Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2021 Subaru Crosstrek
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is a generally reliable vehicle, but has a notable recall for potential transmission issues related to water entering a weld. Additionally, owner complaints hint at other unspecified issues, so comprehensive checks are advisable.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 115 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 #23V755000 Switch Failure May Cause Loss of Rearview Image NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Visibility/Wiper 29 complaints
- Unknown or Other 25 complaints
- Electrical System 16 complaints
- Engine 16 complaints
- Forward Collision Avoidance 14 complaints
- Power Train 14 complaints
Of the 115 complaints on file, 8 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 115 complaints, owners report 6 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Inhibitor switch weld can fail
How to check: Inspect for transmission signs of water intrusion.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises from the engine or transmission.
Red flag: Persistent loud noises
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Ensure smooth idle without fluctuations.
Red flag: Rough or erratic idle
- 03
Low-speed driving
What to check: Check for stuttering gears during shifts.
Red flag: Grinding or jerking
- 04
Acceleration
What to check: Test for smooth acceleration without lag.
Red flag: Hesitation or stalling
- 05
Deceleration
What to check: Ensure transmission downshifts smoothly.
Red flag: Clunky or delayed downshifts
- 06
Parking
What to check: Test park engagement for secure hold.
Red flag: Shifts without shifter movement
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the recall been addressed?
- Any transmission issues in the past?
- How is the car's service history?
- Has the vehicle been in any accidents?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle service records
- Recall repair records
- Accident history report
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2021 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.