Subaru Crosstrek
World's first boxer diesel — technically fascinating, acoustically disappointing. No boxer rumble like the petrol: sounds like a regular diesel with shifting ECU injection noises that vary day to day. Crankshaft failure on 2008-2010 from stress risers in the aluminum block next to steel inserts — Subaru revised the crankshaft three times (12200AA380→AA381→AA480) without ever issuing a recall. DPF clogs on short trips, oil dilution from post-injection during active regen — ECU only estimates dilution, doesn't measure it. 2012+ (XV/Forester SJ) largely free of crank issues. 2015+ (Euro 6) almost trouble-free. Liqui Moly diesel additive lowers regen temperature per community. Timing belt every 100k km mandatory.
Diesel Crosstrek — the last Subaru diesel
150 hp boxer diesel in the Crosstrek: from 2013 with improved EE20, crankshaft issues mostly resolved. DPF remains short-trip risk. The last Subaru with a diesel option.
Engine Weaknesses 4
Diesel particulate filter clogs with predominantly short-trip driving — regeneration doesn't initiate. Check engine light, power loss, forced dealer regeneration.
Symptoms: Check engine light, power loss, increased consumption, DPF warning light
Frequent DPF regeneration injects diesel into the oil — oil level rises, viscosity drops. Accelerated wear if not changed in time.
Symptoms: Oil level above max, diesel smell on dipstick, thin oil
HPFP failure causes cold start difficulties and misfires. Expensive part due to boxer installation position.
Symptoms: Cold start difficulties, misfires, check engine light
Glow plugs fail, especially on older examples. Poor cold start, increased emissions.
Symptoms: Poor cold start, white smoke on startup, glow plug warning light
Vehicle Weaknesses 3
Recall WQK-47 also covers Crosstrek GP through 2014: steel brake lines corrode from road salt splash. Safety critical in salt regions.
Recall WUE-90: silicon dioxide deposits on switch contact prevent brake lights from illuminating. Keyless vehicles won't start; CVT cannot shift out of Park.
Known issue on 2013–2014 XV Crosstrek: rear wheel bearings fail prematurely (some below 45,000 miles). TSB links cause to non-flat backing plates. Multiple failures possible.
