2021 Subaru Crosstrek Problems and Top Complaints – Is Your Car A Lemon?

Windshield, braking, engine, and powertrain issues are among the top complaints received by the NHTSA from vehicle owners

Updated on Author: Brian Jones | Reviewer: Sergei Lemberg

Updated on Author: Brian Jones Reviewer: Sergei Lemberg

It wasn’t that long ago that Subaru was synonymous with reliability. So, how does the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek stand up? The automaker claims it is the “most fun-to-drive Crosstrek ever.” Yet, the internet is riddled with complaints, including problems with windshields that chip and crack, allegations of defective engines, and malfunctioning powertrains. High-tech EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is another problem and owners maintain it is directly linked to random braking.

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NHTSA Complaints for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek

Complaint CategoryNumber of Complaints
Visibility/wiper
21
Unknown Or Other
12
Engine
5
Power Train
5
Fuel/propulsion System
3
Forward Collision Avoidance: Adaptive Cruise Control
3
Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking
3
Electrical System
3
Steering
2
Visibility:windshield
2

Most Common Problems with the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek

By far the most common problem owners of the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek are experiencing are linked to windshields that crack, usually for no apparent reason. Nearly half of the complaints lodged with the National Traffic Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) by the end of February were due to this phenomenon. Most are regarded as visibility/wiper or simply visibility issues, but a few are listed as an “unknown or other” problem.

Both powertrain and engine problems are also common. These range from shuddering, jerking, and stalling, to transmission and engine failures. The engine compartment of a brand-new 2021 Crosstrek ignited, resulting in it bursting into flames and exploding while on the road. Fortunately, no one was injured.

Another common problem owners are reporting relates to Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. Punted as a major safety feature, it is designed to optimize cruise control, monitor traffic movement, and warn drivers if they “sway” outside their lanes. But there are numerous complaints that EyeSight and the Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA) feature are defective. In particular, EyeSight detects dangers that aren’t there and causes sudden, unexpected, random braking that puts the safety of those traveling in a Crosstrek at risk. Unsurprisingly, complaints about EyeSight malfunctions are listed as forward collision avoidance and lane-departure issues.

There are also lots of problems with spontaneous acceleration, and batteries draining rapidly or failing to function.

Problems with Windshields That Crack

The durability and integrity of Subaru’s auto glass have been in question for some time now. There are more than 100 manufacturer communications including technical service bulletins (TSBs) on file with the NHTSA. But not one mentions problems with windshield glass. Owners, on the other hand, have plenty to say about Crosstrek windshields. Apart from anything else, they are complaining that they are forced to use Subaru windshields when they replace cracked windshields.

An owner from New Mexico says that “Subaru claims that windshield replacements must use Subaru glass due (to) the optical clarity of the windshield.” On top of this, their EyeSight system (see next section) must be recalibrated. This is a $1,339 cost (via Safelight) to replace the windshield. I have 8,400 miles on my vehicle and I am getting ready to have the second windshield put on the car. The glass simply breaks too easily.”

Another owner is also “concerned about the high replacement costs for the windshield and required EyeSight recalibration.” In the 18 months he has owned the Crosstrek, “The windshield has picked up 7 chips … more than the total of chips I’ve had in my 29 years of driving. Only one of the chips had a notable sound that accompanied its creation, and that was from the impact of a large insect while driving on I-77. This windshield seems to be easily damaged, if not fragile, and gives me concern about the potential for injury if it was faced with any substantial impact.”

Examples of Random Cracking without Impact

Many complaints state that nothing hit the windshield prior to it cracking. For example, an owner from New York states that “the windshield cracked without any impact while parked.”

“My windshield all of the sudden got a massive crack,” an owner from California whose car is only 6 months old says. “I don’t remember a rock ever hitting it. It has been growing rapidly and I worry it is affecting my driver assist system.”

Another owner from New York discovered a crack about 7 inches long in the bottom center of the front windshield. “Nothing hit the windshield as far as I know.”

An owner from Arizona discovered a crack while reversing out of the garage. “The crack was not there when I entered the garage because I had to use the garage remote on the mirror to open the garage door. I would have noticed it.”

The windshield of a 2021 Crosstrek belonging to someone in Missouri cracked while driving over railroad tracks. The result is “spiderweb cracks that are small to see unless driving into the sun.”

A California owner heard a pop, looked at the windshield, and a crack appeared out of nowhere. A third-party windshield repair firm said the vehicle must “be taken to Subaru since there is no cause for crack.” Subaru, in turn, said it would cost the owner $1,800 for replacement “even though there was no reason for (the) crack.”

Problems with EyeSight Technology

Subaru boasts that EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is the “culmination of everything Subaru engineers know about safety.” They’ve sold more than 1 million vehicles equipped with EyeSight, but owners are discovering that it isn’t all it’s made out to be. The NHTSA has an increasing number of complaints that it malfunctions, detecting non-existent hazards and slamming on the brakes.

EyeSight and Lane Assistance Problems

An owner from Illinois experienced EyeSight and LKA issues when a new 2021 Crosstrek Limited had only 90 miles on the clock. The vehicle began jerking “aggressively” when the adaptive cruise control and LKA were on. A dealership mechanic had the same experience, but said to continue driving and take it back if “the condition persists.” This, says the complaint, “would mean risking a fatal collision.” A field technician and service manager from Subaru test-drove the vehicle independently and both confirmed the same issues. As a result, they calibrated the EyeSight camera, but this didn’t work.

When the owner drove back on the highway and turned on LKA, the steering malfunctioned and the Crosstrek was “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 continued to jerk while using LKA, “and when I try to override the steering to avoid a collision the wheel feels like it’s fighting me. It’s extremely dangerous … I fear there is a serious defect with the Eyesight and LKA.”

Random Braking Issues

Here’s a complaint from an owner in Texas. “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.” He believes that 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.”

An owner in Ohio mentions random braking. “Subaru Pre-collision braking activates when no danger (is) present. It detects exhaust steam or smoke as an obstacle. While accelerating 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.” In late spring of the same year while using cruise control on the highway, EyeSight “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.”

The owner 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.”

Problems with the Engine

A well-running engine is the most important part of any vehicle. Still, Crosstrek customers are having serious motor issues.

An owner from Tennessee reports engine failure in a complaint. “I was crossing two lanes of a very busy oceanfront street when the engine ‘bogged down.’ I let off on the gas pedal and then depressed it again, which then caused the engine to go off. Then he 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 ‘bogged down’ when I depressed the gas pedal but recovered after I quickly depressed the pedal again.”

Another owner, this time from California, experienced a total loss of power intermittently for about half a mile. An owner from Delaware experienced shuddering, jerking, and hesitation. The complaint states that the Crosstrek won’t go when the gas pedal is pressed. It also “hesitates or pauses for a moment after the gas pedal is engaged.”

There are a couple of service bulletins, including 09-77-21R, that relate to a lack of power and hesitation during acceleration. Subaru says that the reason for the problem is that vehicles sometimes detect the control module processor, the multifunctional indication lamp (MIL) illuminates, and the vehicle goes into failsafe mode. This results in a reduced amount of power. To correct the problem, Subaru initiated a service program to reprogram the engine control module (ECM) on some 2021 model-year Crosstreks equipped with 2.0L engines and continuously variable transmissions.

Problems with the Powertrain

The powertrain works hand-in-hand with the engine to create the power needed to tackle any terrain. However, some owners are reporting that the new Crosstrek powertrain is lackluster. Issues include shuddering, jerking, jittering, stalling, deceleration, and transmission failure.

An Alabama owner experienced shuddering, jerking, and hesitation. It happens “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 incident happened two days after the second service bulletin was issued on July 28, 2021. Perhaps the dealer hadn’t read it yet.

Transmission issues are even more serious. There are service bulletins about an “alleged chain slip condition” in some transmissions used for 2021 Crosstreks that deal with abnormal sounds and unusual vibrations. But they don’t address transmission failure.

An owner in Massachusetts was aware that the transmission was about to fail when the Crosstrek started making noise at low speeds in drive and reverse. There were no warning lights or error messages. A Subaru dealer confirmed the transmission needed to be replaced.

A serious drivetrain transmission issue ended particularly badly for an owner in Texas. The car was running in park when he got out to pick up a flyer from the yard. The Crosstrek accelerated, drove through the garage door, and crashed into the back wall of the garage. Nobody had inspected the vehicle at the time the complaint was made.

What if your 2021 Crosstrek is a Lemon?

Problems that keep recurring and affect the use and value of your vehicle could be symptoms that make it a lemon. If you think that your 2021 Subaru Crosstrek might be a lemon, consider letting the experts work out your lemon case at no cost to you. The law makes Subaru pay the legal fees for lemon law cases, so you’ve got nothing to lose. Every year, auto manufacturers buy back, replace, or pay cash settlements to thousands of lemon owners.

All you need to do is call our Helpline or fill out a contact form and we’ll assess your problems free of charge.

Complaint Data

CategoryUnknown Or Other
DateFeb 20, 2023
StateCA
Description
We were driving on a major highway today and the sunroof of my subaru crosstrek randomly exploded with a loud bang. Glass shattered everywhere in the car, covering us passengers with shards. Thankfully no one was hurt and we were able to pull off safely and remove the shards from our clothing and seats, but I could easily see this situation causing significant harm if it were to happen again. I have photos and my vehicle is available for inspection. A simple google search reveals that there are tons of people with subarus who have had the same experience with a randomly exploding sun roof. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the dealer or manufacturer but I am bringing it in asap. The car is 1 year old and there were no symptoms of the problem prior to failure.
CategoryElectrical System, Fuel/propulsion System, Vehicle Speed Control
DateJan 29, 2023
StateIL
Description
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 we're 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
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateJan 29, 2023
StateOK
Description
Bought the car last week and I got a crack on the windshield from a small rock. I did an insurance claim that I have an appt for next wednesday and while driving to work another pebble hit the windshield. So the first crack has not even been fix and I got another one. In my years of driving I have never had this issue.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateNov 18, 2022
StateNC
Description
Spontaneous windshield crack. No impact or apparent cause. Available for inspection. Based on online research and your database, this is a common occurrence. Reporting to subaru dealer has been initiated.
CategoryEngine, Forward Collision Avoidance: Adaptive Cruise Control, Fuel/propulsion System
DateNov 07, 2022
StateCA
Description
My brand new subaru ignited in the engine compartment, burst into flames and exploded while I was driving it.
CategoryService Brakes
DateNov 06, 2022
StateMT
Description
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 “park” and turned off the engine. I was baffled and had no explanation for what happened. Thank goodness a person wasn't 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.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateOct 23, 2022
StateNY
Description
The windshield broke there are no signs of breaking by a rock or any external element, there is a crack coming from the de-icer region, it was a small crack but now it covers all the side from the passenger side.
CategoryUnknown Or Other, Visibility:sun/moon Roof Assembly
DateOct 14, 2022
StateUT
Description
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.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateOct 04, 2022
StateTX
Description
Windshield is very fragile. (I think it cracks when a flower petal falls on it...) but seriously, I have about 20 chips in my windshield and have not had any significant boulders or trucks with rocks that have hit my windshield. It appears to be from every day urban commute, which is unusual. I have never had a car that I have had to replace the windshield in due to fragility. Also, the windshield seal has come completely off at the base near the hood.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateSep 15, 2022
StateID
Description
The front window was hit by chips seal pebbles from the car in front of us and chipped the window, twice. It was repaired with standard window chip repair.
CategoryEngine
DateSep 12, 2022
StatePA
Description
Had intermittent total loss of power for about 1/2 of a mile.
CategoryElectrical System:12v/24v/48v Battery
DateAug 25, 2022
StateMD
Description
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.
CategoryUnknown Or Other
DateJul 26, 2022
StateMT
Description
The bluetooth system is not functioning properly. When a call is in progress, the bluetooth will indicate that no phone is connected and prompt the driver to connect the phone. In the meantime, the call is still active and the person on the other end hears the radio playing but the driver cannot hear the other person. The call will then reconnect for a few seconds before repeating this process. It will continue until the call is ended. While this might be considered an inconvenience, I believe it is a genuine safety issue as this problem takes the drivers eyes off the road and has them answering prompts on a visual screen and is a general distraction. Subaru is aware of the problem and has refused to take action to correct it. The incident is ongoing. As a result the hands-free phone option is unavailable.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateJul 24, 2022
StateWA
Description
Windshield seems pretty fragile after being hit by a little gravel pebble due to construction work at the highway the crack extended in less than 24 hours to 12 inches. This is very concerning since it's pretty weird to a chip to develop as bad as this one.
CategoryVisibility:sun/moon Roof Assembly
DateJun 07, 2022
StateUT
Description
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.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateMay 04, 2022
StateCA
Description
Windshield cracked on driver side window for no reason - heard pop and looked at windshield and crack appeared. Contacted eckbond who is subarus third party warranty for repairs, and they stated they can only reimburse me up to 0. Attempted to contact third party windshield repairs and they states it should be taken to subaru since there is no cause for crack. Contacted subaru and explained occurence and it will cost me 00 for replacement even though, there was no reason for crack.
CategoryForward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings
DateMay 03, 2022
StateOH
Description
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.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateMay 03, 2022
StateOH
Description
Windshield chips easily. I have owned this car from new (approximately 18 months). The windshield has picked up 7 chips in that time: more than the total of chips I've had in my 29 years of driving. Only one of the chips had a notable sound that accompanied it's creation, and that was from the impact of a large insect while driving on I-77. This windshield seems to be easily damaged, if not fragile, and gives me concern about the potential for injury if it was faced with any substantial impact. I'm also concerned about the high replacement costs for the windshield and required eyesight re-calibration. If I had known the windshields where so susceptible to damage, I would not have picked a subaru.
CategoryI Suspect The Car Seat Is Counterfeit
DateApr 26, 2022
StateTX
Description
Walmart sent me email that cybex sirona m with sensorsafe 2. 0 infant car seat - pepper black upc 72892545336 was recalled
CategoryForward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking
DateApr 17, 2022
StateTX
Description
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.
CategoryPower Train
DateApr 15, 2022
StateTX
Description
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. Will contact dealership today. No symptoms prior.
CategoryPower Train:automatic Transmission:internal:cvt
DateMar 31, 2022
StateMA
Description
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.
CategoryUnknown Or Other, Visibility/wiper
DateMar 29, 2022
StateCA
Description
I bought this car january 2021. In june 2021, the smallest pebble cracked my windshield while I was driving on the freeway. Yesterday, 3/28/22, I was driving home from work like usual and my sunroof spontaneously exploded and completely shattered. Yep, you read that right. Don't believe me? Search up: subaru exploded sunroof on google. Thank god I had the sunroof shade closed or else the glass would've fallen all over me. I suffer from trauma caused by a past car accident where I was in the passenger and do not take broken glass lightly which is why I chose subaru to be my first car that I bought. I came home shaking and found out that other subaru owners experienced the same phenomenon after doing some research. However, subaru does not want to take responsibility for this. You're telling me that I don't have to be in an actual accident in order to be harmed by my car that I was promised was not just one but the top reliable and safest car in the industry?
CategoryUnknown Or Other
DateMar 15, 2022
StateNH
Description
I bought a 2021 subaru crosstrek in august 2021 and noticed that the hood has been very difficult to get open and closed. I brought it to the dealership and they did not do a thing about it. When I would try to pop the hood it wouldn't pop up at all and when I would get on the road it would come undone on it's own. It never came flying up over the windshield impairing my vision so the secondary safety latch was working properly but the fact that the subaru dealership said nothing was wrong with it was concerning. A separate mechanic not related to subaru looked at it and adjusted something under the hood so that it is easier to get open and doesn't do this anymore but I still want to report it because I believe that it is a safety issue others could be facing with this vehicle. Closing the hood without slamming it down and getting it to lock down into place is still difficult. No police were involved in looking into this issue. The only warning light that I had was when the hood opened while I drove on a high speed roadway and it was to notify me that the hood has opened, but as I stated previously the secondary latch worked properly but if it hadn't it would have definitely impaired my vision and could have caused an accident. Thank you for your time.
CategoryLane Departure: Assist, Steering
DateFeb 08, 2022
StateIL
Description
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
CategoryElectrical System
DateFeb 07, 2022
StateCA
Description
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.
CategoryElectrical System
DateJan 24, 2022
StateNJ
Description
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.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateJan 04, 2022
StateTX
Description
The windshield has cracked on the passenger side. It has not put anyone at risk however, this seems to be an issue with many subaru owners yet subaru has not done anything about this issue. The vehicle has yet to be inspected.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateDec 12, 2021
StateID
Description
When I bought the car last year I had it for less than 2 months before my windshield cracked from a rock while we were on the highway. I get this happens so I didn't think anything of it until I saw how many other people have also had their windshield crack shortly after buying the car. Since I've gotten it replaced almost a year ago I haven't had any issues.
CategoryPower Train, Power Train:manual Transmission:internal:shift Forks
DateDec 01, 2021
StateNY
Description
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.
CategoryBack Over Prevention: Warnings, Power Train, Unknown Or Other
DateNov 30, 2021
StateWA
Description
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 didn't 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 doesn't 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 wasn't 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 “disabled, check manual” a couple times today upon starting it. But no codes thrown thrown outside of the eyesight thing. I've 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.
CategoryUnknown Or Other
DateNov 14, 2021
StateNJ
Description
Front windshield spontaneously cracked, originating from the frame.
CategoryPower Train, Unknown Or Other
DateOct 01, 2021
StateAL
Description
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.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateSep 17, 2021
StateTN
Description
Windshield is cracked from a very small pebble. We were driving down the highway and all of the sudden there was a small crack appear, you couldnt even hear the impact. The glass seems very fragile on these cars.
CategoryUnknown Or Other
DateSep 15, 2021
StateWI
Description
I've owned the vehicle for three weeks and have had three separate incidents with chips in the windshield. Had it repaired today. First chip the first week I had it and one sept 12 another september 14th.
CategoryStructure:body
DateSep 07, 2021
StateCA
Description
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.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateSep 07, 2021
StateCA
Description
Among a few other headaches, the windshield cracked on the highway with only 2300 miles on the odometer. This 7 inch crack appeared after a 300 mile road trip. I recall hearing a small thud on the windshield with no immediate cause for concern. After driving another 10 miles, the crack has grown an additional 2 inches.
CategoryUnknown Or Other
DateSep 04, 2021
StateFL
Description
Under normal driving conditions, a speckle piece of rock, smaller than the size of a pebble lightly blew upon the driver-side windshield. As a result of this, a chip windshield glass developed that began to grow rapidly. I immediately had to park the vehicle and call safelite to do the chip repair. Never in my 51 years of driving have I ever seen anything like this!!!! Subaru has a deflective windshield being used on their 2021 crosstrek and possibly other models!!! Immediate action is needed for the public safety of this defect. This should not be allowed to be sold with this manufacture deflect.
CategoryEngine, Fuel/propulsion System
DateAug 31, 2021
StateTN
Description
I was crossing two lanes of a very busy ocean front street when the engine “bogged down” . 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 “bogged down” when I depressed the gas pedal, but recovered after I quickly depressed the pedal again.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateAug 13, 2021
StateMO
Description
The windshield cracked while going over railroad tracks. Spiderweb cracks that are small to see unless driving into the sun and then they are visible all over the windshield.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateAug 04, 2021
StateAZ
Description
Upon entering the vehicle (parked in the garage) I looked at the rear view mirror which I always do as I reverse. I noticed a crack on the windshield behind the mirror. The crack was not there when I entered the garage because I had to use the garage remote on the mirror to open the garage door. I would have noticed it (crack). The crack appeared suddenly. I am reporting this problem because I read that another owner, of similar vehicle, has complained about the same issue and almost with same mileage on his car. Same year vehicle too. Given the windshield/glass history subaru has with the outback model, I wonder if this problem is transferred to the subaru crosstrek. The two vehicles do share the same type of glass!!!
CategoryEngine, Power Train
DateJul 15, 2021
StateDE
Description
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
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateJun 26, 2021
StateNY
Description
Crack about seven inches long appeared in bottom center of front windshield. Nothing hit the windshield as far as I know. Crack runs from bottom of windshield in an upwards direction.
CategoryVisibility:windshield
DateJun 22, 2021
StatePA
Description
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.
CategoryUnknown Or Other, Visibility/wiper
DateJun 12, 2021
StateCA
Description
Bought the car brand new 6 months ago and the windshield crack all of a sudden
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateJun 06, 2021
StateCA
Description
My windshield all of the sudden got a massive crack. I don't remember a rock ever hitting it. It has been growing rapidly and I worry it is effecting my drivers assist system. I did some research and learned this was a common problem for subarus and worry my windshield is defective due to weakness as evidenced by how quickly the crack is growing. I bought my car brand new 6 months ago.
CategoryExterior Lighting
DateMay 14, 2021
StateNY
Description
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.
CategoryForward Collision Avoidance: Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking, Visibility/wiper
DateMay 04, 2021
StateNM
Description
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 39 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).
CategoryForward Collision Avoidance: Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure: Assist, Steering
DateMay 01, 2021
StateNY
Description
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.
CategoryVisibility:windshield
DateApr 28, 2021
StateMA
Description
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.
CategoryUnknown Or Other
DateApr 21, 2021
StateWA
Description
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.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateMar 22, 2021
StateNY
Description
The windshield cracked without any impact while parked.
CategoryVisibility/wiper
DateMar 14, 2021
StateNE
Description
Windshield cracked with less than 1000 miles on the car. Never heard or saw any rock or other debris hit the windshield
CategoryEngine
DateDec 15, 2020
StateNJ
Description
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.
CategorySuspension
DateDec 08, 2020
StateDC
Description
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.

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Brian Jones

About the Author:

Brian Jones spent more than 20 years working as an ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist at multiple dealerships. Brian has become an authority in the industry, traveling across the country to consult for car dealerships and contributing his expertise as a writer for several major automotive publications. In his spare time, Brian enjoys working on pickup trucks, muscle cars, Jeeps and anything related to motorsports.

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1 COMMENT
  • Wayne T

    When driving with cruise control engaged with eyesite, if a person in front of you makes a right turn, the car comes to a major breaking insident thus causing person in rear of you to slam on breaks not to ram you.

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