2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Problems
Compared with other Subaru XV Crosstrek years
Fewer complaints than typical for this model
35/100 0.7× a typical year · 50 = typical
- Complaint rate is 0.7× that of a typical Subaru XV Crosstrek year, weighted for crashes, fires, injuries, recalls and mileage, and allowing for the era and for how long each year has had to collect complaints.
- 13 of its 81 complaints were filed by the end of 2016.
- Most reported problem: Transmission lurching, warning lights, and loss of drive (23 complaints, median 64,300 mi).
Based only on NHTSA complaints, recalls and investigations. Not adjusted for how many vehicles were sold, and not a reliability rating. How this is calculated
- Complaints
- 81filed with NHTSA
- Median mileage
- 50,000miles, 51 complaints with mileage
- Recalls
- 0campaigns on record
- Trend
- FallingComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% lower than in the 3 years before.
- NHTSA crash rating
- 5 / 5stars overall
- EPA fuel economy
- 28 mpgcombined, 2.0L 4-cyl AWD · 25 city / 32 hwy
Sources: NHTSA records for the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek (complaints, recalls, investigations), NHTSA crash tests, EPA fuel economy. Report an error
What owners report
Owners of the 2014 XV Crosstrek most often describe electrical troubles — a horn that stops working or only works with the wheel turned, batteries that drain or fail early, and dash/lighting glitches — and a cluster of complaints about the key being stuck in the ignition after the car is put in park. A second frequent theme is the continuously variable transmission, with reports of lurching, warning lights, hard shifting and, in a few cases, the vehicle stopping or losing drive, and the passenger-side airbag indicator switching off with someone seated there. Many of these reports come in between roughly 40,000 and 80,000 miles, with some steering complaints at very low mileage.
- Transmission and drivetrain
Transmission lurching, warning lights, and loss of drive
- 23 complaints (28%)
- median 64,300 mi at 5.8 yrs old (14 state mileage)
- 1 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2015–2026
Owners report lurching or bucking from the CVT, all warning lights coming on, and in some cases the vehicle losing acceleration or locking up while driving at highway speed. Complaints also describe popping or grinding noises diagnosed as a failing transmission requiring replacement or remanufacture, and dealers mentioning a warranty extension covering the transmission on affected vehicles. Reported mostly between about 35,000 and 120,000 miles, often at highway speed.
What to check: Take a highway test drive and listen for lurching or hesitation under steady throttle. Ask for the service history on the transmission and whether the CVT warranty extension applies to this vehicle.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“On June 11, 2021, my wife and I were driving our 2014 Subaru Crosstrek (120,000 miles) from Milwaukee to Manitowish Waters, WI. About 20 miles north of Milwaukee on I-41 Northbound, my wife was driving at 70 mph when suddenly we both noticed a strong lurching from the CVT transmission. This was followed a few seconds later by a complete lockup of all four wheels on our car. Fortunately this did not happen in the left lane or we would've been in a terrible accident. …”
NHTSA complaint #11427890, filed 2021-08, 120,000 miles“I was driving the car when all the lights on dash come on. Constant jerking/bucking of the car without increasing pressure to the gas peddle. Meter rpms indicator needle is erratic moving back and forth while the engine revs. The mpg needle goes from plus to minus erratically also. At this time the car is not dependable. I have brought the car to granite Subaru 4 times for the same complaint. They say they have used the diagnostic meter to determine the problem but it still remains, now even worse. …”
NHTSA complaint #11340262, filed 2020-07, 59,600 miles - Electrical system
Key stuck in ignition after parking
- 9 complaints (11%)
- median 32,000 mi at 4.2 yrs old (3 state mileage, few)
- filed 2017–2025
Owners describe being unable to turn the car off or release the key from the ignition after shifting into park; some say repeatedly restarting and shifting in and out of drive was the only way to free it. A few report the car later struggling to start. Complaints say dealers identified the transmission park range switch or shifter plate, and that a warranty extension existed that some owners had already fallen outside of. Reported across a wide mileage range, generally from roughly 30,000 miles upward, often after several years of use.
What to check: Shift in and out of park and confirm the key releases cleanly every time. Ask the dealer whether the park range switch or any related warranty extension was applied to the car.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“I am having an issue with my key not being released from the ignition once the vehicle is put into park and turned off. I have researched this and it is a known issue caused by the shifter plate guide not being installed correctly at the factory on my vehicle model and can cost anywhere from $350-$450 to repair at a dealer. As this is a known factory issue I believe this should be covered under a recall by Subaru. It is not anything that I as an owner could prevent through regular maintenance. …”
NHTSA complaint #11374925, filed 2020-11, 135,000 miles“Key was stuck in the ignition and left me stranded unable to leave my car. I took the car to the Subaru dealership for them to assess and repair the issue. During this time the service desk confirmed it was a known issue with the CVT park range switch. They advised me that Subaru of America had done a warranty extension but that I was now outside of the time window for it to be covered. Upon further research this was an issue that was all over the Subaru forum boards with similar issues. …”
NHTSA complaint #11630054, filed 2024-12 - Air bags
Passenger airbag indicator switching off with someone seated
- 5 complaints (6%)
- median 93,500 mi at 6.5 yrs old (4 state mileage, few)
- filed 2019–2025
Owners report the front passenger airbag light switching to off while a passenger is sitting in the seat, sometimes on longer trips or in hot, humid conditions, and returning to normal later. Some complaints describe the occupant detection sensor as the cause, and one owner says a dealer called it common with no fix available. A separate report describes an airbag deploying at low speed with no impact. Reported from about 44,000 miles to over 130,000 miles, in all driving conditions.
What to check: With a passenger seated, watch the overhead airbag indicator for a while and confirm it stays on. Ask whether the occupant detection sensor has been checked or replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Overly sensitive front passenger airbag sensor. After working out side in the summer, the sweat from a passengers body will turn off the airbag, even if it wasn't much sweat. Dealer told me it was a common problem and there was no fix. Most summer days in texas I have no passenger airbags due to the sweat from walking to my car. Also airbag will turn on with as little as 2-5 lbs of pressure. These errors happen in all phases of driving.”
NHTSA complaint #11185483, filed 2019-03, 52,000 miles“The passenger side air bag shuts off after driving in the vehicle for 45 mins or more. The vehicle is still in motion when the air bag symbols on the dashboard signals it is now shut off. The passenger is still seated in the seat. The vehicle may be on city street or highway, it makes no difference.”
NHTSA complaint #11364532, filed 2020-10, 150,000 miles
Buying note. These are older vehicles now, so service history matters more than any single symptom: ask specifically about transmission work, the park range switch, and battery replacements. A thorough test drive that includes highway speed, a horn check, and a key-release check after parking will surface most of what owners describe.
Summary written with AI from a sample of 60 NHTSA complaints for this model year (picked at random, with complaints that state a mileage and recent ones taken first), then checked automatically against the source records. Where a problem shows a complaint count, every complaint for this model year was matched with fixed keyword rules (written with AI and tested against the sample), and the mileage, age and repair figures are calculated from those complaints; owners' figures are as stated, not verified. Other counts refer to the sample. The excerpts come from NHTSA's public complaint records and are unverified; capitalisation is normalised, NHTSA staff notes are removed, and shortened text ends with “…”. Something wrong? Request a correction.
NHTSA recorded 81 consumer complaints for the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek. 51 of the complaints include a mileage, and 49% of those were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the median is 50,000 miles. Of all complaints, 8 involved a crash, 1 a fire, 6 an injury, according to the filers. NHTSA lists 0 recall campaigns and 260 technical service bulletins for this model year. Compared with the other 2 Subaru XV Crosstrek model years that have at least 25 complaints and are old enough to compare, this one scores 35 out of 100, where 50 is a typical year for the model (fewer complaints than typical for this model). The comparison allows for the era and for how long each year has had to collect complaints, but not for how many vehicles were sold.
Which parts are reported most
Complaints can name more than one part, so the counts add up to more than the total. Select a part to see its complaints, recalls and bulletins.
- Electrical system20 25%
- Other or unknown14 17%
- Brakes11 14%
- Engine11 14%
- Air bags9 11%
- Steering7 8.6%
- Vehicle speed control5 6.2%
Also reported: Equipment (2), Exterior lighting (2), Fuel system (2), Seat belts (2), Seats (2), Body and structure (2), Hybrid propulsion system (1), Suspension (1).
Example complaints
Electrical system: “Battery does not hold a charge. My battery needs to be replaced for a second time since 2014. The first time it was only 2 or so years old (dealer replaced it under warranty). I've had this second battery for about the same amount of time (2 or so years). Each battery just slowly loses the ability to hold a charge until it dies. It doesn't matter if you drive it... You can hear the battery get weaker over a period each time you start it.”
NHTSA complaint #11208292, filed 2019-05, 12,000 milesOther or unknown: “I have experienced rough idling with my 2014 crosstrek limited for about a year. During this time my check oil light has come on twice. I brought my car into the dealership in fayetteville, ar where they began the oil consumption test process. Thus far the dealership has flushed my coolant and oil and replacing o-rings and valves, replaced more o-rings and my AC compressor, and completed four oil consumption tests each time I drove 1,200 miles and consumed 8oz oil (10.1oz is considered failing). …”
NHTSA complaint #11269132, filed 2019-10, 80,000 milesTransmission and drivetrain: “Subaru Xv Crosstrek axle failure I bought my 2014 Subaru Xv Crosstrek in jan 2014. At 50k heard a clicking sound in the frontend. Took it to the dealer and they diagnosed a broken driver side axle. In july 2019 (at approximately 80k on the odometer) I heard a similar clicking sound coming from the front of the car when turning. I took it to the dealer for a brake light switch recall. They inspected the vehicle and this time it was my right axle that had to be replaced. …”
NHTSA complaint #11234139, filed 2019-07, 50,000 milesBrakes: “I backed out of the garage and was in reverse with my foot on the brake pedal on the driveway waiting for the garage door to close. For some reason I changed the transmission from reverse to drive and started going forward. I hit the brakes and the car eventually stopped, but not before hitting the the garage door. I then put the selector rod in reverse. The car proceeded to roll down the driveway decline into the street. I tried to brake, but the brake pedal was depressed and the brakes would not engage. The car stopped only because I put the selector into drive. …”
NHTSA complaint #10714612, filed 2015-05, 2,461 milesMileage when problems were reported
49% of the 51 complaints with a mileage were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the middle half falls between 14,000 and 89,000 miles.
Complaints by year filed
Trend: falling. Complaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% lower than in the 3 years before.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek. Frontal results are shown driver / passenger; rollover shows the star rating and NHTSA's estimated risk of rolling over in a single-vehicle crash.
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Side pole | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XV Crosstrek · SUV AWD | ★★★★★ | 4 / 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 · 15.1% risk |
Neighbouring years: 2015: same overall rating. A redesign between years can change both the car and the test.
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (5-Star Safety Ratings), nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Fuel economy and running cost
EPA ratings for each 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek version. Annual fuel cost is the EPA's estimate at its current fuel prices for 15,000 miles a year (55% city driving).
| Version | Engine | Transmission | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XV Crosstrek AWD | 2.0L 4-cyl | CVT | 25 | 32 | 28 | $2,400 |
| XV Crosstrek AWD | 2.0L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | 23 | 29 | 25 | $2,700 |
Source: U.S. EPA and Department of Energy, fueleconomy.gov. Ratings are for comparing vehicles; real-world mileage varies with driving and conditions.
Recalls and investigations
NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek in the data used here. A recall can apply to some vehicles of a model year and not others, so check a specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Technical service bulletins
TSBs are manufacturer notes to dealers about known repair procedures. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault. 260 on record; the latest 10 are shown.
- 11037943Oct 5, 2026Electrical system, Other or unknown. This announcement provides information on a new software update for the Midtronics Dss and DCA machines.
- 11037940Sep 18, 2026Other or unknown. This bulletin provides paint code information for 2027 model year vehicles.
- 11037930Sep 15, 2026Other or unknown. This announcement provides an update to all 2027 model year Subaru warranty coverages for wear items and adjustments.
- 11037929Sep 14, 2026Electrical system, Other or unknown. This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure. This is an revised version of the original bulletin.
- 11037927Sep 14, 2026Electrical system. This bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic but essential information during diagnosis of Infotainment concerns. This is an revised version of the original bulletin.
- 11036807Aug 20, 2026Electrical system. This Service Information Bulletin outlines a systematic procedure for diagnosing parasitic draw (dark/standby current) in vehicles experiencing battery drain when the ignition is off, leading to…
- 11036796Aug 13, 2026Electrical system. This Bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic but essential information during diagnosis of Infotainment concerns. (This is an revised version of the original bulletin.)
- 11036794Aug 5, 2026Electrical system. Techtips newsletter locator index.
- 11036789Aug 1, 2026Electrical system. This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure. This is an revised version of the original bulletin
- 11034249Jun 12, 2026Other or unknown. This announcement is requesting retailer staff to retain the EyeSight protective hood covers from Generation 4 EyeSight cameras.
Other model years of the Subaru XV Crosstrek
| Year | Complaints | Median mi | Recalls | Crash ★ | MPG | Score (50 = typical) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 79 | 37,801 | 1 | 5 | 29 | 50 · Typical | Falling |
| 2014 | 81 | 50,000 | 0 | 5 | 28 | 35 · Fewer | Falling |
| 2013 | 98 | 66,000 | 2 | — | 28 | 57 · Typical | Falling |
All Subaru XV Crosstrek model years · Best and worst years by complaints
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common problems with the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek?
Owners of the 2014 XV Crosstrek most often describe electrical troubles — a horn that stops working or only works with the wheel turned, batteries that drain or fail early, and dash/lighting glitches — and a cluster of complaints about the key being stuck in the ignition after the car is put in park. The issues reported most often: Transmission lurching, warning lights, and loss of drive; Key stuck in ignition after parking; Passenger airbag indicator switching off with someone seated.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek have?
NHTSA recorded 81 consumer complaints for the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek as of Oct 29, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
What part of the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek is reported most often?
Electrical system is named most often, in 20 complaints (25% of the total), followed by other or unknown with 14.
Has the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek been recalled?
NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for this model year in the data used here. To check a specific vehicle, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
How did the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek do in NHTSA crash tests?
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings give the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek 5 out of 5 stars overall. Ratings from different model years are only comparable when the vehicle was not redesigned in between.
What gas mileage does the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek get?
The EPA rates the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek (XV Crosstrek AWD, 2.0L 4-cyl) at 28 mpg combined, 25 city and 32 highway, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $2,400 at 15,000 miles a year. Other engine and drive versions are rated differently.
At what mileage are problems with the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek reported?
Among the 51 complaints that include a mileage, the median is 50,000 miles and the middle half falls between 14,000 and 89,000 miles; 49% were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles.
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 29, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate. Crash ratings are from NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program. Fuel economy is from the EPA and DOE (fueleconomy.gov).
Complaint counts come from NHTSA’s public complaint database; we count each complaint once. The source records for this vehicle are on nhtsa.gov. Scores and trends are our own summaries of that data, described in the methodology. This page is not legal, safety or repair advice: for a specific vehicle, check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a qualified mechanic. See an error? Tell us.