2009 all Subaru models have a faulty air bag Clockspring. The horn doesn’t work due to this. Subaru knows about this issue. Even 2018 Forester is still using the faulty clock spring. We almost had an accident because the horn didn’t work. After researching the issue, I cannot believe a recall has not been issued. Tried to get it fixed at Subaru today. Still not fixed. We cannot drive until the horn is fixed it is dangerous driving in [XXX] and not having a horn to give a warning when you are about to be hit. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

    NHTSA complaint 11575075
15. Filed Feb 8, 2024Failure Feb 7, 2024Spencer, NYLatch, Body

    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.

    NHTSA complaint 11570698
16. Filed Jan 5, 2024Failure Dec 21, 2023Mahwah, NJElectrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system

    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.

    NHTSA complaint 11563783
17. Filed Dec 8, 2023Failure Aug 8, 2023Antioch, TNElectrical system

    I own a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek with only 37,000 miles. There is a problem with my battery being drained after not driving the car for several days. I have had to call for a jump start 3 times, Aug. 8, 2023, Sept. 5, 2023 and Nov. 14, 2023, each time after returning from vacation. I replaced the battery when it happened the second time, but the problem continued to occur. I have taken my car to the Subaru dealership for diagnostic. They checked the draw level in the vehicle electric system found excessive draw of 350MAH when everything was turned off. The performed DCM (data control module) check and disconnected the fuse. The draw dropped down to 15MAH. I was told I could leave the fuse disconnected, which would leave me with a useless navigation system, loss of front speakers and bluetooth, or replace the DCM that would cost me around $1000. I have done research online and found this is an ongoing problem with Subaru. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms prior to the failure each time. This poses a safety risk if I am in a public parking late at night and I cannot get my car started. I have reported the problem to Subaru of America.

    NHTSA complaint 11559145
18. Filed Oct 24, 2023Failure Jul 8, 2023Little Neck, NYSuspension

    See attached document from complainant

    NHTSA complaint 11551572
19. Filed Oct 14, 2023Failure Oct 12, 2023Gilbert, AZUnknown or other

    Driving down the freeway I had cruise control set. All of the sudden the cruise control shut off and it was like the car was in neutral. When I pushed on the gas it just revved I was able to coast to an exit and right before the top of the hill, all the indicator lights went on and the car shut off. I had the vehicle towed to a Subaru dealership the next morning when they went to work on the car, the car started fine. They were unable to find anything wrong with the vehicle when they plugged it into the computer. My gas levels were low, but I still showed 90 miles to empty.

    NHTSA complaint 11549936
20. Filed Oct 8, 2023Failure Oct 8, 2023Spirit Lake, IDWheels

    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.

    NHTSA complaint 11548933