Ascent (1st)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Reliability Overview
Subaru's first three-row SUV, the Ascent, launched for 2019 and carries 970 NHTSA complaints across its first generation through 2025. The rating algorithm marks its sole engine avoid, and at roughly 137 complaints per year against a midsize-SUV median near 46, the density runs about triple the segment norm. The reasons spread across the vehicle rather than concentrating in the drivetrain. Electrical issues lead at 282, well ahead of the next cluster.
The Ascent offers no engine choice. Every one uses the same 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four making 260 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable transmission. That removes the powertrain decision a shopper makes on most three-row rivals, and it means the transmission story matters to every buyer. Transmission complaints sit second at 161, and Subaru issued multiple powertrain recalls early in the run, including a 2019 transmission hydraulic campaign (19V855) and a center support bolt recall (19V519).
The first model year was rough even by new-nameplate standards. Among the 2019 recalls was a structural campaign (18V508) for vehicles that left the plant with missing welds, serious enough that some cars were bought back rather than repaired. Engine and cooling (19V856) and fuel-system recalls (20V218, 21V587) followed. The electrical bucket, the largest single group, ties partly to a 2019-2022 ground-bolt recall (22V907) that could compromise the vehicle's electrical grounding.
The recall ledger leans heavily on the powertrain. Beyond the transmission campaigns, Subaru recalled early Ascents for a low-pressure fuel pump that could fail and stall the engine (20V218, 21V587), part of the wider Denso fuel-pump problem that swept several brands in 2020. A 2020 steering recall (21V954) and a pair of 2023 tire and suspension campaigns (23V258, 23V392) fill out the rest. Stacked together, the 2019-2020 build years carry the densest set of drivetrain and safety recalls to verify before buying.
Twelve fire reports and 77 brake complaints round out the picture, both filed serious rather than critical. The Ascent suits a buyer who wants Subaru's standard all-wheel drive and three rows and will concentrate the inspection on the early-build recalls and the CVT. A well-sorted later-build Ascent with its launch recalls closed is a different proposition from an unremediated 2019 car.
Engine Reliability Ratings
Subaru Ascent Unidentified Engine
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Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.4T-I4-Gas
2.4L 4-cyl Turbo / 260 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Subaru Ascent regardless of engine variant.
Buyer's Guide
Model year matters more than anything on the Ascent, because the 2019 launch cars carry the heaviest and most serious recalls, including the missing-weld structural campaign. A 2021 or later Ascent, past the worst of the launch defects and with the powertrain and electrical recalls closed, is the stronger used buy. The 2023 cars picked up their own tire and suspension recalls, so no single year is entirely clear.
With a single CVT-equipped powertrain, put the transmission at the center of the inspection. Drive it across a range of speeds and loads, feeling for shudder, hesitation, or noise, and confirm the transmission recalls show complete on the VIN. Verify the 18V508 structural recall was addressed on any 2019 car, since that one is not a minor fix. Check the electrical grounding recall (22V907) and have the electronics exercised, since electrical is the largest complaint area.
Subaru dealers complete these recalls at no cost, and the powertrain warranty covers the CVT on cars still inside the window. On a used Ascent, confirm both the recall status and the remaining warranty before committing, since the CVT is the expensive component to be wrong about.
Recalls (12)
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.
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.
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.
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.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2020 Legacy and Outback vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020 Ascent vehicles. Due to an incorrect tapered hole in the housing, the front tie rod ends may not fit properly. The improper fit can result in the tie rods and housings being deformed during assembly and service replacement if excessive torque is applied.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Impreza, Outback, Legacy, and Ascent vehicles. The low pressure fuel pump may become inoperative.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Ascent vehicles. The center support bolts for the driveshaft may loosen, possibly resulting in the front portion of the driveshaft disconnecting.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Ascent vehicles. The transmission hydraulic sensor may inaccurately measure the hydraulic fluid pressure.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent vehicles. The aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can separate, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, resulting in a loss of power while driving.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Subaru Ascent vehicles. These vehicles may be missing spot welds on, or around, the B-Pillar, compromising vehicle strength.
Alternatives in Midsize SUV
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2019-2025 Subaru Ascent problems?
The 2019-2025 Subaru Ascent has accumulated 970 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Electrical System, Transmission, Engine. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Subaru Ascent engine is most reliable?
The 2019-2025 Subaru Ascent was offered with 2 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2.4L Turbo 4-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2019-2025 Subaru Ascent a good used car?
The 2019-2025 Subaru Ascent can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 970 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2019-2025 Subaru Ascent have?
The 2019-2025 Subaru Ascent has 970 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2019-2025 Subaru Ascent?
There are 12 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2019-2025 Subaru Ascent vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Subaru Ascent?
Before buying a used Subaru Ascent, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Electrical System, Transmission, Engine, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Ascent?
The 2025 Subaru Ascent received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 5 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (17.0% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Standard. Lane Departure Warning: Standard. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 970 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-05-23.