Auto Recall Watch
U.S. public vehicle records

2021 Subaru ASCENT problems and owner complaints

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

102 owner complaints analyzed

2 distinct recall campaigns

3,164 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 2021 model year. Data updated: . 20 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Electrical System is the most frequently named component, appearing in 18 of 102 complaints (17.6%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
TopicMatching reportsShare of complaints
Transmission and shifting2221.6%
Braking behavior1413.7%
Electrical and battery issues1413.7%
Steering behavior76.9%
Engine operation32.9%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Electrical System
18
Power Train
18
Unknown Or Other
16
Visibility/Wiper
14
Engine
12
Lane Departure: Assist
12
Service Brakes
9
Steering
6
Component breakdown data
CategoryCount
Electrical System18
Power Train18
Unknown Or Other16
Visibility/Wiper14
Engine12
Lane Departure: Assist12
Service Brakes9
Steering6

Electrical System: 18; Power Train: 18; Unknown Or Other: 16; Visibility/Wiper: 14; Engine: 12; Lane Departure: Assist: 12; Service Brakes: 9; Steering: 6

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000
17
25,000 to 49,999
1
50,000 to 74,999
0
75,000 to 99,999
1
100,000 to 149,999
1
150,000 and above
0
Reported problems by failure mileage data
CategoryCount
Under 25,00017
25,000 to 49,9991
50,000 to 74,9990
75,000 to 99,9991
100,000 to 149,9991
150,000 and above0

Under 25,000: 17; 25,000 to 49,999: 1; 50,000 to 74,999: 0; 75,000 to 99,999: 1; 100,000 to 149,999: 1; 150,000 and above: 0

Under 25,000 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (17). 82 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

2021
26
2022
22
2023
14
2024
15
2025
12
2026
13
Complaints over time data
CategoryCount
202126
202222
202314
202415
202512
202613

2021: 26; 2022: 22; 2023: 14; 2024: 15; 2025: 12; 2026: 13

Pattern summary

Electrical System leads the component reports. Transmission and shifting appears in 22 complaint narratives. Braking behavior appears in 14 complaint narratives. Electrical and battery issues appears in 14 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Complaint evidence

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 11436397 · 2021-10-12 (October 12, 2021)

When operating the 2021 Ascent, I experience intermittent problems at various shift-points in the CVT and at various RPMs. The transmission seems to shudder and slip between shift-points, and the shuddering sensation is so severe that it transfers up through the steering column and the steering wheel shakes. I have brought the vehicle to my dealership (Kocourek Subaru in Wausau), and they have acknowledged that the shuddering is taking place and even documented it in the 18K service invoice. They ran it through the protocols for NHTSA TSB 10…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11436397 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11466237 · 2022-05-26 (May 26, 2022)

The Transmission on the vehicle was exhibiting excessive noise when shifting from park to drive and was progressively becoming undrivable with odd shifting, hard shifting, RPM fluttering, and chugging. It made progressively louder audible sounds and squeaks during cold starts when shifting from park to drive. It was brought in for service and the original transmission was replaced due to metal shavings found in the case, a direct indication of failure, with no warning lamps or codes from the onboard computers. After approximately 500 miles, …

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11466237 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11476124 · 2022-07-27 (July 27, 2022)

I have a 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium with 6,000 miles. The Transmission or CVT feels odd every time i shift from Park to Drive or Reverse i feel a hard clunk additional to that every time i get in the Highway and add some RPMs to the SUV the CVT shifting feels Hard more likely like i m driving a Manual vehicle something that is not suppose to happen or feel that way. I took it to the dealer and they only found that the part that press tp brake to shift was not lubricated ( no clue the real name) and they also mention that is how the CVT works s…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11476124 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11483829 · 2022-09-10 (September 10, 2022)

Car purchased in August 2021. Front brake rotors and pads were replaced around 7,600 miles and May 2022. They could not "cut" the rotors as they were pitted beyond being able to be cut. At 10,764 miles (August 8, 2022), the front rotors and pads were replaced again. The dealer stated the front pads had tiny chips in them and the R/F outer pad had a crack in it. The rotors also had excessive heat spots on them and small pits. The last few days the brakes have been pulsating lightly on hills and today have begun pulsating at every stop. Ca…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11483829 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11389697 · 2021-01-24 (January 24, 2021)

MY WIFE PARKED THE VEHICLE AND WHEN SHE WENT TO START IT THE BATTERY WAS DEAD AT ONLY 1667 MILES.

Owner-reported narrative. 1,667 miles reported. Look up ODI 11389697 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11395288 · 2021-02-08 (February 8, 2021)

AT 1667 MILES ON MY BRAND NEW SUBARU ASCENT THE BATTERY WAS COMPLETELY DRAINED WHILE MY WIFE WAS OUT SHOPPING. THE BATTERY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. NO CHARGE TO ME, HOWEVER AT 1667 MILES THAT IS AN ISSUE. THERE IS A DEAD SUBARU ASCENT BATTERY CLUB THAT N FACEBOOK DEDICATED TO THIS ISSUE AND LAWYERS STARTING TO GET READY FOR CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT. VEHICLE WAS PARKED WHEN THIS HAPPENED. DEALER COULDN'T EXPLAIN WHAT HAPPENED.

Owner-reported narrative. 1,667 miles reported. Look up ODI 11395288 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11399576 · 2021-03-07 (March 7, 2021)

VEHICLE WANDERS ON THE HIGHWAY. WHEN PASSING A VEHICLE ON THE ROAD THE LANE CENTERING ASSIST TRIES TO HUG THE CENTERLINE AND THE DRIVER MUST KEEP PULLING HE VEHICLE BACK TO THE CENTER OF THE PASSING LANE. A SHORT LAPSE OF STEERING COULD PULL THE VEHICLE INTO THE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE BEING PASSED. FULL TIME JOB TO KEEP THE VEHICLE FROM WANDERING WHEN VERY LIITLE WIND AND ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO KEEP IT FROM WANDERING WHEN THE WIND IS BLOWING 15-20 MPH. NOT A PLEASANT RELAXING DRIVE.

Owner-reported narrative. 800 miles reported. Look up ODI 11399576 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11426138 · 2021-07-23 (July 23, 2021)

The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while reversing out of the driveway and making a left turn, the steering wheel locked up and the contact could not turn the vehicle. The contact restarted the vehicle and the steering wheel to unlocked. The failure recurred with an unknown warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The…

Owner-reported narrative. 6,200 miles reported. Look up ODI 11426138 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11472199 · 2022-07-03 (July 3, 2022)

Vehicle will jerk and shudder when accelerating and de-accelerating. Mostly between 15mph and 30mph. I’ve taken the vehicle back to the dealership and they didn’t find the issue. This prompted me to do some research online and found in one of many. There is a class action lawsuit for 2018-2019 Ascents. The 2020-2021 and 2022 models will follow suit as they have identical issues. I’m concerned the transmission will fail and I’ll have a lemon on my hands. The sudden loss of power to sometimes sudden acceleration by suddenly downshifting is a conc…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11472199 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11729610 · 2026-04-07 (April 7, 2026)

Issue 1: Complete transmission failure was diagnosed by Subaru dealer March 24, 2026 at 5 years and 6 months after purchase with an odometer reading of 45,000 miles (drive train warranty 5 yrs/60,000 miles). Had to purchase and have installed a rebuilt Subaru transmission. First noticed transmission was slipping with a large load in vehicle May 2025 at 4 years and 8 months after purchase at about 40,000 miles on odometer. The issue was subsequently not noticed under typical load until slipping transmission signs reappeared December 2025. …

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11729610 at NHTSA ↗

Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

102 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-10-01.

19.6%Usable mileage20 / 102 records
100.0%Valid incident date102 / 102 records
100.0%Valid filing date102 / 102 records
100.0%Ordered incident and filing dates102 / 102 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

Component complaint heatmap
Component20192020202120222023202420252026
Electrical System
15735.6%
ODI 11171634 · 600 mi

HAVE HAD ELECTRICAL (RADIO/BLUETOOTH) ISSUES SINCE 2 WEEKS AFTER TAKING POCCESSION. BEEN IN FOR REPAIR 4 TIMES . NO RESOLVE LOOSE STEERING IS A BIG SAFETY CONCERN. WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE AT AN APPROX.SPEED OF 65 MPH IN WINDY CONDITIONS ON NOV.3 2018 GARDEN STATE PKWY THE WIND ENCAPSULATED THE VEHICLE CAUSING INABILITY TO CONTROL. VEHICLE MOVED RELENTLESSLY SIDE TO SIDE MAKING A WHITE KNUCKLE EXPERIENCE. SIDE WINDOW LANE DEPARTURE LIGHTS WERE ALMOST ON CONSTANTLY. FELT LIKE THE WIND WAS LIFTING CAR FROM GROUND. HAD TO PULL INTO 2 REST STOPS AS …

Look up ODI 11171634 at NHTSA ↗

10131.4%
ODI 11269800

IN AM TAILGATE FOUND OPENED (BY ITSELF), BATTERY DEAD , 3 JUMP STARTS OVER 24HRS BATTERY STILL NOT RECHARGING AFTER 6 HRS CONTIN. OPERATION, NOW CARPLAY AND BLUTOOTH MICROPHONE NOT WORKING, MANY COMPLAINTS ONLINE RE THIS, NO MANUAL TAILGATE OPENING, AND NO WORKING BATTERY SHUT OFF OF TAILGATE OR ITS LIGHT IN SOFTWARE

Look up ODI 11269800 at NHTSA ↗

1817.6%
ODI 11389697 · 1,667 mi

MY WIFE PARKED THE VEHICLE AND WHEN SHE WENT TO START IT THE BATTERY WAS DEAD AT ONLY 1667 MILES.

Look up ODI 11389697 at NHTSA ↗

35.5%
ODI 11464917

1. The electrical system/battery failed after only 392 miles. Car could not be jumped. When the cables were put on the battery, the tech said they got real hot (which leads us to believe it was shorting out.) Even though Subaru blamed the battery, the dashboard lights, the horn, and the headlights were all flickering and flashing like a Christmas tree. The car had also just been driven 45 minutes before. Subaru blamed driver error on not shutting the car off properly, but according to a class-action lawsuit, Subaru is aware of this happening…

Look up ODI 11464917 at NHTSA ↗

48.9%
ODI 11525200

Only 3500 miles on new 2023 Subaru ASCENT and it won"t start. I have had to give it a boost four times already, anytime I need to use it. I check to make sure there are no lights left on. Just staying parked from one day to the next and it won"t start. I have an appointment at the dealer service dept. at 1:45 pm o June 5th, 2023, for them to hopefully resolve the problem. I'll have to give it boost to start the car and drive 125 miles to the dealer. Hope the car makes it there. On your website, the 2019, 2020and 2021 models had a recall for the…

Look up ODI 11525200 at NHTSA ↗

48.0%
ODI 11601636

In my new 2024 Ascent, there's a vibration in the driver side mirror that gets worse as speed increases. It's a minor issue, but it's disappointing for a brand new car to have this problem. The Subaru dealer hasn't taken any action despite being informed about it, and the vibration persists.

Look up ODI 11601636 at NHTSA ↗

213.3%
ODI 11741773

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 sto…

Look up ODI 11741773 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Power Train
8619.5%
ODI 11165954 · 6,000 mi

OUR ASCENT STARTED HAVING A SQUEAL AND RPM JUMP AROUND 6000 MILES. THE CAR WOULD ONLY MAKES THIS NOISE ON ACCELERATION AND WOULD CAUSE THE CAR TO LOCK UP UNTIL THE CHAIN/BELT WOULD RESEAT AND THE RPM RETURN TO NORMAL. IT THROWS NO WARNING CODES BUT HAPPENS RANDOMLY BUT SEVERAL TIMES WHEN IT DOES HAPPEN. WAS TOLD IT WAS A TRANSMISSION ISSUE, BUT SUBARU HAS REPLACED SOME AND THEY ARE DOING SAME THING. THEY TOLD ME TO DRIVE IT LIKE IT IS AND SERVICE DEPARTMENT WAS TO FILE A CLAIM WITH SUBARU TO TRY TO GET THEM TO INITIATE A FIX FROM THE SUBARU ENG…

Look up ODI 11165954 at NHTSA ↗

5717.7%
ODI 11318327 · 600 mi

JERKY ACCELERATION BETWEEN 35-50 MPH. CVT "SWITCHING GEARS" UP AND DOWN. NOTICED AT 600 MILES. THIS HAPPENS SPORADICALLY , WHEN IT DOES HAPPEN THE JOLT SNAPS MY HEAD BACK. BRAKES CONTINUE TO SQUEAL AFTER 600 MILES.

Look up ODI 11318327 at NHTSA ↗

1817.6%
ODI 11436397

When operating the 2021 Ascent, I experience intermittent problems at various shift-points in the CVT and at various RPMs. The transmission seems to shudder and slip between shift-points, and the shuddering sensation is so severe that it transfers up through the steering column and the steering wheel shakes. I have brought the vehicle to my dealership (Kocourek Subaru in Wausau), and they have acknowledged that the shuddering is taking place and even documented it in the 18K service invoice. They ran it through the protocols for NHTSA TSB 10…

Look up ODI 11436397 at NHTSA ↗

1425.5%
ODI 11473571

The transmission is slipping and lunges forward, I believe this is the same reason there was a recall for my model car in 2019 & 2020. I have reported this to the car dealership and it will be placed in their service department tomorrow... I was carrying five (5) passengers in the car when it lunged forward and I almost rear ended the car in front of me and was also rear ended because I had to apply my brakes quickly. As stated above I'm hopeful this will be done by the dealership tomorrow. No inspection have been performed but it is schedu…

Look up ODI 11473571 at NHTSA ↗

36.7%
ODI 11568297

The auto brakes are not accurate because it triggers them in unsafe situations.

Look up ODI 11568297 at NHTSA ↗

36.0%
ODI 11736826

On 9-May, 2026, the vehicle was driven during the morning with no warning lights or indication of component failure. Vehicle was parked on the owner's driveway at approximately 13:00. Approximately 15:40 I started the Ascent’s engine, let it idle for about 60 seconds, buckled up and scanned dashboard and rearview mirror. No warning lights or any fault indication. Approximately 15:42, I put the vehicle in reverse and released the brake Approximately 15:42:30 the vehicle exited the driveway Approximately 15:43 there was a shudder on [XXX] (hea…

Look up ODI 11736826 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Unknown Or Other
5913.4%
ODI 11217153 · 3,500 mi

A COUPLE OF MONTHS AGO, MY WIFE STARTED THE CAR AND BACKED OFF A PARKING LOT. WHEN SHE PRESSED THE BRAKE AND FELT WIRED - THE BRAKE COULD NOT BE PRESSED DOWN AND FELT LIKE IT'S JAMMED SOMEHOW. THE CAR DID NOT STOP EVEN SHE SWITCHED THE CAR TO PARKING! IT EVENTUALLY STOPPED AFTER HIT A PARKED CAR BEHIND. BECAUSE THE SPEED WAS VERY LOW SO THERE WAS NO OBVIOUS DAMAGE TO BOTH CARS. BUT AFTER RESTARTED THE CAR, ALL THE WARNING LIGHTS WENT ON - RAB, EYE SIGHT, AT OIL TEMP, LOW TIRE PRESSURE, AND THE SUN ROOF AND SUN SHADE NOT WORKING.

Look up ODI 11217153 at NHTSA ↗

5617.4%
ODI 11257956 · 1,000 mi

WE ARE ON OUR SECOND SUBARU ASCENT, FIRST ONE BOUGHT BACK FOR THE SAME ISSUE. UPON STARTING THE CAR, THE CABIN WILL FILL WITH A STRONG SMELL OF RAW FUEL (NOT EXHAUST). THE CAR WILL ALSO FILL WITH THE SMELL IF RUNNING WHILE PARKED, REMOTELY STARTED, ETC. THE SMELL IS ALSO NOTICEABLE WHEN TURNING OFF THE CAR AND ON THE OUTSIDE OF IT.

Look up ODI 11257956 at NHTSA ↗

1615.7%
ODI 11422444

The windshield cracked without impact.

Look up ODI 11422444 at NHTSA ↗

610.9%
ODI 11464917

1. The electrical system/battery failed after only 392 miles. Car could not be jumped. When the cables were put on the battery, the tech said they got real hot (which leads us to believe it was shorting out.) Even though Subaru blamed the battery, the dashboard lights, the horn, and the headlights were all flickering and flashing like a Christmas tree. The car had also just been driven 45 minutes before. Subaru blamed driver error on not shutting the car off properly, but according to a class-action lawsuit, Subaru is aware of this happening…

Look up ODI 11464917 at NHTSA ↗

817.8%
ODI 11500900

Side passenger window spontaneously developed a crack about 10 inches long while sitting parked. The crack is located the direct line of sight of the side view mirror.

Look up ODI 11500900 at NHTSA ↗

510.0%
ODI 11583402

The wireless car play phone connection randomly drops and is a known issue with Subaru. This a potential safety issue due to dropping calls mid calls that are hands free and encourage the driver to grab the mobile phone change it from air play to phone and then back to air play to fix it. Or take it off car option requiring the drivers attention to be diverted. Also this issue drops the navigation embedded into the radio unit on the car which could again create a safety issue distracting drivers and causing accidents. This needs to be addressed…

Look up ODI 11583402 at NHTSA ↗

213.3%
ODI 11686992

The driver side rearview mirror shakes and vibrates under normal driving conditions. This is distracting and nauseating to the driver. This is a safety issue because this mirror is used for checking for vehicles before changing lanes.

Look up ODI 11686992 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Visibility/Wiper
6615.0%
ODI 11119346 · 65 mi

WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY IN THE RIGHT LANE AT THE SPEED LIMIT OF 65 MPH, THE RIGHT REAR WINDOW SPONTANEOUSLY SHATTERED WITH NO WARNING, NO EXTERNAL IMPACT, NO OTHER VEHICLES NEAR BY, AND WITHOUT PRIOR IMPACT TO WINDOW.

Look up ODI 11119346 at NHTSA ↗

4915.2%
ODI 11297348 · 900 mi

I PURCHASED MY ASCENT ON NOVEMBER 29, 2019. BY DECEMBER 8, I HAD TWO CRACKS IN THE WINDSHIELD. I LIVE IN A SMALL TOWN, AND WAS DRIVING LESS THAN 45MPH WHEN BOTH OF THESE CHIPS OCCURRED. ONE WAS (ACCORDING TO SAFELITE) TOO SMALL TO REPAIR. THE OTHER ONE WAS REPAIRED ON 12/10. BY JANUARY 2, THE CRACK THAT WAS REPAIRED HAS REAPPEARED. SAFELITE DOES NOT GUARANTEE THEIR WORK, AND NOW I WILL HAVE TO SPEND A FORTUNE AND USE MY DEDUCTIBLE TO REPLACE THE WINDSHIELD ON A BRAND NEW VEHICLE.

Look up ODI 11297348 at NHTSA ↗

1413.7%
ODI 11386399 · 3,500 mi

OUR WINDSHIELD ALREADY HAS NUMEROUS CHIPS AND ONE CRACK THAT WE REPAIRED. WE HAVE ONLY HAD THIS CAR SINCE OCTOBER BUT IT SEEMS LIKE THE WINDSHIELD IS VERY BRITTLE. WE HAVE HAD SOME WINTER WEATHER LATELY SO THERE WAS EXCESSIVE JUNK IN THE ROAD AND SAND BUT OUR OTHER VEHICLES HAVE NOT HAD THE SAME ISSUES.

Look up ODI 11386399 at NHTSA ↗

712.7%
ODI 11467182

2nd cracked front windshields in the 1st 5 months we have own the car. Not sure how the first crack happened but this 2nd crack just started and has now spread to over half the window.

Look up ODI 11467182 at NHTSA ↗

613.3%
ODI 11497511

Windshield cracked more than 2 inches above the front windshield A/C vent while vehicle is in warm up process around outside temperature 30F. This car is only 3 weeks old with mileage w 240 at the cracked occurred.

Look up ODI 11497511 at NHTSA ↗

816.0%
ODI 11585962

Driver side mirror has vibration that increases with speed. At highway speeds, it is difficult to safely see the lane next to you, especially if there is a vehicle behind you with their headlights on. The vehicle's mirror glass and housing were replaced and the vibration remains. There is no observable vibration with the passenger side mirror. Was advised by a local dealership that there is no more they can do to eliminate the vibration.

Look up ODI 11585962 at NHTSA ↗

213.3%
ODI 11672621

The drivers side mirror glass shakes while driving. Visibility in the mirror is extremely limited making it impossible to see vehicle approaching or to judge distance. After dark the mirror is useless.

Look up ODI 11672621 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Engine
4710.7%
ODI 11139704 · 3,400 mi

DRIVING ON FREEWAY CHECK ENGINE CAME ONLINE SUDDENLY. EYESIGHT TURNED OFF. CAR BECAME UNSTABLE, COULD NOT GO PAST 60 MPH. KIDS IN FREKING OUT. VERY UNSAFE. TOOK TO DEALERSHIP. THEY COULD NOT FIGURE OUT. I DID ONLINE RESEARCH AND FOLLOWED THESE FORUMS HTTPS://WWW.ASCENTFORUMS.COM/FORUM/137-SUBARU-ASCENT-COMPLAINTS-ISSUES-PROBLEMS/1981-CHECK-ENGINE-LIGHT-11.HTML APPARENTLY EARLY SUBARU MODELS HAD 2 BOLTS MISSING IN THE ENGINE AIRTIGHT COMPARTMENT. ATLEAST 2 OTHER PEOPLE HAVE COMPLAINED. I HAVE DRIVEN SO MANY MILES SUBARU AS NOT ISSUED A T…

Look up ODI 11139704 at NHTSA ↗

299.0%
ODI 11257956 · 1,000 mi

WE ARE ON OUR SECOND SUBARU ASCENT, FIRST ONE BOUGHT BACK FOR THE SAME ISSUE. UPON STARTING THE CAR, THE CABIN WILL FILL WITH A STRONG SMELL OF RAW FUEL (NOT EXHAUST). THE CAR WILL ALSO FILL WITH THE SMELL IF RUNNING WHILE PARKED, REMOTELY STARTED, ETC. THE SMELL IS ALSO NOTICEABLE WHEN TURNING OFF THE CAR AND ON THE OUTSIDE OF IT.

Look up ODI 11257956 at NHTSA ↗

1211.8%
ODI 11442758

Unknown. I am smelling gasoline in the cabin of the car. A LOT of fumes fill my garage when I start the car. The car sometimes accelerates when I put it in park, resulting in more fumes. Fuel efficiency is lower than expected as well.

Look up ODI 11442758 at NHTSA ↗

916.4%
ODI 11547559

Engine oil leak at oil pan

Look up ODI 11547559 at NHTSA ↗

36.7%
ODI 11525200

Only 3500 miles on new 2023 Subaru ASCENT and it won"t start. I have had to give it a boost four times already, anytime I need to use it. I check to make sure there are no lights left on. Just staying parked from one day to the next and it won"t start. I have an appointment at the dealer service dept. at 1:45 pm o June 5th, 2023, for them to hopefully resolve the problem. I'll have to give it boost to start the car and drive 125 miles to the dealer. Hope the car makes it there. On your website, the 2019, 2020and 2021 models had a recall for the…

Look up ODI 11525200 at NHTSA ↗

24.0%
ODI 11685769

My vehicle has lost EYESIGHT TOO MANY TIMES while Am driving ON HIGH WAY SO STEERING WHEEL LOCKED, ADATER,CRUISE CONTROL SIGN APPEARS TOGETHER .JUST A SECOND MY FAMILY HAD ALMOST DIED DUE TO VACATION TIME IN AUGUST,2025.I CANT BELIEVE THAT IS BRAND NEW SUBARU ASCENT TOURING 2024 I PURCHASED FROM MARCH ,2024. We found SUBARU DEALERSHIP AT LAS VEGAS ,NA But TECHNICIAN OF THERE RESPONDED TO ME THAT : THEY DONT KNOW EXHAUST BUTTON NUMBER and THEY ARE NOT SURE MY CAR STILL SAFE OR NOT SAFETY WHEN I AM DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, (MY FAMILY HAS 7 people…

Look up ODI 11685769 at NHTSA ↗

213.3%
ODI 11706345

I hit a deer on CA 395 north, my braking system worked and my air bags deployed, and then my engine immediately caught fire. I’m lucky i was able to get out of the car through a back door. Every police and fire who responded said they have never seen a car catch fire after hitting a deer and i should report a vehicle malfunction

Look up ODI 11706345 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Service Brakes
265.9%
ODI 11176385 · 2,417 mi

I WAS IN TRAFFIC AND THE DASH- STARTED FLASHING AND EVERYTHING AT ONCE STARTED SHUTTING OFF AND THEN BRAKE WAS APPLIED ON ITS OWN. VERY SCARY WHILE IN TRAFFIC- I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR A TOW TRUCK FOR OVER 3 HOURS. DIALS: AT OIL TEMP FLASHES, ALL ELECTRONIC THINGS IS ALL OFF AND LIT. TRANSMISSION AND BRAKING ISSUES- ALL AT ONCE. CITY STREET BRADDOCK RD AND I PULLED OFF AT KINGS PARK SHOPPING CENTER IN FRONT OF WELLS FARGO AND CVS, STATIONARY.

Look up ODI 11176385 at NHTSA ↗

268.1%
ODI 11318327 · 600 mi

JERKY ACCELERATION BETWEEN 35-50 MPH. CVT "SWITCHING GEARS" UP AND DOWN. NOTICED AT 600 MILES. THIS HAPPENS SPORADICALLY , WHEN IT DOES HAPPEN THE JOLT SNAPS MY HEAD BACK. BRAKES CONTINUE TO SQUEAL AFTER 600 MILES.

Look up ODI 11318327 at NHTSA ↗

98.8%
ODI 11483829

Car purchased in August 2021. Front brake rotors and pads were replaced around 7,600 miles and May 2022. They could not "cut" the rotors as they were pitted beyond being able to be cut. At 10,764 miles (August 8, 2022), the front rotors and pads were replaced again. The dealer stated the front pads had tiny chips in them and the R/F outer pad had a crack in it. The rotors also had excessive heat spots on them and small pits. The last few days the brakes have been pulsating lightly on hills and today have begun pulsating at every stop. Ca…

Look up ODI 11483829 at NHTSA ↗

1018.2%
ODI 11485650

The brakes on this vehicle continue to makes squealing sounds when slowing to a gradual stop, and now recently makes a grinding sound when driving from a complete stop to a gradual start. These sounds began when the vehicle was new at 500 miles and continues at 1500 miles. The vehicle has been taken to a Subaru dealership three times and nothing has been found that needs correction. I have contacted Subaru Corporate and they continue to direct me to the dealership. Meanwhile I do not feel the brakes are working correctly and fear there is a saf…

Look up ODI 11485650 at NHTSA ↗

1022.2%
ODI 11520151

I own a Subaru 2023 Ascent ([XXX]) that I purchased in December 2022. Since I got the car, the car has been nothing but a headache and has been full of issues. The car was making a squeaking noise from the break from the day we got it. I took it to the dealer (within a month, 600 miles), and after a few times going to them, they suggested it had poor brake pads. As per their recommendation, the dealer changed the brake pads. After driving another 1000 miles, the bolt of calipers came off in the middle of the road, and the car started making st…

Look up ODI 11520151 at NHTSA ↗

12.0%
ODI 11643242

My 2024 Subaru Ascent started experiencing brake issues in early January. The car would shake heavily and make noise when braking, despite having only 10,500 miles. Concerned, I contacted Subaru of America and was advised to take it to a dealership for an inspection. On 1/31/25, the dealer inspected the brakes and determined that the front rotors and brake pads needed to be replaced. Subaru of America confirmed that the dealer would order new parts for the front brakes. A few days later, I received an email from the dealership stating that the…

Look up ODI 11643242 at NHTSA ↗

16.7%
ODI 11746812

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 t…

Look up ODI 11746812 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Fuel/Propulsion System
163.6%
ODI 11205006 · 1,500 mi

RAW GAS SMELL WHEN VEHICLE IS AT IDLE OR AFTER BEING DRIVEN FOR A BIT AND PARKED IN THE GARAGE. THE SMELL COMES THRU THE VENTS AND FILLS THE GARAGE AFTER I PARK THE VEHICLE. GAS MILEAGE IS ALSO BEING EFFECTED IT SEEMS, AND IS LOW.

Look up ODI 11205006 at NHTSA ↗

144.3%
ODI 11257956 · 1,000 mi

WE ARE ON OUR SECOND SUBARU ASCENT, FIRST ONE BOUGHT BACK FOR THE SAME ISSUE. UPON STARTING THE CAR, THE CABIN WILL FILL WITH A STRONG SMELL OF RAW FUEL (NOT EXHAUST). THE CAR WILL ALSO FILL WITH THE SMELL IF RUNNING WHILE PARKED, REMOTELY STARTED, ETC. THE SMELL IS ALSO NOTICEABLE WHEN TURNING OFF THE CAR AND ON THE OUTSIDE OF IT.

Look up ODI 11257956 at NHTSA ↗

22.0%
ODI 11442758

Unknown. I am smelling gasoline in the cabin of the car. A LOT of fumes fill my garage when I start the car. The car sometimes accelerates when I put it in park, resulting in more fumes. Fuel efficiency is lower than expected as well.

Look up ODI 11442758 at NHTSA ↗

47.3%
ODI 11473571

The transmission is slipping and lunges forward, I believe this is the same reason there was a recall for my model car in 2019 & 2020. I have reported this to the car dealership and it will be placed in their service department tomorrow... I was carrying five (5) passengers in the car when it lunged forward and I almost rear ended the car in front of me and was also rear ended because I had to apply my brakes quickly. As stated above I'm hopeful this will be done by the dealership tomorrow. No inspection have been performed but it is schedu…

Look up ODI 11473571 at NHTSA ↗

12.2%
ODI 11731662

In 2024, 2025, and 2026, I have had 2 incidents in each year where the cruise control is set to 60 to 65 mph and the cruise control then accelerates the car past 100 mph. When this occurs, tapping the break does NOT disengage the cruise control. All 6 times I have had to slam the breaks to a full dead stop while the car tries to accelerate anyway. April 4, 2026 and April 14, 2026 are the most recent occurrences and all occurrences so far for this issue have been during a downhill road incline. The dealer has dismissed the problem every ti…

Look up ODI 11731662 at NHTSA ↗

12.0%
ODI 11651602

Have had two fuel level senders fail in one year of ownership. The dealer/manufacturer has replaced the first one, and a second replacement is pending. The failure shows inaccurate fuel levels including a full tank reading as 1/4 or less full. Subsequent refueling does not change the level reading. If the car thinks it is out of fuel, it may cease to operate (even if there is fuel in the tank).

Look up ODI 11651602 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking
51.1%
ODI 11190303 · 5,400 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 SUBARU ASCENT. WHILE DRIVING 14 MPH IN A PARKING LOT, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO ENGAGE THE EYESIGHT PRE-COLLISION BRAKING SYSTEM; HOWEVER, IT FAILED AND THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A POLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,400.

Look up ODI 11190303 at NHTSA ↗

82.5%
ODI 11383041 · 9,500 mi

I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT 11/29 AT 9:45PM WHERE I HIT A COW. I WAS DRIVING 55 ON A STRAIGHT HIGHWAY THAT I'M VERY FAMILIAR WITH. THE COW WAS STANDING IN THE ENTIRE LANE OF TRAVEL AND I WAS ABLE TO VEER INTO THE OTHER LANE SLIGHTLY AND TOOK THE IMPACT ON THE RIGHT SIDE WHERE I DID NOT HAVE ANY PASSENGERS. THE SUBARU WAS TOTALED AND I'M NOW HAVING SEVERE WHIPLASH SYMPTOMS. I AM REPORTING THIS AS THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND EVERYONE WHO HAS SEEN THE VEHICLE SAYS THEY THINK THEY SHOULD HAVE. ADDITIONALLY, I DO NOT REMEMBER MY COLLISION ALERTS BE…

Look up ODI 11383041 at NHTSA ↗

22.0%
ODI 11607255

The driver was driving into a parking lot preparing to park, when the vehicle accelerated and started going forward at a higher speed. The vehicle struck a parked vehicle, then travelled across the parking lot, over curbs, a grass median, landscaping, and struck a rock building at a high rate of speed, causing a partial collapse of the wall. The vehicle is available for inspection through the insurance company. No analysis of data was done and nothing was inspected. There were no symptoms of the problem beforehand. The vehicle has automatic …

Look up ODI 11607255 at NHTSA ↗

35.5%
ODI 11528890

I was driving slowly through a parking lot. I found a spot to park my car and noticed that there was a curb painted bright yellow so I knew I could not pull through. I started to turn into the parking spot with my foot on the brake when all of a sudden my car was speeding towards the curb and a tree. My foot was on the brake but the car did not stop nor did the forward collision feature work and the air bag did not deploy. The accident has been reported to both my insurance and the auto maker. The car will be inspected tomorrow.

Look up ODI 11528890 at NHTSA ↗

48.9%
ODI 11557423

Subaru Eyesight will turn off randomly while driving or while parked (turn the vehicle off, unlock the door, sit for a minute or two and when restarting the vehicle, eyesight indicator is orange - off. Example - getting fuel at a full service gas station. Yes the vehicle is available for inspection. Our safety is put at risk. Once Eyesight is off it will not reset/restart, so you are driving without the number one Subaru safety feature. We can reproduce the error. The Dealer just looked at the codes and said it was normal operation. We r…

Look up ODI 11557423 at NHTSA ↗

36.0%
ODI 11698561

When driving below 5 mph, forward or reverse, with the rear passenger door fully open, the only alert is a small “door ajar” icon on the dash. This icon is the same drawing, whether the door is completely open or semi-latched, so the driver has no way to know the extent of the hazard. Without an additional warning, an fully open door can strike pedestrians, poles, garage, or other vehicles, and any passenger seated beside it is needlessly exposed to injury.

Look up ODI 11698561 at NHTSA ↗

16.7%
ODI 11746540

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.

Look up ODI 11746540 at NHTSA ↗

150.0%
ODI 11766986 · 2,000 mi

The contact owns a 2026 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at highway speeds, the vehicle experienced phantom braking and independently came to an abrupt stop. The vehicle was taken to a dealer to be diagnosed; however, the failure was not duplicated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 2,000.

Look up ODI 11766986 at NHTSA ↗

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
ComponentMileage range (25th–75th percentile)MedianUsable recordsExamples
Electrical SystemToo few reports for a range1,667 mi2 (sparse)
ODI 11389697 · 1,667 mi

MY WIFE PARKED THE VEHICLE AND WHEN SHE WENT TO START IT THE BATTERY WAS DEAD AT ONLY 1667 MILES.

Look up ODI 11389697 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11395288 · 1,667 mi

AT 1667 MILES ON MY BRAND NEW SUBARU ASCENT THE BATTERY WAS COMPLETELY DRAINED WHILE MY WIFE WAS OUT SHOPPING. THE BATTERY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. NO CHARGE TO ME, HOWEVER AT 1667 MILES THAT IS AN ISSUE. THERE IS A DEAD SUBARU ASCENT BATTERY CLUB THAT N FACEBOOK DEDICATED TO THIS ISSUE AND LAWYERS STARTING TO GET READY FOR CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT. VEHICLE WAS PARKED WHEN THIS HAPPENED. DEALER COULDN'T EXPLAIN WHAT HAPPENED.

Look up ODI 11395288 at NHTSA ↗

Power TrainToo few reports for a range101,541 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 11752723 · 101,541 mi

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 tra…

Look up ODI 11752723 at NHTSA ↗

Visibility/WiperToo few reports for a range3,344 mi4 (sparse)
ODI 11386399 · 3,500 mi

OUR WINDSHIELD ALREADY HAS NUMEROUS CHIPS AND ONE CRACK THAT WE REPAIRED. WE HAVE ONLY HAD THIS CAR SINCE OCTOBER BUT IT SEEMS LIKE THE WINDSHIELD IS VERY BRITTLE. WE HAVE HAD SOME WINTER WEATHER LATELY SO THERE WAS EXCESSIVE JUNK IN THE ROAD AND SAND BUT OUR OTHER VEHICLES HAVE NOT HAD THE SAME ISSUES.

Look up ODI 11386399 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11389020 · 3,187 mi

THE WINDSHIELD OF OUR NEW SUBARU ASCENT TOURING 2021 JUST CRACKED ON ITS OWN ONLY A COUPLE OF WEEKS AFTER PURCHASE. THE CRACK IS NOW ABOUT 10IN AND KEEPS GETTING LONGER((

Look up ODI 11389020 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11398433 · 2,500 mi

WINDSHIELD IS CRACKING FOR NO APPARENT REASON, STARTING AT THE BASE OF THE DRIVER SIDE CORNER AND SPREADING 2-5 INCHES PER DAY. NO IMPACT POINT IN WINDSHIELD.

Look up ODI 11398433 at NHTSA ↗

EngineToo few reports for a range300 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 11488972 · 300 mi

The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated while driving at 65 MPH, the vehicle shut down completely. A message indicating that the vehicle had unexpectedly stopped, and to check the vehicle as the remote start had failed was displayed. The contact was able to veer to the side of the road safely and waited until the vehicle cooled down. The contact restarted the vehicle and continued driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that no issues were found. However, the failure reoccurred several times while d…

Look up ODI 11488972 at NHTSA ↗

Lane Departure: Assist800–2,500 mi1,500 mi5
ODI 11399576 · 800 mi

VEHICLE WANDERS ON THE HIGHWAY. WHEN PASSING A VEHICLE ON THE ROAD THE LANE CENTERING ASSIST TRIES TO HUG THE CENTERLINE AND THE DRIVER MUST KEEP PULLING HE VEHICLE BACK TO THE CENTER OF THE PASSING LANE. A SHORT LAPSE OF STEERING COULD PULL THE VEHICLE INTO THE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE BEING PASSED. FULL TIME JOB TO KEEP THE VEHICLE FROM WANDERING WHEN VERY LIITLE WIND AND ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO KEEP IT FROM WANDERING WHEN THE WIND IS BLOWING 15-20 MPH. NOT A PLEASANT RELAXING DRIVE.

Look up ODI 11399576 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11403484 · 5,000 mi

THE LANE ASSIST FEATURE (ONLY AN OPTION WHEN USING ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL; NOT THE SAME AS LANE CENTERING WHEN NOT USING THE ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL [THE BASICS LANE CENTERING WORKS JUST FINE]) SEEMS OVERLY AGGRESSIVE. EACH TIME I HAVE USED LANE ASSIST WITH CRUISE CONTROL, IT JERKS THE CAR VERY ABRUPTLY AT TIMES, ALMOST TO THE EXTENT OF SENDING IT INTO ANOTHER LANE IF I DO NOT INTERVENE. I NO LONGER FEEL SAFE USING LANE ASSIST, SO I TURN IT OFF WHEN USING CRUISE CONTROL. I AM VERY CONCERNED IT'S GOING TO CAUSE AND ACCIDENT. THIS HAS HAPPENED A…

Look up ODI 11403484 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11403640 · 2,500 mi

THE 2021 ASCENT HAS LANE CENTERING ASSIST WITH VERY STRICT MARGINS. IT IS A CONSTANT TUG OF WAR WITH THE VEHICLE WHEN LANE CENTERING IS ACTIVE. WHEN YOU LET THE CAR TAKE OVER, IT VIOLENTLY JERKS YOU INTO THE NEXT LANE. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN CROSS CHECKED WITH OTHER USERS ON A SUBARU FORUM AND ALL HAVE THE SAME ISSUE. THE CAR OVERCORRECTS AND IS PRONE TO CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AT SOME POINT. I AM LUCKY NO ONE WAS IN THE LANE NEXT TO ME WHEN THE CAR SWERVED ME INTO THE NEXT LANE. MY 2021 IS A REPLACEMENT OF A 2020 MODEL BECAUSE THE 2020 WAS DEEMED A L…

Look up ODI 11403640 at NHTSA ↗

SteeringToo few reports for a range1,650 mi4 (sparse)
ODI 11399576 · 800 mi

VEHICLE WANDERS ON THE HIGHWAY. WHEN PASSING A VEHICLE ON THE ROAD THE LANE CENTERING ASSIST TRIES TO HUG THE CENTERLINE AND THE DRIVER MUST KEEP PULLING HE VEHICLE BACK TO THE CENTER OF THE PASSING LANE. A SHORT LAPSE OF STEERING COULD PULL THE VEHICLE INTO THE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE BEING PASSED. FULL TIME JOB TO KEEP THE VEHICLE FROM WANDERING WHEN VERY LIITLE WIND AND ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO KEEP IT FROM WANDERING WHEN THE WIND IS BLOWING 15-20 MPH. NOT A PLEASANT RELAXING DRIVE.

Look up ODI 11399576 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11403640 · 2,500 mi

THE 2021 ASCENT HAS LANE CENTERING ASSIST WITH VERY STRICT MARGINS. IT IS A CONSTANT TUG OF WAR WITH THE VEHICLE WHEN LANE CENTERING IS ACTIVE. WHEN YOU LET THE CAR TAKE OVER, IT VIOLENTLY JERKS YOU INTO THE NEXT LANE. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN CROSS CHECKED WITH OTHER USERS ON A SUBARU FORUM AND ALL HAVE THE SAME ISSUE. THE CAR OVERCORRECTS AND IS PRONE TO CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AT SOME POINT. I AM LUCKY NO ONE WAS IN THE LANE NEXT TO ME WHEN THE CAR SWERVED ME INTO THE NEXT LANE. MY 2021 IS A REPLACEMENT OF A 2020 MODEL BECAUSE THE 2020 WAS DEEMED A L…

Look up ODI 11403640 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11416528 · 140 mi

LANE ASSIST WITH CRUISE CONTROL OVER CORRECTS. ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS WHILE ON THE FREEWAY USING CRUISE CONTROL THE LANE ASSIST PULLED ME INTO THE OTHER LANE INTO OTHER VEHICLES. I HAVE ALMOST HIT OTHER VEHICLES. THE PULL IS TOO STRONG AND CROSSES LANES. IF NOT FIXED BY SUBARU, ACCIDENTS WILL OCCUR.

Look up ODI 11416528 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

26V436000 · 2026-07-074 reports2024-112026-10

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples
Monthly complaint and recall timeline
MonthComplaintsCampaigns announcedExamples
2024-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-042None
ODI 11652894

The windshield on the 2021 Subaru Ascent is dangerous because it chips extremely easily. I purchased the car new in 2021 and since then I have had 7 rock chips (in all different states (TX, CA, WA) and driving conditions/speeds/roads). In the 4 years since I have owned it I have had the windshield replaced twice so I am on my 3rd windshield. Each time the rock hits, it causes a large chip to form which distracts the driver momentarily. It also creates defects in the windshield which could lead to safety issues of the windshield shattering.

Look up ODI 11652894 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11654864

Transmission needed to replaced at around 50k miles. Sister in law has the same year and her transmission went about the same mileage

Look up ODI 11654864 at NHTSA ↗

2025-051None
ODI 11658723

Every time I go out of park there is a massive clubking noise from under the car. It's actually a super common item with these cars I am seeing as well in other forums. I believe this could lead to sheared parking brakes in the future.

Look up ODI 11658723 at NHTSA ↗

2025-062None
ODI 11665178

I have a 2021 Subaru Ascent that falls under an extended warranty regarding the windshield due to a faulty windshield. My windshield has cracked, reduce visibility, and does not allow the forward collision warning to work properly. Subaru recognizes the faulty windshield and refuses to remedy the issue. I question the safety and integrity of this windshield to protect from normal road debris strikes, allow normal visibility, and the integrity of the lamination of the from windshield in the event of a collision.

Look up ODI 11665178 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11665581

The lane assist failed by over correcting while I have my hands on the steering wheel. It over corrects to the center lane when you are driving with normal behavior. This can cause a collision if it were to over correct while a car was there, this is also easily reproducible in my car.

Look up ODI 11665581 at NHTSA ↗

2025-072None
ODI 11672030

On Friday, June 13, 2025, while (thankfully) in my driveway, the transmission broke on my 2021 Subaru Ascent in my driveway. I simply started my car, put it in reverse, and my car jerked and stopped. NO prior warning. I was on a slight slope. I thank my lucky stars I did not have my kids out on the road when it happened. I had to have it towed to the closest Subaru dealership (a $395 charge). Upon inspection, my transmission (the CVT model) was no longer working. My car was bought in December 2021 and it has around 80,000 miles on it. In …

Look up ODI 11672030 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11675148 · 75,000 mi

The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH and attempting to accelerate, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive and failed to accelerate at intended. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission, and informed the contact that the transmission was slipping. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened…

Look up ODI 11675148 at NHTSA ↗

2025-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-092None
ODI 11685392

Trunk would not open. Only way to open was to pop open the internal latch access port and switch the latch open with a screw driver. Trunk would not open with key fob, rear handle, or buttons on driver side dashboard.

Look up ODI 11685392 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11689564

Oil leak from engine constantly from FRONT DIFFERENTIAL, rec cvt pump reseal with new trans seal, pump is leaking causing drips ; drain plug is also leaking. Need to Replace Front and rear Pads & Rotors at 35k miles which is unheard of. Accessed by suberu dealership.

Look up ODI 11689564 at NHTSA ↗

2025-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-123None
ODI 11703707

The transmission/CVT component on the vehicle, 2021 Subaru Ascent is malfunctioning. When being driven, the malfunctioning transmission will cause the vehicle to hesitate in traffic, as well as feeling the slippage of the transmission when in motion. The vehicle also has a burning odor when being driven. NYS inspection was conducted on 10/27/25. The transmission malfunction has been confirmed by a Subaru dealer, who has had the vehicle at their dealership since 11/5/25, 34 days as of today. Subaru Advocacy , whom I have had many calls and…

Look up ODI 11703707 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11707202

Vehicle smells of fuel inside the cabin and when parked in the garage. To date the dealer is unable to diagnose the problem. 60k miles

Look up ODI 11707202 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11707846

I bought a 2021 Ascent - Touring , lately there was an ever increasing amount of wind noise. It sounded like it was coming from the sunroof, but I couldn't see anything from the inside that looked out of place and there were no signs of water leaking. I finally looked up on the roof from the outside and the weather stripping along the back of the sunroof was coming out. The glue is thin, and didn't even stick to it anymore.. This is an ongoing issue. There are people people on the Subaru Ascent, Facebook Reddit forms that have said they are hav…

Look up ODI 11707846 at NHTSA ↗

2026-013None
ODI 11710776

The transmission on our 2021 Subaru Ascent is slipping and failing to accelerate, RPMs reving, and every issue indicator notification light is on. We took the car to our mechanic, then to the Subaru dealership service dept for diagnosis. A full transmission replacement is required plus associated repairs for a cost of $14,543.98. Service estimate attached. This repair is more than 2/3 of the value of the vehicle. This make/model and transmission type have documented problems and Subaru has previously issued an extended warranty on other model…

Look up ODI 11710776 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11712180

While driving my Subaru Ascent, a check engine warning light appeared on the dashboard. Shortly afterward, I noticed smoke coming from the engine compartment. I immediately pulled over and turned the vehicle off. Within moments, flames began coming from under the hood. The fire spread rapidly, and within 5-10 minutes the entire vehicle was fully engulfed in flames. The fire originated from the engine compartment. The vehicle was a total loss. Subaru of America was notified on 12/23/2025, but no follow-up or update on investigation has been resp…

Look up ODI 11712180 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11714272

2021 Subaru Ascent (VIN#***). Water found dripping down both second row seatbelts on multiple occasions during or following heavy rain, accumulated into mold growth on the carpet in front of second row seats to the front of the 3rd row seats (cargo area dry, front footwells dry). Authorized Subaru dealer technician report (dated 10/29/25 and 12/3/25 copy pasted into email) explicitly documents 'condensation build up on the interior of roof (seat belt area)' due to unlocated water intrusion. The dealer attributes this to 'leaf debris' in the fro…

Look up ODI 11714272 at NHTSA ↗

2026-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-044None
ODI 11728594

I am a CPST. I use the Joie Mint Latch with my own child. On multiple occasions I have found on multiple occasions that when securing the lower rigid latch it will flip to green (secure) when it is not actually latched. It is during install when "jiggling" it into position. I am concerned parents who arent as well educated on car seats may not double check the latch before traveling and their child may not be safe.

Look up ODI 11728594 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11729610

Issue 1: Complete transmission failure was diagnosed by Subaru dealer March 24, 2026 at 5 years and 6 months after purchase with an odometer reading of 45,000 miles (drive train warranty 5 yrs/60,000 miles). Had to purchase and have installed a rebuilt Subaru transmission. First noticed transmission was slipping with a large load in vehicle May 2025 at 4 years and 8 months after purchase at about 40,000 miles on odometer. The issue was subsequently not noticed under typical load until slipping transmission signs reappeared December 2025. …

Look up ODI 11729610 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11730964

I had catastrophic transmission failure. The car was completely inoperable. Thankfully this only happened in a parking lot. If this were yo happen while merging into traffic it could have been very dangerous. This was the second cvt in this vehicle. The 1st transmission was replaced around 52kmiles. The second transmission lasted not even 13 months sndless than 15k miles. Subaru replaced the transmission for a 3rd time at a cost of 1k to me. I no longer have the car.

Look up ODI 11730964 at NHTSA ↗

2026-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-061None
ODI 11746580

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…

Look up ODI 11746580 at NHTSA ↗

2026-07326V436000
ODI 11749720

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.

Look up ODI 11749720 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11752723 · 101,541 mi

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 tra…

Look up ODI 11752723 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11753410

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 B…

Look up ODI 11753410 at NHTSA ↗

2026-082None
ODI 11760300

My local Subaru dealership / service provider has told me my car needs a new transmission at 66k miles, due to an issue within the CVT solenoid causing slipping and lag that will eventually lead to catastrophic failure of the transmission - per the Subaru of America service tree. This issue began on July 23, 2026, when a slew of warning lights illuminated on the dash and my car went into limp mode, not accelerating properly. It eventually began driving normally and all dash warning lights dissipated. Dealership couldn't see the car at that time…

Look up ODI 11760300 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11760953

After my husband replaced the 12V battery in my 2021 Subaru Ascent Touring ($90,000, fully paid off), Apple CarPlay stopped connecting via USB entirely. Android Auto and Bluetooth continued working fine on the same phone, cable, and port, proving the defect was isolated to Subaru's CarPlay system, not my device. I spent significant time and money troubleshooting this myself: multiple cables (including two labeled "Apple certified"), a full infotainment factory reset, and a software update attempt, none of which fixed it. The issue only resolve…

Look up ODI 11760953 at NHTSA ↗

2026-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-10 (partial)0None

No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Age 0Age 1Age 239 reports

2022: 39 complaints · 2023: 35 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model yearThrough age 0Through age 1Through age 2
2022133039
2023182735
Date coverage across each selected cohort
Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
YearIncident dates usedFiling date fallbacksExcluded dates
20225500
20234401

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
ComponentElectrical SystemPower TrainUnknown Or OtherVisibility/WiperEngineLane Departure: AssistService BrakesSteering
Electrical System—0
5
ODI 11455135

My mirror on my car has started melting. They told me it was a outside force, from a lighter. I told them it was electrical or something wrong from the inside of the mirror. There are forums recently posted up regarding this and Subaru has ignored them all claiming it is reflective light from the sun. That they can’t do anything about it. Others have replaced their mirrors 3 times now. This is a potential fire hazard and could be unsafe. They are not addressing this as it should be. https://www.thesubaruforums.com/threads/melting-side-view-mirr…

Look up ODI 11455135 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11494417

THE MOON ROOF/SUNROOF HAS LEAKED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE DEALER HAS TRIED TO FIX IT ON THREE OCCASIONS. IT CONTINUES TO LEAK- IT LEAKS WATER INTO THE FRONT EYESIGHT CAMERAS CAUSING THEM TO NOT WORK & CUT OFF SPORADICALLY. THE WATER LEAKS INTO THE CAB CAUSING THE HEADLINER TO BE WET, THE FLOORBOARD AND THE ENTIRE CONSOLE AND CUP HOLDERS FILLS UP WITH WATER. I HAVE HAD IT AT THE DEALERSHIP ON THREE OCCASIONS DEC 2012 JAN 2021 NOV 11 2022 AND IT HAS NOW HAPPENED A 4 TH TIME ON NOV 15 2022 AND IS STILL NOT REPAIRED. I HAVE BEEN WITHOUT MY VEHICLE FOR 3…

Look up ODI 11494417 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11594745

Lift gate began malfunctioning going up and down on its ownthen dropped suddenly onto spouse's head. Now the lift gate does not open properly.

Look up ODI 11594745 at NHTSA ↗

0
2
ODI 11710776

The transmission on our 2021 Subaru Ascent is slipping and failing to accelerate, RPMs reving, and every issue indicator notification light is on. We took the car to our mechanic, then to the Subaru dealership service dept for diagnosis. A full transmission replacement is required plus associated repairs for a cost of $14,543.98. Service estimate attached. This repair is more than 2/3 of the value of the vehicle. This make/model and transmission type have documented problems and Subaru has previously issued an extended warranty on other model…

Look up ODI 11710776 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11712180

While driving my Subaru Ascent, a check engine warning light appeared on the dashboard. Shortly afterward, I noticed smoke coming from the engine compartment. I immediately pulled over and turned the vehicle off. Within moments, flames began coming from under the hood. The fire spread rapidly, and within 5-10 minutes the entire vehicle was fully engulfed in flames. The fire originated from the engine compartment. The vehicle was a total loss. Subaru of America was notified on 12/23/2025, but no follow-up or update on investigation has been resp…

Look up ODI 11712180 at NHTSA ↗

000
Power Train0—
1
ODI 11729610

Issue 1: Complete transmission failure was diagnosed by Subaru dealer March 24, 2026 at 5 years and 6 months after purchase with an odometer reading of 45,000 miles (drive train warranty 5 yrs/60,000 miles). Had to purchase and have installed a rebuilt Subaru transmission. First noticed transmission was slipping with a large load in vehicle May 2025 at 4 years and 8 months after purchase at about 40,000 miles on odometer. The issue was subsequently not noticed under typical load until slipping transmission signs reappeared December 2025. …

Look up ODI 11729610 at NHTSA ↗

0
2
ODI 11515496

The transmission of my 2021 Ascent regularly slips or shutters when trying to accelerate time to time(not always). Loud noises when shifting from low speed. Went to dealership but they said car working perfectly.

Look up ODI 11515496 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11753410

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 B…

Look up ODI 11753410 at NHTSA ↗

000
Unknown Or Other
5
ODI 11455135

My mirror on my car has started melting. They told me it was a outside force, from a lighter. I told them it was electrical or something wrong from the inside of the mirror. There are forums recently posted up regarding this and Subaru has ignored them all claiming it is reflective light from the sun. That they can’t do anything about it. Others have replaced their mirrors 3 times now. This is a potential fire hazard and could be unsafe. They are not addressing this as it should be. https://www.thesubaruforums.com/threads/melting-side-view-mirr…

Look up ODI 11455135 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11494417

THE MOON ROOF/SUNROOF HAS LEAKED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE DEALER HAS TRIED TO FIX IT ON THREE OCCASIONS. IT CONTINUES TO LEAK- IT LEAKS WATER INTO THE FRONT EYESIGHT CAMERAS CAUSING THEM TO NOT WORK & CUT OFF SPORADICALLY. THE WATER LEAKS INTO THE CAB CAUSING THE HEADLINER TO BE WET, THE FLOORBOARD AND THE ENTIRE CONSOLE AND CUP HOLDERS FILLS UP WITH WATER. I HAVE HAD IT AT THE DEALERSHIP ON THREE OCCASIONS DEC 2012 JAN 2021 NOV 11 2022 AND IT HAS NOW HAPPENED A 4 TH TIME ON NOV 15 2022 AND IS STILL NOT REPAIRED. I HAVE BEEN WITHOUT MY VEHICLE FOR 3…

Look up ODI 11494417 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11594745

Lift gate began malfunctioning going up and down on its ownthen dropped suddenly onto spouse's head. Now the lift gate does not open properly.

Look up ODI 11594745 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 11729610

Issue 1: Complete transmission failure was diagnosed by Subaru dealer March 24, 2026 at 5 years and 6 months after purchase with an odometer reading of 45,000 miles (drive train warranty 5 yrs/60,000 miles). Had to purchase and have installed a rebuilt Subaru transmission. First noticed transmission was slipping with a large load in vehicle May 2025 at 4 years and 8 months after purchase at about 40,000 miles on odometer. The issue was subsequently not noticed under typical load until slipping transmission signs reappeared December 2025. …

Look up ODI 11729610 at NHTSA ↗

—0
2
ODI 11617822

Transmission needed a full replacement

Look up ODI 11617822 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11710776

The transmission on our 2021 Subaru Ascent is slipping and failing to accelerate, RPMs reving, and every issue indicator notification light is on. We took the car to our mechanic, then to the Subaru dealership service dept for diagnosis. A full transmission replacement is required plus associated repairs for a cost of $14,543.98. Service estimate attached. This repair is more than 2/3 of the value of the vehicle. This make/model and transmission type have documented problems and Subaru has previously issued an extended warranty on other model…

Look up ODI 11710776 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 11665581

The lane assist failed by over correcting while I have my hands on the steering wheel. It over corrects to the center lane when you are driving with normal behavior. This can cause a collision if it were to over correct while a car was there, this is also easily reproducible in my car.

Look up ODI 11665581 at NHTSA ↗

00
Visibility/Wiper000—0000
Engine
2
ODI 11710776

The transmission on our 2021 Subaru Ascent is slipping and failing to accelerate, RPMs reving, and every issue indicator notification light is on. We took the car to our mechanic, then to the Subaru dealership service dept for diagnosis. A full transmission replacement is required plus associated repairs for a cost of $14,543.98. Service estimate attached. This repair is more than 2/3 of the value of the vehicle. This make/model and transmission type have documented problems and Subaru has previously issued an extended warranty on other model…

Look up ODI 11710776 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11712180

While driving my Subaru Ascent, a check engine warning light appeared on the dashboard. Shortly afterward, I noticed smoke coming from the engine compartment. I immediately pulled over and turned the vehicle off. Within moments, flames began coming from under the hood. The fire spread rapidly, and within 5-10 minutes the entire vehicle was fully engulfed in flames. The fire originated from the engine compartment. The vehicle was a total loss. Subaru of America was notified on 12/23/2025, but no follow-up or update on investigation has been resp…

Look up ODI 11712180 at NHTSA ↗

2
ODI 11515496

The transmission of my 2021 Ascent regularly slips or shutters when trying to accelerate time to time(not always). Loud noises when shifting from low speed. Went to dealership but they said car working perfectly.

Look up ODI 11515496 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11753410

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 B…

Look up ODI 11753410 at NHTSA ↗

2
ODI 11617822

Transmission needed a full replacement

Look up ODI 11617822 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11710776

The transmission on our 2021 Subaru Ascent is slipping and failing to accelerate, RPMs reving, and every issue indicator notification light is on. We took the car to our mechanic, then to the Subaru dealership service dept for diagnosis. A full transmission replacement is required plus associated repairs for a cost of $14,543.98. Service estimate attached. This repair is more than 2/3 of the value of the vehicle. This make/model and transmission type have documented problems and Subaru has previously issued an extended warranty on other model…

Look up ODI 11710776 at NHTSA ↗

0—0
2
ODI 11689564

Oil leak from engine constantly from FRONT DIFFERENTIAL, rec cvt pump reseal with new trans seal, pump is leaking causing drips ; drain plug is also leaking. Need to Replace Front and rear Pads & Rotors at 35k miles which is unheard of. Accessed by suberu dealership.

Look up ODI 11689564 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11746580

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…

Look up ODI 11746580 at NHTSA ↗

0
Lane Departure: Assist00
1
ODI 11665581

The lane assist failed by over correcting while I have my hands on the steering wheel. It over corrects to the center lane when you are driving with normal behavior. This can cause a collision if it were to over correct while a car was there, this is also easily reproducible in my car.

Look up ODI 11665581 at NHTSA ↗

00—0
5
ODI 11399576 · 800 mi

VEHICLE WANDERS ON THE HIGHWAY. WHEN PASSING A VEHICLE ON THE ROAD THE LANE CENTERING ASSIST TRIES TO HUG THE CENTERLINE AND THE DRIVER MUST KEEP PULLING HE VEHICLE BACK TO THE CENTER OF THE PASSING LANE. A SHORT LAPSE OF STEERING COULD PULL THE VEHICLE INTO THE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE BEING PASSED. FULL TIME JOB TO KEEP THE VEHICLE FROM WANDERING WHEN VERY LIITLE WIND AND ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO KEEP IT FROM WANDERING WHEN THE WIND IS BLOWING 15-20 MPH. NOT A PLEASANT RELAXING DRIVE.

Look up ODI 11399576 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11403640 · 2,500 mi

THE 2021 ASCENT HAS LANE CENTERING ASSIST WITH VERY STRICT MARGINS. IT IS A CONSTANT TUG OF WAR WITH THE VEHICLE WHEN LANE CENTERING IS ACTIVE. WHEN YOU LET THE CAR TAKE OVER, IT VIOLENTLY JERKS YOU INTO THE NEXT LANE. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN CROSS CHECKED WITH OTHER USERS ON A SUBARU FORUM AND ALL HAVE THE SAME ISSUE. THE CAR OVERCORRECTS AND IS PRONE TO CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AT SOME POINT. I AM LUCKY NO ONE WAS IN THE LANE NEXT TO ME WHEN THE CAR SWERVED ME INTO THE NEXT LANE. MY 2021 IS A REPLACEMENT OF A 2020 MODEL BECAUSE THE 2020 WAS DEEMED A L…

Look up ODI 11403640 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11416528 · 140 mi

LANE ASSIST WITH CRUISE CONTROL OVER CORRECTS. ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS WHILE ON THE FREEWAY USING CRUISE CONTROL THE LANE ASSIST PULLED ME INTO THE OTHER LANE INTO OTHER VEHICLES. I HAVE ALMOST HIT OTHER VEHICLES. THE PULL IS TOO STRONG AND CROSSES LANES. IF NOT FIXED BY SUBARU, ACCIDENTS WILL OCCUR.

Look up ODI 11416528 at NHTSA ↗

Service Brakes0000
2
ODI 11689564

Oil leak from engine constantly from FRONT DIFFERENTIAL, rec cvt pump reseal with new trans seal, pump is leaking causing drips ; drain plug is also leaking. Need to Replace Front and rear Pads & Rotors at 35k miles which is unheard of. Accessed by suberu dealership.

Look up ODI 11689564 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11746580

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…

Look up ODI 11746580 at NHTSA ↗

0—0
Steering00000
5
ODI 11399576 · 800 mi

VEHICLE WANDERS ON THE HIGHWAY. WHEN PASSING A VEHICLE ON THE ROAD THE LANE CENTERING ASSIST TRIES TO HUG THE CENTERLINE AND THE DRIVER MUST KEEP PULLING HE VEHICLE BACK TO THE CENTER OF THE PASSING LANE. A SHORT LAPSE OF STEERING COULD PULL THE VEHICLE INTO THE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE BEING PASSED. FULL TIME JOB TO KEEP THE VEHICLE FROM WANDERING WHEN VERY LIITLE WIND AND ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO KEEP IT FROM WANDERING WHEN THE WIND IS BLOWING 15-20 MPH. NOT A PLEASANT RELAXING DRIVE.

Look up ODI 11399576 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11403640 · 2,500 mi

THE 2021 ASCENT HAS LANE CENTERING ASSIST WITH VERY STRICT MARGINS. IT IS A CONSTANT TUG OF WAR WITH THE VEHICLE WHEN LANE CENTERING IS ACTIVE. WHEN YOU LET THE CAR TAKE OVER, IT VIOLENTLY JERKS YOU INTO THE NEXT LANE. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN CROSS CHECKED WITH OTHER USERS ON A SUBARU FORUM AND ALL HAVE THE SAME ISSUE. THE CAR OVERCORRECTS AND IS PRONE TO CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AT SOME POINT. I AM LUCKY NO ONE WAS IN THE LANE NEXT TO ME WHEN THE CAR SWERVED ME INTO THE NEXT LANE. MY 2021 IS A REPLACEMENT OF A 2020 MODEL BECAUSE THE 2020 WAS DEEMED A L…

Look up ODI 11403640 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11416528 · 140 mi

LANE ASSIST WITH CRUISE CONTROL OVER CORRECTS. ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS WHILE ON THE FREEWAY USING CRUISE CONTROL THE LANE ASSIST PULLED ME INTO THE OTHER LANE INTO OTHER VEHICLES. I HAVE ALMOST HIT OTHER VEHICLES. THE PULL IS TOO STRONG AND CROSSES LANES. IF NOT FIXED BY SUBARU, ACCIDENTS WILL OCCUR.

Look up ODI 11416528 at NHTSA ↗

0—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

6 patterns with matching reports.

Hard or delayed shifting

7 mentions · 6.9% of complaints

Median mileage: 3,750 mi (2 usable records).

ODI 11403484 · 5,000 mi

THE LANE ASSIST FEATURE (ONLY AN OPTION WHEN USING ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL; NOT THE SAME AS LANE CENTERING WHEN NOT USING THE ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL [THE BASICS LANE CENTERING WORKS JUST FINE]) SEEMS OVERLY AGGRESSIVE. EACH TIME I HAVE USED LANE ASSIST WITH CRUISE CONTROL, IT JERKS THE CAR VERY ABRUPTLY AT TIMES, ALMOST TO THE EXTENT OF SENDING IT INTO ANOTHER LANE IF I DO NOT INTERVENE. I NO LONGER FEEL SAFE USING LANE ASSIST, SO I TURN IT OFF WHEN USING CRUISE CONTROL. I AM VERY CONCERNED IT'S GOING TO CAUSE AND ACCIDENT. THIS HAS HAPPENED A…

Look up ODI 11403484 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11403640 · 2,500 mi

THE 2021 ASCENT HAS LANE CENTERING ASSIST WITH VERY STRICT MARGINS. IT IS A CONSTANT TUG OF WAR WITH THE VEHICLE WHEN LANE CENTERING IS ACTIVE. WHEN YOU LET THE CAR TAKE OVER, IT VIOLENTLY JERKS YOU INTO THE NEXT LANE. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN CROSS CHECKED WITH OTHER USERS ON A SUBARU FORUM AND ALL HAVE THE SAME ISSUE. THE CAR OVERCORRECTS AND IS PRONE TO CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AT SOME POINT. I AM LUCKY NO ONE WAS IN THE LANE NEXT TO ME WHEN THE CAR SWERVED ME INTO THE NEXT LANE. MY 2021 IS A REPLACEMENT OF A 2020 MODEL BECAUSE THE 2020 WAS DEEMED A L…

Look up ODI 11403640 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11466237

The Transmission on the vehicle was exhibiting excessive noise when shifting from park to drive and was progressively becoming undrivable with odd shifting, hard shifting, RPM fluttering, and chugging. It made progressively louder audible sounds and squeaks during cold starts when shifting from park to drive. It was brought in for service and the original transmission was replaced due to metal shavings found in the case, a direct indication of failure, with no warning lamps or codes from the onboard computers. After approximately 500 miles, …

Look up ODI 11466237 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(hard shift\w*|rough shift\w*|delay\w* shift\w*|shift\w* hard|jerk\w*|lurch\w*)\b

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

7 mentions · 6.9% of complaints

Median mileage: 40,600 mi (2 usable records).

ODI 11426138 · 6,200 mi

The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while reversing out of the driveway and making a left turn, the steering wheel locked up and the contact could not turn the vehicle. The contact restarted the vehicle and the steering wheel to unlocked. The failure recurred with an unknown warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The…

Look up ODI 11426138 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11433026

On several occasions while using the lane centering feature, vehicle has taken a sudden violent move to the left into the on coming lane. No warning lights illuminated. Problem hasn’t been replicated by dealer.

Look up ODI 11433026 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11495560

Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assistance, Eye Sight, RAB, some ! Symbol, and check engine light are all on and not working. You know everything that makes a Subaru. This is not the first or even second time. We are on the fourth instance of this happening. We live 2+ hrs away from the closest dealers. The first few times it occurred, we called to make a appointment. Each time was always a few weeks out and the issue would clear a day or two before. This l…

Look up ODI 11495560 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b

Stalling or loss of power

3 mentions · 2.9% of complaints

Median mileage: 101,541 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 11472199

Vehicle will jerk and shudder when accelerating and de-accelerating. Mostly between 15mph and 30mph. I’ve taken the vehicle back to the dealership and they didn’t find the issue. This prompted me to do some research online and found in one of many. There is a class action lawsuit for 2018-2019 Ascents. The 2020-2021 and 2022 models will follow suit as they have identical issues. I’m concerned the transmission will fail and I’ll have a lemon on my hands. The sudden loss of power to sometimes sudden acceleration by suddenly downshifting is a conc…

Look up ODI 11472199 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11729610

Issue 1: Complete transmission failure was diagnosed by Subaru dealer March 24, 2026 at 5 years and 6 months after purchase with an odometer reading of 45,000 miles (drive train warranty 5 yrs/60,000 miles). Had to purchase and have installed a rebuilt Subaru transmission. First noticed transmission was slipping with a large load in vehicle May 2025 at 4 years and 8 months after purchase at about 40,000 miles on odometer. The issue was subsequently not noticed under typical load until slipping transmission signs reappeared December 2025. …

Look up ODI 11729610 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11752723 · 101,541 mi

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 tra…

Look up ODI 11752723 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(stall\w*|loss of power|lost power|engine shut\w* off)\b

Battery drain and no-start mentions

2 mentions · 2.0% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 11490453

Car would not start in morning. @20,000 miles. Battery dead..not even trying to turn over..Had to get car jumped then all safety features went dead..looked on Subaru sight and it showed every safety feature disabled..I did not drive car till next day to bring to dealer..next day all features fine like nothing happened..Dealer found nothing wrong. Dealer tested battery and showed fully charged..

Look up ODI 11490453 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11610464

Battery draining. Bought car from dealership preowned with 25k miles. Owned it for 3 weeks and so far -Battery dead, jumped it, good for a day then dead again. -took back to dealership, said bad battery, replaced it, good for a week and a half then dead again -scheduling to go to a subaru dealership for diagnoses Ive read about the DCM on these vehicles trying to connect to 3g towers continously even when the car is off. The 3g towers are no longer in use in the USA. Subaru should have a software update to remedy this issue but have not found …

Look up ODI 11610464 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(parasitic drain|battery drain\w*|dead battery|won.t start|would not start|no.start)\b

Steering assistance concerns

2 mentions · 2.0% of complaints

Median mileage: 6,200 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 11426138 · 6,200 mi

The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while reversing out of the driveway and making a left turn, the steering wheel locked up and the contact could not turn the vehicle. The contact restarted the vehicle and the steering wheel to unlocked. The failure recurred with an unknown warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The…

Look up ODI 11426138 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11438442

The lane keeping assist pull abruptly into the other traffic lane when traveling on the highway for example when on a 4 lane road with two lane in the same direcstion and passing a semi truck the steering assist abruptly pulls the car into the truck's lane and requires immediate hard handed reaction to keep the car from hitting the truck. The lane assist on this subaru vehicle is more dangerous than it is helpful. Subaru is terribly un response to request for help although the car is less than 1-year old and has a mult-year extended warranty--…

Look up ODI 11438442 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(power steer\w*|steering assist\w*|steering lock\w*|steering wheel lock\w*)\b

Fuel smell or leak mentions

1 mentions · 1.0% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 11707202

Vehicle smells of fuel inside the cabin and when parked in the garage. To date the dealer is unable to diagnose the problem. 60k miles

Look up ODI 11707202 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(fuel leak\w*|gas leak\w*|gas(?:oline)? smell|smell\w* (?:of )?(?:fuel|gas))\b