Subaru Crosstrek 2016 recalls, problems, complaints and safety
NHTSA lists 1 safety recall issued for the Subaru Crosstrek 2016 and 132 complaints filed by owners. It has 18% more complaints than the average Subaru Crosstrek from 2016–2025 (112 per year).
These are recalls issued for this model and year, not for your specific car. A car may already be repaired or may not be included. Confirm with your VIN on NHTSA.
Own or buying a Subaru Crosstrek 2016? Enter its VIN to see its exact trim and engine, and confirm on NHTSA whether its recalls were repaired.
Recalls issued for the Subaru Crosstrek 2016
Exterior lighting
NHTSA campaign 19V149000 · 2019-02-28
What happens
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.
Consequence
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.
The repair is free at any dealer of the brand.
Complaints from other owners
132 complaints filed with NHTSA by owners of this model.
4 with a crash · 3 with a fire · 1 injuries
Most reported problems on the Subaru Crosstrek 2016
- Electrical system: 35 (27% of complaints)
- Powertrain and transmission: 18 (14% of complaints)
- Engine: 14 (11% of complaints)
- Steering: 13 (10% of complaints)
- Fuel and propulsion: 8 (6% of complaints)
Complaints are written by owners and NHTSA doesn't verify each one. They're useful to spot trends.
What to check before buying a Subaru Crosstrek 2016
- Confirm by VIN on NHTSA that the recalls on this list were repaired.
- Test lights, windows, locks, the screen and dashboard warning lights; have trouble codes scanned.
- On the test drive, check for smooth shifts with no jerks, slipping or noises; check the transmission fluid condition.
- Start it cold, listen for noises, look for oil or coolant leaks and exhaust smoke.
- Get an inspection from an independent mechanic before paying.
Safety rating (NCAP)
| Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 Subaru Crosstrek SUV AWD | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
Subaru Crosstrek recalls by year
- 2016 : 1 recalls · 132 complaints
- 2017 : 1 recalls · 97 complaints
- 2018 : 5 recalls · 195 complaints
- 2019 : 7 recalls · 285 complaints
- 2020 : 0 recalls · 69 complaints
- 2021 : 1 recalls · 115 complaints
- 2022 : 0 recalls · 31 complaints
- 2023 : 0 recalls · 34 complaints
- 2024 : 2 recalls · 120 complaints
- 2025 : 0 recalls · 44 complaints
Frequently asked questions
How many recalls does the Subaru Crosstrek 2016 have?
NHTSA lists 1 safety recall issued for the Subaru Crosstrek 2016. That doesn't mean every car has them open: confirm with the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. The repair is free at the dealer.
What is the most common problem with the Subaru Crosstrek 2016?
In complaints filed with NHTSA, the most mentioned component is: electrical system (35 of 132 complaints). Complaints aren't verified one by one, but they show trends.
Model-level information from official NHTSA sources. Confirm by VIN on NHTSA. Not a substitute for a mechanical inspection.
Last updated: October 14, 2026. Sources: NHTSA vPIC (decoding), NHTSA Recalls, NHTSA Complaints and NHTSA NCAP (5-Star Safety Ratings).