2016 Subaru Crosstrek Safety Report
2016 Subaru Crosstrek: Strong crash ratings, but significant electrical, powertrain, and hood latch safety concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek
Reliability Score
The 2016 Subaru Crosstrek receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hood Latch Failure Hood unexpectedly flies open at highway speeds, shattering windshield and causing loss of visibility and vehicle damage. |
High | Occasional | 55000-89000 miles |
| Cvt Transmission Failure/Hesitation Vehicle experiences hesitation, loss of power, rough idling, or complete transmission failure, sometimes requiring replacement. |
High | Common | 37000-89000 miles |
| Electrical System Malfunctions (Battery Drain, A/C Burn) Frequent battery drain issues, A/C control head burning (fire hazard), and full electrical power steering failure. |
Medium | Common | 0-60000 miles |
| Horn Failure (Clockspring) Horn fails to sound when pressed, often linked to a faulty clockspring, posing a risk during near-miss situations. |
Medium | Occasional | 0-60000 miles |
| Vehicle Stalling/Loss Of Power Vehicle unexpectedly loses power or stalls while driving at highway speeds, even with fuel in the tank. |
High | Occasional | 70000-90000 miles |
| Brake Light Switch Recall Brake lights may not illuminate properly due to a faulty switch, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions. |
High | Common | 0-100000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek:
A significant portion of complaints fall into a general category, indicating diverse and potentially unclassified issues.
Frequent reports of battery drain, A/C control unit burning, and power steering failures.
Issues include CVT transmission failures, hesitation, and loss of power while driving.
Complaints related to steering include grinding sounds and full electrical power steering failure.
Reports of rough idling and stalling, sometimes without clear diagnostic findings.
Includes issues like hood latch failure leading to windshield damage and sunroof explosions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek
Is the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall). However, it has 131 complaints, including 4 crashes and 3 fires, with recurring issues like hood latch failures, CVT transmission problems, and electrical system malfunctions that pose significant safety risks.
What are common problems with the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek?
The most reported issues are categorized as 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' (28%), 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (23%), and 'POWER TRAIN' (11%). Specific common problems include battery drain, CVT transmission failures (hesitation, loss of power), and dangerous hood latch failures.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek?
Yes, there is one recall for the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek concerning the 'EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH'. This defect can prevent brake lights from illuminating, increasing the risk of a crash.
How does the 2016 Crosstrek perform in crash tests?
The 2016 Subaru Crosstrek performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving an overall 5-star safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover.
Should I be concerned about the transmission in a 2016 Crosstrek?
Yes, the power train, specifically the CVT transmission, is a common area of concern with 11% of complaints. Owners report issues like hesitation, loss of power, and even complete transmission failure at relatively low mileages, sometimes requiring replacement.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek has strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of significant reported issues with the electrical system, CVT transmission, and critical hood latch failures. Thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially of the hood latch mechanism and transmission performance, is highly recommended, and ensure all recalls, particularly the brake light switch, have been addressed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Subaru Crosstrek
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek. The data includes 131 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 4 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.