The compact crossover that actually goes off-road
The XV (known as Crosstrek in the US) is Subaru's compact crossover, slotting below the Forester. It stands out in a crowded segment by offering permanent symmetrical all-wheel drive as standard, appealing to outdoor-lifestyle buyers who want genuine off-road capability without a full-size SUV. It competes with the Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Karoq.
We track 5 known issues across the Subaru XV range, with 2 classified as significant. Knowing which variants and configurations to approach with caution can save you from expensive surprises after purchase.
Found a Subaru XV? Enter the reg to see which of our 5 known issues apply to that exact car, plus full MOT history and mileage checks.
GP7 (2011–2017) — Petrol options included the 1.6 FB16, 2.0 FB20, 2.0 FB20X, with 2.0 N4D EE20 on the diesel side. We track 5 known issues on this generation, with 2 classified as significant. The most significant concern is Wheel bearing wear (£200–£350 to address).
GT (2017–2023) — Engine options included the 1.6 FB16, 2.0 FB20. We track 4 known issues on this generation, with 2 classified as significant. The most significant concern is Wheel bearing wear (£200–£350 to address).
Both 2.0-litre petrol and diesel XV variants show wheel bearing failure rates up to 6.1 times higher than the fleet average. The issue typically affects front wheel bearings between 40k-100k miles. This may be related to the additional weight and different loading characteristics of the boxer engine layout combined with the XV's higher ride height and longer suspension travel.
A collapsed wheel bearing can cause the wheel to seize or detach from the hub, creating a serious safety hazard. Early intervention when noise first appears prevents more expensive hub damage. Complete bearing failure requires immediate roadside recovery.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
Subaru's Lineartronic CVT transmission used across the XV range can develop hesitation and juddering issues at higher mileages. The steel chain and pulleys are sensitive to fluid condition and can develop slip or harsh engagement if the transmission fluid is not changed regularly. This is documented across Subaru forums as a common issue that often requires complete transmission replacement if neglected.
CVT transmission failure typically requires complete unit replacement costing £3000-5000. Early intervention with fluid changes and software updates may extend service life. A failed CVT leaves the car immobile and requires recovery.
Test the automatic gearbox extensively in slow traffic, car parks and on hill starts. Feel for any juddering, hesitation or clunking during gear changes. Try repeated low-speed manoeuvres as this is where problems are most apparent.
The XV shows significantly higher rates of suspension component wear than the fleet average, particularly affecting bushes and ball joints. MOT data shows failure rates up to 13.2 times the national average on diesel variants at higher mileages. The issue is most pronounced on the rear trailing arm bushes and front lower ball joints. This appears to be related to the XV's higher ride height and longer suspension travel compared to standard Impreza models.
Worn suspension components affect handling precision and tyre wear patterns. Ball joint failure can cause loss of steering control. Most wear items can be replaced individually as they fail, typically costing £150-400 per corner depending on the specific component.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
This suggests either softer pad compounds or more aggressive initial bedding-in requirements. The issue is most pronounced on 1.6-litre variants in the 0-20k mile range, which is unusually early for brake pad replacement.
Worn brake pads reduce stopping distances and can score the brake discs if allowed to wear to the metal backing. Pad replacement is routine maintenance but the frequency may be higher than expected on XV models. Scored discs require replacement alongside pads.
Check brake disc condition for lipping or scoring. Test braking at moderate speed for pulling to one side or vibration through the steering wheel. Review MOT advisories for brake-related items.
Diesel XV models show exhaust failure rates 4.5 times higher than average, particularly affecting cars in the 20-40k mile range. This early failure pattern is unusual and may be related to condensation issues from short journey patterns not allowing the exhaust system to reach full operating temperature. The diesel particulate filter regeneration cycles may also contribute to thermal cycling stress.
Exhaust system leaks reduce engine efficiency and can allow dangerous gases to enter the cabin. MOT failure is likely if leaks are significant. Complete exhaust system replacement on diesel models can be expensive due to the integrated DPF and catalytic converter sections.
Check for any engine warning lights on the dashboard. Ask about the car's MOT emissions history — repeated failures suggest underlying issues. A pre-purchase diagnostic scan is especially worthwhile to check for stored emissions fault codes.
For the full breakdown of all 5 tracked issues with repair costs, see the Subaru XV common problems page.
Based on 29k real DVSA MOT tests, the Subaru XV fails more often than average on several items. The biggest outlier is stop lamp with a multiple light source up to 1/... at 19x the fleet average, followed by suspension pin, bush or joint worn (13x).
When viewing a specific car, check its MOT history for recurring advisories in these categories. See the full Subaru XV MOT failure breakdown for data at every mileage point.
Routine servicing (oil and filter change every 10k miles) typically costs £80–£120 at an independent garage.
The bigger-ticket items to budget for include cvt transmission fluid (£200–£300).
See the full Subaru XV service schedule for every interval and cost breakdown.
The Subaru XV is a reasonable used buy provided you check for the issues outlined above. None of the problems we track are insurmountable, but they do reward buyers who inspect thoroughly and verify the service history before committing. 2020-2021 second-generation models hit the reliability sweet spot with zero or minimal NHTSA recalls. Avoid the 2019 model year which had head gasket issues and higher complaint rates. The 2018 second-gen launch cars also had windshield cracking and electrical niggles.
Before committing, check the car's full MOT history, verify the service record is complete, and if possible arrange a specialist inspection. Enter any registration into our free report to see the complete picture.
Get Car Wise maintains a database of known mechanical issues for every popular car on UK roads, tracking the faults that owners, specialists and DVSA data reveal.
When you run a report on a specific Subaru XV, we cross-reference the exact variant, engine and age against our database of 5 known issues. Combined with full MOT history analysis, mileage verification and DVLA data, you get a complete picture before viewing.
Enter the registration for MOT history, mileage verification, known faults for that exact variant, and a Get Car Wise Score.
This guide was compiled from independent expert reviews, DVSA MOT data, specialist workshops and our own database of 5 known Subaru XV issues. We are not affiliated with any source listed.