2021 Subaru Crosstrek: Reliability, Recalls, Known Issues & Cost to Own
Data last updated 2026-07-04 · sources listed throughout · based on public NHTSA data
Adds an optional 2.5-liter engine that fixes the long-standing power complaint while keeping bulletproof AWD and best-in-class RepairPal reliability. Few complaints; one of the best used Crosstreks. 3 known issue patterns are documented below, with frequency and the mileage windows where they typically appear. New, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek ranged from $22,245 to $27,995 depending on trim (base MSRP, before options and destination).
This listing
Context from the listing you were viewing, not a market-price judgement.
Adds an optional 2.5-liter engine that fixes the long-standing power complaint while keeping bulletproof AWD and best-in-class RepairPal reliability. Few complaints; one of the best used Crosstreks.
Sources (1)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=crosst…
Known issues
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Residual spontaneous windshield cracking still reported, though far less common than 2018-2020; cracks can impair the EyeSight camera and require recalibration.
occasional · 35 NHTSA complaints · typically 0k–40k miles · body
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Battery drain and Starlink infotainment/electrical accessory faults reported by some owners.
occasional · 20 NHTSA complaints · electrical
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EyeSight forward-collision and emergency-braking false activations reported intermittently.
isolated · 9 NHTSA complaints · brake
Based on public NHTSA complaint data and AI synthesis: patterns, not guarantees.
Sources (5)
- 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…
- 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 AWD with genuine light off-pavement ability and high ground clearance
- Roomier, stiffer Subaru Global Platform with improved ride and crash safety
- Optional 2.5-liter engine from 2021 addresses the long-standing power complaint
- Standard EyeSight driver-assist with strong crash-test ratings
- Excellent resale value and top-of-class RepairPal reliability
Cons
- CVT-only drivetrain; not engaging to drive
- Base 2.0-liter boxer still feels underpowered
- Spontaneous windshield cracking, especially on 2018-2020 cars
- Battery-drain and infotainment electrical quirks
Trims & original pricing
| Trim | Original base MSRP | New today | Engine | MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | $22,245 | $26,995 | — | — |
| Premium | $23,295 | $27,995 | — | — |
| Sport | $26,495 | $30,625 | — | — |
| Limited | $27,995 | $32,995 | — | — |
Prices are base MSRP for each trim's standard configuration. Options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
2021-2023 cars held unusually high used values due to pandemic-era supply shortages, so comparisons to original MSRP read differently for these years.
Sources (2)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/2021-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 ($22,245). Higher trims started higher (up to $27,995), and options added more.
Curve outlook: a typical 2021 loses roughly another 26% of its value over the next 3 years. These are estimates from public data, not a market-price claim.
2021-2023 cars held unusually high used values due to pandemic-era supply shortages, so comparisons to original MSRP read differently for these years.
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) | ≈ $2,400–2,500/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 2021 Subaru Crosstrek have?
Documented issue patterns include: Residual spontaneous windshield cracking still reported, though far less common than 2018-2020; cracks can impair the EyeSight camera and require recalibration; Battery drain and Starlink infotainment/electrical accessory faults reported by some owners; EyeSight forward-collision and emergency-braking false activations reported intermittently. Frequency is based on public NHTSA complaint data: patterns, not guarantees.
Is the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek reliable?
Adds an optional 2.5-liter engine that fixes the long-standing power complaint while keeping bulletproof AWD and best-in-class RepairPal reliability. Few complaints; one of the best used Crosstreks.
How much did the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek cost new?
Between $22,245 and $27,995 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. 2021-2023 cars held unusually high used values due to pandemic-era supply shortages, so comparisons to original MSRP read differently for these years.
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.