5 Tips to Find a First-Class Example of a Second-Hand 2018-2023 Subaru Crosstrek
Published Sep 16, 2023 • Last updated 11 hours ago • 6 minute read
The second-generation Subaru Crosstrek arrived in North America for model-year 2018 with an all-new look and platform, a new 2.0L engine, a new six-speed manual transmission as standard equipment, and a variety of upgrades to the AWD system and driver-assistance packages. The second-generation Crosstrek ran a new multimedia system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard from 2018 as well.
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This generation of the Crosstrek rode a longer wheelbase, which provided more room in the cabin. Rear legroom measures in at 927 mm (36.5 inches), a 28-mm (1.1-inch) gain over its predecessor. Brand loyalty tends to be strong among Subaru owners, and if you’re considering making the upgrade to this second-generation Crosstrek from a first-generation machine, you’ll find a few notable differences. Cargo volume with the seats folded flat, for instance, is 6.5 per cent better in the 2018 Crosstrek, but cargo volume with the seats up drops by 7 per cent. Still, the overall available floor length in either seating configuration remains virtually identical.
On wheelbase, width, and both front- and rear-track measurements, the 2018+ Crosstrek grows by some 2-3 centimetres (roughly an inch) in each dimension.
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Under the hood, look for a 2.0L flat four-cylinder engine with horsepower and torque pegged at 152 and 145, respectively. Transmission choices included a manual six-speed or continuously variable transmission (CVT). Compared to the previous-generation Crosstrek, fuel economy is similar. Key competitors include the Honda HR-V, Volkswagen Taos, Jeep Renegade, Mazda CX-3, and Chevrolet Trax.
Follow the links below for additional features, news, reviews, and specifications on the Subaru Crosstrek, and read on for five tips to help make sure you find the best used model possible for your dollar.
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Model-year changes
The Subaru Crosstrek’s second generation spanned six model years, with a small number of notable updates applied during that period. For 2019, no major changes were applied other than updated infotainment system software that helped ensure smoother operation. For the 2021 model year, a larger 2.5-litre four-cylinder boxer engine became available, offering shoppers a boost of 30 horsepower versus the basic 2.0L unit. The more rugged ‘Outdoor’ version of the Crosstrek launched for 2021 as well, and included the 2.5-litre engine as standard. The front grille also got a redesign, and wheel designs were refined. A heated steering wheel became standard on Touring and Sport models, too.
Second-generation Crosstrek launched in 2018. Improved infotainment software applied for 2019. 2.5-litre engine option and Outdoor trim arrive for 2021. New grille and wheel designs added for 2021.
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Caring for the transmission fluid and engine oil
Check the engine oil according to the instructions in the owner’s manual. Ensure the vehicle hasn’t been driven or pre-warmed just before your arrival. If it has been, turn the engine off for at least 5 minutes before checking the oil level. When checking the oil, note the level and condition, and ask the seller to prove that they were consistent with oil changes by providing service records or receipts. According to the Crosstrek’s owner’s manual, engine oil consumption can be affected by factors such as transmission type, driving style, terrain, and temperature. Oil consumption can increased under a wide range of conditions, requiring a level check and possible top-off at every second fuel fill. Hard driving, engine braking, towing, long idle periods, and use in heavy traffic can all increase oil consumption, according to the manual. If the oil consumption rate is greater than expected, it is advised to contact an authorized dealer for a further test.
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To summarize, checking your oil religiously and reporting any accelerated consumption to your dealership as soon as possible is an excellent idea.
According to the owner’s manual, there is no need to check or change the fluid in either of the Crosstrek’s available transmissions. Still, transmission inspections and fluid inspections are recommended in the maintenance schedule. Some owners choose to change their transmission fluid regularly, perhaps every 50,000 kilometers. Though not required, this can help extend the life of the transmission. Note that use of improper fluid to refill the transmission can result in damage or wear that’s not covered by warranty. If you choose to have the transmission fluid in your Crosstrek changed, always have this work performed in a dealer setting.
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Check the oil on the used Crosstrek and ensure the CVT has been maintained. Oil consumption can be affected by driving style, terrain, locale, and temperature. Hard driving, engine braking, towing, and heavy traffic can increase oil consumption. Inspections are recommended, but changing fluid is not required.
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Head unit problems
According to internet queries and dialogue, some owners have experienced several issues with the Subaru Crosstrek’s infotainment system, especially on 2018 model year units; most have not. In various owner discussions, trouble signs to look out for include static noises from the front dashboard speaker even when the car is off, an infotainment screen that goes blank when receiving an incoming call, a system that randomly crashes at startup, washed-out colors in the display, Bluetooth connections that drop, and random system reboots.
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In some cases, owners say several dealer visits were required to remedy these issues acceptably. While carefully checking the Crosstrek’s infotainment system on your test drive, be sure the backup camera works as expected when reversing, and confirm that all built-in navigation mapping software is up to date. Confirm an adequate number of charging ports and power points as well, confirming that each works as expected. Head unit problems seem most common on model-year 2018 units. Check for crashing, lagging, and poor color output from the display. Confirm all built-in map software is up to date. Confirm proper operation from the backup camera.
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Automatic start-stop and battery
Some owners have reported sluggish operation, slow restarts, error messages, and non-functionality of the Crosstrek’s automatic start-stop system; most have not.
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The system restarts the Crosstrek’s engine when the driver releases the brakes, which reduces wasteful idling. The engine should restart quickly in fractions of a second, and be up and running by time your foot moves from the brake back to the accelerator. Note that the system is automatically disabled in certain situations; your owner’s manual has the scoop. If the engine is slow to restart, fails to restart, or restarts with a warning light or error message, have the vehicle seen by a technician before you buy. In most discussions, problems like these tend to appear at 2-4 years old and are commonly the result of a weak or dying battery. Leaky batteries can cause multiple problems. Clean terminals and trickle-charge dormant batteries regularly. Battery should only be serviced by a professional.
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