2013–2014 Subaru Crosstrek: Burning oil between changes (2.0L FB20)
Likely causes, ranked
- Oil control rings not sealing (short block replaced per Subaru bulletin)Shop
Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.
DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section
Parts to check
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Symptom: The oil level drops noticeably between changes and the low-oil light may come on.
Likely causes
- Oil control rings. Club Crosstrek owners discuss Subaru's FB engine bulletin, which replaces the short block after a verified consumption test.
DIY or shop?
Dealer.
Useful steps
- Monitor the oil level.
- Request the consumption test.
- Ask about goodwill if you're out of coverage.
Vehicle focus: 2013–2014 Subaru Crosstrek.
Safety / mechanic note
Low oil can ruin an engine.
Recalls & service bulletins
Technical service bulletins
- Subaru FB20 oil consumption bulletin Short block replacement for certain FB20 engines that fail a dealer oil consumption test. Details
NHTSA complaints: 12 keyword-matched complaints (of 231 unique complaints filed under NHTSA model names CROSSTREK, XV CROSSTREK, 2013–2014; NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-15).
Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Sources
What actually fixed it?
Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.