Summary
The Subaru Crosstrek has 15 recalls spanning 2017 through 2024, with the most serious being a wiring harness defect on 2024 models where the instrument panel harness can contact the steering bracket, short-circuit, and cut drive power without warning.
On the 2019-2022 Crosstrek Hybrid, a converter harness terminal that supplies low-voltage power to the 12-volt battery can corrode and break, preventing the battery from recharging and causing a sudden loss of drive power. The 2019 model year also carries a recall for the PCV valve, an aluminum component in the engine's crankcase ventilation system that can crack apart and send fragments into the engine, causing a loss of power while driving. Also on 2019 models, a connector inside the electric power steering unit can short-circuit and drop the steering assist, requiring noticeably more effort to turn the wheel. The rear seatbelts on some 2019 vehicles were assembled with a dual-mode locking mechanism that may not lock properly in a multi-impact crash, and the driver's side rear door window glass may be improperly tempered, meaning it can shatter into large shards rather than small pieces if broken. Going back to 2018-2019, the rear stabilizer bracket bolts can loosen and fall out, reducing rear stability and vehicle control. On 2017-2019 models, an engine control module software issue can keep the ignition coil powered after the engine is shut off, causing a short circuit and potential stall while driving. The 2018 model year has a floor mat retention bracket issue where the mat can slide forward and interfere with the brake or accelerator pedal. On 2021 models, water can enter the inhibitor switch and cause the backup lights and rearview camera display to stop working when reversing. The 2020 Crosstrek plug-in hybrid has a compliance issue where the tire and loading label omits the required French-language text for the no-spare-tire notation, though this does not affect vehicle safety.
