2021 Subaru Crosstrek
Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Subaru Crosstrek.
For oil changes, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek takes 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 4.4 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 3, the recommended coolant is Super Long Life Coolant (Blue), and transmission fluid is Subaru ATF. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.
When mounting wheels on the Subaru Crosstrek, torque the lug nuts to 89 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.
Owners of the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek have reported 5 common issues including "Excessive Engine Noise Under Acceleration", "Front Strut Mount Surface Rust" and "Brake Pedal Squeaking". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.
There is 1 NHTSA safety recall on file for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. Check the Recalls tab below for full details.
Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek uses 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil (4.4 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 89 ft-lbs, takes DOT 3 brake fluid.
Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.
Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek.
Common problems reported by 2021 Subaru Crosstrek owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.
Excessive Engine Noise Under Acceleration
The 2.0L FB20 boxer engine produces an excessively loud droning and buzzing noise when accelerating from a stop or when the pedal is pressed harder. The CVT holds the engine at high RPM to extract power from the underpowered base engine, amplifying the noise.
This is largely a design characteristic of the 2.0L engine and CVT pairing. Upgrading to the 2.5L engine (available on Sport and Limited trims) significantly reduces the issue. Sound deadening material can help reduce cabin noise.
Est. Cost: $100 - $400 (sound deadening)Front Strut Mount Surface Rust
Surface rust accumulates in the top center retaining nut area of the front strut mounts, causing a creaking or popping noise when turning the steering wheel or driving over bumps. The corrosion can eventually compromise the strut mount integrity.
A Subaru TSB provides a procedure to clean the rust and apply corrosion protection to the strut mount area. In advanced cases, the strut mount assemblies require replacement.
Est. Cost: $100 - $500Brake Pedal Squeaking
The brake pedal emits a squeaking or creaking sound during operation, particularly noticeable in quiet driving conditions. The noise originates from the brake pedal pivot point and is cosmetic rather than a braking performance issue.
A Subaru TSB addresses this by lubricating the brake pedal pivot bushing. In some cases, the pedal assembly bushings are replaced. The repair is typically straightforward.
Est. Cost: $0 - $150Catalytic Converter Efficiency Code P0420
The check engine light illuminates with DTC P0420 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1), indicating reduced catalytic converter efficiency. This may occur before 100,000 miles and can cause emission test failures.
A Subaru TSB provides diagnostic procedures for this DTC. ECM reprogramming may resolve false triggers. If the catalytic converter has genuinely degraded, replacement under the federal emissions warranty (8 years/80,000 miles) may apply.
Est. Cost: $0 (warranty) / $1,000 - $2,500 if out of warrantyWindshield Cracking from Minor Impacts
The windshield is prone to cracking from minor stone chips that would not damage windshields on other vehicles. Cracks spread quickly and often originate near the EyeSight camera housings at the top of the windshield.
Windshield replacement with an OEM Subaru windshield is required. Aftermarket windshields may interfere with EyeSight calibration. EyeSight recalibration is mandatory after windshield replacement.
Est. Cost: $500 - $1,200 (includes EyeSight recalibration)1 NHTSA safety recall for the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.