2016 Subaru Crosstrek Recalls, Problems & Safety Rating

1 safety recall on file

The 2016 Subaru Crosstrek has 1 safety recall on file with NHTSA.

Owners have filed 132 complaints with NHTSA, including 4 crashes, 3 fires, 1 injury.

The most-reported problem area is Electrical System (37 reports).

1Recalls
132Owner complaints
4Crashes reported
n/aNHTSA safety rating
Is the repair still open on your Crosstrek?

A recall covers specific vehicles. Your VIN shows whether yours still needs the free repair.

2016 Subaru Crosstrek recalls

Brake lights may fail to light, raising crash risk

Recall 19V149Feb 28, 20191,303,530 vehicles affected

The brake light switch can malfunction after exposure to certain contaminants.

Most common 2016 Subaru Crosstrek problems

Problem areas named in the 132 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.

Problem areaReports
Electrical System37
Unknown Or Other34
Power Train18
Engine14
Steering13
Fuel/Propulsion System8
Vehicle Speed Control6
Service Brakes5
Structure5
Visibility/Wiper5

What owners report

2026-09-29, Engine
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). These internal seals failed prematurely, allowing pressurized engine oil and coolant to cross-conta
2025-12-10, Engine And Engine Cooling
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.
2025-11-05, Electrical System
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 “Design Flaw” and was “Defective”. Replacement/New parts wiring system actually corrects the OEM defect.
2025-05-05, Latches/Locks/Linkages
Hood latch failed causing hood to fly open, smashing and breaking my windshield.
2025-04-29, Power Train
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.

2016 Subaru Crosstrek questions

Does the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA lists 1 safety recall for the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek: Brake lights may fail to light, raising crash risk. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.

What are the most common problems with the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek?

Based on 132 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (37), Unknown Or Other (34), Power Train (18).

How do I check if a recall on my 2016 Subaru Crosstrek has been fixed?

Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.

Other Subaru Crosstrek years

Other 2016 Subaru models