Subaru Crosstrek Recalls: Every NHTSA Recall by Model Year
The Subaru Crosstrek has 14 NHTSA safety recalls across model years 2013–2026; the most recent is 26V685000 (Oct 19, 2026) for suspension, covering 2026 models. The 2019 model year has the most, with 7.
Recall repairs are free at Subaru dealers. This list is model-level, so it can't tell you whether your car is affected or already fixed. For that, check your VIN.
Source: NHTSA recall campaigns · Data pulled Nov 7, 2026 · By CarWhere Research
Most Crosstrek recalls involve electrical system (3), engine & cooling (2) and powertrain / transmission (2).
1 campaign carry a do-not-drive or park-outside warning
- 26V685000 — suspension (2026): don't drive until repaired
Subaru Crosstrek recalls by model year
Campaigns that cover each model year. One campaign can cover several years, so it is counted once in every year it covers.
| Model year | Recalls | Main components | Per-year check |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 1 | suspension | 2026 Crosstrek recalls |
| 2024 | 2 | powertrain / transmission, electrical system | 2024 Crosstrek recalls |
| 2021 | 1 | powertrain / transmission | 2021 Crosstrek recalls |
| 2019 | 7 | electrical system, suspension, seat belts | 2019 Crosstrek recalls |
| 2018 | 5 | electrical system, suspension, engine & cooling | 2018 Crosstrek recalls |
| 2017 | 1 | exterior lighting | 2017 Crosstrek recalls |
| 2016 | 1 | exterior lighting | 2016 Crosstrek recalls |
| 2015 | 1 | exterior lighting | 2015 Crosstrek recalls |
| 2014 | 1 | exterior lighting | 2014 Crosstrek recalls |
| 2013 | 1 | exterior lighting | 2013 Crosstrek recalls |
Biggest Subaru Crosstrek recalls
Ranked by the number of vehicles NHTSA lists for the whole campaign. That total often includes other models.
Crosstrek model years: 2013–2017
Crosstrek model years: 2018–2019
Crosstrek model years: 2018–2019
Crosstrek model years: 2018–2019
Crosstrek model years: 2018
All 14 Subaru Crosstrek recalls (newest first)
Oct 19, 202626V685000 DO NOT DRIVESuspension2026
Component: Suspension (front, control arm, lower ball joint)
Crosstrek model years: 2026 · about 8 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2026 Crosstrek and Forester vehicles. The castle nut on the left-front lower control arm ball joint may be improperly fastened, which can lead to the ball joint separating from the lower control arm.
The risk: A ball joint that separates from the lower control arm can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and replace the left-front lower control arm ball joint assembly, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 16, 2026. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRI26.
Nov 9, 202323V755000Powertrain / transmission2021
Component: Powertrain / transmission (automatic transmission, park/neutral start interlock switch)
Crosstrek model years: 2021 · about 95,830 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
The risk: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
Nov 9, 202323V754000Powertrain / transmission2024
Component: Powertrain / transmission (driveline, driveshaft)
Crosstrek model years: 2024 · about 4,701 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek, Impreza, 2023-2024 Forester, and 2023 WRX vehicles. The front driveshaft assemblies' outer race may develop cracks and break.
The risk: A broken driveshaft can cause a loss of drive power while driving or vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake engaged. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the left and right front driveshafts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRP-23.
Aug 4, 202323V551000Electrical system2024
Component: Electrical system (instrument cluster/panel)
Crosstrek model years: 2024 · about 35,357 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek and Impreza vehicles. Due to insufficient clearance, the instrument panel harness may contact the steering beam bracket, damaging the wire insulation and causing a short circuit.
The risk: A short circuit may cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will inspect the harness and install an additional clamp on the steering beam bracket. If damage is found, dealers will add protective tape or replace the instrument panel harness, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 3, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRL-23.
Apr 15, 202121V264000Electrical system2018–2019
Component: Electrical system (software)
Crosstrek model years: 2018–2019 · about 466,205 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Subaru Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, causing a short circuit.
The risk: A short circuit in the ignition coils may cause a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will update the ECM software, replace the ignition coils and, if necessary, the front exhaust pipe, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 1, 2021. Owners can contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE-21. Note: This recall includes all vehicles previously repaired under Recall 19V743.
Apr 15, 202121V263000Suspension2018–2019
Component: Suspension (rear)
Crosstrek model years: 2018–2019 · about 408,271 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid, and 2019 Forester vehicles. The rear stabilizer bracket bolts may loosen and detach.
The risk: Missing bolts may allow the rear stabilizer bracket to shift, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will retorque and replace any missing bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRD-21.
Mar 31, 202020V189000Seat belts2019
Component: Seat belts (rear/other)
Crosstrek model years: 2019 · about 4,862 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Crosstrek vehicles with rear seat belt assemblies with a dual-mode locking mechanism. The seat belt webbing sensor locking mechanism may not lock as intended.
The risk: In the event of a crash involving multiple impacts, the seat belt may not properly restrain the occupant, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace rear seat belt assemblies, free of charge. The began April 15, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRC-20.
Dec 2, 201919V856000Engine & cooling2019
Component: Engine & cooling (exhaust system, emission control, crankcase (pcv))
Crosstrek model years: 2019 · about 51,613 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent vehicles. The aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can separate, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, resulting in a loss of power while driving.
The risk: An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the PCV valve, free of charge. If the PCV valve has separated and the components cannot be found, the short block engine will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began January 31, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUW-08.
Oct 18, 201919V743000Electrical system2018–2019
Component: Electrical system (ignition)
Crosstrek model years: 2018–2019 · about 466,205 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, which could result in a short circuit and blown fuse.
The risk: If a short circuit occurs while driving, the vehicle may stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will update the ECM software and inspect and replace the ignition coil, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, on vehicles with confirmed ignition coil damage and a certain stored diagnostic trouble code (DTC), Subaru will replace the front exhaust pipe, free of charge. The recall began December 4, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUQ-02.
Oct 17, 201919V744000Engine & cooling2018
Component: Engine & cooling (exhaust system, emission control, crankcase (pcv))
Crosstrek model years: 2018 · about 205,000 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Impreza and 2018 Crosstrek vehicles equipped with an aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve. The PCV valve may come apart, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, possibly resulting in a loss of power while driving.
The risk: An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the PCV valve, free of charge. If the PCV valve has separated and the components cannot be found, the engine will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began December 2, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUP-01.
May 30, 201919V404000Visibility2019
Component: Visibility (glass, side/rear)
Crosstrek model years: 2019 · about 256 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The driver's side rear-door window glass may be improperly tempered. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 205, "Glazing Materials."
The risk: Improperly tempered glass can shatter into large pieces, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's side rear-door window glass, free of charge. The recall began June 11, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUG-92.
Feb 28, 201919V149000Exterior lighting2013–2017
Component: Exterior lighting (brake lights, switch)
Crosstrek model years: 2013–2017 · about 1,303,530 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: 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.
The 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.
The fix: 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.
Feb 6, 201919V065000Steering2019
Component: Steering (electric power assist system)
Crosstrek model years: 2019 · about 10,417 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Forester and Crosstrek vehicles. A connector inside the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) unit may short circuit resulting in a loss of electric power steering assistance.
The risk: Loss of power steering assist would require higher steering effort, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: None of the affected vehicles have been sold yet. Subaru has notified dealers and they will inspect the steering gearbox, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 7, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUC-88.
Nov 7, 201717V701000Service brakes2018
Component: Service brakes
Crosstrek model years: 2018 · about 2,367 vehicles in the whole campaign
The problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Crosstrek vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with an incorrect floor mat retention bracket, allowing the floor mat to move out of position and interfere with the accelerator or brake pedal operation.
The risk: If the floor mat moves out of position and interferes with the accelerator or brake pedal operation, it can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix: Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will inspect the floor mat retention bracket and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 14, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTR-77.
How to check if your Crosstrek has an open recall
- Find the 17-character VIN on the driver-side dashboard (visible through the windshield), the door-jamb sticker, or your registration.
- Enter it in the free VIN recall check. It queries NHTSA for your exact vehicle, not just the model.
- If a recall is open, call any Subaru dealer's service department to book the free repair. Bring the recall number from the list above.
- Buying used? Ask the seller for the dealer's recall-completion printout before you pay.
Or browse by year, for example the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek recall check.
Recalls are only part of the picture. Owner complaints show which years have the most problems: Subaru Crosstrek years to avoid.
Frequently asked questions
How many recalls does the Subaru Crosstrek have?
14 NHTSA safety recall campaigns cover the Subaru Crosstrek across model years 2013–2026. A single campaign often spans several model years, so the per-year counts in the table add up to more than 14. The 2019 model year has the most, with 7.
What is the latest Subaru Crosstrek recall?
26V685000, filed with NHTSA on Oct 19, 2026: suspension (front, control arm, lower ball joint), covering 2026 Crosstrek models. The fix is free at Subaru dealers.
What is the biggest Subaru Crosstrek recall?
By vehicles covered, 19V149000 (Feb 28, 2019), a exterior lighting campaign covering about 1,303,530 vehicles in total. That count is for the whole campaign, which can include other models besides the Crosstrek.
How do I check if my Subaru Crosstrek has an open recall?
Run your 17-character VIN through a VIN recall check. A model-level list can't tell you whether your car was built in the affected range or has already been repaired. Any Subaru dealer can also look up the VIN and do the repair.
Are Subaru recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety-recall repairs are done free at franchised Subaru dealers, whether or not the warranty has expired and wherever you bought the car. Manufacturers must offer a free remedy for vehicles up to 15 years old at the time the recall is filed, and many still repair older ones.
Sources and method
- NHTSA recalls database: every campaign for the SUBARU CROSSTREK, queried by model year through NHTSA's public recalls API (api.nhtsa.gov).
- Affected-vehicle counts are NHTSA's "potential units affected" for the whole campaign, which can include other models.
- Campaigns filed under a separate NHTSA model name (for example a hybrid or heavy-duty variant) are not included here.
- Data pulled Nov 7, 2026. Problem, risk and fix text is NHTSA's own campaign wording.