Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2019 Subaru Crosstrek
The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek is generally a reliable vehicle, but it has some issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Recall data highlights concerns with rear suspension, electrical system, and engine components, which may affect drive quality and safety. While not all vehicles will have these problems, it's crucial to inspect for known issues before purchasing.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek has 7 NHTSA recall campaigns and 286 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #21V263000 Rear Stabilizer Bracket Bolts May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V264000 ECM Software May Cause Stall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V189000 Rear Seat Belt Assemblies May Not Lock As Intended NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V856000 PCV Valve Can Separate NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V743000 ECM Software May Cause Stall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V404000 Window Glass Improperly Tempered/FMVSS 205 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V065000 Loss of Electric Power Steering Assist NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Visibility/Wiper 113 complaints
- Electrical System 53 complaints
- Unknown or Other 50 complaints
- Engine 34 complaints
- Power Train 24 complaints
- Steering 15 complaints
Of the 286 complaints on file, 7 report a crash and 3 a fire; across all 286 complaints, owners report 5 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Rear stabilizer bolts may detach
How to check: Inspect rear stabilizer bracket for loose or missing bolts
PCV valve separation
How to check: Check for engine light and power loss
ECM may cause ignition coil short
How to check: Look for blown fuses or starting issues
EPS connector may short circuit
How to check: Test for power steering response
Rear seat belt locking failure
How to check: Test rear seat belts for proper locking
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for abnormal engine noises
Red flag: Persistent knocking or rattling sound
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights
Red flag: Persisting engine or electrical warnings
- 03
Low-speed maneuvers
What to check: Feel for steering responsiveness
Red flag: Steering feels stiff or unresponsive
- 04
Moderate acceleration
What to check: Observe engine response and power
Red flag: Engine hesitates or loses power
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth gear shifting
Red flag: Transmission slips or jerks
- 06
Braking
What to check: Assess brake pedal feel and noise
Red flag: Brakes are spongy or noisy
- 07
Ending the drive
What to check: Ensure no unusual smells or sounds
Red flag: Burnt smell or loud noises persist
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the PCV valve been inspected?
- Have the rear stabilizer bolts been checked?
- Are there any unresolved recalls?
- Have you experienced any power steering issues?
- How often was the electrical system serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair history
- Maintenance records
- Accident history report
- Warranty status document
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2019 Subaru Crosstrek? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.