2017 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek is a compact crossover known for its standard all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It came equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine producing 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Owners often praise the Crosstrek for its reliability, off-road capability, and spaciousness, but some common complaints include its lack of power and somewhat noisy cabin.

Engine

2.0L Four-Cylinder Boxer Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This may lead to low oil levels, potential engine damage, and illuminated warning lights.
  • Solution: The solution can vary, and start with monitoring oil levels. If oil consumption is high, possible fixes include replacing the PCV valve, valve stem seals, or piston rings. In severe cases, engine replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced engine stalling, particularly at idle or low speeds. This can be intermittent and unpredictable, leading to safety concerns.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is needed to determine the cause. Potential causes include a faulty mass airflow (MAF) sensor, a dirty throttle body, or a failing fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Hesitation or Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported hesitation or jerky movements during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This can feel like a lag or stutter in the transmission.
  • Solution: CVT fluid change or software update of the TCU may help.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Whining Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience a noticeable whining noise from the CVT, especially during acceleration.
  • Solution: CVT fluid change, or in severe cases CVT replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Rear Wheel Bearings
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported premature wear of the rear wheel bearings, resulting in a humming or grinding noise from the rear of the vehicle, especially when turning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear wheel bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced unexplained battery drain, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after it has been sitting for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the parasitic draw. Potential causes include a faulty alternator, a malfunctioning sensor, or an issue with the infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the infotainment system, including freezing, crashing, slow response times, and Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, or replacing the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported the windshields cracking easily, even from small impacts.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor may fail, leading to a lack of airflow from the vents, regardless of the fan speed setting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek presents a mix of potential issues, with some more serious and costly than others. Engine issues like excessive oil consumption and stalling, transmission problems with the CVT, and electrical gremlins like battery drain and infotainment glitches seem to be the most prominent concerns. Suspension issues and exterior faults are also noted but less frequently. The severity and cost of these problems vary, but owners should be aware of the possibility of these issues arising and factor them into their purchasing and maintenance considerations.