2019 Subaru Crosstrek Safety Report
2019 Subaru Crosstrek: Strong Crash Ratings, but Plagued by Numerous Recalls and Widespread Visibility and Electrical Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek
Reliability Score
The 2019 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 2019 Subaru Crosstrek
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windshield Cracking Numerous complaints of windshields cracking spontaneously without impact, often starting from the bottom or sides. |
Medium | Common | variable miles |
| Parasitic Battery Drain / Electrical System Issues Battery drains rapidly, sometimes overnight, often linked to the Digital Communication Module (DCM) or Starlink software, leading to no-start conditions. |
Medium | Common | variable miles |
| Loss Of Power Steering Sudden loss of power steering assist while driving, requiring high steering effort, linked to a recall for EPS unit short circuit. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Engine Stalling / Loss Of Motive Power Vehicle stalls or loses power while driving, sometimes after recall fixes, linked to ECM issues and PCV valve separation recalls. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Cvt Transmission Problems Shaking, shuddering, sluggish acceleration, and complete loss of drive power, with some complaints mentioning lack of parts for repair. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Unexpected Acceleration Vehicle lurches or accelerates on its own, particularly when pulling into parking spots. |
High | Rare | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek:
Predominantly spontaneous windshield cracking, but also includes issues with improperly tempered glass (subject to recall).
Frequent reports of parasitic battery drain, no-start conditions, and issues related to the ECM and ignition coils (subject to multiple recalls).
Includes complaints of CVT transmission failures, loss of motive power, and grinding noises.
Reports of engine stalling, PCV valve issues (subject to recall), and general engine failures.
Loss of power steering assist while driving, directly linked to a recall for the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) unit.
Issues related to control arm cracking and rear stabilizer bracket bolts (subject to recall).
Rear seat belt locking mechanism issues, where the belt may not properly restrain occupants (subject to recall).
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek
Is the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek received an excellent 5-star overall safety rating, with strong performance in crash tests (5-star side, 4-star frontal/rollover). However, it has 7 recalls addressing critical safety components like the electrical system, steering, and engine, and 274 complaints, including 6 crashes and 5 injuries. While crash protection is high, the numerous recalls and complaints suggest potential reliability and component failure risks.
What are common problems with the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek?
The most reported issues for the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek are related to 'VISIBILITY/WIPER' (106 complaints), primarily spontaneous windshield cracking. 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (24 complaints) is also common, often involving parasitic battery drain and no-start conditions. Other significant problems include loss of power steering, engine stalling, and CVT transmission issues, many of which are covered by the 7 recalls issued for this model year.
How many recalls does the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek have?
The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek has 7 recalls. These include issues with the electrical system (ECM and ignition coils, EPS unit), suspension (rear stabilizer bracket bolts), seat belts (rear locking mechanism), engine (PCV valve), and visibility (improperly tempered rear-door window glass).
Are there engine problems with the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek?
Yes, there are 8 complaints specifically for the 'ENGINE' component, and 8 for 'POWER TRAIN'. Issues include engine stalling, loss of motive power, PCV valve separation (subject to recall), and some reports of catastrophic engine failures. The electrical system recalls also impact engine function, such as the ECM continuing to power ignition coils.
Does the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek have electrical issues?
Yes, 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' is a significant complaint category with 24 reports, and it's also the subject of multiple recalls. Common issues include parasitic battery drain, no-start conditions, and problems with the Engine Control Module (ECM) and Electronic Power Steering (EPS) unit, which can lead to stalling or loss of power steering.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the 2019 Crosstrek's extensive recall history and common complaints regarding windshield cracking, electrical system issues, and potential powertrain problems. Ensure all 7 recalls have been addressed and consider an independent pre-purchase inspection focusing on these known weaknesses.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Subaru Crosstrek
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek. The data includes 274 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 7 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 5 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 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.