2023 Subaru Crosstrek problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
A typical year for this model
The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek sits mid-pack among Crosstrek years: 51 NHTSA complaints against a model median of roughly 57, with no recalls and no defect investigations.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across other (11), driver assistance (11), and visibility & wipers (7), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect. In government crash testing it earned 5 of 5 NCAP stars overall.
51
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
10
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
9
Injuries
0
Deaths
5
NCAP overall · of 5 stars
How does 2023 compare to other Crosstrek years?
What are the most common 2023 Subaru Crosstrek problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driver Assistance | 11 | 22% | ▲ up |
| Other | 11 | 22% | — flat |
| Visibility & Wipers | 7 | 14% | — flat |
| Electrical System | 5 | 10% | — flat |
| Engine | 5 | 10% | ▲ up |
| Brakes | 3 | 6% | — flat |
| Airbags | 2 | 4% | — flat |
| Tires & Wheels | 2 | 4% | ▲ up |
| Speed Control | 1 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Body & Structure | 1 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Suspension | 1 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Seat Belts | 1 | 2% | — flat |
| Seats | 1 | 2% | — flat |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“Passenger door lock won't lock either with fob or manually. Was first noticed when clicking noise was heard in the passenger door when automatic locks engaged. Subaru dealer's service dept. verified problem and ordered part that they said may take months to receive. In the meantime, vehicle will…”
“Purchased vehicle 8/27/2025 within 1 day and 1 month of 2 separate class action lawsuits. Purchased from CarMax Wilmington. Car produced electrical shock to my hand first time I attempted to pair the vehicle. Parkway stated at that time I was under an additional warranty but the vehicle would…”
“Like many others with Subaru EyeSight acoustic auto glass, windshield is beginning to crack and pit despite never being outdoors, and not experiencing rock chipping. This glass is unsafe, costly, defective, and needs a recall. Issue appeard May 23, three months after purchase.”
“Purchased vehicle 8/27/2025 within 1 day and 1 month of 2 separate class action lawsuits. Purchased from CarMax Wilmington. Car produced electrical shock to my hand first time I attempted to pair the vehicle. Parkway stated at that time I was under an additional warranty but the vehicle would…”
“On the morning of 12/26/24 - I stepped inside my 2023 Subaru Crosstrek and turned on the engine. The vehicle was parked in a commuter parking lot near my home to begin with. When I turned on the vehicle - I noticed a loud roaring sound when the engine turned on which i thought was very strange.…”
2023 Subaru Crosstrek — common questions
Is the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek reliable?
It is close to typical for the Crosstrek: 51 NHTSA complaints, 0 recalls, and no investigations on file.
What are the most common 2023 Crosstrek problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are other (11 complaints), driver assistance (11 complaints), visibility & wipers (7 complaints).
Does the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2023 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 2023 Subaru Crosstrek?
In NHTSA's NCAP crash testing, the 2023 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.