2020 Subaru Crosstrek problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
Worth extra scrutiny
The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek sits mid-pack among Crosstrek years: 82 NHTSA complaints against a model median of roughly 57, with no recalls and no defect investigations.
The trouble concentrates in one system: visibility & wipers issues account for 42% of all reports (34 of 82), far ahead of electrical system at 10. In government crash testing it earned 5 of 5 NCAP stars overall.
82
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
8
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
3
Injuries
0
Deaths
5
NCAP overall · of 5 stars
How does 2020 compare to other Crosstrek years?
What are the most common 2020 Subaru Crosstrek problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility & Wipers | 34 | 41% | ▼ down |
| Electrical System | 10 | 12% | ▼ down |
| Transmission | 9 | 11% | ▼ down |
| Other | 9 | 11% | ▼ down |
| Engine | 5 | 6% | ▼ down |
| Fuel System | 3 | 4% | ▼ down |
| Driver Assistance | 3 | 4% | ▼ down |
| Seat Belts | 2 | 2% | ▲ up |
| Brakes | 2 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Speed Control | 2 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Body & Structure | 2 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Seats | 1 | 1% | ▼ down |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“The windshield has cracked twice and had to be replaced. The first time was December 2021 and the second time was November 2022. Each time, we did not even see impact with a pebble. We just assume that was what caused the crack. My wife and I have been driving for fifty years and this is the first…”
“This vehicle is a plug-in-hybrid. It should not be able to move while plugged in. Problem is attempting to move the vehicle when the charge cable is still attached and the vehicle is on an incline. Subaru does not display a warning message - instead it displays "check engine" and an ambiguous…”
“Car was thought to be placed in park, key was easily removed, and then the car became mobile and rolled downhill and could not be shifted back into park.”
“This vehicle is a plug-in-hybrid. It should not be able to move while plugged in. Problem is attempting to move the vehicle when the charge cable is still attached and the vehicle is on an incline. Subaru does not display a warning message - instead it displays "check engine" and an ambiguous…”
“The contact's significant other owns a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek. The contact stated while his significant other was driving from a complete stop, several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring. The vehicle was taken to the dealer several times. The…”
2020 Subaru Crosstrek — common questions
Is the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek reliable?
It is close to typical for the Crosstrek: 82 NHTSA complaints, 0 recalls, and no investigations on file.
What are the most common 2020 Crosstrek problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are visibility & wipers (34 complaints), electrical system (10 complaints), other (9 complaints).
Does the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek.
Which Subaru Crosstrek years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the Crosstrek years to avoid are 2019, 2018, 2016, 2021, 2017, 2024. The cleanest record among Crosstrek years belongs to 2026.
How safe is the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek?
In NHTSA's NCAP crash testing, the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek earned an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.