2016 Subaru Crosstrek
This year had 30% to 100% more complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2012 | 2 |
| 2013 | 25 |
| 2014 | 16 |
| 2015 | 17 |
| 2016 | 131 |
| 2017 | 94 |
| 2018 | 194 |
| 2019 | 284 |
| 2020 | 69 |
| 2021 | 115 |
| 2022 | 31 |
| 2023 | 34 |
| 2024 | 115 |
| 2025 | 43 |
| 2026 | 8 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
28% of complaints: electrical system — 37 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing alternator/generator/regulator.
CRASH FIREShow complaint excerpts
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.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240711
Also filed under AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 SUBARU CROSSTREK. WHILE MAKING A RIGHT TURN, THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILED AND CAUSED THE CONTACT TO REAR END ANOTHER VEHICLE. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES.
NHTSA ODI report, 20171212
14% of complaints: power train — 18 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
THE DURATION OF TIME THAT IT TAKES TO GO FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE IS UNACCEPTABLE AND DANGEROUS.
NHTSA ODI report, 20160513
Also filed under VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
THE LAG TIME ON THE CVT GOING FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE IS BEYOND ANNOYING IT IS DANGEROUS. IT TAKES 1-2 SECONDS FOR THE CAR TO MOVE AND BECAUSE OF THIS LAPSE THERE IS A GOOD CHANCE THAT THE CAR WILL LURCH.
NHTSA ODI report, 20160426
10% of complaints: steering — 13 distinct reports on file.
10% of complaints: engine — 13 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2016 SUBARU CROSSTREK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT VEHICLE WOULD NOT START.
NHTSA ODI report, 20181218
6% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 8 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.
Campaign 19V149000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2016 Subaru Crosstrek — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (37 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (18 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (13 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 19V149000 (exterior lighting) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek is rated "worse than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 28% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.