How to build your Subaru Crosstrek for off roading

[@jamesmeadrs9309]

All you need to do to make the Crosstrek off-road worthy is a 2” lift, some all terrain tires and chop both bumpers. That’s all I did to mine and it’s amazing how much more capable it is!

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

I do have a 2” lift and ko2s! I’m still unsure of the cutting part. I like the street look still. I know that cutting the bumpers has a huge benefit to off roading. Maybe 1 day.

[@1godgodgodgodgod]

and you will rip your bumper off... horrible departure angle

[@Advntrwrx]

I mean before even needing tires or a lift, you could just get skids

[@m34tba11]

as someone who is an offroader, and have done my fair share of recoveries too: I can say those "recovery" boards are useless unless you use them pre-emptively, you will do better to add a hi-lift jack and some straps or recovery rope. you can use the hi-lift with the straps as a come-along system. I've pulled more vehicles out of holes and snowberms via that method then yanking. White lightbars are useless in most of the places you will go, forget using a white bar in snow, in dust they are mostly useless too. Reality is those ditch lights and your fogs being amber is plenty of lighting and will give you better vision then running that large white bar on the roof. The only reason to use a 50" lightbar (and I'll caveat it too should be amber) is for doing 100+ thru the desert. BD makes great lights.. A good start, but do not get carried away with what most overlanders do b/c 90% of the stuff they are carrying is extra shit and will only weigh you down.

[@stratixmedia]

I use my $300 maxtrax to level my vehicle when camping and that’s pretty much it 😅

[@rayeyth2550]

Good job bro, I lifted my crosstrek with the Ironman suspension kit and its really the best of the best. I did bronze method 502s and kenda 235s, yakima off grid roof basket and a crawford front guard. I have 3 KC lights on the front and 4 KC lights on the yakima rack. Now I'm doing a katzkin interior.

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks man! Sick setup. I debated on that bronze methods for awhile. But decided black just goes better with my white for now. I’m looking into Ironman suspension. You like it? Smooth?

[@TJDawgs72]

I know this video is a couple years old, but I’m watching it right now after I just bought a 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness. Looking for aftermarket parts to make it my own. At some point I’m gonna do a nice set of Faulkner ATW’s. I’m really liking that aftermarket rooftop rack…might be something I do in the near future.

[@anthonytiramani-ct3tt]

Best looking crosstrek i have seen so far.. Awesome !

[@gobear83]

Just past our third month of ownership 2021 Crosstrek Outdoor edition in white…that new motor with 183 hp makes all the difference…love it All the power we need….

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

I would've have mind that power. Now, I'm stuck debating if I want to add a super charger.

[@gobear83]

@@meesubicrosstrek8097 , don’t waste your money I’m sure stock it has enough grunt to satisfy any off payment your doing

[@rayeyth2550]

Yes, the Ironman suspension is wonderful and I've done all my own work myself alone. I highly recommend there products and yes its smooth and great handling! I hope you choose wisely and if you ever need some advice, just give me a shout.

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Good to know! Yeah, it was either them or Kings shocks

[@eliasruiz1502]

Great video. I can’t wait to lift my Crosstrek the tire sizes you have really helped me deciding what I’m a put. Can’t wait to see more of your videos

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks! I’m glad it helped. I got some more stuff on the way!

[@UltimateAnarchy]

Hard to believe you only have 1,730 subs, bro. This is quality stuff. Great job!

[@christophermisiano5769]

Awesome, doing a build on my 18 now. I hear ya about the seats my Pit sheds all over.

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Yup! I’m glad you understand. It’s a real thing

[@martinr8278]

Amazing. Great choice getting the crosstrek. Nice job with off road gear! Looks like a boss.

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thank you. I really enjoy it

[@kasey72]

love it bro, modding my 20 trek right now. very helpful info and i'm glad i'm not alone.

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks! Make sure you check back for more videos then. I got a lot more coming

[@ollielaw]

Sick man! Just bought my 2021 Premium and need some inspiration. Absolutely love the roof wrack!

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks! Yeah, 2021 has a better engine then The one I have

[@customer7575]

If money is no object, a sunroof is great for ventilation and still see a little bit. Maybe you won’t be able to tilt it, but most moon roofs collapse inside the roof of the vehicle.

[@MMPCTV]

Great video. Thanks for the tip on the Prinsu Roof Rack. That will definitely be on my purchase list.

[@rene_from_so_cal]

Thanks for the video and parts list, your crosstrek looks great. I'm going to upgrade my Wife's 2019 crosstrek in a few days. Looking forward to the mods. Cheers!

[@fozzy_che]

Man, this is crazy built! I love it 😍

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks! I still got some more stuff coming

[@brandtdaniels]

Skid plates should be first mod. I recommend Primitive racing skids. Front, middle, and rear.

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Yup. My next purchase

[@albinomonkey30]

Sick cross trek, I got a 21 base model and I absolutely love it. I’m thinking about getting the same rims and tire set up except bronze methods instead of black.

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Oooo I was debating the same thing! Has to go with black in the end but maybe for my next one

[@syundown6005]

Personally I like black rims on every color except black cars, and bronze on black cars. I also love the way this car looks in black with lower flood lights. Personally I kinda hate the SUV look but this car... Just looks so good... Which makes sense because it's pretty much a lifted Impreza lmao!

[@user-cl2es9iu1j]

Excellent build!

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thank you!

[@danwhiteman2529]

Nice Build! Happy Trails

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks! 👍

[@geraldodearrudajunior2484]

I live in Brazil and dream of owning a Subaru XV. Around here we only have a 2.0 gas engine and also the Hybrid. I intend to buy the one with a gasoline engine, 150 horsepower. The bad thing about all this is that we only have 4 stores in the country, but even so, I believe it's worth it. We also thought about the Jeep Compass Trailhawk 2.0 Diesel, but they say it has many chronic problems. I would like you to tell me about Subaru, is it ok? We will travel, me, my wife and the dog. Thanks

[@waffleproject5516]

love your Crosstrek brother. Really want to get one and pimp it out like yours

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thank you! It’s even better now

[@JeffMikeBobart]

I have a Forester but I still enjoyed and subbed

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Subaru team!

[@redromina]

i just got a crossover and i love it. i needed a panoramic roof tho. 😅

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Panoramic roof are nice but it'd probably shatter by the way I drive! Isn't it such a great car?

[@wheely7809]

Suede this was so sick 😍😍

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thank you!

[@nicksangetta8874]

On point about the leather and dog hair.

[@karmaline]

Thank you for taking your time and sharing info. Vehicle looks great!

[@FishTaing]

Sick build bro!

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks man!

[@davidle_nz]

Nicely shot overview man, nice Crosstrek too! Keep'em coming

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thank you! I got a lot more contents to make. Make sure you sub and check them out! It’s always nice to have Subaru fans

[@mr_beezlebub3985]

Would be cool to do this for an Outback. The Crosstrek is cool too though

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

I didn’t like how the outback looked at first but it’s slowly growing on me as well

[@therootedprogress]

Great video and good information for those looking to build their crosstreks

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thank you. I appreciate that

[@therootedprogress]

@@meesubicrosstrek8097 no problem brother keep up the good work and love what you did to the trek man! Looks awesome 😎 whites one of my favorite colors for the trek besides orange and cool gray khaki

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

I agree. Thanks! Will do

[@floppinfish]

Sweet ride. Great video. That tow hook is not a legit off road recover point. Only use that in if you have no other options.

[@deltabravo1257]

Limited trim without a moon / sunroof is very rare. I wish dealers wouldn't order so many Crosstreks with a moonroof. I HATE it in my 2013 Premium. I never use it.

[@remyrippinn]

Sick build

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thank you!

[@TheMontoya40]

Great looking ride! If the Crosstrek was available with leather seating (for your dogs) AND a manual transmission, would you prefer modding that? And if you wouldn't, please explain why. Thanks in advance.

[@christorres7013]

Nice whip! Current owner of the 20 Hybrid model & I can wholly deny getting 40 mpg with it built up 😅 I’m averaging 30ish As for the hitch, it’s definitely doable yourself, just need the tools and patience for it 😂

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

30ish is amazing. I’m almost below 20. ALMOST!

[@christorres7013]

@@meesubicrosstrek8097 sheesh! If you’re local to SoCal let’s hit up Sheep Creek/ Lytle Creek 👍🏽🤙🏽

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Down!

[@nomadmav7040]

Cool car man. But you need under armor and rock sliders to really "offroad" consider a winch because these don't have much torque and the cvt will just get you stuck. Fix approach and exit your angles, meaning front bumper changes or modifications and rear bumper. Looking good so far. But under body armor needs to be every off road vehicles first mod. Lights are way down the list. Not sure why people get those first... Looking forward to seeing what you do down the line. 👍

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Yup! Thanks for the advice. That’s my next purchase for sure. I haven’t taken it out to anything that required it but I’m going to be safe than sorry

[@Marc_prime]

Thanks for the info! With that roof rack, can you still attached a cargo carrier (e.g. a Thule)

[@johnfrailey704]

thanks for taking the time to share your mods. Just got a crosstrek and really helpful. Those BFG/wheels are awesome on there with that lift. Did I miss the link to the front bumper driving lower fogs?

[@jakevelardi5193]

Just discovered the channel, this is great work mate, love your content 👊🏼🤙🏼

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks my dude! Stick around. I got a lot of contents coming

[@gerardperlas270]

Hello , appreciate your channel. I’m new to mods - question where do you bring your vehicle to have it lifted . Any recommendations? Tnx

[@ivanulloasoto2754]

Love your build just got my 2021 Crosstrek and slapped on some methods with 215/75/15 with no rub. Will you be doing a how to video on the light bar?

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks! I’ll do one soon!

[@ivanulloasoto2754]

@@meesubicrosstrek8097 cool thank you!!

[@paulpetraitis2130]

Are you sorry you didn'tget the 2.5 liter motor? Thanks forthe info!

[@zumezoom9593]

What size are the stock tires and wheels? What size are the aftermarket tires and wheels? And offset if any? I ask coz I don't know anything about tires and wheels. Comparing numbers visually helps me understand.

[@victoraguilar4607]

Nice, how bad is the rub with your wheel tire set up? I'm looking to get the same tires and size.

[@marlonm396]

Hi. Nice video... I recently got a 2019 similar to yours, but i am curious about your window visors. Do you mind sharing part number and/or where you got them? Enjoy and cheers mate...

[@GTorchify]

Sickkkkkkkkkk. Love it🔥🔥🤩🤩

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thank you! make sure you sub to see more

[@thatkidjuan]

Hey I was just wondering how have the light bar held up? No condensation or any problems? Build looks amazing!!

[@Nick-jk9sq]

Did you drill the hole in the tow hook cap yourself or do they sell them pre-drilled somewhere?

[@MarksTech]

Why not the sport model? It has two x modes

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

I like everything in the limited

[@KaosCreator69]

Great video and will be modding my 2021 Crosstrek, Hey did you do a video about the vehicle camera for recording (on the rear mirror)? If not which one did you go with, any links?

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

I got a camera that records the front of the car. I can make a video on that if you want

[@davedavis3467]

Looks really nice ..

[@iFiishMatt419]

For the 40” light bar what’s the wiring harness info? I clicked the description link but it’s linked to the tow hook.

[@bulgogidood]

Not sure if you'll see this but what did you use to attack the tow hooks to your vehicle? The link is just the tow hooks themselves

[@georgeantonio4940]

I will love to do that whit my 19 Accord but is not gonna look nice 😩😩😩😩😩

[@cleanncrispcutz6027]

What wiring was used for the light bar the tow hooks were linked in that spot

[@cortneydriggs6378]

❤wow informative AND 🔥

[@ReadWriteRoam]

Just bought a white 2021 crosstrek limited - also no sunroof and also wanted leather for my Australian Shepherd. I really like the 235 look w/ lift - but it does seem a bit too tight for me. I may go one size down. I subbed to see what you do with this setup. 😎👍 where you at btw?

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

The best color for a crosstrek. I thought about waiting for the 2021 too because it has more power. I think you'll like the 225/75/15 look. It's not as tight and supposedly it doesn't have any rubbing. I'm in California. Thank you for the sub!

[@allanjrappjr2605]

What are those Fog lights and how far can you open hood with hood lights

[@helidogtyler]

Great build and thanks for sharing! Can you fill us in on if the Prinsu makes more wind noise? If so, how much more? I’m looking to buy one and unsure on the increase in noise. Thanks.

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thank you! Check out my jus released video. I talked about it.

[@joshunfiltered1399]

Bro I subbed, I have a 2020 premium and it’s stock

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Sick! So much things to do if you wanted to

[@User37717]

Very cool man!

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks!

[@jessheung]

Love ur license plate name!

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Yes!! Haha someone gets it

[@TermiteTweeker]

Nice! I'm going to get one! Any idea on the weight limit of that new rack?

[@lofi_Insomnia_]

I see crosstrek owner do offroading I subscribe

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Let’s go! Haha

[@becker1111111]

Great video man, looks sexy ah. I'm on the fence between the Forester and the Crosstrek for some light offroading but I love all the crosstrek options for mods. Q though, what dragged down the mpg so much? Is it just all the extra weight? What do you think about the 2.5 L in the 2021 model?

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thank you! I believe it’s all the weight for sure. These 5 tires are way heavier than my old ones. I also stacked a lot of stuff on top so wind resistance is an issue. If I could, I’d go 2.5L for sure

[@WRXinthe410]

Love the look and i considered these cars but they are very underpowered especially with the added weight. Thats one reason your mpgs went down a lot.

[@akmalhakimremli9467]

cant you share size rim and tyre spec.tq

[@JL-kk9hl]

Can you carry kayaks as well as a spare on the roof?

[@misztal2112]

Do you have travel crates for the dogs?

[@Heisdaone]

Dope as HECK!!!!

[@mikisixstation1405]

What is the tire lock you using on the spare tire?

[@baltics9740]

Beautiful

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks man

[@raffyllamas4498]

Awesome ride! I have a ‘21 crosstrek. Wondering how you secured the d-shackle? Don’t they flap around when you drive? And you used the OEM tow hook with it right?

[@Advntrwrx]

You can get rubber Orings, but dont leave them on, it will delay the airbags in a crash

[@sandykavor8434]

How did you mount the Pelican case on the rack? Which hardware did you use? Did you have to drill through the case?

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Yup. I drilled 4 holes. I’ll make a video on that!

[@sandykavor8434]

@@meesubicrosstrek8097 Cool. I like the Pelican cases on top for storage.

[@87_North]

Awesome video man.. just got the 2021 Forester Sport, and plan on doing similar things to it. Only difference is that I think I'll have enough for Rokblokz mud flaps haha. Question - did you do the lift + new rims/tires all at once? Did you need an alignment after any of it? Thanks!

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Yo! Thank you! Yes, I did it all at once. I did have to get the alignment. It’s always best to do that after a lift and bigger tires.

[@87_North]

@@meesubicrosstrek8097 awesome, thanks!

[@bradrcdk4009]

Hey mate, I’ve just ordered a Subaru Xv 2.0is, could you possible tell me your wheel size and dimensions please? Also has your car had any paint protection done? Looks very white and nice, mine is white as well. Thanks mate

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Hey! First of all, thank you. Also, all the information you're asking is in the description below. Except the pain protection. I did not get any paint protection. I always say that if my paint gets really bad then it's an excuse to get a brand new color.

[@bradrcdk4009]

@@meesubicrosstrek8097 Thanks for the quick reply! Ah ok, cheers will check out the description.. Have you thought about upgrading to the new 2.5 LT Crosstrek? We are not getting them in Australia, which is annoying because I would have waiting to buy that option. Cheers!

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

I don’t think so. At least not anytime soon. I like my 2020 right now and it’s not worth the upgrade. I’d wait to see what else they have in the future.

[@DaniEif777]

Looks dope! Where did you get your window visors??

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks! I got it from Subaru's dealership

[@binoykv]

Nice video Bro..

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thank you

[@chriskorner]

What type of mount you use for the shovel on the Prinsu?

[@kuubi7599]

Would some 235/75R15 fit on my 2018 crosstrek 2" lifted?

[@JuanRodriguez-gf6cz]

NICE,,,THANK YOU FOR THE VIDEO

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thank for watching!

[@connorrisberg]

Maybe it's cause I drive like a grandma or maybe being in the Midwest I don't have the elevation changes some of yall have but how tf r yall only getting 20-25mpg? I'm rocking a 2019 crosstrek premium and averaging 38 mpg's!!! 35 on the low end if I drive hard for a week

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Hahaha maybe it’s because of all the stuff I put on it

[@chriskorner]

How did you install the tow hook? Got the tow hook from your description but missing one piece to put the tow hook through

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

That piece is actually in your trunk. I sprayed it black and screwed it in

[@chriskorner]

@@meesubicrosstrek8097 Thanks! Does the rubber ring hold the tow hook in place?

[@desmel_22]

I just got a 2019 crosstrek. The first thing I want to gets is off road wheels and tires. If I go with 215 on the size do I need a lift kit? Or just spacers?

[@Advntrwrx]

You wouldnt need either it fits stock

[@lNTOTHEGRAVE]

Great video! Between the all tires and wheels are we talking about around $1400 for such purchase? Got myself a crosstrek sport last December and thinking about upgrading the tires. Thanks man, cheers!

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Somewhere around there. I think it's the best first upgrade

[@RKmndo]

You could run taller tires on stock rims. I run 225/60R17 AT Trails on my 2016. They're about 1" taller than stock, similar to 215/75R15s. The car can still get 35+MPG. Add skids, maybe rockers, and recovery gear. I have a rear hitch and a winch as recovery points. A rear Torq Locker is just a few hundred $$ too, if you install it yourself. Air down the tires, disconnect the anti-swaybars, and see what she can do.

[@misha_migo]

Где в России купить такой багажник?

[@boblee675]

Amazing!!

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thank you!

[@PKCeltic21]

same steps for impreza right?

[@jrm2861]

Hey man I was wondering what kind of fog lights are those

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Those are called Baja Designs. They are definitely the best

[@zlion71]

How did you fasten the tire down on the rack

[@daras1288]

How did you mount the ditch lights? Where do I get the mounts?

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

I got mine from Baja design

[@chasecarter6257]

What hitch is that?

[@freedom_foz_6337]

I dig it!!

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks bro!

[@stark808]

Nice video and sweet rig. I have a 2015 Crosstrek also in white (@nova_xtrek). Can't wait to see more content and where you get to off road.

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Thanks! I just released some off roading ones. Check it out. I’ll be having more videos soon

[@Greenstrtjs87]

no skid plate?

[@SeeThatIamAble]

Can you link to fog lights with adapter?

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

www.rallyinnovations.com/collections/light-conversion/products/2018-crosstrek-xv-light-conversion-su-gta-lcn-01

[@SeeThatIamAble]

@@meesubicrosstrek8097 cool thanks man I just ordered my Subaru

[@SeeThatIamAble]

Sick love it I just my yesterday black, inside looks-like F16 lol

[@tjj5337]

Does the lift void the warranty?

[@jK-zv7nk]

Glad I found your video bro! I was looking into getting this car as a daily, and wanted the off-road look without breaking the bank. Good to know I don’t have to spend 1200 for full suspension just to make it higher (was just about to change my mind about the car, till i seen your set-up!)! Do you have any issues with the stock suspension riding with the kit at all? I’m looking at the 2021 Crosstrek Sport right now, same color - looking for just a lift kit, stock rims with AT tires, wind deflectors, and possible roof rack. Thanks!

[@meesubicrosstrek8097]

Hey! It’s a great daily driver. No I didn’t have any problems with my 2” spacers with stock suspension. Of course it’s not the same as getting a full suspension kit but that’ll cost over $1000. So I went with spacers.m which is only $200. What you’re getting will work.