Subaru / XV Crosstrek / 2014
2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek problems
Owners have filed 114 complaints about the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek with NHTSA. Electrical system accounts for 17.5% of them — the clear leader, ahead of power train at 11.4%.
Complaints114
Crashes13
Fires2
Injuries8
Deaths0
What owners report breaking
Electrical system 17.5% · 20
Unknown or other 12.3% · 14
Power train 11.4% · 13
Air bags 10.5% · 12
Service brakes 9.6% · 11
Engine 9.6% · 11
Steering 6.1% · 7
Vehicle speed control 4.4% · 5
Severity
Of those complaints, 13 describe a crash, 2 describe a fire and 8 report an injury.
Reading the numbers
Across the 3 model years of the Subaru XV Crosstrek in this data, 2014 ranks 2nd by complaint volume — 2013 draws the most.
Filings have fallen off, 20 in the last three years against 32 in the three before. The issues here may already have been addressed.
The median odometer reading at the time of complaint was 52,000 miles.
In owners' own words
The electrical system and engine flickers on and off or sometimes dies entirely. The trigger is unknown and the underlying cause is unknown. It is unsafe because this has occurred while the vehicle is moving. The problem was confirmed and reproduced by a Subaru service center. They were unable to diagnose the issue. There is no warning when it will happen. Electrical system
The low beam headlights occasionally fail to work at night when the vehicle is in motion on city streets and highways, even though the switch is on. The car has running lights that function at all times. On the one hand, the combination allows other drivers to see us. On the other hand, it makes it barely possible for us to see lane marks and pedestrians. Electrical system · reported at 10 miles
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2014 Subaru Crosstrek on May 22, 2026. The sale was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was recorded at 77,441. The contact later purchased a CARFAX report which was reported at 214,767 in February 2026. The contact reported the information to the local authorities. Electrical system · reported at 77,441 miles
Verbatim from NHTSA filings. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Safety recalls
Checking NHTSA for open recalls…