2021 Subaru Crosstrek Owner Complaints

Complaint Summary
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek has 135 reported complaints.
- Top issues involve visibility/wiper and unknown or other.
Reliability Score
Reliability Score
Based on 135 complaints
Most Frequent Issues
VISIBILITY/WIPER
28 20.7%
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
20 14.8%
ENGINE
12 8.9%
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
9 6.7%
POWER TRAIN
9 6.7%
Quick Insights
The top category is VISIBILITY/WIPER, accounting for 20.7% of all complaints.
Owners have reported issues across 28 distinct vehicle systems.
Note: Complaint data reflects owner reports and may not always indicate a verified defect. Compare with Recalls and TSBs for a complete picture.
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What owners keep reporting on the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek has 135 owner complaints in this dataset. VISIBILITY/WIPER is the most common complaint category, representing about 21% of the reports shown here.
Most common complaint categories
The top complaint groups for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek are VISIBILITY/WIPER (28), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (20), ENGINE (12).
Are these complaints a serious red flag?
Potentially. 36 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems like brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection.
What should buyers inspect on a used 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?
Start with the top complaint systems, compare them against the recall report, then inspect service records for evidence that those same areas were already repaired or monitored.
Detailed Complaint Log
Showing 28 of 28 systems
VISIBILITY/WIPER
28 Reports21% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
WINDSHIELD CRACKED WITH LESS THAN 1000 MILES ON THE CAR. NEVER HEARD OR SAW ANY ROCK OR OTHER DEBRIS HIT THE WINDSHIELD
3/14/2021
THE WINDSHIELD CRACKED WITHOUT ANY IMPACT WHILE PARKED.
3/22/2021
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
20 Reports15% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
I HAD A CRACKED WINDSHIELD ABOUT A QUARTER INCH BULLSEYE WITH WEBBING ABOUT 8-9 INCHES. DIDN'T NOTICE ANYTHING THAT HAS HAPPENED DURING DRIVING OR ON THE ROAD. IT WAS PARKED THE NIGHT ON FRIDAY UNTIL IT WAS DISCOVERED LATE AFTERNOON ON A SATURDAY.
4/21/2021
Bought the car brand new 6 months ago and the windshield crack all of a sudden
6/12/2021
ENGINE
12 Reports9% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
THE ENGINE STOP START FUNCTION CAUSES THE ENTIRE CAR TO SHAKE WHEN GOING FROM ENGINE OFF TO ENGINE ON. IT IS WORSE WHEN YOU ARE STOPPED AND THE STOP START RE-ENGAGES WHILE YOUR FOOT IS ON THE BRAKE.
12/15/2020
SHUDDERING - CVT belt or pulley not working properly? JERKING, HESITATION - Crosstrek will not go when the gas pedal is pressed or hesitates or pauses for a moment after the gas pedal is engaged
7/15/2021
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
9 Reports7% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
MY VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH EYESIGHT, WHICH IS A SUBARU TECHNOLOGY THAT INCLUDES ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL, FORWARD COLLISON WARNING/BREAKING, LANE DEPARTURE WARNING, REAR AUTOMATIC BRAKING, ETC. SUBARU CLAIMS THAT WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENTS MUST USE SUBARU GLASS DUE THE OPTICAL CLARITY OF THE WINDSHIELD AND THAT THE EYESIGHT SYSTEM MUST BE RECALIBRATED. THIS IS A $1339 COST (VIA SAFELIGHT) TO REPLACE THE WINDSHEILD. I HAVE 8400 MILES ON MY VEHICLE, AND I AM GETTING READY TO HAVE THE SECOND WINDSHIELD PUT ON THE CAR. THE GLASS SIMPLY BREAKS TO EASILY. FIRST INCIDENT, A ROCK HIT THE WINDSHIELD AND IT CRACKED ABOUT INCHES WHILE TRAVELING THROUGH ALBUQUERQUE, NM ON I-25. SECOND INCIDENT HAPPENED TODAY ON I-25 WITH A BARELY PERCEPTIBLE SOUND, AND THE WINDSHIELD HAS A CRACK ABOUT 6.6 INCHES LONG. I AM NOT SURE WHAT THE ISSUE IS WITH SUBARU WINDSHIELDS, BUT LOOKING IN OWNER FORUMS, IT'S A PRETTY COMMON OCCURRENCE. THE FACT THAT I AM AVERAGING A NEW WINDSHIELD EVERY 4200 MILES IS RIDICULOUS. I HAVE BEEN DRIVING FOR 35+ YEARS AND HAVE HAD TO REPLACE A WINDSHIELD LESS THAN THREE TIMES. WITH THE SUBARU, I AM DOING IT ALMOST EVERY 4-5 MONTHS (SO FAR).
5/4/2021
The automatic braking system engaged at highway speed while changing lanes with no other vehicle or object in front of the vehicle. I was accelerating to change lanes when the sensor started beeping and the car slammed on the brakes causing a sliding skid. I was able to maintain control and fortunately there was no one behind me. I believe the eyesight control malfunctioned. I do not believe this is a safe feature as it not only puts my safety at risk but also the safety of anyone on the road around me.
4/17/2022
POWER TRAIN
9 Reports7% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
SHUDDERING - CVT belt or pulley not working properly? JERKING, HESITATION - Crosstrek will not go when the gas pedal is pressed or hesitates or pauses for a moment after the gas pedal is engaged
7/15/2021
I have been experiencing shuddering/jerking/hesitation in my vehicle since July. The dealership has had it in their service department several times and cannot diagnose the issue. Subaru of America was contacted and gave no resolution to repairing the vehicle. They did not inspect the vehicle, rather gathered the "data" from the dealership. The shuddering/jerking/hesitation happens from a start to stop position and is incredibly dangerous when pulling out into traffic or crossing over lanes in a left hand turn. This malfunction can cause a collision and is a huge safety concern of mine. I do not feel comfortable putting my life at risk driving this vehicle. The dealership has only tested the CVT transmission and ran "data" and cannot seem to tell me what is wrong with the vehicle, though there is clearly an issue, whether it is the CVT transmission or another component of the vehicle. I see several similar complaints on the NHTSA website for the Crosstrek dating back to 2015. I am confused as to why the manufacturer is not being held responsible for a defect that is so dangerous. Is it going to take someone getting seriously injured or a death before this is investigated? I encourage other Crosstrek owners to come forward and report similar issues you are having to NHTSA.
10/1/2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
9 Reports7% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
The battery dies completely, seemingly under colder conditions. In the first case it was after 6 days of not turning the car on, however the next time it happened after only a day and a half of not turning on the vehicle. The vehicle is only a few months old so the battery or other cause of the dead battery (eg alternator) are only a few months in use.
1/24/2022
The main battery drained completely while parked, once when left overnight, and once while on an errand for 30 minutes only. AAA jump-started car first time and Subaru Roadside Assistance the second. First incident was mid January 2022 when the new car had been in my possession for only 5 weeks (Dec 3 2021). Second incident happened one month later on February 5 2022. Subaru had no explanations other than I might have left doors open. In the second occurrence that was most definitely NOT true as I am now extra careful to turn everything electrical off and check all doors are fully closed. Being stranded alone on the roadside is not something I am in any way comfortable with.
2/7/2022
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
5 Reports4% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
THE LANE KEEPING FEATURE WILL RANDOMLY CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO VEER TOWARDS THE CENTER LINE AT A VARIETY OF SPEEDS AND UNDER A VARIETY OF CONDITIONS, REQUIRING IMMEDIATE DRIVER CORRECTION TO AVOID CROSSING THE CENTER LINE. NO ACCIDENT HAS OCCURRED BUT THE SYSTEM IS NOW DEACTIVATED. IN ADDITION, THE COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEM DOES NOT RELIABLY ACQUIRE A VEHICLE AHEAD IF THAT VEHICLE IS STOPPED AND THE SPEED DIFFERENTIAL IS >30-40 MPH. WITHOUT DRIVER MANUAL BRAKING, A CRASH WOULD OCCUR.
5/1/2021
MY VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH EYESIGHT, WHICH IS A SUBARU TECHNOLOGY THAT INCLUDES ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL, FORWARD COLLISON WARNING/BREAKING, LANE DEPARTURE WARNING, REAR AUTOMATIC BRAKING, ETC. SUBARU CLAIMS THAT WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENTS MUST USE SUBARU GLASS DUE THE OPTICAL CLARITY OF THE WINDSHIELD AND THAT THE EYESIGHT SYSTEM MUST BE RECALIBRATED. THIS IS A $1339 COST (VIA SAFELIGHT) TO REPLACE THE WINDSHEILD. I HAVE 8400 MILES ON MY VEHICLE, AND I AM GETTING READY TO HAVE THE SECOND WINDSHIELD PUT ON THE CAR. THE GLASS SIMPLY BREAKS TO EASILY. FIRST INCIDENT, A ROCK HIT THE WINDSHIELD AND IT CRACKED ABOUT INCHES WHILE TRAVELING THROUGH ALBUQUERQUE, NM ON I-25. SECOND INCIDENT HAPPENED TODAY ON I-25 WITH A BARELY PERCEPTIBLE SOUND, AND THE WINDSHIELD HAS A CRACK ABOUT 6.6 INCHES LONG. I AM NOT SURE WHAT THE ISSUE IS WITH SUBARU WINDSHIELDS, BUT LOOKING IN OWNER FORUMS, IT'S A PRETTY COMMON OCCURRENCE. THE FACT THAT I AM AVERAGING A NEW WINDSHIELD EVERY 4200 MILES IS RIDICULOUS. I HAVE BEEN DRIVING FOR 35+ YEARS AND HAVE HAD TO REPLACE A WINDSHIELD LESS THAN THREE TIMES. WITH THE SUBARU, I AM DOING IT ALMOST EVERY 4-5 MONTHS (SO FAR).
5/4/2021
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
4 Reports3% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
I was crossing two lanes of a very busy ocean front street when the engine âbogged downâ . I let off on the gas pedal and then depressed it again, which then caused the engine to go off. I the quickly restarted the engine and was able to get out of the way of oncoming traffic. This was the only time the engine failed, but on about three or four previous times, the engine âbogged downâ when I depressed the gas pedal, but recovered after I quickly depressed the pedal again.
8/31/2021
My brand new Subaru ignited in the engine compartment, burst into flames and exploded while I was driving it.
11/7/2022
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
4 Reports3% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
Subaru Pre-collision braking activates when no danger present. It detects exhaust steam or smoke as an obstacle. Approximately February 25th of 2021: While acceleration from a stop light in winter, Eyesight falsely detected the exhaust of the car in front of me as a danger and slammed on the brakes to a full stop causing the car behind me to bump into me. Thankfully this driver was paying attention and no damage was caused. This function overrode my foot being on the accelerator. Late Spring of 2021: While using cruise control on the highway, 70+mph, a diesel truck accelerated to merge. The eyesight again detected the exhaust as a hazard and slammed on the brakes causing the drivers behind me to take evasive actions and put them at risk for no reason. During both incidents, the collision warning lights fully activated. I spoke to the dealership about these incidents and was told to turn off the pre-collision system on cold days and watch out for diesel exhaust.
5/3/2022
While driving on the highway in the slow lane (furthest to the right), traveling at approximately 50 mph, I came to be behind a tractor trailer. Before I had a chance to pass the tractor trailer, it switched lanes abruptly. My vision past/beyond (in front of) the tractor trailer was heavily obstructed by the massive vehicle itself, so I could not see that in front of the 18-wheeler there was a mid-size sedan traveling at approximately 5-10 mph in the same active highway lane I was in. I had almost no time to react, and neither the Automatic Emergency Braking system nor the Forward Collision Warning system engaged. Both of these systems should have activated to prevent the collision and/or minimize injuries and damage. I subsequently collided (harshly) with the aforementioned sedan.
8/16/2023
STEERING
3 Reports2% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
THE LANE KEEPING FEATURE WILL RANDOMLY CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO VEER TOWARDS THE CENTER LINE AT A VARIETY OF SPEEDS AND UNDER A VARIETY OF CONDITIONS, REQUIRING IMMEDIATE DRIVER CORRECTION TO AVOID CROSSING THE CENTER LINE. NO ACCIDENT HAS OCCURRED BUT THE SYSTEM IS NOW DEACTIVATED. IN ADDITION, THE COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEM DOES NOT RELIABLY ACQUIRE A VEHICLE AHEAD IF THAT VEHICLE IS STOPPED AND THE SPEED DIFFERENTIAL IS >30-40 MPH. WITHOUT DRIVER MANUAL BRAKING, A CRASH WOULD OCCUR.
5/1/2021
I just leased a new '21 Crosstrek Limited. With only 90 miles on the car, while driving on the highway using the adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist, the vehicle started aggressively jerking over towards semi trucks (while going 70mph)- I had to give significant input to not be pulled into a semi truck. I turned off the feature then turned back on. Again, it was hard jerking only towards semi trucks. Drove back to the dealership. Their mechanic took for a drive and said the exact same thing, that it was "sketchy" and jerking towards semi trucks. It was suggested I bring back if the "condition persists" which would mean risking a fatal collision with a semi. I contacted the GM of the dealership and explained what was happening and he said to being back again and they'd get a field tech from Subaru to test. Their service manager test drove and noted the same thing, as did the field tech. "Severely pulls to the right as trucks pass. Test drive vehicle and found that when using lane centering, vehicle is quite jerky and pushes towards centerline, especially when larger vehicles like a semi trailer is present. Recommended calibrating eyesight camera and test driving again". They calibrated the Eyesight and I picked back up. Drove back on the highway and turned on LKA, this time the steering was completely taken over and jerking all over the lane and flashing telling me to keep hands on the wheel when both hands were very tight on the wheel. It's continued to jerk all over while using lane keep assist and when I try to override the steering to avoid a collision the wheel feels like it's fighting me. It's extremely dangerous. The car now has 300 miles and I'm terrified it's going to kill me and it's putting everyone on the road at risk. I had the same tech in my '19 Impreza Limited and didn't have a single issue. I fear there is a serious defect with the Eyesight and LKA. No codes are present. They said vehicle is operating as designed, it's now more more erratic
2/8/2022
LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST
3 Reports2% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
THE LANE KEEPING FEATURE WILL RANDOMLY CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO VEER TOWARDS THE CENTER LINE AT A VARIETY OF SPEEDS AND UNDER A VARIETY OF CONDITIONS, REQUIRING IMMEDIATE DRIVER CORRECTION TO AVOID CROSSING THE CENTER LINE. NO ACCIDENT HAS OCCURRED BUT THE SYSTEM IS NOW DEACTIVATED. IN ADDITION, THE COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEM DOES NOT RELIABLY ACQUIRE A VEHICLE AHEAD IF THAT VEHICLE IS STOPPED AND THE SPEED DIFFERENTIAL IS >30-40 MPH. WITHOUT DRIVER MANUAL BRAKING, A CRASH WOULD OCCUR.
5/1/2021
I just leased a new '21 Crosstrek Limited. With only 90 miles on the car, while driving on the highway using the adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist, the vehicle started aggressively jerking over towards semi trucks (while going 70mph)- I had to give significant input to not be pulled into a semi truck. I turned off the feature then turned back on. Again, it was hard jerking only towards semi trucks. Drove back to the dealership. Their mechanic took for a drive and said the exact same thing, that it was "sketchy" and jerking towards semi trucks. It was suggested I bring back if the "condition persists" which would mean risking a fatal collision with a semi. I contacted the GM of the dealership and explained what was happening and he said to being back again and they'd get a field tech from Subaru to test. Their service manager test drove and noted the same thing, as did the field tech. "Severely pulls to the right as trucks pass. Test drive vehicle and found that when using lane centering, vehicle is quite jerky and pushes towards centerline, especially when larger vehicles like a semi trailer is present. Recommended calibrating eyesight camera and test driving again". They calibrated the Eyesight and I picked back up. Drove back on the highway and turned on LKA, this time the steering was completely taken over and jerking all over the lane and flashing telling me to keep hands on the wheel when both hands were very tight on the wheel. It's continued to jerk all over while using lane keep assist and when I try to override the steering to avoid a collision the wheel feels like it's fighting me. It's extremely dangerous. The car now has 300 miles and I'm terrified it's going to kill me and it's putting everyone on the road at risk. I had the same tech in my '19 Impreza Limited and didn't have a single issue. I fear there is a serious defect with the Eyesight and LKA. No codes are present. They said vehicle is operating as designed, it's now more more erratic
2/8/2022
STRUCTURE:BODY
3 Reports2% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
In the first 200 miles of ownership, the paint began chipping off of the hood, fenders and front bumper. After 2000 highway miles, there are more chips down to bare metal/plastic than I can count.
9/7/2021
The windshield cowl is greatly separating at the bottom where it meets the wipers. The windshield and cowl are factory and no replacement or alterations done during the life of the car. I am the only owner
2/13/2024
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
3 Reports2% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
I was driving my 2021 Subaru Crosstrek slowly in a parking lot when it unexpectedly accelerated on its own without me pressing the gas pedal. I believe the Crosstrek was now going 40mph. I tried to shut off the engine and brake at the same time but neither one had any effect. I thought maybe I had two options. Either hit another vehicle or pedestrian or turn my car into the curb. I decided to turn into the curb which resulted in the breaking of both axels, flattening all the tires, and sustaining damage to the front fender and headlight. The car was then towed to a garage weâre it was declared totaled. I checked the internet to see if this had occurred to any other Crosstrek. It turns out their is a class action suit pending for the same reason. Police records will show I was not drunk, sleeping, and the car mat was off gas pedal.12
1/29/2023
There are occasional times (perhaps once or twice a month) where the vehicle does not respond with the expected acceleration of a depression of the accelerator pedal. Specifically, the vehicle "lags" when I depress the accelerator pedal. While I have not experienced a dire situation or collision because of it, I believe it might cause other drivers to experience a safety incident: a driver might want to perform a fast maneuver with elevated risk but not receive the expected acceleration. For example, I was once making a U-Turn with traffic oncoming about 2,000 feet away. I needed to make the maneuver swiftly but my vehicle lagged. I would like to report this issue in case other owners of the Subaru Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid are also experiencing.
9/11/2023
SEATS
3 Reports2% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
Airbag shows OFF even when passenger is seated.
7/16/2024
Driver seat began rocking. The dealer indicated itâs a problem they saw with other cars as well. The attachment to the rail you move your seat forward and backwards with, brakes. The dealer wants to sell you new brackets to make your car safe again.
2/20/2025
SUSPENSION
2 Reports1% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
ON 11/30/2020 I PURCHASED A BRAND NEW SUBARU CROSSTREK FROM SHEEHY SUBARU IN SPRINGFIELD, VIRGINIA. IT HAD 15 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. ON 12/01/2020 IT WAS DELIVERED TO ME AT MY RESIDENCE IN WASHINGTON, DC. I IMMEDIATELY NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A LOUD CREAKING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE CAR WHENEVER I TOOK A TURN OR WENT OVER A SMALL BUMP IN THE ROAD, INCLUDING SPEED BUMPS. WITHIN 30 MINUTES OF TAKING POSSESSION OF THE VEHICLE, I CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP TO NOTIFY THEM THAT I WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE NOISE. THEY DISMISSED THE NOISE AS A REGULAR PART OF THE "NEW VEHICLE BREAK-IN PROCESS" AND CLAIMED THAT IT WOULD GO AWAY QUICKLY. AFTER DRIVING THE VEHICLE FOR APPROXIMATELY 10 MORE MILES TO SEE IF THE NOISE DISAPPEARED, I BECAME CONCERNED ABOUT MY SAFETY BECAUSE THE NOISE ONLY APPEARED TO BE INCREASING, SO I STOPPED USING THE VEHICLE. ON 12/05/20, THE FIRST DAY POSSIBLE, I TOOK THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICE. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT QUICKLY CONFIRMED THAT SOMETHING WAS WRONG WITH THE SUSPENSION OF THE CAR, BUT THEY WERE NOT SURE EXACTLY WHAT. THEY INDICATED IT WAS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT. THEY SAID THAT THEY WOULD LOOK INTO IT. IT IS NOW 12/08/20 AND THE CAR IS STILL NOT REPAIRED. SO, IN SHORT, A NEW CAR WITH 15 MILES ON THE ODOMETER WHEN I PURCHASED IT HAS NOW SPENT AN EQUAL AMOUNT OF TIME IN MY POSSESSION AS IT HAS SPENT IN THE SHOP FOR REPAIRS TO THE SUSPENSION. I WORRY THAT THIS ISSUE IS NOT LIMITED TO MY VEHICLE ALONE AS IT IS AN ADMITTED MANUFACTURING DEFECT THAT APPARENTLY CANNOT BE REPAIRED QUICKLY.
12/8/2020
Both front lower control arms have damaged bushing discovered at 48,840 miles by my mechanic. Took to local dealership on 8/16/25 and they claimed per TSB from Subaru for cracks that although it had cracks, it was not necessary to be replaced due to it not being cracked enough. Brought back to my mechanic on 9/26/25 and cracking is worse, odometer is at 56,763 miles now. This part is supposed to last around 100,000 miles. Premature cracking puts me at risk of losing control of my car should the parts fail.
10/19/2025
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
2 Reports1% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2021 SUBARU CROSSTREK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WAS CRACKED ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CRACK WAS APPROXIMATELY EIGHT INCHES LONG. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CRACK WAS NOT CAUSED BY AN IMPACT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE WINDSHIELD WAS NOT REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,050.
4/28/2021
The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated upon entering the vehicle, he noticed that the windshield had cracked on the passenger side. The vehicle was not taken to a local dealer or independent mechanic to have it diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 5,700.
6/22/2021
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
2 Reports1% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving approximately 70 MPH, the sunroof exploded without impact. The contact stated that the majority of the shattered glass blew up and out of the vehicle. The dealer was contacted and informed of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 60,000.
6/7/2022
Sunroof exploded outward, the majority of the glass was blown away. The sunshade was open. The temperature was 56 degrees. I was traveling north on I 15 in Davis Couty, Utah. I was not injured, there were no other occupants. I drove to Subaru dealer, they said they have seen this before, only one case. It was inspected by service dealer and deemed safe to drive with sunshade closed. There were no warnings, the sunroof is used infrequently. There were no other objects on the roof.
10/14/2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
2 Reports1% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that the battery was drained quickly, causing the battery to need frequent recharging. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the replacement was not covered under warranty. The failure mileage was 1,300.
8/25/2022
The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shut off unintendedly and failed to restart. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the battery had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and opened a case. The approximate failure mileage was 27,000.
11/19/2024
SERVICE BRAKES
2 Reports1% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
In the winter of 2021-22, while parallel parking, backing up, then pressing the brake, my Crosstrek spontaneously accelerated in reverse and rammed into the truck already parked behind me. The Crosstrek paused, then rammed again, as I pressed harder on the brake. I put the car into âparkâ and turned off the engine. I was baffled and had no explanation for what happened. Thank goodness a person wasnât between my Crosstrek and the truck. More recently, on October 4, 2022, I was at the post office mailbox drop-off. My Crosstrek was stopped with my foot on the brake. Some mail had fallen out of the overstuffed mailbox, I opened my door, set my foot outside, leaned over to pick up the mail, and my Crosstrek spontaneously accelerated forward. My car door hit the cement pylon and closed on my leg. The car lurched forward again, then stopped, and I was able to open the door. My leg was broken with a compound fracture and my foot was nearly ripped off. I called for help, 911 was dispatched, and I was rushed to the hospital in an ambulance.
11/6/2022
Rear rotors delaminating at 33000 miles
6/30/2025
AIR BAGS
2 Reports1% of totalPreviewing the first 2 complaint summaries.
Airbag shows OFF even when passenger is seated.
7/16/2024
We were rear ended on the interstate. Cars in front of us stopped and we also came to a complete stop and a few moments later we were hit. During the collision, none of the airbags were deployed. Both our front seats fully reclined backwards. None of our seatbelts locked. Only the two seats that no one was in locked. Also, my headrest completely broke off. Our car was later determined by the insurance to be totaled.
7/15/2025
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
DRIVING HOME IN DAYLIGHT AFTER TAKING DELIVERY OF 2021 SUBARU CROSSTREK PREMIUM ON 1/29/21, I RAISED DIMMER SWITCH TO HIGHEST POSITION TO ILLUMINATE DASHBOARD BECAUSE I COULDN'T SEE SPEEDOMETER/INSTRUMENT PANEL, AND THERE WAS NO ILLUMINATION! THIS IS MY 3RD CROSSTREK PREMIUM SO I KNEW HOW THE DIMMER & LIGHTING CONTROLS WORK. I CONTACTED DEALER & SERVICE MGR IMMEDIATELY, WAS TOLD "IT IS WHAT IT IS, NOTHING CAN BE DONE, SENSORS CANNOT BE ADJUSTED!. AFTER NUMEROUS COMMUNICATIONS W/SUBARU THROUGH LAST MONTH, THEY WILL NOT ACKNOWLEDGE, NO LESS ADDRESS, THIS DESIGN FLAW THAT MAKES THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE SUBARU OWNERS FORUMS CONTAIN THE SAME COMPLAINTS ON VARIOUS MODELS AS WELL. I'VE ATTACHED FIRST SET OF EMAILS TO SUBARU STARTING IN FEBRUARY 2021 AND A SET OF EMAILS ENDING LAST MONTH. I ALSO FILED A COMPLAINT UNDER LEMON LAW TO NYS ATTORNEY GENERAL KNOWING I DIDN'T MEET THE REQUIREMENTS BUT FILED IT TO GET IT ON RECORD; BECAUSE IT WAS DETERMINED TO BE A DESIGN FLAW & NOT REPAIRABLE, COMPLAINT WAS REJECTED. HOPE YOU CAN HELP ME AS SUBARU WOULD NOT ALLOW THE CANCELLATION OF MY LEASE EVEN THOUGH THEY KNEW OF THE PROBLEM BEFORE CAR WAS SOLD AND WERE ADVISED BY ME OF THE PROBLEM WITHIN 1 DAY OF TAKING DELIVERY. THANK YOU.
5/14/2021
BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
Problem 1)Had my '21 Sport for 7 days. Started stalling few times when shifting from P to R while on a slight incline (dash lights up like in Acc mode) after driving it for about 30 min before and then turning it off to go inside of the store, etc. after about 2-5 minutes of idling, the car engine stopped like I was in auto stop, but didnât kick back on when I shift gears to reverse or when I applied gas. But then I hit the on/off button and engine turns over just fine. Problem 2) But today it started making a whirring sound with difficulty accelerating & quick decelerating/speed drop off upon release of gas, even when going down a big hill. It felt like resistance and pulling feeling almost? Like how a car feels when It doesnât want to shift. Also felt a little jittery the longer I drove & loud clunk shifting gears. Got louder when I would press on the gas more. It continued even after starting the car again when leaving my location. It wasnât doing it before yesterday, and then while positioning the car for the tow truck. But the back up cam started going crazy at me like I was about to hit something??? But nothing was there. Then eyesight was âdisabled, check manualâ a couple times today upon starting it. But no codes thrown thrown outside of the eyesight thing. Iâve seen a transmission issues and stalling and ECU issues with the 2018 & 2019 but quite a few people on Facebook and Reddit similar issues in '21. Dealer found no codes and couldn't recreate it so they told me to come get it.
11/30/2021
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:INTERNAL:SHIFT FORKS
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, while downshifting gears the vehicle failed to accelerate. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure. The contact stated he continued experiencing the failure. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
12/1/2021
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:INTERNAL:CVT
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
Transmission was about to fail. Car started making noise at low speeds in drive and reverse about 2-3 weeks ago, so I brought it in and mentioned the noise to the service advisor. There were no warning lights, messages on the dash indicating a problem. Confirmed by a Subaru dealer as needing to be fully replaced.
3/31/2022
I SUSPECT THE CAR SEAT IS COUNTERFEIT
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
Walmart sent me email that CYBEX Sirona M with SensorSafe 2.0 Infant Car Seat - Pepper Black UPC 72892545336 was recalled
4/26/2022
LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
Suddenly warning light "Check Engine" came on along with Eye Sight malfunction warning. "i RAB off" "Check Engine" Automatic Emergency Braking not working. Yes, available for inspection. Not confirmed yet by dealer. It is the weekend. There were no unusual symptoms prior to ADAS malfunction.
3/24/2024
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
I just recently had my car come out of park while running at the top of a steep hill. I had stepped out of my car to deliver paperwork to my client. I walked to and from my car approximately 75-80 ft. As I was approaching my car I heard a clicking or a release sound then it began to roll. I wasnât close enough to stop it and it rolled down a neighbor of my clients driveway and eventually rolled over landing against a tree. When I arrived at my car it was still running. I have awd and I noticed the tires in the air were not turning as they should have if it was in drive. My car was obviously totaled. How do I have someone check my car to see if there was defect that caused it to come out of park? I must say I forgot to set my handbrake. But I feel the car should not have come out of park regardless. Could it have been the front axle shaft or anything else?
2/24/2025
SEAT BELTS
1 Report1% of totalPreviewing the first 1 complaint summaries.
We were rear ended on the interstate. Cars in front of us stopped and we also came to a complete stop and a few moments later we were hit. During the collision, none of the airbags were deployed. Both our front seats fully reclined backwards. None of our seatbelts locked. Only the two seats that no one was in locked. Also, my headrest completely broke off. Our car was later determined by the insurance to be totaled.
7/15/2025
Data and Methodology
Scores are derived from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints, normalized by vehicle segment averages.
What are the most common owner complaints for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?
Are complaints about the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek a serious warning sign?
How should buyers use complaint data for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?
Are complaints about the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek severe?
Complaint list entries are sourced from owner-submitted NHTSA ODI records.
Subaru Crosstrek: How should complaint data influence buying decisions?
Carfocal links complaint data directly to recall and maintenance routes for the same model year.
- Complaint entries
- 135
- Top-topic view
- 5 grouped topics shown
- Primary source
- NHTSA ODI owner complaint records
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