Absolutely love it man! just recently bought my crosstrek wilderness as my very first car. Looking forward to adding my own touch to it. God bless you!
You will love it! Since doing that video I've done a few changes and just took it out for its 1st PLANNED video shoot. It truly impressed me as it is more than just a tool to get me to locations to film, but has become part of the experience for me.
I love watching your videos! I'm a new CTW owner (purchased 12/27/23) in Lithium Red and LOVING it!! I am also a Vet, with 32 years service so happy to meet a fellow Vet CTW owner! I love the rear hatch handle idea and am going to look into that! Thank you!!!
Thank you! And thank you for your service! Always good to check in with a Veteran. Appreciate the views and for taking the time to leave a comment. As you may already know I'm not a car review channel, but bought my wilderness to assist me in my normal adventures. And so far it's GREAT! As to the hatch handle, here ya go! DaSen Front Bumper 6x12 inch Universal License Plate Holder Mounting Bracket Compatible with Off-Road LED Light Pod Compatible with Most ATV Jeep Truck Pickup a.co/d/dADanCN
Thank you for watching and the hat tip. Much appreciated. Thank you for the comment . This video, while not my normal content of nature videos is helping get my channel pushed out. So thank you for being a part of the channel and the journey.
Enjoying your vids, came across them a few days ago searching for mods. I just got my Crosstrek wilderness about a month ago and have already logged 5K miles. Most on a trip from KY to CO. Performed excellent and averaged 29.4 MPG over the 3,600 mile trip (per vehicle display). I had already done a couple of the mods. Seat back protectors and the exact same side window Flag/Mountain decals you have. I found your paw protector file on Printables (I think it’s yours). I hope to be able to print a set. Thanks for sharing it. Looking forward to seeing more vids. Thanks for your service. 🇺🇸
@@stuartdoyle9818 that's great! Our MPG sound about the same. I've really been loving mine. By now you have seen my videos on the skid plates and king springs. Depending on how you will be using yours long term, the skid plates are seriously something ya might think about. Our trans pans are extremely unprotected in stock form. Thank you for watching and leaving a comment. It's people like you that motivate me and help grow the channel. My year end goal is 1k.
Thanks for this video. So many great ideas for my new Crosstrek. Would be amazing if you could include links to where you purchased all your mods. Thanks!
I'll say this much. If you enjoy or have the need to often end up in the middle of nowhere, the wilderness is the ticket as its such a great all in one car. Like 3 in one. Family car, daily driver and an adventure maker. But, if not, just get the Sport version, put some all season all terrain 3 peak tires on it and go. In my case, I knew from the word go that I could, and would / will take advantage of the full potential of the wilderness package. So it was worth the extra money to me to have that ability off road, roof capacity and towing. And hey! Thank you for your service! I'm loving seeing so many vets chime in here. Thank you for watching and commenting too as it's truly helping push my channel out there in the hopes that my normal filming work is of intrest to some. Seems the Subaru crowd is enjoying it. Enjoy the Wild!
Love the dog paw protectors! I would like to make contact and purchase a set for my new this next week Crosstrek Wilderness. I do appreciate your reviews to date! Well done All the best, Steve
Hey @Amberdogproductions , just got my crosstrek wilderness,and was wondering where you purchased those hook covers for the backseats you mentioned? Thank you!
@@nahumrivera3725 hi again. I actually 3D print them here at home. If you have a 3D printer they can be done, or, we can figure out a way to get in touch and I've got a bunch in the car I've made up.
Thank you so much! Your timing on this comment could not have been more spot on or better said. As last week my soulmate Amberdog crossed the rainbow bridge. It's been one of the hardest weeks of my life. Seeing your comment just now really was the tap I needed. Thank you!
To that piece not STICKING down --- heat it a bit with a hairdryer and press it down-- then stick something in there big enough to hold it down til it cools and it will "reshape" and stick.
As I've never had a car with crossbars before, what would that do? Gas savings? I'm not getting any wind noise and such. I had no plans to remove them, but, open to experienced people's ideas.
@@Amberdogproductions if you're not getting any wind noise I wouldn't worry about it. Had alot of noise especially at highway speed without one myself. 👍
You forgot to mention that the carbon fibre face plate around the infotainment screen actually covers the DMS camera! Grr. I bought one because it does look great but now I'm torn between losing the many DMS features. Thoughts? Other than "don't drive drowsy" 😅 Because it does other things. Thanks for sharing your mods. I got gold knobs and waiting for my pinstriping
@@djmir4 my thoughts are that if you are not really needing those extra abilities of the wilderness package then get the sport for sure. It's got the engine already. For 90% of what I do, the Sport lifted with tires would be fine. I'd sure add the skid plate package like I did on the wilderness though after seeing how exposed the transmission is. Honestly, after seeing it I'm pretty surprised Subaru doesn't have them standard at least on the wilderness. So for sure at least get the skid plates. A friend at work has a 23 Sport and that's a sharp looking ride.
i notice plastic in the front wheel wells has a space that allows leaves in to rot. i got the mud flaps to cover the space up to keep the leaves and salt in the winter out. surprised they designed like this.. the imprezza is a solid plastic with no gap for crap to get in. take a look at the space in the front i'm talking about and i would love to know if you'll add some flaps as well.
I noted those as well. However I don't plan to cover them as they are intended to let air flow out from the front intake and help equalize air pressure build up in wheel wells. I have something similar on all 4 wells on my Lotus Elise, and my 2022 corolla had the same type of setup. With that said, as I'm a car nut, should I see this as an issue with mud and such, I'll look into it deeper. During the testing at the Zion national forrest event and the dealer training grounds, in some shots you can see those vents flushing out.
I just got mine with the rooftop tent installed by the dealer Cross bars are positioned about where you put yours, but this creates an angle where the front bar is higher than the rear. I'm going to try sliding them as far forward as possible to get them as level as possible. I see on the cross bar instructions that further back = less wind noise, but I think more level is worth the tradeoff for a tent. Try putting a level on them front to back and check it out.
Will do. I had wondered about that. Seems to me you wouldn't want the front tipped up. Still hoping to get a tent at some point. But thank you for the heads up and watching. My videos I've done have really helped my channel because of people like you.
GREAT VIDEO-- I'd love your take on how this vehicle is... I'm kinda hesitant on it - due to issues that I know Subaru has had..(although I sold them several years ago and know they're good) I know they have THE BEST AWD system on the market BAR NONE-- and that- but don't like the CVT (Certainly Verified Trash).. instead of regular transmission. I LOVE these little buggers though- and that color is GORGEOUS... THANK YOU-- and love your comment on pets too..!! I VALUE your opinion--(I trust vets and their opinions more than most- including many mechanics)...
I did a video for vets day where I was just going to go to a local lake and do a thank you to vets. That day ended up being a fun and educational adventure. Check that video out in the hopes it may help. As to the CVT. All I can say is that it's working great and that Subaru CVT transmissions are holding up over time. The thing that surprised me is the actual shift points, not fake. You can feel them and see them on the tach. I never expected that from all the comments we hear about them. I'm not biased at all. I'm an old school gear head with God knows how many sports cars and muscle cars under my belt as well as trucks. Currently have a Lotus Elise and a 68 Barracuda 340-S as well as my 16 Tacoma. I can say the driving and shifting on this wilderness, while different, it's not offensive at all, works great and I will sure say, that even in intelligent mode, not sport, it will get up and go plenty well with no issues. Perhaps the 4.11 gears help, but I'm happy. No, it's not gonna slam me back and shift hard enough to shake fillings out like my Cuda, but I'm more than happy with it so far. Thanks for watching and commenting. Let me know if I can help at all.
I should add that I too was worried about the well known head gasket issue they have had since the 80s at least. With that said, some years back, perhaps around 12 years ago, it seems they changed it all around and it's not the issue anymore. It was only after that found knowledge that I went for it. Because I was looking at the Rav 4 as I'm a lifelong Toyota guy with nothing but great results. But when I discovered how the rav 4 does AWD my alarm bells went off. And that's when I found a TH-cam short about this new upcoming crosstrek wilderness. And that's how I landed here.
AGREED. I sold subarus for a whle back when they first were getting popular- and I do know they have THE BEST AWD system on the market - BAR NONE.. and will often out perfomr Jeeps. My master mechanic friends tell me the issues are fixed also-- but it's just hard for me - being old school- to get use to the idea of the CVT.. I'm not big on tECH either- I like driving my OWN car.. :0 BUT- guess I'll have to get use to it- since you can't get any vehicle wtihout it any more. THANKS again and good luck with yours.@@Amberdogproductions
The shift points ARE fake-- computer generated-- but VERY realistic. THANKS for the great info-- I guess I'll have to learn to trust the CVT- as it's getting so you can't buy a vehicle without one any more unless you get used!! :) Yep, I'm old school too- use to crawling under the hood and working in the rain and finding NOTHING in there but engine, carbureter and wires.. and nothing inside but the 3 pedals , shift lever and steering wheel.. :) guess 'I'll have to get over that too.. @@Amberdogproductions
@@davidwayne9982 maybe I'll need to dig into it a bit more with the shift points. My understanding of a cvt is as the name suggests. What's throwing me off is watching the tach Rev up from say 3k, step on it some and watching it climb up to 5 or 6k, then you feel what would normally be a shift, and the tach drops to 4k, goes up and shifts again. Seems that if it were literally constant velocity, it would pick the optimal rpm, say 4k perhaps, and stay there as you gain speed if that rpm is the sweet spot of torque for the needed pull. As I've never driven another cvt I don't have a comparable to play with. All I know at this point is that it's not what I was expecting. During my test drive I remember even looking at the salesman in surprise and said, dude, it shifted...wtf? I thought they didn't do that. It is weird that the shifter does not have L1 and L2, funny part is I only noticed that last week. And I agree, it does look like moving forward the CVT is going to be the new normal.
Hi, and thank you. It's pretty handy to use to close the hatch and in my newest video I've found another use for it. Here is a link to Amazon where I got it. www.amazon.com/dp/B07D8P6B56?starsLeft=1&ref_=cm_sw_r_apan_dp_J197WX5VMRZ5HQM7EZXN#immersive-view_1717504804167
Here ya go! DaSen Front Bumper 6x12 inch Universal License Plate Holder Mounting Bracket Compatible with Off-Road LED Light Pod Compatible with Most ATV Jeep Truck Pickup a.co/d/fpXN22s
Thank you for watching! Here is the light bar I put on the back for a handle. If you need anything else just let me know! DaSen Front Bumper 6x12 inch Universal License Plate Holder Mounting Bracket Compatible with Off-Road LED Light Pod Compatible with Most ATV Jeep Truck Pickup a.co/d/ioRKqW3
Here ya go bud! DaSen Front Bumper 6x12 inch Universal License Plate Holder Mounting Bracket Compatible with Off-Road LED Light Pod Compatible with Most ATV Jeep Truck Pickup a.co/d/2rDwgEx
@@scottlaird1650 yes, from Amazon. The link to it is posted here in the comments too. And while I used different screws, they are the same thread pitch. I just wanted slightly longer ones because the stock ones didn't fully go through the stock screw lug. Knowing what I would be using this for, the longer screws made sence for me.
@@scottlaird1650 this looks about the same thing. SKYWORLD 22.8 inch Bull Bar Aluminum Alloy Front Bumper License Plate Mount Bracket Holder for Daytime Running Light Offroad LED Light Bar, Black a.co/d/dU4ei9w
Sure thing. It's working great. Thank you for viewing my video! DaSen Front Bumper 6x12 inch Universal License Plate Holder Mounting Bracket Compatible with Off-Road LED Light Pod Compatible with Most ATV Jeep Truck Pickup a.co/d/ilFbNCd
I love the hatch bar idea. Have you found any damage or wear since you have mounted it? I was thinking of putting rubber spacers or something beneath it between that and the car so it doesn't get damaged. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Love the idea and thank you. Great video.
No damage at all. I'm a lifelong car nut so while I know things happen, more so perhaps with the intended use of this car, I do take good care of things I own. I've seen no issues at all. Also, the plastic inserts in the hatch give it the needed stand off. It's working great and have also found it very useful for the pull strap on my rooftop tent as I showed in one of my videos.
Thank you so much. I think I'm going to grab one. I like the look of it and like you said, being able to grab that versus grabbing the paint on the trunk is a lot better. Thank you for the quick reply and the great videos.
@@photosbyjoeendy thank you. Yes, protection of the paint was my main idea when buying it. But it turned out to me more usefull than I had thought! Thanks for the compliment too!
That hatch grab bar is interesting. It provides a point to loop some rope through to hold it down if you have a long load. But does it block the plate light?? I would appreciate a more detailed install video on that.
That is actually a fog light bar that I've mounted on the back hatch just as a handle. It's a flat solid metal plate with 4 holes that align with all 4 license plate screws. That's how it's held on. I'm not sure you could mount it on the front without some type of reinforcement due to the front plate is just screwed into plastic, where the rear is screwed into plugs mounted in metal. Its pretty solid back there, but I'm not sure how strong it would be to really cinch down tie straps or rope. I'd think it would work to a point though.
@@Amberdogproductions Yes I was planning on a back hatch mount. Matching the license plat holes is smart but my remaining question is does it block the rear plate light?
I've had several mechanics say that MODS damage the vehicles (causing stresses that the vehicle was engineered to avoid-- stresses on angles and pull forces that get worse when changed, etc.)... any issues with any of yours?? (I don't like sun roofs- just a freakin leak waiting to happen- hopefully can get one WIHOUT that ). Of course they were talking LIFTS etc.. not these types of mods.
Yeah, I don't really see any need to really go hard on big mods as it's really good as is. About the only thing I'd think about may be wheels and slightly larger tires. But only if it can be done with NO INTERFERENCE at all. I see where others have done some with slight rubbing, but that's not for me. No plans on a lift either. Voids warrante as well. You can get this without the sunroof. That's the standard wilderness package. If you want the sunroof and stereo upgrade you need to select that option as I did.
@@Amberdogproductions THANKS-- yes- I'm liking this more every time I see it reviewed !! I was looking at a 4runner- but I'm old- won't get going " offroad" THAT much- and this is more practical- and looks like MORE FUN to drive.. THANKS for letting me know it also comes sunroof free!! :)
@@davidwayne9982 I should point out as well, that if your not going to go to places like I do for filming and such, perhaps the Sport trim package may be a better fit. It costs less and gets better mpg as well. But, if you have the desire to go a bit further with security enough to justify the added cost, or, ya just love the look that much more then....lol we live once. Live well. A smile is often underrated. And this car has me keeping a smile on.
@@Amberdogproductions I'm 67 and never bought a new one-- always got older and "rebuilt or customized it"-- so this one will be looks, feel and fun!! :)
Had to dig a bit as this set was purchased for my 2022 Toyota Corolla hatchback I had. But, I kept them when I sold it. Turns out they fit the crosstrek flawlessly and are REALLY well made. When I got them they looked like a seat upholstery kit and not covers. With that said, using daily since 2022, in both cars, they still look new with all the beatings of daily life, outback and my dogs. A bit spendy, but cheaper than new seats. And yes, the heated seats still work, just takes a bit longer to warm ya up of course due to the quality and thickness of them. OASIS AUTO Toyota Corolla Accessories Seat Covers 2009-2025 Custom Fit Leather Cover Protector Cushion (Full Set, Gray) a.co/d/2GfDqfP
It just mounts behind the plate with the 4 screws. Here ya go! DaSen Front Bumper 6x12 inch Universal License Plate Holder Mounting Bracket Compatible with Off-Road LED Light Pod Compatible with Most ATV Jeep Truck Pickup a.co/d/9Ad5aZd
Sure buddy, here ya go. Had to dig back a ways. But this is the set I bought for my 2022 corolla hatchback. I kept the set when I sold the car. If you buy this set you will know why. By far the best covers I've ever seen. OASIS AUTO Toyota Corolla Accessories Seat Covers 2009-2025 Custom Fit Leather Cover Protector Cushion (Full Set, Gray) a.co/d/2hSzMaW Here is the console set. www.ebay.com/itm/195971135184?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=02uvMnENST6&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=Stl5uKcgQrC&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY And the screen wrap. www.ebay.com/itm/196028095934?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=02uvMnENST6&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=Stl5uKcgQrC&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
The beauty is nothing on it is permanent. Easy to sell if I wanted to. But, in the end, just like a bed, I'm not worried about making it for anyone else.
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Absolutely love it man! just recently bought my crosstrek wilderness as my very first car. Looking forward to adding my own touch to it. God bless you!
You will love it!
Since doing that video I've done a few changes and just took it out for its 1st PLANNED video shoot. It truly impressed me as it is more than just a tool to get me to locations to film, but has become part of the experience for me.
I love watching your videos! I'm a new CTW owner (purchased 12/27/23) in Lithium Red and LOVING it!! I am also a Vet, with 32 years service so happy to meet a fellow Vet CTW owner! I love the rear hatch handle idea and am going to look into that! Thank you!!!
Thank you! And thank you for your service!
Always good to check in with a Veteran.
Appreciate the views and for taking the time to leave a comment.
As you may already know I'm not a car review channel, but bought my wilderness to assist me in my normal adventures. And so far it's GREAT!
As to the hatch handle, here ya go!
DaSen Front Bumper 6x12 inch Universal License Plate Holder Mounting Bracket Compatible with Off-Road LED Light Pod Compatible with Most ATV Jeep Truck Pickup a.co/d/dADanCN
right on ...love your dogs and protect them !!! great pet owner !!!
Thanks! We do love our dogs.
Amberdog
Freedom
Liberty
Independence.
All labs.
I'd say you've covered every detail & more in making that vehicle customized! Your love for it is showing. Well done. You make Subaru proud.
Thank you! When ya get a ride, you gotta do SOMETHING to it. Even if it's just a little sumthin.
Thank you for pointing out the clips on the window guards, I'm about to install mine. I like the addition of the bar on the hatch.
Yes, please look very close at the clip holes and the adjoining studs on the visors. If you do that, your good to go.
Thanks for sharing. Love the patrotic touch. Thank you for your service.
Thank you for watching and the hat tip. Much appreciated.
Thank you for the comment . This video, while not my normal content of nature videos is helping get my channel pushed out. So thank you for being a part of the channel and the journey.
Enjoying your vids, came across them a few days ago searching for mods. I just got my Crosstrek wilderness about a month ago and have already logged 5K miles. Most on a trip from KY to CO. Performed excellent and averaged 29.4 MPG over the 3,600 mile trip (per vehicle display). I had already done a couple of the mods. Seat back protectors and the exact same side window Flag/Mountain decals you have. I found your paw protector file on Printables (I think it’s yours). I hope to be able to print a set. Thanks for sharing it. Looking forward to seeing more vids. Thanks for your service. 🇺🇸
@@stuartdoyle9818 that's great! Our MPG sound about the same. I've really been loving mine. By now you have seen my videos on the skid plates and king springs. Depending on how you will be using yours long term, the skid plates are seriously something ya might think about. Our trans pans are extremely unprotected in stock form.
Thank you for watching and leaving a comment. It's people like you that motivate me and help grow the channel. My year end goal is 1k.
very nice unit! much love!
Thank you! I'm sure loving it so far. Should be a real asset to my channel making nature based videos.
Thanks for this video. So many great ideas for my new Crosstrek. Would be amazing if you could include links to where you purchased all your mods. Thanks!
@@ezridax19 I think I have most of them in the comments.
But if there is something you need, let me know and I'll try to help ya.
This video is perfect! So well done and incredibly fast! Thank you so much for that!
Looking forward to following you along more adventures!
Fantastic! Glad I could do it for ya. And again, thans for the idea!
Thank you! I am still in my deciding phase and your videos are awesome and helpful. Thank you my Fellow Army Veteran!!
I'll say this much. If you enjoy or have the need to often end up in the middle of nowhere, the wilderness is the ticket as its such a great all in one car. Like 3 in one.
Family car, daily driver and an adventure maker.
But, if not, just get the Sport version, put some all season all terrain 3 peak tires on it and go.
In my case, I knew from the word go that I could, and would / will take advantage of the full potential of the wilderness package. So it was worth the extra money to me to have that ability off road, roof capacity and towing.
And hey! Thank you for your service! I'm loving seeing so many vets chime in here.
Thank you for watching and commenting too as it's truly helping push my channel out there in the hopes that my normal filming work is of intrest to some. Seems the Subaru crowd is enjoying it.
Enjoy the Wild!
Love the dog paw protectors! I would like to make contact and purchase a set for my new this next week Crosstrek Wilderness. I do appreciate your reviews to date! Well done
All the best,
Steve
Sounds great. I bet you are excited! I know I was and had never even seen one, nor had any dealers.
Pnwcudaman@gmail.com
Steve, I wanted to check back with you to see if you got my email address so we can get you hooked up.
Hey @Amberdogproductions , just got my crosstrek wilderness,and was wondering where you purchased those hook covers for the backseats you mentioned? Thank you!
@@nahumrivera3725 hi again. I actually 3D print them here at home.
If you have a 3D printer they can be done, or, we can figure out a way to get in touch and I've got a bunch in the car I've made up.
@@Amberdogproductions hmmm,sadly i do not have one. Sure,I'm down to arrange something!
You got another subscriber! Keep up the good work!
Thank you!!!
While I'm no pro, I do the best I can on my normal videos.
Great channel, keep going!!
Thank you so much!
Your timing on this comment could not have been more spot on or better said. As last week my soulmate Amberdog crossed the rainbow bridge. It's been one of the hardest weeks of my life. Seeing your comment just now really was the tap I needed. Thank you!
To that piece not STICKING down --- heat it a bit with a hairdryer and press it down-- then stick something in there big enough to hold it down til it cools and it will "reshape" and stick.
Yeah, my plan is to do that and just tape it down for awhile. But at this point it's not been an issue big enough for me to mess with yet.
Should see if Thule makes a wind fairing for the crossbars, if you plan to leave them on full time. Sick Trek!
As I've never had a car with crossbars before, what would that do?
Gas savings? I'm not getting any wind noise and such. I had no plans to remove them, but, open to experienced people's ideas.
@@Amberdogproductions if you're not getting any wind noise I wouldn't worry about it. Had alot of noise especially at highway speed without one myself. 👍
@@way2faded thanks! Well if I do ill look into one. I've seen those wind deflectors for the sun roofs, but really not fond of that look.
You forgot to mention that the carbon fibre face plate around the infotainment screen actually covers the DMS camera! Grr. I bought one because it does look great but now I'm torn between losing the many DMS features. Thoughts? Other than "don't drive drowsy" 😅 Because it does other things. Thanks for sharing your mods. I got gold knobs and waiting for my pinstriping
@@ForeverRogue as far as I know the crosstrek does not have that feature. I looked before putting the cover on.
I have a '23 sport which feels like a test model for the wilderness. I wanna lift it and put better AT tires on it.
@@djmir4 my thoughts are that if you are not really needing those extra abilities of the wilderness package then get the sport for sure. It's got the engine already. For 90% of what I do, the Sport lifted with tires would be fine. I'd sure add the skid plate package like I did on the wilderness though after seeing how exposed the transmission is. Honestly, after seeing it I'm pretty surprised Subaru doesn't have them standard at least on the wilderness.
So for sure at least get the skid plates. A friend at work has a 23 Sport and that's a sharp looking ride.
Enjoyed the video, Thanks
Thank you!
Appreciate the view and comment.
i notice plastic in the front wheel wells has a space that allows leaves in to rot. i got the mud flaps to cover the space up to keep the leaves and salt in the winter out. surprised they designed like this.. the imprezza is a solid plastic with no gap for crap to get in. take a look at the space in the front i'm talking about and i would love to know if you'll add some flaps as well.
I noted those as well. However I don't plan to cover them as they are intended to let air flow out from the front intake and help equalize air pressure build up in wheel wells. I have something similar on all 4 wells on my Lotus Elise, and my 2022 corolla had the same type of setup.
With that said, as I'm a car nut, should I see this as an issue with mud and such, I'll look into it deeper.
During the testing at the Zion national forrest event and the dealer training grounds, in some shots you can see those vents flushing out.
I just got mine with the rooftop tent installed by the dealer
Cross bars are positioned about where you put yours, but this creates an angle where the front bar is higher than the rear. I'm going to try sliding them as far forward as possible to get them as level as possible. I see on the cross bar instructions that further back = less wind noise, but I think more level is worth the tradeoff for a tent.
Try putting a level on them front to back and check it out.
Will do. I had wondered about that. Seems to me you wouldn't want the front tipped up.
Still hoping to get a tent at some point. But thank you for the heads up and watching. My videos I've done have really helped my channel because of people like you.
GREAT VIDEO-- I'd love your take on how this vehicle is... I'm kinda hesitant on it - due to issues that I know Subaru has had..(although I sold them several years ago and know they're good) I know they have THE BEST AWD system on the market BAR NONE-- and that- but don't like the CVT (Certainly Verified Trash).. instead of regular transmission. I LOVE these little buggers though- and that color is GORGEOUS... THANK YOU-- and love your comment on pets too..!! I VALUE your opinion--(I trust vets and their opinions more than most- including many mechanics)...
I did a video for vets day where I was just going to go to a local lake and do a thank you to vets.
That day ended up being a fun and educational adventure. Check that video out in the hopes it may help.
As to the CVT. All I can say is that it's working great and that Subaru CVT transmissions are holding up over time.
The thing that surprised me is the actual shift points, not fake. You can feel them and see them on the tach. I never expected that from all the comments we hear about them. I'm not biased at all. I'm an old school gear head with God knows how many sports cars and muscle cars under my belt as well as trucks. Currently have a Lotus Elise and a 68 Barracuda 340-S as well as my 16 Tacoma. I can say the driving and shifting on this wilderness, while different, it's not offensive at all, works great and I will sure say, that even in intelligent mode, not sport, it will get up and go plenty well with no issues. Perhaps the 4.11 gears help, but I'm happy.
No, it's not gonna slam me back and shift hard enough to shake fillings out like my Cuda, but I'm more than happy with it so far.
Thanks for watching and commenting. Let me know if I can help at all.
I should add that I too was worried about the well known head gasket issue they have had since the 80s at least.
With that said, some years back, perhaps around 12 years ago, it seems they changed it all around and it's not the issue anymore. It was only after that found knowledge that I went for it. Because I was looking at the Rav 4 as I'm a lifelong Toyota guy with nothing but great results. But when I discovered how the rav 4 does AWD my alarm bells went off. And that's when I found a TH-cam short about this new upcoming crosstrek wilderness. And that's how I landed here.
AGREED. I sold subarus for a whle back when they first were getting popular- and I do know they have THE BEST AWD system on the market - BAR NONE.. and will often out perfomr Jeeps. My master mechanic friends tell me the issues are fixed also-- but it's just hard for me - being old school- to get use to the idea of the CVT.. I'm not big on tECH either- I like driving my OWN car.. :0 BUT- guess I'll have to get use to it- since you can't get any vehicle wtihout it any more. THANKS again and good luck with yours.@@Amberdogproductions
The shift points ARE fake-- computer generated-- but VERY realistic. THANKS for the great info-- I guess I'll have to learn to trust the CVT- as it's getting so you can't buy a vehicle without one any more unless you get used!! :) Yep, I'm old school too- use to crawling under the hood and working in the rain and finding NOTHING in there but engine, carbureter and wires.. and nothing inside but the 3 pedals , shift lever and steering wheel.. :) guess 'I'll have to get over that too.. @@Amberdogproductions
@@davidwayne9982 maybe I'll need to dig into it a bit more with the shift points. My understanding of a cvt is as the name suggests.
What's throwing me off is watching the tach Rev up from say 3k, step on it some and watching it climb up to 5 or 6k, then you feel what would normally be a shift, and the tach drops to 4k, goes up and shifts again.
Seems that if it were literally constant velocity, it would pick the optimal rpm, say 4k perhaps, and stay there as you gain speed if that rpm is the sweet spot of torque for the needed pull.
As I've never driven another cvt I don't have a comparable to play with. All I know at this point is that it's not what I was expecting. During my test drive I remember even looking at the salesman in surprise and said, dude, it shifted...wtf? I thought they didn't do that.
It is weird that the shifter does not have L1 and L2, funny part is I only noticed that last week.
And I agree, it does look like moving forward the CVT is going to be the new normal.
Very Nice Video ( Thank you ! ) .......where did you get the bumper Guard ( Handle) from with the accessories ? cheers
Hi, and thank you. It's pretty handy to use to close the hatch and in my newest video I've found another use for it. Here is a link to Amazon where I got it.
www.amazon.com/dp/B07D8P6B56?starsLeft=1&ref_=cm_sw_r_apan_dp_J197WX5VMRZ5HQM7EZXN#immersive-view_1717504804167
Bro likes blue :)
Lol. That I do. But do I get points if the celica is my Sons car???
Ok...busted, I bought the celica as a project and my son bought it from me..
What is the bar on your hatch called? Love that addition. Looks great and super functional. Can’t wait for my CTW to come in.
Here ya go!
DaSen Front Bumper 6x12 inch Universal License Plate Holder Mounting Bracket Compatible with Off-Road LED Light Pod Compatible with Most ATV Jeep Truck Pickup a.co/d/fpXN22s
There is the link to Amazon where I got it. You just flip it upside down and mount with 4 screws.
Can you clarify which accessory that you printed?
Sure! I printed the Paw Safe covers.
th-cam.com/users/shorts9EYuzfTvyzI?si=bVFls2hUja4LiLDG
Hi! Where did you get your neoprene bumper cover ? That goes under the rear cargo are and above the spare tire carpet? Thank you for your time!
I bought that right at the dealer parts department.
@@georgerusnak4478 comes in real handy when I'm sitting there flying my camera drones, and my dog jumps up there. No damage to the car yet!
getting a cross trek wilderness next month ... do you have any links to some of the things like the fog light bar on the back?
Thank you for watching!
Here is the light bar I put on the back for a handle.
If you need anything else just let me know!
DaSen Front Bumper 6x12 inch Universal License Plate Holder Mounting Bracket Compatible with Off-Road LED Light Pod Compatible with Most ATV Jeep Truck Pickup a.co/d/ioRKqW3
Have you got a link to that fog light bar on the back? I love that
Here ya go bud!
DaSen Front Bumper 6x12 inch Universal License Plate Holder Mounting Bracket Compatible with Off-Road LED Light Pod Compatible with Most ATV Jeep Truck Pickup a.co/d/2rDwgEx
Thanks!! I love those still plates too. Very nice
@@bEEdUb2643 loving those too. Really neat at night or early morning,,but dang...$$$
Hi, what is the manufacturer of the rear grab bar? Amazon? Did all four license plate bolts fit the pre-drilled holes? Thanks
@@scottlaird1650 yes, from Amazon. The link to it is posted here in the comments too.
And while I used different screws, they are the same thread pitch. I just wanted slightly longer ones because the stock ones didn't fully go through the stock screw lug. Knowing what I would be using this for, the longer screws made sence for me.
@@Amberdogproductions no longer for sale on Amazon 😫
@@scottlaird1650 whaaa???..
Hmm..bet it's under a different name now or seller..
@@scottlaird1650 this looks about the same thing.
SKYWORLD 22.8 inch Bull Bar Aluminum Alloy Front Bumper License Plate Mount Bracket Holder for Daytime Running Light Offroad LED Light Bar, Black a.co/d/dU4ei9w
Like the rear Bar, got a web for purchasing?
Thanks
Sure thing. It's working great.
Thank you for viewing my video!
DaSen Front Bumper 6x12 inch Universal License Plate Holder Mounting Bracket Compatible with Off-Road LED Light Pod Compatible with Most ATV Jeep Truck Pickup a.co/d/ilFbNCd
I love the hatch bar idea. Have you found any damage or wear since you have mounted it? I was thinking of putting rubber spacers or something beneath it between that and the car so it doesn't get damaged. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Love the idea and thank you. Great video.
No damage at all. I'm a lifelong car nut so while I know things happen, more so perhaps with the intended use of this car, I do take good care of things I own.
I've seen no issues at all.
Also, the plastic inserts in the hatch give it the needed stand off. It's working great and have also found it very useful for the pull strap on my rooftop tent as I showed in one of my videos.
Thank you so much. I think I'm going to grab one. I like the look of it and like you said, being able to grab that versus grabbing the paint on the trunk is a lot better. Thank you for the quick reply and the great videos.
@@photosbyjoeendy thank you. Yes, protection of the paint was my main idea when buying it. But it turned out to me more usefull than I had thought!
Thanks for the compliment too!
@@Amberdogproductions I was looking for the other video with the handle but I haven't found it yet.
@@photosbyjoeendy here ya go.
th-cam.com/video/WFLUpcLOy9I/w-d-xo.htmlsi=v1FfF9LMvn4uBdi1
That hatch grab bar is interesting. It provides a point to loop some rope through to hold it down if you have a long load. But does it block the plate light?? I would appreciate a more detailed install video on that.
That is actually a fog light bar that I've mounted on the back hatch just as a handle.
It's a flat solid metal plate with 4 holes that align with all 4 license plate screws. That's how it's held on.
I'm not sure you could mount it on the front without some type of reinforcement due to the front plate is just screwed into plastic, where the rear is screwed into plugs mounted in metal. Its pretty solid back there, but I'm not sure how strong it would be to really cinch down tie straps or rope. I'd think it would work to a point though.
@@Amberdogproductions Yes I was planning on a back hatch mount. Matching the license plat holes is smart but my remaining question is does it block the rear plate light?
@@williamsloggy5144 ahh, no not at all. The light is completely unobstructed
@@Amberdogproductions I get it now. You mount it upside down for rear use so the plate light works as it should.
@@williamsloggy5144 Exactly my friend. Hopefully that short helps.
I've had several mechanics say that MODS damage the vehicles (causing stresses that the vehicle was engineered to avoid-- stresses on angles and pull forces that get worse when changed, etc.)... any issues with any of yours?? (I don't like sun roofs- just a freakin leak waiting to happen- hopefully can get one WIHOUT that ). Of course they were talking LIFTS etc.. not these types of mods.
Yeah, I don't really see any need to really go hard on big mods as it's really good as is. About the only thing I'd think about may be wheels and slightly larger tires.
But only if it can be done with NO INTERFERENCE at all. I see where others have done some with slight rubbing, but that's not for me. No plans on a lift either. Voids warrante as well.
You can get this without the sunroof. That's the standard wilderness package. If you want the sunroof and stereo upgrade you need to select that option as I did.
@@Amberdogproductions THANKS-- yes- I'm liking this more every time I see it reviewed !! I was looking at a 4runner- but I'm old- won't get going " offroad" THAT much- and this is more practical- and looks like MORE FUN to drive.. THANKS for letting me know it also comes sunroof free!! :)
@@davidwayne9982 I should point out as well, that if your not going to go to places like I do for filming and such, perhaps the Sport trim package may be a better fit. It costs less and gets better mpg as well.
But, if you have the desire to go a bit further with security enough to justify the added cost, or, ya just love the look that much more then....lol we live once. Live well. A smile is often underrated. And this car has me keeping a smile on.
@@Amberdogproductions I'm 67 and never bought a new one-- always got older and "rebuilt or customized it"-- so this one will be looks, feel and fun!! :)
What brand of seat covers are those? I am wanting some like that
Had to dig a bit as this set was purchased for my 2022 Toyota Corolla hatchback I had. But, I kept them when I sold it.
Turns out they fit the crosstrek flawlessly and are REALLY well made. When I got them they looked like a seat upholstery kit and not covers.
With that said, using daily since 2022, in both cars, they still look new with all the beatings of daily life, outback and my dogs.
A bit spendy, but cheaper than new seats. And yes, the heated seats still work, just takes a bit longer to warm ya up of course due to the quality and thickness of them.
OASIS AUTO Toyota Corolla Accessories Seat Covers 2009-2025 Custom Fit Leather Cover Protector Cushion (Full Set, Gray) a.co/d/2GfDqfP
@@Amberdogproductions thank you very much! I have a big dog that rides in the back seat so was wanting extra protection even with the dog hammock.
@@Pcoop86 that's exactly what I did. And with our 2 labs it's working great.
Where did you get that rear bar from? And how does it mount?
It just mounts behind the plate with the 4 screws.
Here ya go!
DaSen Front Bumper 6x12 inch Universal License Plate Holder Mounting Bracket Compatible with Off-Road LED Light Pod Compatible with Most ATV Jeep Truck Pickup a.co/d/9Ad5aZd
This is genius!! Just bought it for mine. I appreciate you making this video. I’m very inspired by your mods and passion for adventure 😆
@@johnnino5693 great!
While I have no intention of mounting any lights on it, I sure do love the handle use of it.
Do you have links to the shifter console carbon fiber stick on and the seat covers?
Sure buddy, here ya go. Had to dig back a ways. But this is the set I bought for my 2022 corolla hatchback. I kept the set when I sold the car. If you buy this set you will know why. By far the best covers I've ever seen.
OASIS AUTO Toyota Corolla Accessories Seat Covers 2009-2025 Custom Fit Leather Cover Protector Cushion (Full Set, Gray) a.co/d/2hSzMaW
Here is the console set.
www.ebay.com/itm/195971135184?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=02uvMnENST6&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=Stl5uKcgQrC&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
And the screen wrap.
www.ebay.com/itm/196028095934?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=02uvMnENST6&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=Stl5uKcgQrC&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
Thank you very much! @@Amberdogproductions
All that stuff is great until you go to sell and the buyer doesn't want any of that crap.
The beauty is nothing on it is permanent. Easy to sell if I wanted to.
But, in the end, just like a bed, I'm not worried about making it for anyone else.