2017 Subaru Crosstrek recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek and 97 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are unknown or other (33), visibility/wiper (23), electrical system (18). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 26–29 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2017 ranks #6 of 13 Crosstrek model years for fewest complaints (2013–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (104). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 1.6 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Exterior lighting · brake lights · switch
Problem: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.
Risk: Brake lights that do not illuminate properly will not alert other drivers that the vehicle is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of crash.
Fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
Premature shift fork failure in 2017 Subaru Crosstrek manual transmission at 62,521 miles requiring complete transmission replacement ($10,000 repair, vehicle worth $11,000). EVIDENCE OF DESIGN DEFECT: - Subaru issued TSB 03-83-20R acknowledging shift fork design flaws in 2018-2020 Crosstreks with identical transmission - TSB states original forks required "thicker nylon…
In August of 2024, I got into my car in a parking lot and turned the key in the ignition. The car started revving really high. I waited for it to slow down, and then I put it into reverse. The car shot back and would have hit the building if I hadn't slammed on the brakes. Fortunately, there wasn't anyone behind the car at the time, but the woman who had just walked in back of…
The harness on my child's Nuna RAVA loosened during a 30 minute drive home (highway and downtown driving) in May of 2025. I learned later that month that there is a recall on Nuna Ravas for that exact reason. It is available for inspection. My child was not properly secured, and I did not know it until we got home; he could have been killed or seriously injured had we gotten…
Safety ratings
2017 Subaru Crosstrek SW AWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek.
Crosstrek AWD
Auto (AV-S6) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Crosstrek AWD
Man 5-spd · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek, most recently for exterior lighting · brake lights · switch (02/28/2019). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek?
Based on 97 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are unknown or other (33), visibility/wiper (23), electrical system (18).
Is the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek safe?
The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2017 a good year for the Subaru Crosstrek?
The 2017 ranks #6 of 13 Crosstrek model years for fewest complaints (2013–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (104). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 1.6 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek get?
EPA ratings for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek range from 26 to 29 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2017 Subaru Crosstrek in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: CROSSTREK, Crosstrek.