2015 Subaru XV

The 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek is a compact crossover known for its standard all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency, and off-road capability. It was offered with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners generally appreciate its practicality, fuel economy, and standard AWD. Common dislikes include its relatively slow acceleration and somewhat noisy cabin.

Engine

2.0L Four-Cylinder Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. The problem can manifest as low oil level warnings or the need to add oil every few thousand miles.
  • Solution: Replacing the piston rings may resolve the issue in some cases, but this is a major repair. In some instances, Subaru has offered partial reimbursement for these repairs. Regular oil level checks are also recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Spring Recall
  • Description/Symptoms: A small number of 2015 XV Crosstreks were included in a recall for potentially defective valve springs. This could lead to engine stalling or failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected valve springs by a Subaru dealer under the recall.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A (Covered by recall)
  • Recalls: WRG-18

Transmission

CVT Transmission

• CVT Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the CVT valve body, leading to jerky acceleration, hesitation, or a feeling of “slipping” during gear changes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body or, in more severe cases, the entire CVT transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report wheel bearing failure at relatively low mileage (under 100,000 miles). Symptoms include a humming or grinding noise that increases with speed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per wheel
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with excessive battery drain, particularly when the vehicle is not driven for extended periods. This can lead to difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify the source of the parasitic drain. Possible causes include faulty relays, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Unit Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system freezing, rebooting, or failing to respond to inputs.
  • Solution: Software update, head unit replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek, while generally reliable, can suffer from a few notable issues. Excessive oil consumption and CVT transmission problems are the most significant concerns in terms of potential repair costs. Valve spring recall is a major concern if the affected vehicles were not already repaired. Electrical issues like battery drain can be a nuisance. While some of these issues are relatively minor, others can be quite expensive to address, so potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and carefully inspect any used XV Crosstrek before purchasing.