2023 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is a popular subcompact SUV known for its standard all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It offers two engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine available on the Sport and Limited trims, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The base and Premium trims are available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), while the Sport and Limited trims are exclusively equipped with the CVT. People often praise the Crosstrek for its off-road capability, comfortable ride, and ample cargo space for its class. Some criticisms include the base engine’s lack of power and the sometimes noisy CVT transmission.

Engine

2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher than expected oil consumption, requiring them to add oil between scheduled oil changes. This can be indicated by the low oil pressure light illuminating or the engine running rough.
  • Solution: Subaru recommends monitoring oil levels and performing oil consumption tests to determine the extent of the issue. If deemed excessive, potential fixes include replacing valve seals or piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+ (depending on the severity and repair needed)
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine

No Issues Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh shifting, jerking, or hesitation during acceleration and deceleration. This can occur at various speeds.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue in some cases. In more severe instances, the CVT may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Software update) - $5,000+ (CVT replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive whining or buzzing noises coming from the CVT transmission. This is more prevalent during acceleration.
  • Solution: The solution depends on the severity. Sometimes a fluid change helps. More severe cases require transmission repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Rear Wheel Bearings
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature wear or failure of the rear wheel bearings. Symptoms include a grinding or humming noise coming from the rear of the vehicle, especially when cornering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected wheel bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per wheel
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced the infotainment system freezing, crashing, or becoming unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Try to restart the system. A software update may be available to address the issue. In some instances, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently. This can result in the car being unable to start.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draws on the battery. Replacing the battery with a higher-capacity one may help in some cases. In severe cases, diagnose and repair the source of the excessive drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ (battery replacement), $100+ (diagnostics)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of windshields cracking easily from small impacts or temperature changes.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of various rattling noises within the cabin, particularly from the dashboard, door panels, or rear cargo area.
  • Solution:Locate and isolate the source of the rattle, then apply padding or tighten loose components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (DIY) - $200+ (professional repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek, while a generally reliable vehicle, does have some reported issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most concerning issues revolve around the CVT transmission and excessive oil consumption in the 2.0-liter engine. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and battery drain are also noteworthy. Repair costs can vary significantly depending on the severity of the issue, but some problems, like CVT replacement or engine repairs, can be quite expensive. Despite these issues, the Crosstrek remains a popular choice due to its standard AWD and overall practicality.