AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2016 Subaru Crosstrek
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $8,500–$12,000
The 2016 Subaru Crosstrek receives an average reliability rating, driven by modest recall issues related to brake light switches and a variety of owner complaints, notably with the electrical system and powertrain. While not exceptional, problems are generally manageable and repair costs are moderate.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| brake light switch | 50,000–70,000 miles | $80–$150 | common |
| CVT transmission | 70,000–90,000 miles | $1,800–$2,500 | occasional |
| engine mounts | 60,000–80,000 miles | $200–$600 | occasional |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil and filter change every 6,000 miles
- Brake fluid replacement every 3 years
- Transmission fluid replacement at 30,000 miles
- Spark plug replacement at 60,000 miles
- Coolant replacement every 90,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Unresponsive brake lights
- Rough CVT operation
- Excessive engine vibration
- Delayed ignition start
- Unusual steering sounds
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/19/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.