What are the most common problems with the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?

**Windshield fragility** is a primary concern, with reports of cracking from minor impacts or spontaneously, impacting visibility and potentially ADAS function.

How many recalls does the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek have?

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek currently has 1 recall on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. **Windshield fragility** is a primary concern, with reports of cracking from minor impacts or spontaneously, impacting visibility and potentially ADAS function. **Engine and powertrain issues**, including shuddering, hesitation, and stalling, pose drivability and safety risks. Erratic **forward collision avoidance** system performance, including unintended braking, is a significant safety hazard. Confirm the **transmission park/neutral start interlock switch recall** has been addressed. While safety ratings are high, the reliability concerns necessitate a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek.

2021 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

Windshield fragility is a primary concern, with reports of cracking from minor impacts or spontaneously, impacting visibility and potentially ADAS function.
Engine and powertrain issues, including shuddering, hesitation, and stalling, pose drivability and safety risks.
Erratic forward collision avoidance system performance, including unintended braking, is a significant safety hazard.
Confirm the transmission park/neutral start interlock switch recall has been addressed.

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Overview

2021 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is a practical compact SUV with standard all-wheel drive. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its 'Below Average' reliability rating, stemming from significant issues like spontaneous windshield cracking and engine/powertrain problems. It has accumulated 135 complaints, with visibility and wipers being the most frequent category. Despite these concerns, it achieved a strong overall NHTSA safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

Critical Failure Risk

Spontaneous cracks or chips from minor impacts, often at low mileage.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

135

Visibility/Wiper28

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

Buyers prioritizing standard all-wheel drive and strong safety ratings.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Subaru Crosstrek Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

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

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Most Common Issues

1. Visibility

Most reported

Usage: 28 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 12 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Engine Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation

Est. shop cost: $70 - $120

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

1 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is 8.3/10. Reliability score is 8.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 135.

How practical is the 2021 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 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.3/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 4.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?

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

What engine is in the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?

8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?

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

Is the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is a versatile compact SUV that prioritizes reliability and utility over performance.

What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?

Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (28 reports, 20.7% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.