2019 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek is a compact SUV known for its standard all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency, and practicality. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual (available on the base and Premium trims) and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners generally appreciate the Crosstrek’s off-road capability and fuel economy. Common complaints include lackluster acceleration and a somewhat noisy engine.

Engine

2.0L Naturally Aspirated Boxer Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warning lights and the need to add quarts of oil frequently.
  • Solution: Subaru released a technical service bulletin and in some cases, replaced the short block to address this issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely. Replacing the short block can be expensive.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report hesitation or a stutter upon initial acceleration, especially from a stop. The engine may feel sluggish or unresponsive.
  • Solution: A software update or reprogramming of the engine control unit (ECU) might resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Hesitation/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported hesitation, jerking, or shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. This can feel like the transmission is slipping or struggling to find the right gear ratio.
  • Solution: CVT Fluid change. In some cases, a full CVT replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: CVT Fluid Change $200-$400, Replacement is about $6000.
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Whining Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noticed an unusual whining or high-pitched noise coming from the transmission, especially during acceleration or at higher speeds. This could indicate internal wear or a problem with the CVT.
  • Solution: Inspection of the CVT fluid and internal components. A CVT Fluid change might resolve the issue, or the CVT may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: CVT Fluid Change $200-$400, Replacement is about $6000.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Rear Wheel Bearings
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of rear wheel bearings, leading to a humming or grinding noise from the rear of the vehicle, especially at higher speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected wheel bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 per wheel bearing.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with the battery draining prematurely, especially if the vehicle is left unused for a few days. This can result in difficulty starting the engine or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Testing the battery and charging system to identify any parasitic drain. Replacing the battery with a higher-capacity unit or addressing any faulty electrical components causing the drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery replacement $150-$300, parasitic drain diagnosis and repair $100-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starlink Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Connectivity issues with the Starlink infotainment system, including difficulty connecting to the internet, unresponsive touchscreen, or failure of certain Starlink features (e.g., remote start, emergency assistance).
  • Solution: Software updates for the Starlink system or replacement of the head unit in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update (often free at the dealer), Head Unit Replacement $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The windshield is prone to cracking easily from small impacts.
  • Solution: Replace the windshield.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive. This may require a system reboot to resolve.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes address these issues. In more severe cases, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update (often free at the dealer), Head Unit Replacement $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek, while generally reliable, does exhibit some common issues. The most concerning is the potential for excessive oil consumption in the 2.0L engine and CVT hesitation/jerking problems. Electrical problems, such as battery drain and Starlink issues, can also be a nuisance. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, others, like replacing the short block or CVT, can be costly. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing a used 2019 Crosstrek.