2020 Subaru Ascent Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Electrical System Failures: Frequent battery drain and no-start conditions are the most significant ownership risks. This issue can leave you stranded and may lead to costly repairs.
- Power Train Concerns: Transmission issues, including hesitation and potential failure, are frequently reported. Investigate any unusual noises or shuddering promptly.
- Visibility Issues: Spontaneous windshield cracking is a common complaint, impacting visibility and potentially the functionality of safety systems.
- Recalls: With 47 recalls, including critical ones for the fuel pump and driveline, verifying that all manufacturer remedies have been applied is essential.
2020 Subaru Ascent
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent complaints point to parasitic battery drain, potentially due to software logic in the charging system or issues with components like the liftgate latch. Some owners report batteries dying even with minimal use or after short trips. A class-action lawsuit has addressed battery drain issues in certain Subaru models, including the 2019-2020 Ascent.
Early detection can help you avoid a $4,500-$7,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing standard AWD and ample passenger space.
+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2020 Subaru Ascent Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 Subaru Ascent.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 8
- Transmission
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Drivetrain
- AWD/All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 23
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Most Common Issues
1. Electrical System
Most reportedUsage: 100 reports
2. Visibility
Usage: 48 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement
Est. shop cost: N/A
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FAQ
Is the 2020 Subaru Ascent reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Subaru Ascent is 5.4/10. Reliability score is 5.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 47. Owner complaints: 372.
How practical is the 2020 Subaru Ascent for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 8.
What is the overall score for the 2020 Subaru Ascent?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Subaru Ascent is 6.6/10. Overall score is 6.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.5/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 4.8/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 Subaru Ascent?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement at 6,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (Battery/Charging) (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $800).
What is the MSRP range for the 2020 Subaru Ascent?
Base MSRP is $45,045.
What engine is in the 2020 Subaru Ascent?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.
What transmission does the 2020 Subaru Ascent use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Ascent, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Subaru Ascent?
EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Subaru Ascent?
12 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2020 Subaru Ascent?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Ascent, seating capacity is 8.
What body style is the 2020 Subaru Ascent?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Ascent, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2020 Subaru Ascent use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Ascent, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 Subaru Ascent?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2020 Subaru Ascent good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2020 Subaru Ascent is a three-row SUV designed for families, prioritizing comfort and safety over performance. While it features a 2.
What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2020 Subaru Ascent?
Top complaint category: electrical system (100 reports, 26.9% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2020 Subaru Ascent?
This model year has 47 official safety campaigns listed.