2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek

The 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek is a compact crossover SUV known for its standard all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency, and rugged styling. The sole engine option for this model year is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder horizontally opposed (Boxer) engine producing 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners generally appreciate the Crosstrek’s fuel economy, off-road capability, and reliability. However, some common complaints revolve around its relatively low horsepower and acceleration performance, road noise, and the CVT transmission’s behavior.

Engine

2.0L Boxer Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. The rate of consumption varies, but can be significant, especially with higher mileage.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels closely and using heavier weight oil can sometimes mitigate the issue. In severe cases, piston ring replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Spring Recall
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 2015 Subaru Crosstrek models were subject to a recall for potentially defective valve springs. This could lead to engine stalling or failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of valve springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V745000

Transmission

CVT Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience harsh shifting or jerking, especially during low-speed acceleration or deceleration. The CVT can feel hesitant or unresponsive at times.
  • Solution: A software update may improve CVT performance. In some cases, CVT replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete transmission failure requiring a replacement of the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacement of transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Wheel bearings failing prematurely, resulting in a grinding or humming noise from the wheels. This is more common in areas with harsh winters or poor road conditions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not driven for extended periods. The issue is often attributed to the car’s system not fully turning off.
  • Solution: Identify the cause of the electrical drain. Check for parasitic drains from aftermarket accessories or faulty components. Have the battery load tested to ensure proper functionality.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Performing a system reset or software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, replacement of the head unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported windshields cracking easily from minor impacts. This could be due to the angle of the windshield or a defect in the glass.
  • Solution: Replacement of the windshield.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard develops cracks, especially in regions with high temperatures.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek, while generally reliable, does have some common issues. Oil consumption, CVT transmission issues, and electrical glitches appear to be the most prevalent concerns. While the valve spring recall has been addressed for affected vehicles, other issues may require more vigilance and maintenance to prevent significant repairs. The severity and cost of repairs can vary, with some issues like infotainment freezing being minor annoyances while others like CVT failure can be expensive to fix. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have the vehicle inspected thoroughly before purchase.