How many miles will a 2013 Subaru Crosstrek last?
Realistically, a well-maintained 2013 Crosstrek can reach 200,000 miles or more, with many examples in the 200k–250k range and some reported beyond 300k.
What affects the Crosstrek's lifespan
Longevity depends on maintenance habits, driving conditions, and the vehicle’s history. Subaru’s compact crossover is built for durability, but how far it goes is largely shaped by upkeep, climate, and how aggressively it’s driven over time.
Key longevity factors include:
- Maintenance discipline: sticking to the recommended service schedule, using quality oil and parts, and addressing issues promptly typically yields longer life.
- Transmission care: the CVT used in most 2013 Crosstreks requires regular fluid checks and changes per the owner's manual to avoid early wear.
- Engine and cooling system: regular inspection of the cooling system, water pump, hoses, and thermostat helps prevent overheating and undue stress on the engine.
- Wear items and corrosion protection: brakes, tires, suspension components, and underbody protection can influence overall lifespan if neglected, especially in harsh climates.
- Usage patterns: highway driving and long trips tend to be gentler on the engine than frequent short trips or heavy off-road use.
With disciplined maintenance and careful driving, a 2013 Crosstrek can reach high mileage, while neglect can accelerate wear on the drivetrain and related components.
Expected lifespans by component
Here’s a practical look at typical mileage ranges for major systems in a 2013 Crosstrek, based on owner experiences and service guidance. These are not guarantees, but they reflect common patterns when the car has been well cared for.
- Engine and drivetrain: about 200,000–250,000 miles is common, with some examples surpassing 300,000 miles with consistent maintenance.
- CVT transmission: roughly 150,000–250,000 miles is possible with regular fluid changes and maintenance; failures typically occur earlier if neglected.
- All-wheel-drive system and differentials: these can last well beyond 200,000 miles with routine service and inspections, though bearings and seals may require attention over time.
In short, durable performance is achievable across these systems when cared for, though results vary by history and usage.
Maintenance tips to maximize life
To push the odometer higher, follow proactive maintenance and address issues before they become major failures.
- Follow the owner's manual for oil changes, using the recommended viscosity and quality synthetic oils; many owners aim for intervals around 5,000–7,500 miles depending on driving conditions.
- Maintain the CVT with scheduled fluid inspections and changes; monitor for slipping, unusual noises, or overheating, and service promptly if signs appear.
- Keep the cooling system in good shape: flush coolant as recommended, replace the thermostat, hoses, and water pump as preventive maintenance or if symptoms arise.
- Schedule timely spark plug replacements (often around 100,000 miles for Subaru’s 2.0L engines) and inspect ignition components for wear.
- Inspect and service the braking system, tires, and suspension to prevent uneven wear or component failure that can affect safety and longevity.
- Address rust and underbody corrosion, especially in salted winter conditions or humid coastal areas; protect vulnerable areas and treat undercarriage surfaces.
Adhering to these practices helps maximize the Crosstrek’s lifespan and reliability over time.
What to look for when buying a used 2013 Crosstrek
If you’re shopping for a used Crosstrek from this generation, prioritize the maintenance history and any recent service, especially around the CVT, cooling system, and engine health. A well-documented vehicle with up-to-date recalls addressed is more likely to reach high mileages in the long run.
Key checks to consider include:
- Comprehensive maintenance records showing oil changes, CVT service, and cooling system work.
- Evidence of oil leaks, coolant leaks, or unusual noises during test drives.
- Confirmation that all applicable recalls and service campaigns have been completed by the previous owner or dealer.
These checks help assess the likelihood of long-term reliability and life expectancy.
Summary
For the 2013 Subaru Crosstrek, longevity is largely a function of care. With diligent maintenance, the model can reasonably reach 200,000 miles or more, and many owners report life well beyond that milestone. Prospective buyers should scrutinize service history, especially CVT and cooling-system work, and be prepared for standard wear items as the vehicle ages. In short, a well-kept 2013 Crosstrek is capable of lasting a long, dependable decade-plus of use.
How much is a 2013 Subaru Crosstrek worth today?
The value of a used 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek ranges from $2,362 to $9,417, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
Can a Subaru last 300,000 miles?
On average, a well-maintained Subaru Outback can last anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles! For perspective, this means if you drive about 12,000 miles per year, your Subaru Outback could easily last 16 to 20 years.
How many miles can you get out of a 2013 Subaru Crosstrek?
A 2013 Subaru Crosstrek's life expectancy is typically 150,000 to 200,000 miles, but many well-maintained models can last well over 250,000 miles, with some reaching over 300,000 miles. Key factors in extending its lifespan are consistent maintenance, including regular oil changes and transmission fluid checks, along with driving habits.
Factors influencing longevity
- Maintenance is crucial: Following the recommended maintenance schedule is the most important factor in achieving high mileage. This includes oil changes, fluid checks, and replacing parts like the serpentine belt and timing belt (if applicable) at the recommended intervals.
- Driving habits matter: Aggressive driving can shorten the vehicle's lifespan, while consistent and careful driving will help it last longer.
- Transmission care: Automatic transmission models require checking and changing the CVT fluid every 30,000 to 40,000 miles to help prevent issues around 60,000 miles.
- Potential issues: While Subaru engines are generally durable, some owners report issues like oil consumption. Keeping a close eye on fluid levels and addressing leaks promptly is important.
- AWD system: The all-wheel drive system requires consistent maintenance, and it's important to rotate tires frequently and replace all four at once to ensure even wear.
What year to stay away from a Subaru Crosstrek?
Years to potentially avoid for the Subaru Crosstrek include the 2016 and 2018 models due to issues like drivetrain vibrations, infotainment problems, and oil consumption. The early years of the first generation, specifically 2013-2015, should also be approached with caution due to common issues like oil consumption and head gasket problems with the 2.5-liter engine.
Years with more reported issues
- 2016: Has been associated with drivetrain vibrations and faulty infotainment systems.
- 2018: This model year is known for excessive oil consumption, glitchy technology, and a serious safety concern regarding the rear wheels kicking out, causing fishtailing.
- 2013-2015: These early models, particularly with the 2.5L engine, are prone to head gasket problems and excessive oil consumption. The 2012 Impreza shared this generation and also had issues with its CVT and oil consumption.
Other years to consider
- 2017: Generally considered a safer bet with fewer reported issues and recalls.
- 2019: While some sources suggest avoiding it due to numerous recalls and a significant number of complaints related to the ECM software causing unexpected engine stalls, other owners have reported it as reliable.
- 2021: This model year has received positive marks for reliability.
- 2023: This year is often recommended as one of the better choices in the second generation.
