Subaru Ascent problems
The Subaru Ascent is a mid-size crossover SUV produced by Subaru. In some markets, it is sold as the Subaru Evoltis. It is the largest automobile Subaru manufactures. The seven or eight-seat passenger SUV, with the design based on the VIZIV-7 concept, made its debut at the LA Auto Show on November 28, 2017. The Ascent became available in the third quarter of 2018. Like its American-built predecessor, the Tribeca, the Ascent is not available in Japan.
History
The Ascent was originally introduced as a concept car at the 2017 New York International Auto Show in April, where it was also announced that Subaru would be producing the vehicle at its Lafayette, Indiana Subaru of Indiana Assembly Plant. Production began in late 2017 alongside the current Subaru Impreza. It was to be the flagship Subaru vehicle in North America, and replace the Subaru Tribeca (previously the B9 Tribeca), which was discontinued after the 2014 model year. Subaru Japan had their own three-row crossover called the Subaru Exiga that was available from 2008 until its discontinuation in 2018. In terms of exterior design, it was akin to a 3-row Outback as is the Ascent to the Forester.
The first spy photographs of Subaru Ascent development mules surfaced in late summer 2016. Although the Ascent was spotted testing in 2017 with an expected mid-2017 on-market date, the sale date was pushed back to early summer 2018.
Subaru initially announced the Ascent would be sold in the Philippines as the Evoltis starting from 2020. Its release was delayed numerous times owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, and eventually was introduced in the Philippines in May 2021. Only the Touring model is available. The Evoltis name is also used in Israel and several South American markets. Although some sources reported the Evoltis name would be used for the first battery electric vehicle sold by Subaru, that vehicle, which was co-developed with Toyota, was announced in September 2021 as the Subaru Solterra instead.
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Subaru Ascent model years
Common Subaru Ascent problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Subaru Ascent, several common problems have been reported with this vehicle:
- Transmission Problems:
- Owners have reported issues such as hesitation, surging, and rough shifting with the transmission.
- Subaru's CVT transmission has been a known weakness, with problems persisting despite recalls for transmission software issues.
- Instances of the transmission slipping and lunging forward have been reported, posing safety risks.
- Engine Problems:
- Complaints include random engine stalls, "check engine" warning lights, and thick gray smoke from the exhaust with a rapid loss of power.
- Some issues were attributed to a faulty low-pressure fuel lift pump, leading to engine replacements and even crashes.
- Brake Problems:
- Owners have experienced loud noises, squealing sounds, and grinding noises when braking.
- These issues can compromise the vehicle's safety and lead to accidents if not addressed promptly.
- Battery Drain Problems:
- Many owners have reported battery drain problems, leaving them stranded with no ability to start the car.
- Instances of electrical system failures, flickering lights, and battery issues have been highlighted by owners.
- Infotainment Problems:
- Users have reported frequent freezing, crashing, and unresponsiveness in the infotainment system.
- Issues with navigation, audio features, and touch screen responsiveness have been common complaints.
These problems with the Subaru Ascent have been significant concerns for owners, impacting the vehicle's performance, safety, and overall driving experience. It is essential for Subaru to address these issues to ensure the reliability and satisfaction of their customers.
Does the Subaru Ascent have problems?
Ascent Braking Problems
An unreliable braking system is not only dangerous, but can also lead to accidents and injuries. The 2022 Subaru Ascent has experienced issues with its braking system including loud noises and squealing sounds. Here is a Brake Complaint from another 2022 Subaru Ascent owner in AZ on NHTSA.
Is the Subaru Ascent reliable?
We expect the 2024 Ascent will have about average reliability when compared to the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2021, 2022 and 2023 models.
Is the Subaru Ascent engine good?
The Subaru Ascent engine boasts an impressive powertrain that delivers both exceptional performance and efficiency. With a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission, the Ascent generates up to 260 horsepower and can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
How long does a Subaru Ascent engine last?
The Lifespan of Subaru Engines and Safety Technology
Engine Lifespan: Subaru engines are known for their durability and longevity, with many drivers reporting engines that last well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Subaru Ascent years
We have researched Subaru problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Subaru Ascent cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Subaru Ascent model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Subaru Ascent model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Subaru Ascent years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Subaru Ascent car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Subaru Ascent , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Power train problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Ascent vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Ascent model years
A total of 21 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Ascent model years
There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Ascent model years
There were a total of 18 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 834 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Ascent . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Ascent vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Subaru Ascent 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-21
- VIN: 4S4WMAMD1K3
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: We observed Subaru Ascent 2019 (Limited) car handling poorly over bumpy areas, especially over bumps on turns even at speeds under 40 mph. Car feels as if it is loosing contact with the road. It is also jarring over bumps even while driving straight. In wet conditions, I do not know if I will be able to stop within the proper distance. We took the car to the dealer, that indicated front struts needed replacement. They could not provide an estimate of when struts would be available -- this was over one month ago. I am uncertain if a repair is possible to correct this apparent safety issue.
Subaru Ascent 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-18
- VIN: 4S4WMARD1K3
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: My Ascent is primarily driven in the city of San Francisco, a fairly hilly city. We have had issues with the suspension on this vehicle in the past, and I will need to install my third pair of struts in the coming weeks (the parts are currently on backorder). The CVT has also been replaced on the vehicle. The tires are routinely rotated, and we keep up with the maintenance schedule. We were driving home after dropping our daughters at school and while accelerating up a hill heard a crack. We immediately pulled over, and saw that the lower control arm had sheared.
Subaru Ascent 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: 4S4WMAPD8K3
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The CVT experienced a catastrophic failure, later identified as "the chain" by a Subaru dealer mechanic. The night before the incident, the transmission "slipped" and made a metallic clunking noise when merging onto a highway. On the day of the incident, the transmission failed completely after turning onto a roadway from a stop sign. No forward or reverse power was available. Had the transmission failed the night before while merging onto a highway, with little ability to pull out of the roadway, we certainly would have been in danger. The vehicle has been inspected by the dealer and the transmission failure confirmed. The transmission "stuttered" for several months previously while accelerating, though not consistently.
Subaru Ascent 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 4S4WMAPD8L3
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at 55 MPH, the vehicle stalled. No warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V955000 (Power Train). The vehicle was towed to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the transmission needed to be repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.
Subaru Ascent 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 4S4WMALD2M3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Transmission needed a full replacement
Subaru Ascent 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: 4S4WMAPD8N3
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: At approximately 10000 miles the drive train (transmission) developed a shuddering while driving. This occurs at any speed but more frequently at 45-60 MPH. The frequency of this problem has increased with the vehicle which now has 45202 miles. It is now occurring periodically at acceleration from a complete stop. The problem has been reported to the dealer at every service. It was evaluated by the service department for a 4-day period in which they could not duplicate the problem. However, they only drove the vehicle 20.2 miles during this evaluation. It is unknown if this may lead to a safety issue, but it produces a very uncomfortable driving experience and distraction while driving. There is no warning lamp associated with this problem at this time.
Subaru Ascent 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
- VIN: 4S4WMAMD7M3
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brakes shudder and fade when slowing down from highway speeds. Subaru has issued many "fixes" but it keeps happening. See most recent "Ascent Front Brake Warranty Extension Coverage" it still has not fixed the problem!
Subaru Ascent 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: 4S4WMARD0L3
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Bolt holding the driveshaft support bracket backed out causing driveshaft to come out. This is a known issue with the 2019 and 2022 Subaru Ascents and have active service advisories but Subaru of America does not recognize it for the 2020 models even know it is also happening in the 2020 vehicles. If the driveshaft would have came out at a high speed it could have caused a crash. Based on the research the bolts do not hold the torque from the factory due to a bolt manufacturing issue and slowly back out after time unknown to the driver. Subaru is not recognizing the problem, so they are not notifying the 2020 owners of the problem, instead they are offering a 50% payment on the repairs as a goodwill payment to offset the cost since it is not a warranty issue. I had had my car in for oil changes in the past and the dealership did not know to check for the tightness of the bolts as there were no service advisories. There should be a recall for this problem before someone dies in a crash caused by this problem.
Subaru Ascent 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-15
- VIN: 4S4WMAPD4L3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Driver side window malfunctions intermittently. When raining, slow to go down or up, also skips as it goes up and down.
Subaru Ascent 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-15
- VIN: 4S4WMAWD5P3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring. Front windshield easily cracked from minor rock strikes 3 times within 20 months. Replacement with Subarus OEM glasses twice already within 3 months. Now a new crack needs repair or potential replacement. Defective windshield that cannot withhold minor impact is clearly serious safety concern, increased stress on owner and burden on insurance, and impact to vehicle structural integrity for repeated replacements, and depreciation of vehicle value.
Subaru Ascent 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-13
- VIN: 4S4WMARD9L3
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Component- steering locks Safety risk - vehicle cannot be started. Therefore if in an area of risk - cannot start vehicle. This randomly happens pulling into parking spaces. It is repetitive. I’m older and alone, scary when it happens as you are stranded. And call to Subaru roadside only option was to tow the vehicle the vehicle to dealership. Online fix is to man handle the steering wheel and turn it in the direction of the tension. Pulling into a normal parking space should not create the tension necessary for the steering wheel to lock. I have been on Subaru ascent form us and this seems to be a common problem with this vehicle. Mine has been inspected for the last occurrence and was told battery issue. The other times there were no battery issues and dealerships cannot find issues. Warning light only lights up after steering wheel locks up and vehicle cannot be started. The safety risk for me is being stranded - and no way to prevent it or know when it might happen.
Subaru Ascent 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-10
- VIN: 4S4WMAWD3P3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Unusual wear on tires - 7/32 at 8000 miles, 5/32 at 15000 miles, advised to replace all tires at 15000 miles. Existing recall WRH-23 covering vehicles manufactured between Dec 2022 and Jan 2023. My vehicle shows manufacturing date of March 2023 but I believe may be part of the same issue. See below Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is initiating a new safety recall and stop sale for certain 2023 model year Ascent vehicles equipped with 20-inch wheels. Description of the Defect and Safety Risk The vehicles included in this recall/stop sale may be equipped with tires that were damaged during the wheel mounting and assembly process. A misaligned bead guide arm on the tire mounting equipment may have caused excessive stress on the tire bead during mounting, possibly causing damage to the internal structure of the tire. Internal damage to the tire bead may lead to structural failure of the tire and rapid tire deflation, increasing the risk of a crash. Remedy For all potentially affected vehicles, Subaru retailers will remove and replace all four tires with new ones at no cost to the customer. All removed tires should be rendered unusable and be disposed of according to local regulations. Affected Vehicles A total of 4,409 U.S. Subaru Ascent vehicles will be affected by this recall, as listed below: 2023 Ascent (w/20” wheels) December 1, 2022 – January 5, 2023 Not all vehicles in the production date range listed above are affected by this recall. Coverage must be confirmed by using the Vehicle Coverage Inquiry function on subarunet.com prior to repair. This information is now available
Subaru Ascent 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-10
- VIN: 4S4WMAFD9K3
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: During an inspection at the dealership in December 2023, the tech found the oil pan to be leaking. It was resealed during the same visit. Approximately 8 months later, the same problem was found again at the dealership. It was again resealed. Upon further research, this appears to be a recurring problem on similar vehicles.
Subaru Ascent 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-03
- VIN: 4S4WMABD3K3
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while the vehicle was stopped and attempting to accelerate on several occasions, the vehicle jolted forward while shifting from 1st to 2nd gear. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the computer software needed to be updated. The software updated but the failure reoccurred after almost two months. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that another software needed to be updated; however, the failure reoccurred after almost two months. The contact believed that the failure was associated with Manufacturer Recall Number: 16-139-22 CVT Assembly (WRK-21) Warranty Extension (TCM reprogramming to prevent CVT chain slip). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 106,000.
Subaru Ascent 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-02
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4S4WMAWD0P3
- Components: AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: There was a SUDDEN and UNINTENDED acceleration without the driver input while braking to park going approximately 1 - 2 MPH. Our safety was at risk. The vehicle was not in our control. A police report was generated. Rather than stopping we crashed into the apartment building causing significant damage to both the apartment and our vehicle. There were no warnings, no automatic braking to avoid the collision, the air bags did not deploy. The total damages are still being determined by the dealer and insurance company.
Latest 5 recalls Subaru Ascent
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 17 recalls for different components of the Subaru Ascent.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Subaru Ascent 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-21
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Outback, Legacy, Ascent, and Impreza vehicles. The center support bolts for the driveshaft may loosen, resulting in the disconnection of the front end of the driveshaft.
- Consequence: Separation of the front end of the driveshaft increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will clean the bolt mounting surfaces of the center support brace and install new bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 20, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRN-23.
- Model: Subaru Ascent 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-06-01
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Ascent vehicles. The left or right front lower control arm may have an improperly tightened ball joint castle nut which can result in retention pin failure and separation of the ball joint from the lower control arm.
- Consequence: Ball joint separation while the vehicle is in motion can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the lower control arm, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 30, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRJ-23.
- Model: Subaru Ascent 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-04-07
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Ascent vehicles equipped with 20-inch wheels. The internal tire bead may have been damaged during the wheel mounting process.
- Consequence: A damaged tire may experience a sudden loss of air pressure, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace all four tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 6, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRH-23.
- Model: Subaru Ascent 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-12-08
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles. The ground bolt that secures the ground terminal of the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater may have been improperly fastened, which could result in melting of the ground terminal and surrounding components.
- Consequence: A melting ground terminal increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park their vehicle away from structures and to avoid leaving the vehicle unattended while the engine is running. An owner who notices or smells smoke coming from the dash or driver's footwell area should immediately stop operating the vehicle and turn the ignition switch to the "Off" position. Dealers will replace the PTC heater ground bolts and if necessary, replace the ground wire and the connector holder, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed February 6, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRL-22.
- Model: Subaru Ascent 2020
- Report Received Date: 2022-12-08
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles. The ground bolt that secures the ground terminal of the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater may have been improperly fastened, which could result in melting of the ground terminal and surrounding components.
- Consequence: A melting ground terminal increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park their vehicle away from structures and to avoid leaving the vehicle unattended while the engine is running. An owner who notices or smells smoke coming from the dash or driver's footwell area should immediately stop operating the vehicle and turn the ignition switch to the "Off" position. Dealers will replace the PTC heater ground bolts and if necessary, replace the ground wire and the connector holder, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed February 6, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRL-22.
Latest negative Subaru Ascent car reviews
Latest positive Subaru Ascent car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2023
Handles great and is very nimble in traffic. The interior of the Touring model is totally comfortable and well-designed. The technology is easy to use. As a loyal GM owner through the years, I must say that the Subaru Ascent does not disappoint with its ride comfort and pickup. I must also add that the dealership was fantastic!
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Vehicle year: 2022
I purchased the Premium version of this vehicle a year ago and have driven 10k miles. I absolutely love it! The Ascent has plenty of space, is very easy to handle for a large SUV, and has lots of power. Even in normal city traffic, the acceleration indicator typically shows 25%-30%, and anything close to 50% makes my wife start playfully criticizing my driving 😀. Living in an area with serious winters, I have never had a problem in snowy or icy conditions - the Ascent always feels well-posed regardless of the conditions. The only minor issue I have is that I don't like the fake gear shifts on the CVT - it can feel a bit jumpy sometimes if you are more active with the gas pedal. I had an SUV with a regular CVT with no electronic shifts before the Ascent and loved the smooth and linear reaction of the CVT. I wish the Ascent had an option to disable the fake gear shifts. Overall, I am completely satisfied after one year of ownership, have had no issues, and hope to keep the car for a long time!
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Vehicle year: 2020
The gas mileage is slightly less than what is advertised on the sticker, and the gas pedal can be a bit cranky. The transmission can also be a bit balky when searching for the right gear. However, the adaptive cruise and other safety features are excellent, and the ride is comfortable on long trips. There is plenty of room, as my great grandson can attest to. The brakes could use some improvement, but there is plenty of power when needed. The fit and finish, along with the paint, are great. On a recent trip to the East coast, I was able to get over 30.1 mpg, and 28.5 on the way back. Overall, it's a very comfortable car for long trips.
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Vehicle year: 2021
My wife is claustrophobic, so the large moon roof really opens up the cabin. I'm glad to hear that she loves being able to turn off the driving assist features, while I personally enjoy them. It's great that we can both enjoy the car in our own way!
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Vehicle year: 2023
My review will focus on how my impressions differ from the 'expert' review at Edmund. First, in terms of size, the Ascent is shorter than most 3-row cars, but it utilizes the space well. It is just the right size for a family of four, but I have carried two full-size adults, one of whom is over 6ft tall, in the third row across town with no complaints. A car that is bigger than the Ascent will be more difficult to park and drive in tight corners. On paper, Ascent's second-row passenger room may be smaller than that in the Highlander. Is that why Edmund thinks the second row is small in the Ascent? In reality, the Ascent's second row is roomy and spacious, even for people over 6ft, and the seats are very comfortable. In terms of ride comfort, the Ascent's ride is almost luxury car-like, comfortable, and quiet. Most reviews I read are consistent with that. The gas pedal on a turbo-charged car can be 'touchy,' but you should be able to quickly learn to adapt. By reading driving experience from people owning earlier and the 23 models, the throttle responses seem to have improved with the latest model. Once you get used to it, together with a tight turning circle and assist from the AWD system, you would find it fun to drive with lots of power passing on the highway with a full load. While most SUVs offer AWD as an option for at least $2,000, AWD is standard on the Ascent, and Subaru has the best AWD for a mainstream car. I am tired of hearing about the Telluride. The reviews should take into consideration the markups they are charging, plus the added cost of the AWD, before comparing it to the Ascent.
Are you having problems with your Subaru Ascent?
Blair Wiegand 2025-09-23
Vehicle year: 2019
Like others, we bought a new 2019 Ascent in the fall. Had a great 6 months with the car. Then, the engine started to squeal. Though complaints are all over the web, subaru corporate apparently denies to the dealers' service teams any information, so they couldn't replicate the issue and put us back on the road. A few days later, the car died at highway speed, and now needs an entirely new transmission. Subaru needs to get its QA in hand, and quicklyUpdate: years later, more problems. Fuel pump replaced. Drivers window mechanism broken. .
Eddie Lehner 2025-09-19
Vehicle year: 2020
We absolutely adore our Outback 3.6R Limited and have been considering the Ascent. The limited and touring models are packed with features that other brands only offer at exorbitant prices. However, we would advise you to test drive the Ascent in conditions similar to those you will be driving in, especially if you live up a narrow, winding, super steep road halfway up a mountain with low speed limits. While the engine is powerful enough, the CVT with its 8 programmed shift points struggles in such conditions, constantly searching for the right gear and causing the car to roll or lurch through the shift points. The only way we could keep it happy was by either driving too fast for the curves, staying on it, or using the paddle shifters. We don't think you should have to do that. As for the rest, the Ascent is fantastic, and we love all the features in the limited model we test drove for a weekend. We do wish that Subaru made its 3.6R 6-cylinder engine available in the Ascent. If they did, it would be the best mid-size 3-row SUV around, and we would buy one in a heartbeat!
Nathen McClure 2025-09-18
Vehicle year: 2019
Hello! We recently purchased a New Ascent for its reliability and safety features. Unfortunately, we have experienced a brief screeching noise and a vehicle pause followed by a lunge forward while driving at moderate and highway speeds. We have taken the car back to the dealer, but they were unable to reproduce the problem. They performed a programming software upgrade, but the issue persists. We have heard from other owners who have experienced similar issues, but the dealer has not acknowledged any reported transmission problems. We want to let you know that until Subaru has corrected the transmission problems, we do not recommend purchasing an Ascent. We had another issue that the dealer addressed, but we understand that things are not always perfect. However, a flawed transmission is unacceptable. Thank you for your understanding.
Omer Klocko 2025-09-12
Vehicle year: 2022
Update: Hey there! After two years of owning a Subaru Ascent Touring, I have to say that I wouldn't recommend it. While Subaru claims the same horsepower and torque as the Toyota V6, it's clearly only theoretical. The matchup between the teeny engine with the turbo and CV transmission is not great. You have plenty of power off the line, but when you punch it to pass or merge at a moderate speed like 40, it totally dies. It just sits there for a good 3 seconds trying to figure out which system is going to go first and it can be dangerous! Too many times I have had a truck barreling down on me when I expect to get some power out of this pig. Now I just wait until I have a LOT of merging room. Also, they claim to have remote start, but you have to pay a monthly fee to access it! Come on, Subaru! My suggestion: spend the extra money and get the Highlander or Pathfinder. Oh, and the mileage isn't great either...put your expectations on a combined mileage in the teens, not twenties. On the bright side, I just picked up my 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring and I'm excited to work through the features, functions and performance. I chose it over the Toyota Highlander because it has a bit more room, most of the same features, and was $4K cheaper. While I'm not totally comfortable with a 2.4l flat 4 (I come from the big-block V8 era), it has plenty of power and you can easily tone-out the engine noise with a little background music from the 14 speaker stereo. I'll update you as I get more information.
Pablo Mayert 2025-09-07
Vehicle year: 2022
Since having this vehicle, I've had a few issues. The brakes needed to be fixed three times before they were right, and the hood was vibrating at highway speeds (60-70 mph). Although there were technical bulletins out about both of these issues, it was up to me to report them. SMH. The CVT has its moments, but overall it's not a bad vehicle.