2016 Subaru Crosstrek: Reliability, Recalls, Known Issues & Cost to Own
Data last updated 2026-07-04 · sources listed throughout · based on public NHTSA data
Dependable boxer-AWD package let down by Starlink infotainment/electrical glitches and steering-alignment gripes. Best-in-class RepairPal reliability and cheap to run, but slow and the CVT is uninspiring. 3 known issue patterns are documented below, with frequency and the mileage windows where they typically appear. New, the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek ranged from $21,595 to $25,095 depending on trim (base MSRP, before options and destination).
This listing
Context from the listing you were viewing, not a market-price judgement.
Dependable boxer-AWD package let down by Starlink infotainment/electrical glitches and steering-alignment gripes. Best-in-class RepairPal reliability and cheap to run, but slow and the CVT is uninspiring.
Sources (1)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=crosst…
Known issues
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Spontaneous windshield cracking begins to appear in 2017, the precursor to the larger second-generation problem.
occasional · 26 NHTSA complaints · typically 0k–40k miles · body
-
Starlink infotainment and electrical glitches (touchscreen freezes, Bluetooth/accessory faults) are the most common complaint of the late first generation.
commonly reported · 30 NHTSA complaints · electrical
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Steering pull / wheel-alignment complaints and related uneven tire wear reported by some owners.
occasional · 14 NHTSA complaints · steering
Based on public NHTSA complaint data and AI synthesis: patterns, not guarantees.
Sources (4)
- classaction.orghttps://www.classaction.org/subaru-cracked-windshield-defect-lawsuits
- subaruwindshieldsettlement.comhttps://www.subaruwindshieldsettlement.com/
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=crosst…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=crosst…
Recalls & safety
Recall history hasn't been loaded for this model year yet.
Whether a recall is still open on a specific car depends on its VIN. Check it free at NHTSA's VIN lookup (nhtsa.gov/recalls), or ask the seller for proof the repair was done.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive and high ground clearance for the class
- Good real-world fuel economy
- Strong resale value and best-in-class RepairPal reliability
- Excellent outward visibility and easy, compact size to park
Cons
- Basic infotainment and noticeable road noise
- CVT drones under hard acceleration
- Underpowered 148-hp boxer; slow acceleration
- Early FB20 oil consumption on some cars
Trims & original pricing
| Trim | Original base MSRP | New today | Engine | MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | $21,595 | $26,995 | — | — |
| Premium | $22,395 | $27,995 | — | — |
| Limited | $25,095 | $32,995 | — | — |
Prices are base MSRP for each trim's standard configuration. Options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Sources (2)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/2016-subaru-crosstrek-price
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/subaru-crosstrek-price
Depreciation
Move your cursor along the line to see the estimated value for any year.
This listing sits above the typical depreciation curve. Common for heavily-optioned cars and for 2021-2023 model years (pandemic-era pricing); the curve is anchored at base MSRP, which excludes options.
Curve anchored at the entry-trim base MSRP ($21,595). Higher trims started higher (up to $25,095), and options added more.
The curve's data ends 10 years in, so the line levels off after that. Treat the tail as a floor, not a forecast: asking prices for older cars depend mostly on condition, mileage, and the current market, and often sit well above it.
Sources (1)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/subaru-crosstrek/resale-value
Cost to own
| Repairs (rises with mileage) | ≈ $450–500/yr |
| Insurance (medium tier) | ≈ $1,200–1,300/yr |
| Expected lifespan | ~200k miles |
National-average estimates based on public data. Your costs vary by region, driver, and condition.
Sources (2)
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/subaru/crosstrek
- moneygeek.comhttps://www.moneygeek.com/insurance/auto/subaru-crosstrek-insurance/
Frequently asked questions
What problems does the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek have?
Documented issue patterns include: Spontaneous windshield cracking begins to appear in 2017, the precursor to the larger second-generation problem; Starlink infotainment and electrical glitches (touchscreen freezes, Bluetooth/accessory faults) are the most common complaint of the late first generation; Steering pull / wheel-alignment complaints and related uneven tire wear reported by some owners. Frequency is based on public NHTSA complaint data: patterns, not guarantees.
Is the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek reliable?
Dependable boxer-AWD package let down by Starlink infotainment/electrical glitches and steering-alignment gripes. Best-in-class RepairPal reliability and cheap to run, but slow and the CVT is uninspiring.
How much did the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek cost new?
Between $21,595 and $25,095 depending on trim. Those are base MSRPs for each trim's standard configuration; options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Is the Subaru Crosstrek expensive to maintain?
Estimated repairs run roughly $450–500/year as mileage climbs.
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Estimates are based on public data: patterns, not guarantees. CarVitals is not affiliated with NHTSA, CarMax, AutoTrader, or Cars.com. Issue frequencies come from public NHTSA complaint data, which has no denominator, so they describe reporting patterns, not failure probabilities. Always have a used car inspected before buying. How we build these reports.