2014 Subaru XV

The 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek is a compact crossover known for its standard all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency, and slightly raised suspension for light off-road capability. The 2014 XV Crosstrek was only available with one engine option, the 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder (boxer) engine producing 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners often praised the XV Crosstrek for its practicality, fuel economy, and all-weather capability, but some common complaints include the lack of power, especially when fully loaded or going uphill, and the somewhat basic interior.

Engine

2.0L Horizontally-Opposed Four-Cylinder (FB20)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil level drops significantly between oil changes, requiring frequent topping off. May be accompanied by blue exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: Subaru released a technical service bulletin (TSB) and extended the powertrain warranty to cover piston ring replacement on affected vehicles. Check with a Subaru dealer to see if your VIN is covered by the extended warranty.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: If not covered under warranty, $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Ignition Coils
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, check engine light illumination. Diagnostic codes may indicate a specific cylinder misfire.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per coil, depending on if you replace one or all of them and if you DIY the job
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leak - Head Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, milky oil (in severe cases).
  • Solution: Replace head gasket(s), resurface cylinder heads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Lineartronic)

• Valve Body Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, erratic shifting, jerking or shuddering, slipping, failure to engage gears, “check engine” light.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In severe cases, the entire CVT may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve body replacement $800 - $2000+, CVT replacement $4,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Possible stalling.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming, grinding, or roaring noise from the rear of the vehicle that changes with speed. Play in the wheel when checked by hand.
  • Solution: Replace the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per wheel bearing.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies overnight or after short periods of inactivity. Difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the cause of the parasitic draw and repairing the issue. This could involve replacing a faulty relay, module, or other electrical component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the source of the drain
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bluetooth Connectivity Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to pair devices, dropped connections, distorted audio, or complete Bluetooth system failure.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the Bluetooth module or the entire head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+, depending on the severity and component replaced
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard surface, typically in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement, dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dashboard replacement $800 - $1500+, dashboard cover $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek, while generally reliable, does have some common issues to be aware of. Engine problems, particularly excessive oil consumption and head gasket leaks, can be costly to repair if not addressed promptly. The CVT transmission is another area of concern, with valve body and torque converter issues potentially leading to expensive repairs or even complete transmission replacement. Suspension and electrical issues are also present, but occur less frequently. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s service history, pay attention to any unusual noises or symptoms during a test drive, and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic, especially regarding the CVT transmission and potential engine issues.