2019 Subaru XV
The 2019 Subaru XV, also known as the Crosstrek in some markets, is a compact crossover SUV known for its standard all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency, and off-road capability. In the US market, it was primarily offered with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners often praise the XV/Crosstrek for its reliability, safety features, and comfortable ride, while common complaints include lackluster acceleration and engine noise.
Engine
2.0L Boxer Engine
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and the need to add oil more frequently than expected.
- Solution: Subaru issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) addressing oil consumption concerns in some models. This may involve an updated PCV valve, software update or in more extreme cases, piston ring replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the repair
Transmission
CVT (Lineartronic)
- CVT Hesitation/Jerking
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced hesitation or jerking during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This can feel like a delay in response or a rough shift.
- Solution: A software update from Subaru can sometimes address this issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement may be required, or complete transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $6,000+ depending on the repair
- CVT Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Complete transmission failure causing vehicle to not move.
- Solution: Transmission Replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000+
Suspension
- Premature Wear of Rear Wheel Bearings
- Description/Symptoms: Owners report hearing a humming or grinding noise from the rear of the vehicle, especially at higher speeds. This is often attributed to premature wear of the rear wheel bearings.
- Solution: Replacing the affected wheel bearing(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per wheel
Electrical
- Dead Battery
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery failure, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle or requiring frequent jump starts.
- Solution: Replacing the battery with a higher-capacity battery or ensuring proper charging system functionality.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may experience freezing, glitches, or unresponsiveness. Bluetooth connectivity problems and screen flickering have also been reported.
- Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. In some cases, the entire head unit may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1,000+ (Head Unit Replacement)
Exterior
- Windshield Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the windshield is prone to cracking easily, even from small impacts.
- Solution: Replacing the windshield.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
Interior
- No Issues Found
Recalls
- Recall Number: 21V-837
- Description: Possible temporary loss of the vehicle’s drive power while driving.
- Remedy: Dealers will reprogram the transmission control unit (TCU)
- Recall Number: 19V-855
- Description: Inadequate welds on the rear suspension support member may allow the support to separate from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the vehicle, and replace the left and right rear suspension support member as necessary, free of charge.
- Recall Number: 23V-052
- Description: The fuel pump impeller may become deformed and interfere with the fuel pump body, potentially causing the fuel pump to become inoperative.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump
Summary
The 2019 Subaru XV/Crosstrek has some notable issues. The most concerning are CVT transmission problems and excessive oil consumption, which can be costly to repair. Electrical issues like dead batteries and infotainment glitches can also be frustrating. The recalls indicate some potential safety concerns. While the vehicle is generally reliable, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and check for any relevant service history.