2021 Subaru Crosstrek recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek and 115 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are visibility/wiper (29), unknown or other (25), electrical system (16). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 29–35 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2021 ranks #9 of 13 Crosstrek model years for fewest complaints (2013–2025), with more 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 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Power train · automatic transmission · park/neutral start interlock switch
Problem: Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
Risk: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
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
Drivers side door, interior automatic door lock switch spins and makes a clicking sound when you just start go forward.
There have been multiple instances where my car has failed to “restart” if the auto-start-stop feature is on. I immediately turn that setting off every time I get into my car because if I pause for too long at a light/stop sign etc.the engine will stall and turn off (without being in park). I have reported this to Subaru on many occasions and they’ve told me to replace the batt…
We brought the vehicle in for routine maintenance. They reported that all brake hoses were bulging and at risk of failing at any time. They said that there was a related recall for a similar issue on other CrossTrek's but that ours was not included in the VIN list, so was not a part of the recall. This appears to be a serious component failure which could result in a fatal a…
Safety ratings
2021 Subaru Crosstrek SW AWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek.
Crosstrek AWD
Auto (AV-S8) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Crosstrek AWD
Auto (AV-S8) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L
Regular
Crosstrek Hybrid AWD
Auto (variable gear ratios) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular Gas and Electricity
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, most recently for power train · automatic transmission · park/neutral start interlock switch (11/09/2023). 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 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?
Based on 115 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are visibility/wiper (29), unknown or other (25), electrical system (16).
Is the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek safe?
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2021 a good year for the Subaru Crosstrek?
The 2021 ranks #9 of 13 Crosstrek model years for fewest complaints (2013–2025), with more complaints than the average year (104). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 1.6 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek get?
EPA ratings for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek range from 29 to 35 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2021 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.