Based on a similar platform as the revered Subaru Impreza, the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek is the latest inclusion in the compact SUV market. It is cleverly designed to provide the capabilities of a wagon in the form of an SUV and builds its place in the market with its capacious cabin and an ergonomic setup. It stays true to the brand strengths of providing a potent boxer engine and standard all-wheel-drive setup, which complement well its on and off-road demeanor. But it is the 2013 XV Crosstrek’s high-reliability quotient that makes the headlines. For a debut iteration, the vehicle’s 72 complaints and a couple of recalls seem justifiable and impressive. While there are some recurring concerns, most of the issues do not hamper the ownership experience. A 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek for sale is available at $22,000 and it competes with the likes of the Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan Juke. What are the SUV’s common complaints and what are their implications on the ownership experience? Let’s find out.
2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek User Complaints and Problems
Safety Complaints
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Improper functioning of the airbags: The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek airbag problems are limited. In one-off case each, buyers have either reported the airbags deploying without much impact or not deploying at all. Both situations have resulted in injuries to the buyers. However, considering the restrictive impact of both these issues, the chances of your vehicle suffering from a similar malfunction are less.
Electrical System Complaints
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Faltering ignition switch: In the 2013 Subaru XV problems list, buyers have also reported the failure of the vehicle to identify when the vehicle is in “Park”. As a result, the key cannot be released from the ignition, which results in the vehicle failing to crank down.
Mechanical Complaints
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Loss of power: Ever since the recall for a possible engine stall was introduced by Subaru, buyers of the compact SUVhave reported the vehicle losing its power inadvertently. This might happen due to the increased oil consumption, which causes inadequate lubrication in the engine, resulting in the vehicle stalling.
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Other mechanical concerns: In a handful of cases, buyers have also reported the failure of the power steering and the transmission system slipping consistently. Both situations result in erratic vehicular performance, which can increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, in some other cases, users have also reported the rear axles getting damaged and requiring replacement.
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Failure of rear hubs: In a few cases, the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek problems deal with a rumbling noise from the rear end of the vehicle. Where a diagnosis has been conducted, a failure of the wheel bearing and rear hub has been attributed as the underlying cause, which can result in the wheel falling off.
2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek Recalls
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. |
1st Nov 2018 |
18V772000 |
Possible engine stall |
Due to damage to the engine valve springs, the engine may malfunction and stall. |
Dealers will replace the valve springs, free of cost. |
2. |
25th Feb 2013 |
13V061000 |
Malfunctioning remote engine starter fob |
If the RES fob is dropped, it might independently request an engine start. |
Dealers will replace the RES key fobs, free of cost. |
Should you buy the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek?
The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek easily establishes ascendancy in the segment. While it does fall into a populated segment, Subaru’s research and implementation have almost been inch-perfect. The SUV bestows ample space for a family of five and comes with all the convenience features one would expect from its class. Additionally, its high fuel efficiency from the boxer engine and respectable off-road capabilities, make it an adventurous companion. Even in terms of reliability, there is not much to worry about. The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek recalls and complaints lists seem restricted. The safety scores are also top-notch and when enquired, the ownership experience also remains unnerved. So, we at CarHP, recommend buyers opt for the Subaru XV Crosstrek to get the best bang for the buck.