Dealer visit checklist
2019 Subaru Crosstrek checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
This is a year to avoid
- • 2.3x more owner complaints than nearby model years
- • 3.5x more recalls than nearby model years
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2019 Subaru Crosstrek problems to check
- Oil consumption between changes — the 2.0L FB20 engine can burn up to 1 quart per 1,200 miles on some units; check dipstick regularly and ask for oil consumption test records
- CVT transmission hesitation or shudder, particularly noticeable at low speeds; Subaru extended the CVT warranty to 100,000 miles on affected models so verify coverage status
- Head gasket seepage is a known long-term Subaru 2.0L concern — not typically catastrophic at this mileage but worth inspecting coolant condition and checking for white exhaust at a pre-purchase inspection
- Windshield stress cracks are disproportionately common due to the steeply raked angle; replacement costs $400-$700 and EyeSight recalibration adds $150-$250 on top
- Infotainment system (Starlink) can be sluggish and may require periodic software updates; not a costly repair but a known annoyance
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR: Subaru of America, Inc.
- SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER: Subaru of America, Inc.
- STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM: Subaru of America, Inc.
- SUSPENSION:REAR: Subaru of America, Inc.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE: Subaru of America, Inc.
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV): Subaru of America, Inc.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE: Subaru of America, Inc.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $17,500 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away