Is the Subaru Ascent expensive to maintain?
Not particularly. The Subaru Ascent’s routine maintenance tends to be in the middle of the midsize SUV class, with costs largely driven by regular service, tires, and any CVT-related needs. With proper upkeep and timely tire replacements, ownership expenses remain manageable.
This article breaks down what tends to drive maintenance costs for the Ascent, what owners typically spend on routine service, and how model year or trim choice can influence those expenses. It also offers budgeting tips and considerations for keeping costs predictable over the life of the vehicle.
What affects maintenance costs on the Ascent
The main factors shaping upkeep are drivetrain configuration (all-wheel drive), the turbocharged engine, and the transmission type (Subaru’s CVT). Local labor rates, warranty status, and how well you follow the factory maintenance schedule also play a big role in how much you’ll spend over time.
Routine maintenance costs you should budget
Below is a practical breakdown of common maintenance items and typical price ranges you may encounter in the United States. Actual costs vary by region, vehicle condition, and service provider.
- Oil change (synthetic 0W-20; interval varies by model year): typically $70–$120
- Tire rotation and balance: $20–$40
- Brake fluid replacement (every 2–3 years, depending on conditions): $100–$150
- Brake pad replacement (per axle, dependent on wear and rotor condition): $150–$300
- Engine air filter replacement: $20–$40
- Cabin air filter replacement: $30–$60
- Windshield wiper blades replacement: $15–$40
- CVT fluid change / transmission service: $200–$350
- Coolant flush and refill: $150–$250
- Battery replacement: $150–$250
- Spark plug replacement (turbo engine, if applicable): $200–$400
These items reflect routine wear-and-tear services and scheduled maintenance. Staying on top of them can prevent larger, costlier problems and help extend the vehicle’s life.
CVT and powertrain considerations
The Ascent uses Subaru’s CVT (Lineartronic) paired with a turbocharged engine. Regular CVT fluid changes are important for longevity, and neglecting them can compromise performance or reliability. CVT service costs can be higher than traditional automatics, but following the manufacturer’s service intervals and using the recommended fluids helps keep the transmission dependable over a long span of miles.
Model-year and trim variability
Maintenance costs can vary modestly by model year and trim due to differences in standard equipment (such as tires and software updates) and any factory campaigns or recalls. In practice, you should expect similar routine-maintenance budgets across recent model years, with potential adjustments for tire size and replacement cost or for any updated service recommendations.
Summary
On balance, the Subaru Ascent is not inherently expensive to maintain relative to its midsize SUV peers. Routine services are straightforward, and parts prices align with typical market rates. The biggest cost sensitivities come from tires and potential CVT-related repairs. By following the official maintenance schedule, choosing quality replacement tires, and addressing issues early, you can keep ownership costs predictable and reasonable.
Bottom line for potential buyers
For shoppers weighing total cost of ownership, the Ascent offers a reasonable maintenance outlook within its class, provided you stay current with service intervals and select tires that balance cost, durability, and performance to suit your driving conditions.
