2016 Subaru Crosstrek: sudden loss of power

Filed Sep 6, 2024 · VA

Our 2016 Subaru Crosstrek (Automatic Transmission) has had intermittent issues with it losing power despite our foot being on the accelerator. It will typically reengage if we take our foot off the accelerator for a bit and then hit the gas again. However, it has become a more frequent problem and feels increasingly unsafe to drive, particularly with our 2 small children in the car, because it loses power without warning so it leaves us vulnerable for being rear-ended while changing lanes, taking turns, etc. We have been working with our local dealership (Beyer Subaru in Alexandria, VA) to address the issue, but they have only been able to replicate the issue once in a 4-week period and they have not been able to document it. The one time they were able to replicate the problem the car was not hooked up to any computer/system. I have found this forum that documents similar problems with Crosstreks - [XXX] , as well as a Service Bulletin which references a similar issue in 2018-21MY Crosstrek 2.0L MT - While the 2nd does refer specifically to Manual Transmissions, I feel like this is indicative of a trend that is not being acknowledged for other Model Year's and transmission types, but presents a serious safety issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Oct 30, 2022 · Engine · MN

My friend and I drove from Minneapolis to Duluth for a two-day short trip (Oct 20 - 21, 2022). On our way back, my car suddenly slowed down (from 70 m/h to 40 m/h and was non-responsive), and shut down completely at the intersection between Highway I-35 W and Lino Lake, MN 55038, about 30 miles away from TC around 8:30 pm, Friday night. And then I cannot start my car at all. Originally I thought it was the gas issue but the screen indicated there were at least 100miles to drive. Therefore, I called 911 right after (see EXHIBIT 1) and asked for help as well as Subaru roadside service (see EXHIBIT 2 ). Fortunately, my car stopped at the shoulders and we were not involved in a crash. This happened three days AFTER I had my car maintenance (Oct 17 at 10:15 am, Morrie's Minnetonka Subaru, 12520 Wayzata Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55305), and according to the report from that maintenance, the car was functioning well and had no red flag (see EXHIBIT 3). My car is currently located at Morrie's Minnetonka Subaru for further inspection. However, as far as I know so far (from the dealership mechanics), they have no clue what happened and they need to ask for additional help to figure out why the car engine suddenly lost power. In addition, I saw this is not a solo accident, many other Subaru Crosstrek Owners have encountered similar situations (i.e., lost power completely on the highway or freeway after regular car maintenance). Please see EXHIBIT 4 for detailed information.

Filed Mar 4, 2020 · Transmission · 43,000 miles · MD · crash

Subaru crosstrek 2016 car has had power train failure 3 times. The latest caused a rear end collision into my car on 2/28/2020. Vehicle lost power while traveling approx 35 MPH although the engine remained on and power steering also worked. Car was in drive but no power to the wheels. Rear ended by a honda SUV while drifting to side of road. Luckily no injuries...about $1500 worth of damage to honda SUV. No real damage to the rear of my car. Has been to the dealer twice but no trouble codes or diagnostic information. Vehicle is under warranty. Seems to be a mystery problem and the dealer has no solution at present. Trying to get a response from subaru. Symptoms are the same for all three failures. Police report number available upon request.

Filed Feb 10, 2020 · Transmission · 47,500 miles · RI

This is the second incident. The first, I did not report, but was identical in occurrence. While driving in the high speed lane of a major interstate highway @ approx. 70mph, the car suddenly lost acceleration and power, as if to be in neutral. The gear shift was not jarred, my foot was not on the brake, this was not operator error. The car slowly lost speed as pressing accelerator only revved the engine with no results. I immediately pressed the hazards and my indicator to move to the right shoulder of the highway. Thankfully arriving there safely although other vehicles on the highway were required to react. Upon getting to the shoulder, I shut off the car, and turned it back on. Accelerator works as it should and I was luckily leaving the highway at the next exit. The first incident was approximately 4 months ago. I reported it to my dealer who was repairing a brake light recall, the service manager laughed it off as operator error. I assure you it was not. In hindsight, this could be a far more tragic scenario having your car losing power without notice on a highway. All power steering and indicators on the dash were unaffected, only the ability to accelerate.

Filed Dec 12, 2019 · Brakes, Electrical · 65,000 miles · OH

The vehicle was losing power and getting close to the point of stalling but never stalled. It would periodically not switch gears as well. Seems like it could have been a faulty brake light switch. Apparently I was told that my vehicle was not covered under the recall put out earlier for this issue. So I had to pay out of pocket.