2021 Subaru Ascent Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Electrical System Issues: Battery drain is a frequent complaint, potentially leaving you stranded.
- Powertrain Concerns: The CVT transmission can exhibit shuddering and slipping, indicating potential durability problems.
- ADAS Performance: The lane departure assist system is known for aggressive and unpredictable behavior.
- Windshield Durability: Spontaneous windshield cracking is a recurring issue, impacting visibility and potentially structural integrity.
2021 Subaru Ascent
The 2021 Subaru Ascent offers standard all-wheel drive and a comfortable ride, earning a top 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. However, its below-average reliability is a significant concern for used car shoppers, stemming from 119 customer complaints. Key issues involve the electrical system, powertrain (specifically the CVT transmission), and lane departure assist. The Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission, achieving an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined.
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent complaints of battery drain even at low mileage, leading to starting issues. This can indicate a parasitic draw or charging system fault.
Early detection can help you avoid a $2,500-$4,000 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 all-wheel drive and strong safety ratings.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Risk-averse buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Subaru Ascent Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Subaru Ascent.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (AV-S8)
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 23
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Most Common Issues
1. Visibility
Most reportedUsage: 14 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 14 reports
First Service Interval
- Engine Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter)
Est. shop cost: $75 - $125
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Subaru Ascent reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Subaru Ascent is 8.3/10. Reliability score is 8.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 119.
How practical is the 2021 Subaru Ascent for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Subaru Ascent?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Subaru Ascent is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Tuning 5.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Subaru Ascent?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Engine Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $600).
What engine is in the 2021 Subaru Ascent?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.
What transmission does the 2021 Subaru Ascent use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Ascent, transmission is Automatic (AV-S8). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Subaru Ascent?
EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Subaru Ascent?
13 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
What body style is the 2021 Subaru Ascent?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Ascent, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Subaru Ascent use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Ascent, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S8).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Subaru Ascent?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2021 Subaru Ascent good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 5/10. The 2021 Subaru Ascent, equipped with a 2.4L turbocharged Boxer engine, presents a platform for moderate performance enhancements. Popular platforms: Subaru Ascent.
What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2021 Subaru Ascent?
Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (14 reports, 11.8% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Subaru Ascent?
This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.