2016 Subaru Crosstrek recalls and problems

The 2016 Subaru Crosstrek has 1 safety recall and 133 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Subaru dealer.

Recalls

Complaints

133

Crashes / fires

4 / 3

Injuries / deaths

1 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2016 Subaru Crosstrek vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2016 Subaru Crosstrek recalls

Recall 19V-149: Exterior Lighting

Reported Feb 28, 2019 · 1,303,530 vehicles affected · Subaru of America, Inc.

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.

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.

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.

2016 Subaru Crosstrek problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Electrical System	37
Unknown or Other	34
Power Train	18
Engine	15
Steering	13
Fuel/Propulsion System	8
Vehicle Speed Control	6
Service Brakes	5
Structure	5
Visibility/Wiper	5
Suspension	4
Air Bags	4

Most reported parts

Structure › Body — 5
Latches/Locks/Linkages › Hood › Latch — 2
Suspension › Front › Wheel Bearing — 1
Visibility › Windshield — 1
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/Regulator — 1
Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 38,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2016 Subaru Crosstrek complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Engine · reported Oct 31, 2026

The Crosstrek has a broken cam carrier. It is a design flaw and known issue of Subaru Crosstrek. A broken or leaking cam carrier is dangerous to the vehicle because it directly compromises engine lubrication, structural integrity, and electrical safety. The cam carrier acts as a structural housing that keeps the camshafts securely in place and seals oil inside the top of the engine. Its liquid sealant fails and is bound to creates several severe operational hazards. The cracked seals has critical oil escaping. If the oil level drops too low, the engine can experience severe internal friction…

Engine · reported Sep 29, 2026

While driving my 2016 Subaru Crosstrek (VIN: [XXX]) at approximately 70,000 miles, the vehicle experienced a sudden, catastrophic cooling system rupture on the roadway without any prior dashboard warning light. A radiator hose burst, resulting in rapid, complete loss of engine coolant and steam, creating an immediate safety hazard and forcing an emergency roadside stop. A subsequent diagnostic teardown by an independent specialist confirmed the root cause was premature degradation of internal engine seals (the upper oil pan and internal coolant crossover O-rings inside the FB20 engine block).…

Engine and Engine Cooling · reported Dec 10, 2025

Within 24 hours of purchase, the exhaust pipe became detached underneath the vehicle and exhaust fumes and odor were entering the cabin while driving. This created a potential carbon monoxide exposure risk to me and passengers. Subaru inspected the vehicle and confirmed the exhaust issue existed before I purchased the car. The selling dealership did not disclose this safety defect and refused to unwind the sale when notified.

Electrical System · reported Nov 5, 2025

A/C Control Head and connector burned on both ends. Dealer service center stated it was a significant safety/fire hazard if we had not immediately taken in to be checked. No warning, no fuses out. Only indication something was wrong is a/c turned on but only on 1,2 and 4. Then, same day, only on 4. Next day took to Subaru service center. When we asked how would replacing parts stop this from happening again, we were told original parts had a âDesign Flawâ and was âDefectiveâ. Replacement/New parts wiring system actually corrects the OEM defect.

Power Train · reported Apr 29, 2025

The CVT valve body was diagnosed as defective by the Subaru Dealership service department. The car was taken to the dcealership when the A/T OIL EMP, HILL ASSIST, ABS and TRACTION CONTROL, STABILITY CONTROL lights came up. The valve body is still available for inspection. The car was taken to the dealership for a Brake Light Switch recall that has the same simptoms.

Other Subaru Crosstrek years

2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 201720162015 2014 2013

Compare all Subaru Crosstrek years · All Subaru models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek: 19V-149 (exterior lighting). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (37 reports), followed by unknown or other (34). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 38,000 miles.

Are Subaru recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Subaru dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.