Recalls · problems · safety

2016 Subaru Crosstrek: recalls and problems

1 recall and 133 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is electrical system.

1recalls
133complaints
4crashes reported
3fires reported
1injuries reported

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Electrical System35 · 26%
  • Unknown Or Other34 · 26%
  • Power Train18 · 14%
  • Engine15 · 11%
  • Steering13 · 10%
  • Fuel/Propulsion System8 · 6%
  • Vehicle Speed Control6 · 5%
  • Structure5 · 4%
  • Visibility/Wiper5 · 4%
  • Service Brakes5 · 4%

What owners report

Engine

The crosstrek has a broken cam carrier. it is a design flaw and known issue of subaru crosstrek. a broken or leaking cam carrier is dangerous to the vehicle because it directly compromises engine lubrication, structural integrity, and electrical safety. the cam carrier acts as a structural housing that keeps the camshafts securely in place and seals oil inside the top of the engine. its liquid sealant fails and i

Engine

While driving my 2016 subaru crosstrek (vin: [xxx]) at approximately 70,000 miles, the vehicle experienced a sudden, catastrophic cooling system rupture on the roadway without any prior dashboard warning light. a radiator hose burst, resulting in rapid, complete loss of engine coolant and steam, creating an immediate safety hazard and forcing an emergency roadside stop. a subsequent diagnostic teardown by an indepen

Engine And Engine Cooling

Within 24 hours of purchase, the exhaust pipe became detached underneath the vehicle and exhaust fumes and odor were entering the cabin while driving. this created a potential carbon monoxide exposure risk to me and passengers. subaru inspected the vehicle and confirmed the exhaust issue existed before i purchased the car. the selling dealership did not disclose this safety defect and refused to unwind the sale when

Electrical System

A/c control head and connector burned on both ends. dealer service center stated it was a significant safety/fire hazard if we had not immediately taken in to be checked. no warning, no fuses out. only indication something was wrong is a/c turned on but only on 1,2 and 4. then, same day, only on 4. next day took to subaru service center. when we asked how would replacing parts stop this from happening again, we were

Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. They are owner reports and have not been verified.

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2016 Subaru Crosstrek SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering CROSSTREK, CROSSTREK HYBRID. Last refreshed 2026-11-15.