Used Car Checklists

2026 Subaru Crosstrek: What to check before buying

Only 1 owner complaint is on file with NHTSA for this car, so this sheet is short. Problems reported on neighboring Crosstrek years are listed below the checklist.

Subaru Crosstrek2026
Owner complaints
1
Recalls
0
Crashes reported
0
Reliability
Excellent
94/100 on Auto Reliability Index

Run the VIN before you go

A history report shows accidents, title brands, odometer readings, and open recalls for this 2026 Subaru Crosstrek. Ask the seller for the VIN; it is also on the dash at the base of the windshield.

Your inspection sheet

Tick items off on your phone at the car, or print it. Ticks stay on this device.

0/3 checked

1

Paperwork and questions

Before you go, or before you touch the car0/1

2

Walk-around and cabin

Engine off, key in hand0/2

These checks are specific to this model year. For tires, body panels, fluids, and the other basics every used car needs, use the general inspection guide.

Reported on neighboring Crosstrek years

Few owners have reported problems with this year yet. Nearby years usually share most parts, so their problems are worth checking on this car too.

2025 Crosstrek

25 owner complaints
  • Wipers and visibility 7
  • Electrical 5
  • Airbags 2

Worth adding to your 2026 checks

  • Drive above 60 mph and watch the driver-side mirror for vibration or a blurred image.
  • Ask for service records showing Service Bulletin #12-268-25 mirror work and any repeat visits for the same problem.
  • Seat a light adult in the front passenger seat and confirm the passenger airbag indicator shows on.
Open the 2025 checklist

2024 Crosstrek

95 owner complaints
  • Wipers and visibility 16
  • Exterior lights 13
  • Steering 9

Worth adding to your 2026 checks

  • Drive above 50 mph and check whether the driver's side mirror image blurs from vibration.
  • On a warm drive of 30 to 60 minutes above 50 mph, feel for steering that sticks at center then releases.
  • Test-drive at night on a hilly road and judge low-beam reach and moving shadows in the beam.
Open the 2024 checklist

Which Crosstrek is it?

EPA figures for each version of the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek. Use them to confirm you are looking at the version that was advertised, and as a yardstick on the test drive.

VersionDriveEPA rating
2.5L 4-cylGasAWD29 mpg
2.5L 4-cylHybridAWD36 mpg
  • The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek was sold in two versions. Confirm which one this is from the window sticker, the engine cover, or the VIN report before you compare prices.
  • On the hybrid, watch for the car moving off on electric power at low speed and for any hybrid system warning on the dash.
  • Reset the trip computer at the start of the drive. A Crosstrek that averages well under the EPA 29 mpg combined on a mixed route may have an engine or tire problem.

Also looking at these instead of a Crosstrek?

Cars shoppers compare with the Subaru Crosstrek, with their own 2026 checklists.

2026 owner complaints, side by side