Is a Subaru Ascent a reliable car?

Yes. The Subaru Ascent is broadly considered a reliable family SUV in the midsize segment, offering standard all‑wheel drive, strong safety ratings, and solid owner satisfaction. Still, reliability can vary by model year and how well the vehicle has been maintained, so checking recalls and service history is essential.

This article examines what makes the Ascent dependable, what issues owners have reported, and how to evaluate a used model, drawing on ratings from major outlets and recall data as of 2025.

Reliability snapshot: strengths that matter to buyers

Below is a look at the factors that typically contribute to the Ascent’s reliability and ownership experience.

• Standard all‑wheel drive across most trims, improving traction and resilience in adverse weather and on varied road surfaces.


• Robust powertrain lineup, including the 2.4L turbocharged engine paired with a modern automatic transmission, designed for long-term durability when properly serviced.


• Strong safety performance, with Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist system as standard on many trims and high crash-test ratings from IIHS/NHTSA.


• Solid resale value and wide dealer/service network, helping owners maintain and repair the vehicle cost‑effectively.


• Generally favorable reliability perceptions in mainstream surveys, placing the Ascent within the upper half of its class on several metrics in recent years.

Together, these attributes contribute to a favorable ownership experience for families and travelers who value safety, capability, and predictable maintenance costs.

Model-year nuances: what to watch by year

Like many modern SUVs, the Ascent has evolved over its generation. Some model years have more favorable reliability histories than others, and occasional recalls or service campaigns have addressed issues after launch.

• Infotainment and software updates: Several owners report occasional glitches or freezes in the Starlink system, usually resolved with dealer software updates or resets.


• Drivetrain behavior: A small number of early‑to‑mid‑generation models have seen reports of transmission/shift quirks or shifts that felt less smooth, which Subaru has addressed with updates and recalls where applicable.


• Recall and service campaigns: As with most manufacturers, certain components have been subject to recalls or service campaigns. It’s important to verify the vehicle’s VIN against current recall data and ensure all campaigns have been completed.


• Interior and trim wear: Most owners report solid build quality, but some high‑mileage examples may show common wear in nonessential trim pieces; this is typical for any family SUV with daily use.

When shopping used, focusing on model years with the strongest reliability histories and confirming a clean recall/maintenance record can improve confidence in long‑term ownership.

Buying guidance for used Ascent shoppers

Before purchasing a used Subaru Ascent, consider the following steps to reduce risk and ensure you get a well‑maintained vehicle.

• Check service records for routine maintenance, including oil changes, brake work, and tire rotations, and confirm thatEyeSight updates and other software patches have been applied where needed.


• Inspect for recalls and ensure all open campaigns have been completed, with documentation from a dealer or Subaru’s recall database.


• Review the vehicle’s mileage and ownership history for consistent maintenance, no major accidents, and a clean title.


• Test the powertrain and transmission feel, including smooth acceleration, appropriate idle, and no unusual noises or shudders during shifting (if applicable to the year/model).


• Have a trusted technician—preferably a Subaru specialist—perform a pre‑purchase inspection to check for oil leaks, suspension wear, brake condition, and the integrity of the AWD system.

In practice, a thorough pre‑purchase assessment combined with up‑to‑date recall checks goes a long way toward ensuring a reliable used Ascent experience.

What experts and owners say

Industry reviews and owner surveys generally place the Ascent among the more reliable options in the midsize SUV segment, particularly for buyers who prioritize all‑wheel drive, safety features, and practical utility. Some model years perform better than others in aggregated reliability scores, but the overall picture remains favorable for routine use, family responsibilities, and long‑distance travel when the vehicle is properly serviced.

Summary

Overall, the Subaru Ascent offers a compelling reliability proposition for many buyers: proven AWD capability, strong safety credentials, and a history of solid owner satisfaction. Model-year differences exist, so prospective buyers should review reliability data for specific years, check recall status, and insist on a thorough pre‑purchase inspection when buying used. With careful maintenance, the Ascent can be a dependable, long‑term family SUV.

What year is the most reliable Subaru Ascent?

The most reliable Subaru Ascent models are generally considered to be from 2021 and newer, with the 2023 and 2024 models having further improvements and fewer issues. The first two model years, 2019 and 2020, had the most problems, particularly with the transmission, and are best to avoid if possible.
 
Reliable years

• 2021 and later: These model years are frequently cited as reliable, having addressed many of the issues found in the earlier models. The 2021 model year saw significant fixes for problems like transmission issues. 
• 2023 and 2024: These model years are considered even more reliable, building on the improvements made in 2021 and 2022. The 2023 model received a mid-cycle refresh that included numerous updates and fine-tuning. 

Years to avoid

• 2019 and 2020: The first two model years of the Ascent had the highest number of recalls and complaints, with many reports of transmission problems. While some owners reported no issues, avoiding these years is the most reliable strategy. 

Does the Subaru Ascent have reliability issues?

We expect the 2025 Ascent will have about average reliability when compared to the average new car.

How many miles will a Subaru Ascent last?

200,000 to 250,000 miles
On average, a well-maintained Subaru Ascent can last anywhere from 200,000 to 250,000 miles! To put that into perspective, this means if you drive about 12,000 miles per year, your Subaru Ascent could easily last 15 to 20 years.

Is the Subaru Ascent a good car to buy?

The Subaru Ascent can be a good car to buy if you prioritize standard all-wheel drive, a high level of safety, and a comfortable, spacious interior with excellent outward visibility. However, potential buyers should be aware of reported issues like poor fuel economy, some engine and transmission noise, and an overly sensitive accelerator pedal. 
Pros

• Standard AWD: All models come with Subaru's all-wheel-drive system, making it a strong choice for all weather conditions. 
• Safety: The Ascent consistently earns top safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA, thanks to the standard EyeSight safety suite. 
• Spacious and comfortable: It is Subaru's largest model, with plenty of room for up to eight passengers and their gear. 
• Comfortable ride: It offers a smooth and controlled ride that handles bumps well. 
• Good visibility: The design provides excellent outward visibility. 
• Towing capacity: It has a strong and capable towing capacity. 
• High-quality interior: Many reviews praise the quality of the interior materials and fit and finish. 

Cons

• Fuel economy: Some owners report poor fuel economy, though EPA ratings can vary depending on the model year and driving conditions. 
• Accelerator response: The accelerator pedal can be overly sensitive, and the CVT can lead to engine and tire noise, especially under hard acceleration. 
• Handling: The handling is not a strong suit; the steering can feel vague, and there is noticeable body lean when cornering. 
• Potential reliability concerns: Some users have reported issues with the battery, transmission, and electrical system, although other sources cite it as reliable. 

This video provides an in-depth review of the Subaru Ascent, including its performance and features: 1mAutomotive Anonymous YouTube · Feb 15, 2025
Conclusion
The Subaru Ascent is a good option for families who need a spacious, safe, and capable SUV with standard all-wheel drive. If you are willing to accept some drawbacks like less-than-stellar fuel economy and potentially less-engaging handling, it could be a great fit. 
You can watch this video to learn more about the Subaru Ascent's all-wheel-drive system and other components: 1mThe Car Care Nut ReviewsYouTube · Apr 30, 2024