Is the Subaru Ascent reliable?

The Subaru Ascent overall is considered a reliable choice within the three-row SUV segment, earning above-average ratings from major outlets and offering strong safety scores. However, reliability can vary by model year and how well the vehicle has been maintained, so prospective buyers should review history and specific year notes before purchasing.

Reliability ratings and what they show

Reliability assessments come from consumer organizations and industry researchers that track predicted dependability, repair costs, and owner satisfaction. Here’s how the Ascent generally stacks up according to those sources:

• Consumer Reports and comparable outlets have tended to rate recent Ascent models as above-average for reliability within the midsize SUV category.


• J.D. Power’s ratings for Subaru models, including the Ascent in recent years, typically reflect solid quality and dependability relative to peers.


• Overall safety, build quality, and the brand’s reputation for durable all-wheel-drive systems contribute to favorable reliability perceptions among owners and reviewers.

Taken together, these assessments suggest that the Ascent is a dependable pick for buyers who want space, practicality, and a reputation for longevity, with the caveat that year-to-year variations and maintenance history matter.

Owner feedback and typical concerns

To understand reliability in real-world terms, reviewers and owners point to a mix of strengths and caveats. The list below captures common themes people discuss when evaluating long-term dependability.

• Strengths cited by critics include a roomy interior, comfortable ride, strong safety equipment, and capable all-wheel-drive performance in adverse weather.


• Potential reliability concerns center on the Subaru CVT (continuously variable transmission) used in the Ascent; some owners report CVT-related noises or personality quirks, and for older warranty periods, repair costs can be significant.


• Other frequent observations include occasional infotainment glitches, and some buyers note higher ownership costs compared with non-luxe midsize SUVs, especially when major repairs arise after warranty expiry.

These points show that while the Ascent can be very dependable in daily use, it benefits from diligent maintenance and awareness of the CVT’s service requirements and potential wear over time.

Shopping considerations and maintenance

If reliability is a priority, use this practical checklist when evaluating a used or new Ascent. It helps you gauge past maintenance and reduce future risk.

• Check for open recalls on the exact vehicle VIN via official databases (e.g., NHTSA or Subaru’s recall portal) and confirm all remedies have been completed.


• Review the maintenance history, especially regarding transmission service (CVT fluid changes) and regular oil changes, and verify warranty coverage on powertrain and CVT components.


• Test-drive the vehicle to assess CVT behavior, throttle response, and smoothness across acceleration ranges; listen for unusual noises that could indicate transmission wear.


• Have a trusted mechanic with Subaru experience inspect for signs of wear on the engine, turbocharger (if equipped), cooling system, and any oil leaks around the engine and transfer cases.

Following these steps helps you select a model with a stronger maintenance history and lowers the risk of unexpected repairs down the line.

Recalls, safety notes, and ongoing maintenance

As with any modern vehicle, the Ascent has been subject to recalls since its introduction. Recalls can involve airbags, seat belt systems, software updates, or other safety-related components. It is essential to verify that all recall work has been completed on any car you’re considering and to periodically check for new notices. Using the VIN, you can search the NHTSA or Subaru recall databases to confirm status and remedy history.

In addition to recalls, adhering to Subaru’s recommended maintenance schedule—especially for the CVT and engine—helps sustain reliability. Regular maintenance, timely software updates, and preventive care are the best strategies to maximize long-term dependability.

Bottom line

The Subaru Ascent offers a compelling combination of practicality, safety, and all-wheel-drive capability that many buyers associate with reliability. While most recent models perform well in reliability surveys and owner surveys, the vehicle’s reliance on a CVT and the potential for year-to-year variability means careful shopping, thorough history review, and proactive maintenance are crucial to ensuring long-term dependability.

Summary

In summary, the Ascent stands up well as a reliable three-row SUV within its class, with above-average ratings from major outlets and a strong safety profile. Reliability is generally good, but buyers should account for model-year differences, the CVT’s maintenance needs, and the importance of complete recall remediation and consistent service history. For families and travelers who value space, all-weather capability, and a solid warranty-backed experience, the Ascent is a dependable option when supported by careful pre-purchase checks and ongoing maintenance.

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. 

What are the cons of the Subaru Ascent?

Common Subaru Ascent cons include poor fuel economy, a CVT (continuously variable transmission) that can feel disconnected and noisy, and brake issues like premature wear and juddering. Other drawbacks cited by owners are limited interior cabin width, inconsistent technology and infotainment, and engine noise, particularly under acceleration. Some owners also report issues with electrical systems, and despite a decent engine, some feel it is underpowered for the vehicle's size, particularly with its CVT. 
You can watch this video to learn about the common problems and weaknesses of the Subaru Ascent: 52sNexologyYouTube · Sep 11, 2025
Performance and powertrain

• Poor fuel economy: Some owners report fuel economy that is worse than advertised. 
• Underpowered engine: The turbocharged 2.4-liter engine is often considered underpowered for the Ascent's heavy weight. 
• Noisy CVT: The CVT can cause a "droning" noise and a disconnected feeling, while competitors use more traditional automatic transmissions. 
• Inconsistent throttle: Some drivers find the throttle too touchy at low speeds or sluggish at higher speeds. 

Brakes

• Premature wear: Owners report premature wearing of brake pads and rotors.
• Vibration and noise: Complaints include pulsating or vibrating brakes and squeaking noises. 

Interior and technology

• Limited interior width: Despite being a large SUV, the cabin is narrower than many competitors, reducing usable space for passengers. 
• Frustrating technology: Some owners find the technology and infotainment systems frustrating to use. 
• Driver assist system issues: In some conditions, such as heavy rain, the EyeSight driver assist system can shut down. 

Other issues

• Engine and transmission problems: In addition to the CVT, other engine and transmission-related issues have been reported by owners. 
• Electrical system issues: Reports include problems with interior lights and other electrical components. 
• Repairs: Some owners report that repairs for certain issues, like replacing a windshield, can be expensive and trigger other cascading problems. 

This video discusses several issues with the Subaru Ascent, including the CVT, brake problems, and electrical system: 1mFuel ForceYouTube · Aug 4, 2025

Is a Subaru Ascent a good car?

Yes, the Subaru Ascent is considered a good car for families and those who need a capable, comfortable SUV, especially in challenging weather conditions. It features standard all-wheel drive, a spacious three-row interior, and a smooth ride, although it has a few drawbacks like a less agile feel and a sensitive accelerator pedal.
 
Strengths

• Standard all-wheel drive: All-wheel drive is standard, which is a significant advantage for traction in snow or on rough roads. 
• Comfortable ride: The suspension handles bumps well, providing a smooth and quiet ride for occupants. 
• Spacious interior: The Ascent offers three rows of seating for up to eight people and a functional, well-built cabin with comfortable second-row seats. 
• Capability: It has generous ground clearance and standard features like X-Mode and hill-descent control that make it capable of mild off-roading and good in various driving situations. 
• Safety: The Ascent generally earns good safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA. 

Weaknesses

• Handling: The handling is not its strong suit, with vague steering and noticeable body lean in corners. 
• Accelerator: The accelerator can be overly sensitive, leading to a jerky takeoff that takes some getting used to. 
• Fuel efficiency: While decent for a standard all-wheel-drive vehicle, the fuel economy can be a bit lower than some competitors. 
• Cargo space: The cargo space is compromised when all three rows are in use, a common issue with mid-size three-row SUVs. 
• Reliability concerns: Some owners have reported issues, particularly with the transmission in earlier models, though newer models are generally considered more reliable. 

Does the Subaru Ascent have reliability issues?

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