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2025 Subaru Ascent Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2025 Subaru Ascent Report

Overall Score

7.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Driver's side mirror vibration is the most frequent complaint, potentially affecting visibility and requiring inspection.
  • A high TSB count (44) indicates potential for minor issues requiring manufacturer attention.
  • The Ascent earns a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, including top scores in frontal and side crash tests.
  • Expect 22 MPG combined from its 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2025 Subaru Ascent

The 2025 Subaru Ascent is a capable three-row SUV with standard all-wheel drive and a comfortable ride. It boasts a strong 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. However, a high TSB count of 44 suggests potential for minor issues. The most notable concern for used-car shoppers is a recurring vibration in the driver's side rearview mirror, which can significantly impact visibility. Isolated reports of early tire failure and a post-impact engine fire also warrant careful inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

The driver's side exterior rearview mirror vibrates excessively, particularly at higher speeds, rendering it difficult or impossible to use. This issue is sometimes linked to the vehicle's body structure and B-pillar.

Early detection can help you avoid a $600-$1,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

9
Visibility:Rearview Mirrors/Devices:Exterior2
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
22
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
26
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.9/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families and individuals seeking a safe, all-weather capable three-row SUV with standard all-wheel drive.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers highly sensitive to minor interior or exterior component issues.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2025 Subaru Ascent Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2025 Subaru Ascent.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (AV-S8)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
22

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

Most Common Issues

1. Visibility

Most reported

Usage: 2 reports

2. Visibility

Usage: 2 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes, Suspension, and Exhaust System - Check all fluid levels

Est. shop cost: $30 - $60

6,000 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
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2025 Subaru Ascent reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2025 Subaru Ascent is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 9.

How practical is the 2025 Subaru Ascent for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2025 Subaru Ascent?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2025 Subaru Ascent is 7.7/10. Overall score is 7.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2025 Subaru Ascent?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes, Suspension, and Exhaust System - Check all fluid levels at 6,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Exterior Mirror Assembly (typical at 22,500 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $400).

What engine is in the 2025 Subaru Ascent?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2025 Subaru Ascent use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 Subaru Ascent, transmission is Automatic (AV-S8). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2025 Subaru Ascent?▾

EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2025 Subaru Ascent?▾

14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What body style is the 2025 Subaru Ascent?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 Subaru Ascent, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2025 Subaru Ascent use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 Subaru Ascent, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S8).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2025 Subaru Ascent?▾

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

Is the 2025 Subaru Ascent good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2025 Subaru Ascent is a family SUV with standard AWD and a 2.4L turbocharged engine.

What are the most common visibility:rearview mirrors/devices:exterior problems on the 2025 Subaru Ascent?▾

Top complaint category: visibility:rearview mirrors/devices:exterior (2 reports, 22.2% of complaints).

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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