Subaru XV Buying Guide

2 Known Issues to Check

We track 2 known issues for the Subaru XV in the Australian market. 1 of these are high severity and could result in significant repair costs. Check the details below before buying.

Known Issues

Higher-than-normal oil consumption on early FB engines

MEDIUM

Affected Years

2012–2016

Typical Repair Cost

$1,000–$3,000

Ask the Seller

"Does the car consume oil between services? Any top-ups required? Has the issue been diagnosed or repaired?"

Petrol

CVT shudder or valve body issues (Lineartronic CVT)

HIGH

Affected Years

2012–2018

Typical Repair Cost

$2,000–$6,000 (up to ~$9,000 if full replacement)

Ask the Seller

"Any shudder or hesitation when accelerating from low speed? Has the CVT fluid ever been serviced?"

CVT (Continuously Variable)

Transmission Notes

The Subaru XV uses different automatic transmission types depending on the model year:

2012–2023 CVT (Continuously Variable)

Questions to Ask the Seller

Use these questions when inspecting a Subaru XV:

1 Does the car consume oil between services? Any top-ups required? Has the issue been diagnosed or repaired?
2 Any shudder or hesitation when accelerating from low speed? Has the CVT fluid ever been serviced?

Is the Subaru XV a Good Used Car in Australia?

The used Subaru XV is a solid choice for Australian drivers, offering versatility and all-wheel drive for our varied terrain. However, buyers should be cautious of higher-than-normal oil consumption in early FB engines and potential CVT transmission issues. Overall, the XV is reliable, but thorough checks are essential when buying a XV in Australia to ensure longevity and performance in our harsh climate.

What to Check When Buying a Used Subaru XV

Inspect for excessive oil consumption, especially in early FB engines — repairs can cost between $1,000 and $3,000.
Test drive and listen for CVT shuddering; valve body issues can lead to repairs costing $2,000 to $6,000.
Check the service history for regular maintenance, particularly regarding the CVT fluid changes and oil levels.
Look for signs of wear from harsh Australian conditions, such as sun damage to the interior and exterior.

Used Subaru XV — Frequently Asked Questions

How many kilometres is too many for a used XV in Australia?

Generally, aim for under 100,000 kilometres for a used XV. Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system is durable, but higher mileage can lead to increased wear, especially in the CVT.

Which XV years should I avoid?

Avoid the 2012-2014 models due to prevalent issues with oil consumption and CVT reliability. The 2015 model onwards shows improved performance and reliability.