EngineHigh
FB20 oil consumption.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check oil level and consumption history.
- Typical repair
- Oil leak trace & seal / gasket · £180–£700
Is the 2013–2017 Subaru Crosstrek reliable?
Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
4.3/ 10
Buy with cautionOn our documented-fault scoring the Subaru Crosstrek rates 4.3 out of 10 · buy with caution. We hold 8 known faults for it and 3 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around engine, suspension and electrical. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.
Verdict · Walk unless the history is spotless
What the score is built from
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 3
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 1
Weak points cluster around engine, suspension, electrical, transmission.
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Check this carThe faults that decide it
SuspensionHigh
Clunking noises from the rear over uneven surfaces or a visibly sagging ride height due to snapped rear coil springs.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shine a torch into the rear wheel arches to visually inspect the bottom coil of both rear springs for fractures or heavy corrosion. Verify the vehicle sits level on the forecourt.
- Typical repair
- Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100
EngineHigh
Acrid burning smell in the cabin after driving, caused by engine oil weeping from the cam carriers onto the exhaust manifold.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Open the bonnet and shine a torch down the sides of the engine block near the exhaust heat shields. Look for fresh oil residue and check for a burning odour after a brief engine run.
- Typical repair
- Exhaust / emissions component · £200–£950
TransmissionMedium
CVT judder / drivetrain shudder.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Feel for shudder on light acceleration.
- Typical repair
- Routine repair · £180–£700
SuspensionMedium
Front wheel bearing wear (hum).
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for a hum that changes with steering.
- Typical repair
- Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100
Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.
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