2021 Subaru Crosstrek
This year's complaint volume is within 30% of 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.
25% of complaints: visibility/wiper — 29 distinct reports on file.
18% of complaints: forward collision avoidance — 21 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing automatic emergency braking and warnings.
CRASH FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
My brand new Subaru ignited in the engine compartment, burst into flames and exploded while I was driving it.
NHTSA ODI report, 20221107
Was driving on highway when all of the lights on my dash illuminated. Eventually I got a warning for oil at temp alarm. Was giving code P2757 and P0700. Looks like this a common issue in Subarus but doesnât look like it covers anything after 2020.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260731
Also filed under ELECTRICAL SYSTEM and POWER TRAIN
14% of complaints: engine — 16 distinct reports on file.
CRASH FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The contact owned a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated that while parking and the brake pedal was depressed, the vehicle accelerated unexpectedly and collided with a wall. The collision was at the front of the vehicle. The air bags deployed.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230919
- Rod #4 failure of unknown cause, although there is speculation that current failure may be related to a major repair in oil system a year ago. - My safety along with my unborn childâs, husbandâs and brother in lawâs were all at risk.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260716
14% of complaints: electrical system — 16 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing 12v/24v/48v battery.
CRASH13% of complaints: power train — 15 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing shift forks and floor shift.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
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.
NHTSA ODI report, 20250224
DRIVE TRAIN, TRANSMISSION ISSUE. CAR WAS RUNNING, IN PARK. I GOT OUT TO PICK UP A FLYER FROM YARD. CAR ACCELERATED AND DROVE THROUGH GARAGE DOOR, AND CRASHED INTO THE BACK WALL OF GARAGE. NO ONE HAS INSPECTED THE CAR, AS IT HAPPENED LATE YESTERDAY.
NHTSA ODI report, 20220415
Viscous Coupling and center differential failing. unable to turn at low speeds. Low mileage vehicle, under 40,000. This is a several 1000$ repair that happens right after warranty
NHTSA ODI report, 20260714
SAFETY TIMELINE
Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
Campaign 23V755000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Subaru Crosstrek — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for visibility/wiper issues (29 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for forward collision avoidance issues (21 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (16 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 23V755000 (power train) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is rated "typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?
The most-reported component is visibility/wiper, accounting for 25% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 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.