Subaru Ascent Complaints

262 consumer complaints on file.

#11759770August 26, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving, shortly after starting the trip (after traveling approximately a quarter mile), I felt what seemed like a bite or an electric shock on my left ankle, at floor level. I immediately pulled over and stopped the vehicle. My sock had a burn/hole in it, and I sustained three distinct marks on my ankle. There were no dashboard warning lights on before, during, or after the incident. This startled me while I was actively driving and could have caused a loss of vehicle control, particularly if it had occurred at higher speed or in traffic. The vehicle has since been inspected twice: once by the selling dealer's service department, and once by the manufacturer's own field specialists, including a full diagnostic scan, a road test, and a physical inspection of interior wiring, including the footwell area near where the incident occurred. Both inspections found no electrical faults, no damaged wiring, and no diagnostic trouble codes related to the concern. The vehicle's Event Data Recorder (airbag control module) was also downloaded and showed no recorded event for the date of the incident. Despite these findings, the cause of the injury has not been identified, and the problem has not been reproduced. I have continued driving the vehicle since and remain concerned this could happen again, since no cause has been confirmed or ruled out. The vehicle is available for further inspection if needed.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11757791August 18, 2026
TIRES
The contact owns a 2023 Subaru Ascent equipped with Falken Tires, Tire Line: ZIEX, Tire Size: 245/50/R20, DOT Number: 1R8KH DM2R 0323. While the contact's wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, there was rubber flying from the vehicle. The vehicle was driving to the shoulder of the road, and the driver became aware that the rear passenger's tire sidewalls were shredding, and the tread was separating. The contact's grandchildren were inside the vehicle during the failure. AAA Roadside Assistance was contacted. Roadside Assistance replaced the tire with the spare tire. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V258000 (Tires); as a possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11757402August 17, 2026
AIR BAGS
Was getting out the car the door shut car door and side curtain on drivers side and drivers seats airbag deployed. My children were in the car no injuries during event. But, could have depending on when the airbags would have deployed if not then. Please inspect. Had manufacturer come inspect and was denied repair. No lamps or messaged reported. (Nothing was in the door way when door was shut)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11755178August 6, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, UNKNOWN OR OTHER, STEERING
I am reporting two issues with my vehicle that I believe require further attention and repair assistance. I am requesting that both issues be properly repaired without any charges to me. There are no warning lights, error messages, or other dashboard warnings related to either issue. However, both conditions are abnormal and affecting the vehicle’s operation and ownership experience. 1. Steering Noise (Inside Cabin). The steering assembly inside the cabin. Whenever I make any type of turn, either left or right, I hear a noticeable clicking/clocking noise coming from inside the steering column area. I want to clarify that this noise is not coming from the wheels, tires, suspension, or steering components connected outside the cabin. The sound is specifically coming from the steering wheel/steering column area inside the vehicle. I have had this concern checked, and the only suggestion provided was to replace the suspected component. The dealer did not provide written confirmation of the diagnosis but verbally advised that they could replace the component and see if it resolves the issue. However, since there is no guarantee that the replacement will correct the problem, I do not feel comfortable spending my own money on a repair that has not been confirmed. I have also spoken with multiple third-party mechanics, and some have verbally indicated that this type of steering noise is a known issue that can occur after a few years and may be related to the clock spring (spiral cable/ribbon) or another internal steering column component. Because this appears to be a known manufacturer-related concern and not a result of misuse or neglect, I request that the issue be properly repaired at no cost. 2. Rear Brake Squeaking Noise. The rear brake pads and rotors are new, but the brakes continue to make a noticeable squeaking/squealing noise. The noise usually occurs after driving for some time, especially in warm weather when the brakes reach normal operating temperature.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11753964July 31, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The vehicle exhibited transmission slippage but did not provide any warning lights or other symptoms . About 100 miles later, the Automatic Transmission Oil light came on (flashing YELLOW), and all other systems light up (both Yellow and Red) disabling front collision, auto vehicle hold, RAB, etc. Pulled to a safe location and left in park for 10-15 minutes per guidance. Had towed to dealer to determine issue, transmission failure on a 3.5 yr old vehicle with 80,019 miles.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11753410July 29, 2026
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
My 2021 Subaru Ascent (40,000 miles) suffered multiple major mechanical failures that pose ongoing safety concerns: 1. Engine Oil Leak: The vehicle developed an active engine oil leak at 20,000 miles, posing a risk of fluid contacting hot exhaust/engine components under the hood or causing low oil levels during operation. Repair time more than 35 days due to parts not available. 2. Loose Factory Engine Mounts: At 25,000 miles, excessive engine shifting, vibration when braking, the dealer discovered loose engine mounts. 3. Transmission Valve Body Failure: At 40,000 miles The transmission Valve Body Failure and need replacement.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11752723July 24, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle started to stall, and the transmission failed to properly operate. The vehicle was pulled over to a nearby shop and was advised to take the vehicle back to the facility that performed the oil changes. Several days later, the contact's husband test drove the vehicle and was able to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was towed to a dealer to be diagnosed, and metal shavings were found in the oil. The dealer determined that the CVT transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was being repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 101,541.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11752548July 23, 2026
STEERING
2025 Subaru Ascent has a popping noise randomly usually when turning left. Dealership services can not find the source.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11749720July 11, 2026
ENGINE
Oil leaking from upper and lower oil pan. Oil seeping from head gasket and CVT chain pump cover. RTV sealant failure. $4800 to repair. Subaru needs to solve these oil leak issues. Leaking oil is bad for the environment and engine failure could cause accidents and injury.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11749348July 9, 2026
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
On XXX, I was operating my vehicle heading Pocono PA, on I-80 in [XXX]. At approximately mile point 142.4, the vehicle's onboard Forward Collision Avoidance System (FCAS) suddenly and unexpectedly activated without any obstruction, hazard, or vehicle ahead. The abrupt, automated braking and system intervention caused an immediate loss of vehicle control, forcing the car into a 180-degree spin. The violent shift in momentum caused the vehicle to roll over on the highway before coming to a stop. No other vehicles were involved in the initiation of the crash. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
2
Deaths:
0
#11746812June 26, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, STEERING
The car will spontaneously brake for no reason while driving forward and reverse. The steering wheel will spontaneously steer you out of the lane. The doors will lock while you are in the car and you can't get out for about 30 seconds. The deck door will come down on you unexpectedly while loading items. It has hit us in the head or makes us twist our back to lift it up. The stereo system has a mind if it's own. The eye site goes on and off for no reason. These safety issues concern us. We have had it in the service department three times and they can't duplicate the problem. They have had it since June 6th and drove it 30 miles in 20 days. I don't think they drove it long enough to duplicate the problem. It usually happens after about 15/20 minutes of driving. Typically that is about how long before the brakes will spontaneously brake.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11746584June 25, 2026
ENGINE
The front exhaust pipe on my 2022 Subaru Ascent cracked at approximately 77,800 miles. The component is available for inspection. Prior to diagnosis, I noticed a rattle/fluttering noise coming from the undercarriage during acceleration. The problem was confirmed by an authorized Subaru dealership. Subaru has issued TSB 09-106-23 acknowledging this is a known design defect affecting 2019-2023 Ascents, and has redesigned the part to correct the issue. Despite being within the 8 year/80,000 mile federal emissions warranty period, the dealership denied warranty coverage, claiming coverage only applies in California and Maryland. This is incorrect - the federal emissions warranty applies nationwide. The dealership quoted over $1,000 out of pocket for a known manufacturing defect on a 4 year old vehicle. The cracked exhaust pipe poses a safety risk as exhaust fumes can enter the vehicle cabin. I am requesting NHTSA to investigate whether Subaru is improperly denying federal emissions warranty claims on affected vehicles outside of California and Maryland.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11746580June 25, 2026
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, SERVICE BRAKES
On May 14, 2026, while driving a 2021 Subaru Ascent (approx. 94,291 miles) on a Texas expressway at highway speed during rush hour, I experienced a sudden and significant loss of engine power. There were no warning lights, no safety system activation, and no advance indication of the failure. The vehicle decelerated abruptly with traffic behind it. Live OBD-II data was being logged during the drive and was provided to the service advisor at the authorized Subaru retailer. This incident occurred only 3 days and approximately 125 miles after the vehicle was returned following a major engine repair performed at an authorized Subaru retailer in Texas under active powertrain warranty. That repair was supervised by a Subaru of America District Quality Manager and Field Technical Specialist, who conducted a 110-mile validation drive prior to release. Prior to the highway failure, visible fluid leaks were documented across the intake ducting, residue on lower engine components, a sweet and burning odor after driving, and milky sludge returning to the coolant reservoir — all within 125 miles of pickup. These are consistent with ongoing oil and coolant cross-contamination, which was the original diagnosis documented in the dealership's digital service portal. The vehicle has now undergone three major engine teardowns since March 17, 2026 — over 100 days out of service — for the same underlying powertrain issue on the FA24 engine. The current repair involves cylinder heads sent to a third-party machine shop. Vehicle telematics confirm the vehicle has not been started since May 27, 2026. This report is filed to establish a federal safety record of the highway power loss incident and the recurring nature of this powertrain failure. An active Subaru of America customer advocacy case is on file regarding this vehicle.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11746540June 25, 2026
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Traveling in my 2025 Subaru Ascent with cruise control set at 50mph. Bright sunny day, no shadows on the road and no vehicles in front of me. My vehicle slammed on the brakes out of nowhere. Held deceleration about 5-7 seconds and then resumed cruising speed. The road I was on is generally busy. I got very lucky there was no one behind me or I would have been rear ended.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11746149June 24, 2026
STEERING, POWER TRAIN, ENGINE
The contact owns a 2022 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle experienced a loss of power steering assist, the speedometer was inoperable, and the transmission failed to shift into gear. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who inspected the brakes and reset the check engine warning light, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, who determined that the rear radar sensor module beneath the rear bumper had corrosion from car wash or road salt. The dealer replaced the rear radar sensor module and sealed it with silicone. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11744250June 15, 2026
TIRES
I am submitting this complaint regarding the original-equipment Falken ZIEX ZE001 A/S 245/50R20 tires installed on two separate 2024 Subaru Ascents owned by my family. The vehicles were purchased approximately one month apart and are operated under similar New England driving conditions. Both vehicles were equipped with identical factory-installed Falken tires. Beginning at relatively low mileage, both vehicles exhibited substantially similar wet-weather traction concerns, including hydroplaning tendencies and reduced traction during rain. As tread depth decreased, traction in snow, slush, and icy conditions also deteriorated significantly. Both vehicles experienced loss-of-traction events during winter driving conditions, including incidents in which the vehicles slid off the roadway. The concerns were reported to Falken Tire and Subaru of America. Falken advised that the tires were manufactured to Subaru's original-equipment specifications and directed me to Subaru regarding my concerns. One of the vehicles ultimately received replacement tires through a Subaru retailer. The original Falken tires were replaced with General AltiMAX RT45 tires. Following replacement, the concerns were improved. The second vehicle remains equipped with the original Falken tires. At approximately 13,000 miles, the tires measure approximately between 2&3/32 inch tread depth and continue to exhibit the same traction concerns. Because two separate vehicles equipped with the same original-equipment tires have exhibited substantially similar wet-weather and winter-weather traction issues, and because replacement of the tires corrected the concern on one vehicle, I believe this matter warrants review from a vehicle safety perspective.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741883June 3, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Sirius XM ads showing up and there’s no way to opt out. The ads are distracting/difficult to close and cover a good amount off my media system even while driving.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741773June 3, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE
31 May 2026 (AM) Operating vehicle north on MD Rte 147 traveling appr. 45 MPH when vehicle started experiencing uncontrolled electrical activation of features e.g., heat, air, radio, main display. This proceed a shuddering in the drive train like one would experience with a transmission issue. Then, without warning, while at full speed, there was a complete loss of engine power i.e., it turned off, which also resulted in loss of steering and breaking resulting in a complete loss of control of the vehicle. As the vehicle drifted to a rolling stop, the main display indicated to turn off the vehicle and it was forced into park to stop it and then the ignition control button was pushed. The car was restarted and moved off the road. Subsequent restarts and terminations occurred without issue. No fault code was generated or captured by the vehicle computer and the dealer could not reproduce the problem.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740740May 28, 2026
POWER TRAIN, ENGINE, VISIBILITY/WIPER
While pulling up to a drive thru window the vehicle shuddered and the engine shut off. I lost all power steering and had to come to a stop, shift into park, then restart the engine. No check engine lights or warnings illuminated. There were no status messages to indicate what caused it to shut off. Also the driver side mirror shakes a lot, just like all the other reports say.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740418May 27, 2026
VISIBILITY/WIPER
I am a current lessee of a 2024 Subaru Ascent. I leased this vehicle starting July 27, 2024. My lease ends on July 27, 2027. I live 60 miles away from the dealership and only did a test drive around town. The minute I got on the freeway after leaving the dealership the night I leased the vehicle, I noticed the drivers side mirror heavily vibrated and I remember thinking how strange it was to have the headlights from the cars behind me look so shaky in the mirror. I took the car to the service department on August 9, 2024 where they logged a "driveability diagnostic" and "MPI." My reason for that appointment was the side mirror vibrations. It is bad during the day, but not as noticeable and very distracting when driving at night. I was told by the service member that they were "aware" of this issue and had seen it "a few other times." They "fixed" it but the vibrations continue to this day. I'm filing this complaint now as I have become aware of a class action lawsuit against Subaru for this very issue and I want to document my vehicle as one that was affected and ignored.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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