2017 Subaru Crosstrek Safety Report
2017 Subaru Crosstrek: Strong Crash Ratings, but Recurring Windshield, Ignition, and Wheel Bearing Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek
Reliability Score
The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek receives a reliability score of 75 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
Known Issues for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spontaneous Windshield Cracking Multiple reports of windshields cracking without apparent impact, sometimes extending across the entire window. |
Medium | Common | all miles |
| Key Stuck In Ignition Owners report the ignition key getting stuck and unable to be removed after turning off the vehicle, often requiring multiple restarts or gear shifts. |
Medium | Common | all miles |
| Premature Wheel Bearing Failure Reports of rear wheel bearings failing prematurely, often around 40,000 miles, causing grinding or humming sounds and potential safety hazards. |
High | Common | 40000-60000 miles |
| Cvt Transmission Issues (Manual Shift Fork) One complaint details premature shift fork failure in a manual transmission at 62,521 miles, requiring a costly replacement. |
High | Occasional | 60000-70000 miles |
| Battery Draining Problem Reports of batteries draining repeatedly, requiring multiple replacements within a short period. |
Medium | Occasional | all miles |
| Brake Pad Separation One complaint details front inner brake pads separating from the backing plate, compromising brake performance. |
High | Rare | all miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek:
Primarily related to spontaneous windshield cracking without impact.
A broad category including various unspecified issues, some potentially related to electrical or mechanical glitches.
Includes issues like battery draining, dome light activation, and key getting stuck in ignition.
Concerns include CVT transmission issues, engine bogging down, and CV axle clicking.
Related to the brake light switch recall and other lighting malfunctions.
Reports of brake pad separation and compromised braking performance.
Includes issues like cam carrier oil leaks and engine stalling.
One complaint about stiff steering and power steering warning light illumination.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek
Is the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek received an excellent 5-star Overall Safety Rating, with 5 stars in Side impact and 4 stars in Frontal and Rollover tests. However, there are 97 owner complaints, including 6 crashes and 5 injuries, highlighting specific recurring issues like spontaneous windshield cracking, key getting stuck in the ignition, and premature wheel bearing failures that potential buyers should be aware of.
What are common problems with the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek, based on NHTSA complaints, are related to VISIBILITY/WIPER (21 complaints, often windshield cracking), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (17 complaints), and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7 complaints, including battery drain and ignition key issues). Other notable problems include premature wheel bearing failure and, in one instance, a significant manual transmission shift fork failure.
Are there any recalls for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek?
Yes, the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek has one recall related to 'EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH'. This recall addresses a defect where the brake lights may not illuminate properly, increasing the risk of a crash.
How does the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek perform in crash tests?
The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an Overall 5-star safety rating. It received 4 stars for Frontal Crash, 5 stars for Side Crash, and 4 stars for Rollover resistance.
Is the key getting stuck in the ignition a common problem for the 2017 Crosstrek?
Yes, multiple complaints indicate that the key getting stuck in the ignition after turning off the vehicle is a recurring issue for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek, with owners reporting difficulty removing the key and sometimes needing to restart the car multiple times.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek boasts strong crash test ratings, be mindful of recurring issues like spontaneous windshield cracking, key-in-ignition problems, and premature wheel bearing failures; a pre-purchase inspection focusing on these areas is recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Subaru Crosstrek
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek. The data includes 97 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 5 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 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.