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Model-year record

2017 Subaru Crosstrek
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2017 Subaru Crosstrek

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

97

Reports to NHTSA, 2017

Safety recalls

1

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

27.5

EPA estimate

Known issues

Unknown Or Other issues lead owner complaints (22% of 97 reports), followed by visibility/wiper (22%).

Unknown Or Other22% · 21 reports
Visibility/Wiper22% · 21 reports
Electrical System15% · 15 reports
Power Train12% · 12 reports
Steering5% · 5 reports
Service Brakes4% · 4 reports
Engine3% · 3 reports
Exterior Lighting3% · 3 reports

+ 8 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 97 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11291976, ODI 11121955, ODI 11540242, ODI 11476595, ODI 11438977.

Individual complaint reports(97)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Power TrainOct 2025 · ODI 11694927Details +

Premature shift fork failure in 2017 Subaru Crosstrek manual transmission at 62,521 miles requiring complete transmission replacement ($10,000 repair, vehicle worth $11,000). EVIDENCE OF DESIGN DEFECT: - Subaru issued TSB 03-83-20R acknowledging shift fork design flaws in 2018-2020 Crosstreks with identical transmission - TSB states original forks required "thicker nylon inserts" proving inadequate design - My VIN (HG269902) is before production change (LG225906), confirming defective pre-improvement design - Shift fork failure can cause sudden inability to shift gears while driving - significant safety hazard MAINTENANCE: Single owner, meticulously maintained with documented service at 20k, 39k, 52k, 58k miles. Never in accident. No abuse. MANUFACTURER RESPONSE: Subaru offered only $1,800 (18% coverage) and blamed my "driving habits" despite TSB proving design defect. REQUEST: NHTSA investigate shift fork failures in 2015-2017 Crosstreks and evaluate if TSB 03-83-20R should extend to these model years. See attached: Complete complaint documentation and TSB 03-83-20R.

Reported
Oct 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11694927 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlSep 2025 · ODI 11690682Details +

In August of 2024, I got into my car in a parking lot and turned the key in the ignition. The car started revving really high. I waited for it to slow down, and then I put it into reverse. The car shot back and would have hit the building if I hadn't slammed on the brakes. Fortunately, there wasn't anyone behind the car at the time, but the woman who had just walked in back of my car to enter the building stood there looking at me. I slowly put my foot on the gas pedal and drove home. The following day, I had a tow truck come and take the car to the dealer. They did a scheduled maintenance service and replace the throttle body. Everything was fine until 9/28/25. I was driving out of a parking lot and entering the street going very slowly, suddenly the car lurched forward very fast, and I had to slam on my brakes to stop it. I drove it home. I notified a friend who knew a mechanic that he said was familiar with this type of issue. He got in touch with the dealership where the car had been serviced, and I got a call from the Service Department manager. He asked me to bring the car in so they could try to find out what the problem was. He said that if they couldn't find out what it was, an engineer might be called in to inspect the car. I am planning on having the car towed to the dealership this week. On neither occasion did any warning lights come on in the car. It was very fortunate that no one was hurt during either incident, but it could have been tragic. I was only about 15 feet away from a crosswalk when the second incident occurred. I read online that the manufacturer is involved in a lawsuit where several other people have had the same experience, although not the same model as my car. I have driven the same brand of car for about fifteen years and have never had a problem before.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11690682 at NHTSA →
Chest ClipAug 2025 · ODI 11678003Details +

The harness on my child's Nuna RAVA loosened during a 30 minute drive home (highway and downtown driving) in May of 2025. I learned later that month that there is a recall on Nuna Ravas for that exact reason. It is available for inspection. My child was not properly secured, and I did not know it until we got home; he could have been killed or seriously injured had we gotten into a collision on that drive. The car seat has not been inspected by anyone. Nuna offered me a “remedy kit” with a screwdriver, a brush, and a mismatched fabric cover, but I am not a safety technician and do not have the time or expertise to take the seat apart myself and still trust it to secure my child. The problem with the harness straps we have is intermittent, and does not replicate when the car is parked and I simply “tug” on the straps. I do not feel that this is an adequate safety test anyway, as it doesn’t replicate the forces or conditions in an accident. I requested a replacement seat, but Nuna denied my request on 7/21 and again on 7/28. Nuna has not supplied crash test results on layperson “repaired” car seats. This defect is the subject of NHTSA actions DP24003 and PE24026. Other RAVA owners have complained that their repaired RAVA still malfunctioned even after using Nuna's "remedy kit." I would like a replacement car seat to ensure my child's safety.

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
May 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11678003 at NHTSA →
Power TrainMar 2024 · ODI 11575912 · crashDetails +

On January 19, 2024 I was slowly pulling in to a parking spot at my doctors office. I did not pull up far enough, as there was a concrete retaining wall at the head of the spot and no tire block for safety. I was maybe 5 feet from the wall when I lightly tapped the gas pedal to inch up (as the back end of the car was sticking out into the passing lane). When I did so, the car slipped into rapid acceleration causing a full head on crash with the retaining wall. I had pressed the break pedal but the brakes did not have enough time to engage before the wall stopped my car. As a result, I had bumper damage, a crooked hood (due to bent hinge on the right side) and a cracked bracket above the light assembly. Thankfully I was not injured, but the repair was costly. I leased this car new in 2017, and am paying off end of lease buyout. I have been the only driver, and I bring my car for regular servicing. At this point I am afraid to drive it because I don't know when or where the next rapid acceleration will occur.

Reported
Mar 2024
Incident date
Jan 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11575912 at NHTSA →
EngineFeb 2024 · ODI 11570817Details +

There is a battery draining problem. I have had to replace the battery 3 times in a two-year period.

Reported
Feb 2024
Incident date
Feb 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11570817 at NHTSA →
WheelsJan 2024 · ODI 11569085Details +

Wheel bearing go out after 40K plus miles. After doing research on my own wheels bearings it appears that this is a very common issue for this vehicle. This is not a lot of miles to have on a car before wheel bearings (rear) go bad. Causing extensive damage if not caught and a safety hazard for those opporating the vehicle.

Reported
Jan 2024
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11569085 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2023 · ODI 11540242Details +

The car has 26,000 miles and the heat shield over the muffler has shifted and causing a grinding sound against the back wheel. Told the shield had rusted and needed replacement. There were no warning lights, just the grinding sound from the rear of the car.

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Aug 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11540242 at NHTSA →
Power TrainAug 2023 · ODI 11539275Details +

Greetings: As outlined in Service Bulletin 05-70-19, Rear Wheel Backing Plate Design change, I am having an almost overwhelming “whining or humming” sound coming from the rear portion of my vehicle. Given the significance of this WHEEL BEARING & BACKING PLATE issue, I respectfully request an RECALL & subsequent repair be initiated. Coupled with a VERY large number of related customer issues - globally - this issue should have already met-the-bar for a RECALL vs. Safety Bulletin. It’s obvious there are safety-related design flaws - again, given the overall number of required repairs - and this should be addressed accordingly. Thank you.

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11539275 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesMay 2023 · ODI 11522250Details +

Both of the front inner brake pads separated from the backing plate presenting a safety concern since the brake performance was compromised. The front outer brake pads did not separate from the backing plates. All four brake pads were installed by myself along with new rotors in November 2021 and have experienced about 30,000 miles of use. There is plenty of brake pad material remaining. I have experience installing brakes on multiple vehicles and the pads were functional until the pad/backing plate separation. I discovered the issue after hearing a grinding noise from the wheel well while driving. No warning lights were present and other symptoms were not immediately noticeable. The part is available for inspection upon request; however, I was planning on sending both of the defective brake pads to the manufacturer for a warranty claim. I can save one of the two pads for NHTSA inspection, if desired. Please let me know as soon as possible.

Reported
May 2023
Incident date
May 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11522250 at NHTSA →
Power TrainMar 2023 · ODI 11511870Details +

- cam carrier leak, resulting in oil leaking from engine. oil is leaking onto catalytic converter sensor causing it to malfunction. - oil leaking from cars poses a safety and environmental hazard. - michael's subaru of bellevue (washington state) has confirmed it occurring, and it is a problem across subaru models according to a number of forum posts from subaru owners, which has been shared with subaru of america. - i have not had it inspected by anyone officially besides michael's subaru of bellevue (washington state). - there was a warning lamp for the catalytic converter, but upon physical inspection of the vehicle the technician discovered it was oil leaking from the cam carrier onto the sensor that caused the warning lights to turn on in the vehicle. - i have included emails i exchanged with subaru of america regarding the issue.

Reported
Mar 2023
Incident date
Jan 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11511870 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2023 · ODI 11508323Details +

The contact owns a 2017 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated while pulling out of her driveway, the steering wheel became stiff, and the power steering warning light illuminated. The contact was able to pull over on the side the road. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the power steering module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle needed to diagnose by a dealer. The failure mileage was 48,300.

Reported
Feb 2023
Incident date
Feb 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11508323 at NHTSA →
Power TrainDec 2022 · ODI 11495958Details +

12042022 - not sure of cause, could be multiple as all systems just shut down for seconds, the car goes dead while driving down I235 at 70mph, first the radio turns off, then the car seemed to go to lower gear rpm to zero and just shut off at a high speed, NO POWER on anything, then about 2.5 seconds later it restated and continued, sputtered off again then powered back off and on again as i got off the highway, many warning lights came on including the lane warning, brake light, it was very scary at such a high speed. this car now seems to have little continued incidents of the same behavior for what has seemed to be spuratic but regular fits now and I have to have dependable transportation. very easily could have caused an accident if the traffic was heavier when the incident occured.

Reported
Dec 2022
Incident date
Dec 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11495958 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJul 2022 · ODI 11476595Details +

I drove my car to work one morning (7 min drive through a city; no highways) and there was no crack in the windshield. I came out of work 8 hours later to go home, and there was a crack over 6 inches long in the windshield. There are no markings suggesting anything hit the windshield, only long smooth cracks.

Reported
Jul 2022
Incident date
Jul 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11476595 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2022 · ODI 11467562Details +

My husband has trouble getting the key out when in park and turn off. Have to use the E-break every time we park because even in park the vehicle seems to get a mind of its own and start to roll. IT ROLLED ON ME WHILE I WAS GETTING MY CHILD OUT OF THE CAR!! NOW my driver side window seems to roll all the way up but right back down with out me touching it. I have to fight the thing for 5mins to get it up! Windshield is cracked. We got it parked it no crack, went out in it and Crack, now I have to pay to get a new Windshield put in because every day just sitting there the Crack gets bigger. Why is there only 1 recall on this thing!?

Reported
Jun 2022
Incident date
Jun 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11467562 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMar 2022 · ODI 11455981Details +

Dome light goes has gone on automatically several times. Twice drained my battery. Never use dome light because I do not drive at night and have never turned it on myself.

Reported
Mar 2022
Incident date
Mar 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11455981 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperFeb 2022 · ODI 11453326Details +

Out of no where the window chipped and then cracked later that day

Reported
Feb 2022
Incident date
Feb 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11453326 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemFeb 2022 · ODI 11452593Details +

The key gets stuck in the ignition. We have to turn the ignition to ACC or start the car then switch it back to OFF multiple times for it to release. We have not had the issue looked at yet. It's easily reproduceable. No other symptoms are present. Subaru issued a recall for this issue for vehicles with a CVT transmission but there are countless complaints of this happening to non-CVT transmission Subaru vehicles.

Reported
Feb 2022
Incident date
Feb 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11452593 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperJan 2022 · ODI 11449085Details +

Windshield cracked out of nowhere resulting in an ~8" damage

Reported
Jan 2022
Incident date
Jan 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11449085 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherNov 2021 · ODI 11438977Details +

Ignition/starting I have issues w starting car on more than one occasion and I have also had problems with removing the key. It almost is in a key lock mode. I will then turn off and on until it will allow me to remove but sometimes it hasn’t started. Stabilizer light came on a few times then shut off on own.

Reported
Nov 2021
Incident date
Apr 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11438977 at NHTSA →
EngineSep 2021 · ODI 11432735Details +

Upon accelerating, the engine seems to bog down and I lose speed. It has happened under many conditions—after turning a corner, going down a straightaway, and when accelerating to merge on a highway. This puts people in the car at risk and others traveling behind me. I took it to the dealer and they said that since they could not replicate it, there was nothing they could do. No warning lights seem to be involved. On the internet, posters refer to this as a "known problem" but no one has come up with a solution, nor have their dealers. It's troublesome. I know the 2018s have had a related problem. It's happened on many dates.

Reported
Sep 2021
Incident date
Apr 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11432735 at NHTSA →
Power TrainAug 2021 · ODI 11430290Details +

When I put the car in park the key would turn off the car but not come out of the ignition. The only way to get the key out was to turn the car back on and try again, sometimes 5+ times. When I took the car in for repair at a Subaru dealership they said this was a constant Subaru problem and that my shifter plate guide would need to be replaced. They charged me $600 but after searching Subaru forums I found that Subaru will sometimes pay for this repair because it is a known issue with a repair bulletin number (16-112-18). I believe this is a widespread defect and Subaru should pay for all repairs, not simply the repairs of consumers who have the resources to know to call the company.

Reported
Aug 2021
Incident date
Jul 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11430290 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2021 · ODI 11429330Details +

Key get stuck in ignition and cannot be pulled out after turned off. I've seen this not just happened to crosstrek but all other Subaru models after certain mileage. People tried to restart the car in place, shift gear to d and back to p. More than a dozen people reporting similar problems on subaruxvforum or cargurus.com and a service bulletin (TSB #16-112-18R) issued to this problem, however people can only get repaired with the warranty. Very surprised to see this has not been recalled.

Reported
Aug 2021
Incident date
Aug 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11429330 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesAug 2021 · ODI 11427683Details +

Outer left rear brake pad broke away from the backing plate causing damage to the brake rotor. The pads were original equipment and not worn out.

Reported
Aug 2021
Incident date
Jul 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11427683 at NHTSA →
SteeringJun 2021 · ODI 11420577Details +

CV axles click when turning. CV axles could break at any given point. If not fixed you could lose control of your car causing death to yourself or others while driving or render your car driveless. I've looked online and many other 2017 cross track owners have the same problem. So why is this not a recall.

Reported
Jun 2021
Incident date
Jun 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11420577 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMay 2021 · ODI 11418901Details +

The car key get stuck in ignition and cannot be pulled out after turned off. It is very dangerous in that as workaround, people tried to restart the car in place, shift gear to d and back to p. If they don’t pay atttention and press on brake they could potentially hit cars or people. I’ve seen more than a dozen people reporting similar problems on cargurus.com and a service bulletin but surprised to see this has not been recalled.

Reported
May 2021
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11418901 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMay 2021 · ODI 11417874Details +

On Sunday, 5/9, my wife and I were traveling back from NY to Philadelphia when out of nowhere, my car stopped accelerating and stalled, completely, in the left lane on the Staten Island Expressway. I called 911 and they were able to dispatch a tow, immediately. The battery worked. The dashboard said to check the engine. Luckily, the tow arrived in about 5-10 minutes. The driver escorted us out to his truck and protected us from oncoming traffic. We were brought to a safe location and were able to start the car (and it kept running), without any assistance. We were too afraid to continue the ride back to Philadelphia (lots more distance and highways to go). We called AAA to tow the vehicle to my Subaru dealership in PA. This has never happened before. One strange thing that has been happening over the last few months is that sometimes our key will get stuck in the ignition when we try to turn the car off. We are able to turn off the battery, but are unable to turn the key further. We have to try several times or even put the car in drive and then park before trying to turn it off again. I am not sure if this is connected. The service at my dealership has been very nice. They’ve had my car for over a week. Unfortunately, they haven’t found anything wrong. They’ve checked for codes and nothing’s come up to indicate any issues. I am really at a loss because I do not feel safe driving this vehicle. I did see that there is a new recall (https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/subaru-recalls-crosstrek-forester-impreza-for-safety-concerns/) but it does not include my particular year. I wonder if this problem actually involves 2017 Crosstreks. I do not feel safe driving my car.

Reported
May 2021
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11417874 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperFeb 2021 · ODI 11397230Details +

I DROVE APPROXIMATELY 100 MINUTES TO CENTRAL ILLINOIS ON A 80 DEGREE AND SUNNY AFTERNOON. I PARKED MY CAR ON THE STREET AND WHEN I RETURNED TO IT 45 MINUTES LATER, THERE WAS A 12INCH CRACK ON MY PASSENGER SIDE WINDSHIELD. THERE WAS NO APPARENT POINT OF CONTACT IN THE CRACK AND THERE WERE NO LARGE STICKS OR BRANCHES ON THE CAR. IT APPEARED AS IF THE CRACK HAPPENED ON ITS OWN. I GOT THE CRACK REPAIRED RECENTLY AND IT COST OVER $1,000 TO FIX.

Reported
Feb 2021
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11397230 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperFeb 2021 · ODI 11396962Details +

WINDSHIELD HAS HORIZONTAL CRACK MIDWAY DOWN WINDOW THAT EXTENDS ALMOST FROM LEFT TO RIGHT EDGE. CAR WAS PARKED IN PRIVATE DRIVEWAY.

Reported
Feb 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11396962 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperJan 2021 · ODI 11386600Details +

WINDSHIELD WAS CRACKED. STARTED OUT ALONG BOTTOM ON DRIVER'S SIDE AND EXPANDED UP AND ACROSS DRIVER'S SIDE. FROM WHAT I COULD TELL, NOTHING HIT THE WINDSHIELD TO INITIATE THE CRACK. HAD TO GET REPLACED.

Reported
Jan 2021
Incident date
Jan 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11386600 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperJan 2021 · ODI 11386400Details +

I HAVE AN 'L' SHAPED CRACK IN MY WINDSHIELD THAT IS APPROXIMATELY 6"X6". THE WINDSHIELD SUSTAINED A SMALL CHIP FROM A ROCK STRIKE AND BEFORE I COULD GET THE SUPERFICIAL CHIP FIXED IT TURNED INTO A VERY LARGE 'L' SHAPED CRACK. THE ROCK STRIKE OCCURRED WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY BUT THE SUBSEQUENT CRACK OCCURRED WHILE THE CAR WAS STATIONARY IN MY DRIVEWAY. I WAS SITTING IN THE CAR WHEN THE WINDOW CRACKED AND OTHER THAN IT BEING A SUMMER DAY THE CIRCUMSTANCES LEADING UP TO THE CRACKING WINDSHIELD WERE NORMAL. THE PICTURE PROVIDED WITH THIS COMPLAINT SHOWS THE CRACK. I TRIED TO OUTLINE THE CRACKED AREA WITH YELLOW TO MAKE IT MORE EVIDENT. THE OTHER LINES IN THE PHOTO ARE A REFLECTION OF THE OVERHANGING POWERLINES.

Reported
Jan 2021
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11386400 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperJan 2021 · ODI 11386455Details +

READ WINDSHIELD GLASS SPONTANEOUSLY BROKE WITH NO DAMAGE. HAD TO GET SERVICE TO REPAIR AND REPLACE. VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, PARKED IN FRONT OF MY HOUSE, ON A RESIDENTIAL STREET, PARKED AND NOT IN USE AT THE TIME OF THE BREAK.

Reported
Jan 2021
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11386455 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperDec 2020 · ODI 11385944Details +

THE WINDSHIELD CRACKED DURING THE SUMMER FOR NO APPARENT REASON, NO OBVIOUS SIGNS OF CHIP IN WINDSHIELD SURFACE. CRACK STARTS UPPER MIDDLE EDGE OF GLASS, DOWN PASSED REARVIEW MIRROR, THEN HALF WAY ACROSS PASSENGER SIDE, ABOUT 1/3 WAY DOWN FROM TOP. WE ARE GETTING IT REPLACED NOW.

Reported
Dec 2020
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11385944 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherNov 2020 · ODI 11376667Details +

WINDSHIELD IS CRACKING FOR NO CERTAIN REASON.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Feb 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11376667 at NHTSA →
Power TrainNov 2020 · ODI 11373791Details +

I WAS OPERATING MY 2017 SUBARU CROSSTREK ON UNION ST IN BRAINTREE MA. I STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT. THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN. I THEN DEPRESSED THE GAS PEDAL. I HEARD A BANG AND THE VEHICLE STARTED TO ROLL BACK. THE TRANSMISSION HAD CEASED TO OPERATE. I LUCKILY WAS ABLE TO NAVIGATE TO THE CURB BACKWARDS. THE TRANSMISSION DID GO INTO PARK BUT WOULD NOT OPERATE OTHERWISE. I HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP,CLAY SUBARU, NORWOOD MA. THEY LATER INFORMED ME THAT THE TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE HAD BLOWN. THAT ALONG WITH SOME OTHER ELECTRICAL WIRING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. BUT THEY SAID THIS WOULD NOT BE COVERED BY THE EXTENDED WARRANTY BECAUSE IT WAS NOT COVERED. IF THIS HAD GONE FIVE MINUTES SOONER I WOULD HAVE BEEN ON THE CROWDED HIGHWAY GOING 55 TO 60 MPH I FIND OUT THAT SUBARU AND THE NHTSA KNOW ABOUT THE PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION BUT ARE NOT WILLING TO DO ANYTHING UNTIL SOMEONE IS KILLED. I REALLY DON'T WANT MYSELF OR MY WIFE TO BE TEST CASES. I AM NOW INFORMED BY SUBARU THAT IT WILL COST ME OVER 2000 DOLLARS TO FIX THIS PROBLEM. SINCE IT IS ELECTRICAL IT COULD BE JUST BE THE TIP OF THE ICEBERG.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Oct 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11373791 at NHTSA →
Air BagsNov 2020 · ODI 11373483Details +

SINCE THE CAR WAS NEW (CURRENTLY 55,000 MILES ON IT) THE AIR BAG RED MALFUNCTION LIGHT HAS INTERMITTENTLY COME ON WHEN I HAVE A PASSENGER IN THE PASSENGER SEAT. ALSO, AT TIMES, THE DASHBOARD WILL REGISTER THAT THE AIRBAG IS OFF WHEN THERE IS A PASSENGER. I MENTIONED THIS TO DEALER EARLY ON, BUT WAS TOLD BECAUSE THE LIGHT WAS NOT ON WHEN I BROUGHT THE CAR IN, THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. IT HAS CONTINUED, AND I NOTICED THAT SEEMS TO HAPPEN AFTER OR DURING HEAVY RAINS. MOST RECENTLY I TOOK A VIDEO OF THE LIGHT ON AND PANNED TO THE PASSENGER TO SHOW THERE WAS A PASSENGER IN THE SEAT. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER THIS WEEK (OF COURSE THE LIGHT HAD GONE OFF) AND WAS TOLD THAT THERE DOES SEEM TO BE A PROBLEM WITH MOISTURE IN THE AIR THAT THEY ARE SEEING WITH OTHER CARS AS WELL. BUT, WAS AGAIN TOLD SINCE THERE WAS NO LIGHT, THEY COULD NOT CHECK TO SEE WHAT WAS WRONG. I CALLED AND SPOKE WITH CUSTOMER SERVICE AT SUBARU HEADQUARTERS, DAVID AT 856 356-1190. HE SPOKE WITH DEALER AND WAS GOING TO SUGGEST AN ENGINEER LOOK AT VEHICLE, BUT JUST GOT BACK TO ME AND SINCE THERE IS NO HISTORY OF FAILED ATTEMPTS TO FIX THIS, AND THE LIGHT IS NOT CURRENTLY ON, WAS TOLD THEY COULD DO NOTHING, AND THAT I SHOULD BRING THE CAR BACK IN WHEN THE LIGHT IS ON. I AM FURIOUS. I AM DRIVING AROUND WITH A PASSENGER WHO IS OCCASIONALLY NOT PROTECTED BY AN AIRBAG. THEY ADMIT THERE IS AN ISSUE AND EVEN HAVE A PROCEDURE ON WHAT TO DO TO RESET THE LIGHT. BUT, I WORK DURING THE DAY, AND WHEN I HAVE PASSENGERS IN THE CAR, IT IS IN THE EVENING OR ON THE WEEKEND. SO, EVEN IF A LIGHT COMES ON, THE DEALER IS NOT OPEN AT THOSE TIMES, AND BY THE TIME I GET THERE WHEN THEY ARE OPEN, THE LIGHT IS OFF. THERE WILL NEVER BE A HISTORY OF FAILED ATTEMPTS TO REPAIR AS THEY NEVER SEE THE LIGHT ON, DESPITE ME SHOWING THEM THE VIDEO I TOOK. MY PASSENGERS ARE IN DANGER, AND THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11373483 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherOct 2020 · ODI 11366186Details +

I FOUND OUR 2017 CROSSTREK SUBARU WITH AUTOSTART CAPABILITY IN OUR CLOSED GARAGE, LOCKED, RUNNING, WITH NO KEY IN THE IGNITION AT 8 AM. THE TWO AUTOSTART FOBS WERE SHUT UP IN A DRAWER. THE CAR HAD LAST BEEN DRIVEN TO WORK AND BACK THE DAY BEFORE, RETURNING ABOUT 5 PM. OUR CO DETECTOR IN THE HOUSE DID NOT GO OFF AND NO ONE WAS HURT (LUCKILY). WE HAVE SINCE HAD THE AUTOSTART DISCONNECTED AND BELIEVE OUR VEHICLE SHOULD BE RECALLED FOR SAFETY. THIS IS SIMILAR TO REPORTS ABOUT 2010-2013 SUBARUS WITH AUTOSTART WHERE ALMOST 50,000 VEHICLES WERE RECALLED. SEE HTTPS://WWW.USATODAY.COM/STORY/DRIVEON/2013/03/07/SUBARU-RECALL/1971825/

Reported
Oct 2020
Incident date
Sep 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11366186 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemOct 2020 · ODI 11365735Details +

STEREO SYSTEM FREEZES. TOUCH SCREEN INACCESSIBLE. GLITCHES CONSTANTLY. NOT ABLE TO ACCESS ANY APPS, NAVIGATION, STARLINK, ETC.

Reported
Oct 2020
Incident date
Apr 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11365735 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherOct 2020 · ODI 11362362Details +

CAN'T REMOVE IGNITION KEY. AFTER PARKING, I PLACE THE CAR IN PARK, AND TRY TO REMOVE THE KEY. IT GETS STUCK AND WON'T COME OUT. THERE IS A TECHNICAL BULLETING ABOUT "SHIFT SELECTER MECHANISM" BUT CAR OWNERS HAVE TO PAY GET THIS FIXED. IT SHOULD BE A RECALL.

Reported
Oct 2020
Incident date
Oct 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11362362 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherSep 2020 · ODI 11354405Details +

REOCCURRING PROBLEM OF SELECT LEVER (SHIFTER) MECHANISM NOT BEING ABLE TO REMOVE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IN PARK. CURRENTLY UNABLE TO CONFIDENTLY USE VEHICLE BECAUSE THE KEY IS REPEATEDLY STUCK AND IT REQUIRES SEVERAL BACK AND FORTH, IGNITION ON AND OFF, ACTIONS BEFORE CAR TURNS OFF AND KEY CAN BE REMOVED.

Reported
Sep 2020
Incident date
Sep 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11354405 at NHTSA →
Lane DepartureAug 2020 · ODI 11352212Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU CROSSTREK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE STARTING THE VEHICLE, THE BLIND SPOT DETECTOR WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE SIDE VIEW MIRRORS BLIND SPOT FUNCTION WAS INOPERABLE. ADDITIONALLY, THE BLIND SPOT BUTTON WAS DEPRESSED HOWEVER, FAILED TO RESPOND. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 26,322.

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11352212 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2020 · ODI 11350470Details +

THE IGNITION SWITCH AT TIMES DOES NOT FULLY RETURN TO THE REMOVE POSITION AND THE IGNITION KEY CANNOT BE REMOVED. INVESTIGATION ON SOCIAL MEDIA INDICATES A PROBLEM WITH MANY SUBARU MODELS WHERE THIS "CAPTURE" OF THE IGNITION KEY OCCURS. A DRIVER FORCED TO LEAVE THE VEHICLE WITH THE KEY INSIDE REPRESENTS A SAFETY HAZARD AS A CHILD COULD USE THE CAPTURED KEY TO START THE VEHICLE AND SHIFT INTO A GEAR TO MOVE THE VEHICLE. THIS PROBLEM SEEMS TO BE CAUSED BY A DEFECTIVE "P"ARK RANGE SWITCH.

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11350470 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2020 · ODI 11350341Details +

RE: BATTERY NOT FULLY CHARGING IT WAS BROUGHT TO OUR ATTENTION THAT OUR BATTERY IS NOT FULLY CHARGING AGAIN (CERTIFIED AUTO MECHANIC). WE HAVE A 3+ YEAR OLD, NEWISH SUBARU CROSSTREK WITH CONSISTENT BATTERY DRAINING PROBLEMS. THE FIRST BATTERY DRAINED ON US IN DEC 2019, THUS THE 2ND BATTERY WAS INSTALLED BY SUBARU ON 12/12/2019. I BELIEVED THIS IS AN ALTERNATOR PROBLEM THAT IS CREATING PROBLEMS ON MY BATTERY AND TUCSON SUBARU STATED THAT I HAVE TO PAY (POSSIBLY) FOR ALTERNATOR IF THIS IS THE ISSUE. WELL, THEY SHOULD HAVE CHECKED THE ALTERNATOR BEFORE AND I UNDERSTAND THAT THIS BATTERY DRAINING IS A COMMON PROBLEM FOR SUBARU CROSSTREK. I HAVE OWNED NEW MAZDA AND TOYOTAS BEFORE, I NEVER HAD THIS KIND OF PROBLEM, PARTICULARLY ON NEW CAR AND BATTERY. HAVING THIS REPEATED PROBLEM IS NOT JUST A BATTERY ISSUE, IT IS AN ENGINE OR ALTERNATOR ISSUE AND SUBARU CROSSTREK THUS FAR HAS FAILED ON ME. I JUST NEED SUBARU TO FIX THIS CHRONIC PROBLEM AND DOING MY RESEARCH, OTHER SUBARU CROSSTREK OWNERS HAVE OR HAD THE SAME ISSUE WITH BATTERIES DRAINING TOO FAST INCLUDING ALTERNATOR PROBLEM. AND SUBARU SHOULD FIX THIS PROBLEM FOR FREE TO THEIR CUSTOMERS. I LOVE JAPANESE CARS AND I BELIEVE IN SUBARU AND I'M HOPING THAT THEY STILL HAVE THAT INTEGRITY, BUT THEY HAVE TO ACT ON THIS ACTION AND SHOW THEIR LOYALTY TO THEIR CUSTOMERS AND CORRECT THIS PROBLEM WITHOUT CHARGING US CREATED BY THEIR OWN TECHNICAL OR MECHANICAL PROBLEMS IN THE FIRST PLACE. THANK YOU.

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11350341 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2020 · ODI 11342750Details +

THE KEY GOT STUCK IN THE STEERING COLUMN. I COULD NOT REMOVE IT UNTIL I VIEWED A YOUTUBE VIDEO THAT EXPLAINED HOW TO START THE CAR AND MOVE THE SHIFTER FORWARD AND THEN REVERSE AGAIN. OTHERS HAVE HAD VERY SIMILAR PROBLEMS WITH THEIR SUBARU VEHICLES. THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AT THE TIME.

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11342750 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperJul 2020 · ODI 11340448Details +

I GOT IN MY 2017 CROSSTREK PREMIUM ON FEBRUARY 11, 2020 THAT WAS PARKED IN MY DRIVEWAY AND NOTICED A CRACK IN THE PASSENGER SIDE WINDSHIELD. IT WAS NOT THERE THE DAY BEFORE. I DID NOT HIT ANYTHING, NOTHING HIT ME. I DO NOT OFF ROAD. THE CRACK WAS SPONTANEOUS. NOW THE CRACK HAS SPROUTED INTO SEVERAL SPONTANEOUS CRACKS THAT ARE CONTINUALLY GETTING WORSE, CLIMBING APPROX. 1/3 OF THE WAY UP THE WINDSHIELD! I HAVE PHOTOS OF THE PROGRESSION OF THE CRACK STARTING FEBRUARY 2020 TO THE PRESENT, EACH MONTH, IF NEEDED.

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11340448 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJul 2020 · ODI 11339585Details +

VEHICLE LOSES POWER AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND THROTTLE IS COMPLETELY UNRESPONSIVE/NON-FUNCTIONAL. ENGINE REMAINS ON BUT WILL NOT DELIVER POWER OR ACCELERATE. NO DASH INDICATION LIGHTS ARE DISPLAYED. CAR SLOWS DOWN RAPIDLY UNTIL THROTTLE RE-ENGAGES AT IRREGULAR INTERVALS WHICH CAN BE A FEW SECONDS UP TO THIRTY SECONDS. HAPPENS MOST FREQUENTLY AFTER DRIVING FOR APPROXIMATELY 20-30 MINUTES. HAPPENS REPEATEDLY AFTER IT INITIATES. HAVE HAD TO PULL OVER SEVERAL TIMES TO GET OUT OF THE WAY OF OTHER MOTORISTS. THIS HAS BEEN VERY DANGEROUS.

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11339585 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2020 · ODI 11331139Details +

VALIDATING COMPLAINT OF WHAT IS LISTED ON NHTSA. 1) KEY STUCK IN IGNITION - WHEN ATTEMPTING TO RELEASE KEY FROM IGNITION AFTER SETTING GEAR IN PARK AND TURNING OFF ENGINE, CAR KEY WILL GET STUCK 2) LOW GAS FUEL CHIME - CHIME IS NOT FUNCTIONING CORRECTLY. CHIME IS SHARP / STACCATO ALERT AND IS BARELY AUDIBLE. *TR

Reported
Jun 2020
Incident date
Jan 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11331139 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperJun 2020 · ODI 11329811Details +

WINDSHIELD DEVELOPED AN 8" CRACK AFTER A SMALL ROCK STRIKE WITHIN AN HOUR. VEHICLE WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 50 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. *TR

Reported
Jun 2020
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11329811 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJun 2020 · ODI 11329289 · crash · 2 injuriesDetails +

MY WIFE WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY GOING 45MPH IN A STRAIGHT LINE WHEN THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY LOST ALL POWER AND TURNED OFF. AS A RESULT MY WIFE WAS REAR ENDED BUT SUFFERED NO MAJOR PHYSICAL INJURY. WE BROUGHT THE CAR TO THE MANUFACTURER AND THEY INSPECTED IT. HOWEVER, THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO FIND ANY PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE. A FEW MONTHS AFTER THE ACCIDENT, THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THIS VEHICLE MAKE AND MODEL FOR SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER BUT MY VIN IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. *TR

Reported
Jun 2020
Incident date
Aug 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 2 injuries
Open ODI 11329289 at NHTSA →
VisibilityJun 2020 · ODI 11328130Details +

I WAS DRIVING TO WORK GOING DOWN I-35 AND MY SUNROOF EXPLODED WITHOUT BEING TOUCHED. IT SHATTERED INTO PIECES AND THERE WAS GLASS ALL OVER MY CAR. *TR

Reported
Jun 2020
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11328130 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2020 · ODI 11327730Details +

IGNITION KEY GETS STUCK AND WILL NOT COME OUT WHEN TURNED OFF. *TR

Reported
Jun 2020
Incident date
May 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11327730 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(1)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Exterior Lighting · 19V149000Details +

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.

Risk: Brake lights that do not illuminate properly will not alert other drivers that the vehicle is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of crash.

Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

0 NHTSA investigations on record

No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.

Crash-test ratings

2017 Subaru Crosstrek SW AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Crosstrek AWD2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive263329
Crosstrek AWD2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive233026

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2017 Subaru Crosstrek: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek?

Owners filed 97 NHTSA complaints about the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek?

The most-reported problem areas are Unknown Or Other (22% of complaints) and visibility/wiper (22%).

How many recalls does the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek have?

1 recall has been issued that affect the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek, covering components such as exterior lighting. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek get?

The EPA rates the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek between 26 and 29 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.