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2022 Subaru Ascent Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2022 Subaru Ascent Report

Overall Score

7.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Transmission issues are the primary concern, with reports of slipping and shuddering that can lead to costly repairs.
  • Inspect service brakes thoroughly for signs of premature wear or vibration, as these are frequently reported problems.
  • The windshield is prone to cracking and chipping, suggesting a potential material fragility that could lead to replacement costs.
  • A single recall exists for the PTC heater ground bolt; ensure this has been addressed by a dealer.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent is a three-row SUV that offers standard all-wheel drive and a comfortable family-hauling experience. However, used-car shoppers should be aware of its mixed reliability record. While it boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, a high number of complaints, particularly concerning the powertrain and service brakes, warrant close examination. It's powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and achieves 23 MPG combined.

Critical Failure Risk

The transmission may hesitate, slip between gears, or exhibit shuddering during acceleration. This is a significant concern reported by owners.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,500-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

64
Power Train11
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
21
MPG
Highway
27
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.5/ 10

Practicality

6.8/ 10

Watch-outs include high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families seeking a safe and capable three-row SUV with standard AWD.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing absolute mechanical dependability above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2022 Subaru Ascent Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2022 Subaru Ascent.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
7
Transmission
Automatic (AV-S8)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
23

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 11 reports

2. Braking System

Usage: 10 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter)

Est. shop cost: $75 - $100

3,750 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2022 Subaru Ascent reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2022 Subaru Ascent is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 64.

How practical is the 2022 Subaru Ascent for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.8/10. Watch-outs include high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 2449 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2022 Subaru Ascent?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2022 Subaru Ascent is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 6.8/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2022 Subaru Ascent?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) at 3,750 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 85,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,500 • Max: $5,000).

What engine is in the 2022 Subaru Ascent?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2022 Subaru Ascent use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Subaru Ascent, transmission is Automatic (AV-S8). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2022 Subaru Ascent?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2022 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 2022 Subaru Ascent?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Subaru Ascent, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2022 Subaru Ascent?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Subaru Ascent, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2022 Subaru Ascent use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Subaru Ascent, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S8).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2022 Subaru Ascent?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2022 Subaru Ascent good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2022 Subaru Ascent is a family-oriented SUV not designed for performance tuning.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2022 Subaru Ascent?▾

Top complaint category: power train (11 reports, 17.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2022 Subaru Ascent?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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