YearToAvoid

2019 Subaru Crosstrek Engine Problems

NHTSA lists 42 engine complaints for the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 15% of all complaints filed for the year. A related PCV valve recall (19V856000) covers the engine, and reported failures include stalling, unintended acceleration, and rough running at a median 9,771 miles.

Engine complaints
42
15% of 284
Crashes reported
3
Fires reported
1
Injuries reported
3
Median mileage
9,771 mi
Related recalls
1

Typical engine symptoms owners report

  • Owners report sudden unintended acceleration in parking lots or garages, in some cases ending in a crash.
  • Some drivers describe the engine stalling or shutting off unexpectedly while slowing to a stop, with dashboard warnings telling them to shift to park.
  • Several complaints describe hesitation or stumbling on acceleration, with the car failing to respond smoothly to the gas pedal at low speeds.
  • One owner reported metal particles appearing in the engine oil along with a noticeable drop in fuel economy and engine power.
  • A driver reported engine stalling and visible smoke from the hood shortly after a dealer performed a related recall repair, tied to a coil pack issue.

When 2019 Subaru Crosstrek engine complaints were filed

First complaint Mar 4, 2019, latest Aug 4, 2026.

2019 Subaru Crosstrek engine complaints: complaints filed per month2Mar 2019Jan 2020Jul 2020Jun 2021Jun 2022Nov 2024Dec 2025
42 complaints filed with NHTSA from Mar 2019 to Aug 2026; peak Dec 2019 (2).

Engine recalls for the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek

  1. NHTSA 19V856000Dec 2, 2019Engine51,613 vehicles

    Engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:emission control:crankcase (pcv)

    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent vehicles. The aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can separate, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, resulting in a loss of power while driving.

    Risk: An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.

    Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the PCV valve, free of charge. If the PCV valve has separated and the components cannot be found, the short block engine will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began January 31, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUW-08.

Engine complaints by Crosstrek model year

Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.

  1. 20122 (100%)
  2. 201312 (46%)
  3. 20143 (19%)
  4. 20156 (35%)
  5. 201620 (15%)
  6. 201713 (14%)
  7. 201842 (22%)
  8. 201942 (15%)
  9. 20207 (10%)
  10. 202119 (17%)
  11. 20225 (16%)
  12. 20236 (18%)
  13. 202411 (9%)
  14. 20250 (0%)

Frequently asked questions

How many engine complaints does NHTSA have for the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek?
NHTSA lists 42 engine-related complaints for the 2019 Crosstrek, which is 15% of the 284 total complaints filed for that model year.
Is there an engine recall for the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek?
Yes. Recall 19V856000, reported December 2, 2019, covers a PCV valve that can separate and allow parts to enter the engine on 2019 Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent vehicles. Dealers inspect and replace the PCV valve free of charge.
At what mileage do engine problems typically show up?
The median mileage at failure for engine complaints on the 2019 Crosstrek is 9,771 miles.
Do the engine complaints involve crashes or fires?
Yes. Among the 42 engine complaints, NHTSA records 3 crashes, 1 fire, and 3 injuries.
How does 2019 compare to other Crosstrek model years for engine complaints?
The 2019 Crosstrek's engine complaint share is 15%, lower than 2018 at 22% but similar to 2021 at 17%, based on NHTSA's year-by-year data.

Sources: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation complaint and recall databases; U.S. EPA fuel economy data; NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Complaints are unverified owner reports.

Data updated Sep 24, 2026. Read the methodology and data sources. The Complaint Index is based on NHTSA owner complaints and recalls; it is not a reliability rating.