What are the most common problems with the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?

The most significant ownership concern is the high incidence of **spontaneous windshield cracking and shattering**, a potentially costly and safety-compromising issue.

How many recalls does the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek have?

The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek currently has 0 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The most significant ownership concern is the high incidence of **spontaneous windshield cracking and shattering**, a potentially costly and safety-compromising issue. **Electrical system problems**, particularly battery drain leading to no-start conditions, are another common complaint that can lead to unexpected immobilization. While the **powertrain** is generally adequate, some owners report issues like stalling and loss of acceleration, requiring attention. The standard **all-wheel drive** system provides confidence in various weather conditions. Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined EPA rating of **25 MPG**. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek.

2020 Subaru Crosstrek Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The most significant ownership concern is the high incidence of spontaneous windshield cracking and shattering, a potentially costly and safety-compromising issue.
Electrical system problems, particularly battery drain leading to no-start conditions, are another common complaint that can lead to unexpected immobilization.
While the powertrain is generally adequate, some owners report issues like stalling and loss of acceleration, requiring attention.
The standard all-wheel drive system provides confidence in various weather conditions.

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Overview

2020 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek presents itself as a practical and versatile compact SUV, well-suited for those seeking all-weather capability and reasonable fuel efficiency. Its standard all-wheel drive and respectable 25 MPG combined fuel economy make it an appealing choice for daily commuting and light adventuring. However, prospective used-car buyers should be aware of its average reliability rating. The vehicle has accumulated a notable number of owner complaints, with windshield cracking and electrical system issues being the most prominent concerns. While it boasts a strong overall NHTSA safety rating of 5 stars, the specific crash test scores indicate solid performance in side impacts but slightly lower marks in frontal and rollover scenarios.

Critical Failure Risk

Owners report spontaneous or impact-related windshield cracks and shattering, leading to visibility issues and potential safety hazards.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Visibility/Wiper30

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing all-weather capability and fuel efficiency.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or those unwilling to address potential costly repairs.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2020 Subaru Crosstrek Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain: AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Wagon
EPA Combined MPG: 25

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Most Common Issues

1. Visibility

Most reported

Usage: 30 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 7 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

Full safety recall details

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FAQ

Is the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 73.

How practical is the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek for daily use?

Practicality score is 4.5/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 4.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Windshield (typical at 25,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $1,000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?

Base MSRP is $35,145.

What engine is in the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?

9 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek, body style is wagon.

What drivetrain does the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek, while a capable all-wheel-drive vehicle, is not a prime candidate for significant engine tuning. Its 2.

What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?

Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (30 reports, 41.1% of complaints).