2021 Subaru Crosstrek Safety Report
2021 Subaru Crosstrek: Strong Crash Ratings, but Recurring Visibility, Engine, and ADAS Complaints Raise Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek
Reliability Score
The 2021 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 2021 Subaru Crosstrek
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windshield Cracking/Defroster Issues Numerous complaints about windshields cracking spontaneously or with minor impacts, and issues with defroster causing cracks. This falls under the VISIBILITY/WIPER category, which has 26 complaints. |
Medium | Common | variable miles |
| Backup Camera Malfunction Reports of backup cameras intermittently failing, displaying fuzzy images, or not working at all. This aligns with the recall for the inhibitor switch affecting rearview camera display. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
| Engine/Power Loss Multiple complaints of the vehicle losing motive power or shutting off unexpectedly while driving, leading to dangerous situations. This is reflected in the 8 ENGINE and 7 POWER TRAIN complaints. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Forward Collision Avoidance (Eyesight) Malfunction Complaints detail the Eyesight system engaging randomly without obstacles or failing to brake when needed, contributing to at least one reported crash. There are 5 FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE complaints. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Transmission Binding/Lurching Reports of a 'binding' or 'lurching' sensation in the drivetrain, particularly with manual transmissions, potentially indicating viscous coupler issues. This contributes to POWER TRAIN complaints. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
| Driver Seat Rocking/Loose A complaint noted the driver's seat rocking due to a broken attachment to the rail, posing a safety concern. |
Medium | 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 2021 Subaru Crosstrek:
Frequent complaints regarding windshield cracking, defroster issues, and backup camera malfunctions.
Issues include unexpected power loss, check engine lights, and difficulty starting.
Reports of transmission binding, lurching, and issues related to the automatic transmission, including the recall for the inhibitor switch.
Malfunctions of the 'Eyesight' system, including random braking and failure to prevent collisions.
General electrical issues leading to warning lights, system failures, and vehicle stalling.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek
Is the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall, 5-star side, 4-star frontal and rollover). However, it has 100 complaints, 8 crashes, and 6 injuries reported, with recurring issues in visibility, engine, power train, and forward collision avoidance systems, suggesting some real-world safety concerns despite strong test performance.
What are common problems with the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek are related to VISIBILITY/WIPER (26 complaints), including windshield cracking and backup camera failures. Other common problems involve the ENGINE (8 complaints) with power loss, POWER TRAIN (7 complaints) with transmission issues, and FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (5 complaints) with 'Eyesight' system malfunctions.
Has the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek had any recalls?
Yes, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek has had one recall (NHTSA Recall Number 23V755000) concerning the POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH. An insufficient weld could allow water to enter the switch, potentially preventing reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing crash risk.
How does the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an overall 5-star safety rating. It received 5 stars for side impact, and 4 stars for both frontal crash and rollover resistance.
Are there issues with the 'Eyesight' system on the 2021 Crosstrek?
Yes, there are 5 complaints specifically about the FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE system, which includes 'Eyesight'. Owners have reported instances of the system engaging the brakes randomly without obstacles, as well as failing to prevent collisions, which has led to at least one reported crash.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek has excellent crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of recurring complaints regarding visibility (windshield, backup camera), engine/power train issues, and forward collision avoidance system malfunctions. Thoroughly inspect the vehicle's service history, especially for recall completion and any repairs related to these known issues.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Subaru Crosstrek
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. The data includes 100 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 8 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 6 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 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.