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Model year record

2026 Subaru Crosstrek recalls & problems

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek has 1 safety recall and 11 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is unknown or other (3 complaints).

Recalls1safety recalls
Complaints11filed by owners
Crashes · fires1 · 0reported in complaints
NHTSA overall5 ★crash-test stars
2026 Subaru Crosstrek in an NHTSA crash test
NHTSA crash test

1 recall for this model year carries an NHTSA do not drive advisory. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Safety recalls

SuspensionOct 19, 2026

Front › Control arm › Lower ball joint

Recall 26V6850008 vehicles

NHTSA advisory: do not drive affected vehicles until repaired.

Problem
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2026 Crosstrek and Forester vehicles. The castle nut on the left-front lower control arm ball joint may be improperly fastened, which can lead to the ball joint separating from the lower control arm.
Risk
A ball joint that separates from the lower control arm can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and replace the left-front lower control arm ball joint assembly, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 16, 2026. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRI26.

Recall repairs are free at any authorised dealer. A recall listed here may already have been fixed on a particular car: enter its 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see open recalls.

Crash test ratings

2026 SUBARU CROSSTREK SW N/A AWD

Overall★★★★★
Frontal crash★★★★★
Side crash★★★★★
Rollover★★★★★
Rollover risk16.4%

Forward collision warning: Standard · Lane departure warning: Standard

2026 SUBARU CROSSTREK WILDERNESS SW N/A AWD

OverallNot Rated
Frontal crash★★★★★
Side crash★★★★★
RolloverNot Rated

Forward collision warning: Standard · Lane departure warning: Standard

2026 Subaru Crosstrek NHTSA side crash test
NHTSA side barrier crash test

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings (New Car Assessment Program). Ratings are comparable only between vehicles of similar size and weight, and ratings from 2011 on use tougher tests than earlier years. Photos: NHTSA.

Fuel economy

Crosstrek AWD

29mpg combined
City / highway26 / 33 mpg
FuelRegular Gasoline

2.5 L · 4 cyl · Automatic (AV-S8) · All-Wheel Drive · about $2,300/year to fuel

Crosstrek Wilderness AWD

26mpg combined
City / highway24 / 29 mpg
FuelRegular Gasoline

2.5 L · 4 cyl · Automatic (AV-S8) · All-Wheel Drive · about $2,600/year to fuel

EPA estimates from fueleconomy.gov for each engine and transmission sold. Annual cost is the EPA's estimate for 15,000 miles a year at its current fuel and electricity price assumptions. Your results will vary.

What owners report

Problem areaComplaintsCrashesFiresInjuriesTypical mileage*
Unknown or other3000—
Lane departureBlind spot detection; Assist2000—
Forward collision avoidanceAutomatic emergency braking; Warnings2000—
Vehicle speed control2101—
Electrical system2000—
Seat belts1000—
Steering1101—
Service brakes1101—
Engine1000—
Exterior lighting1000—
StructureBody1000—

*Median odometer reading when the problem happened, where owners gave one. One complaint can name several problem areas.

Recent owner complaints

Owner complaints are submitted to NHTSA by the public and are not verified. Shown as filed (NHTSA removes personal details); long reports are shortened.