2021 Subaru Ascent
This year had 30% to 100% more complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 432 |
| 2020 | 316 |
| 2021 | 97 |
| 2022 | 55 |
| 2023 | 39 |
| 2024 | 48 |
| 2025 | 12 |
| 2026 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
18% of complaints: electrical system — 17 distinct reports on file.
FIRE15% of complaints: power train — 15 distinct reports on file.
14% of complaints: visibility/wiper — 14 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
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.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210104
12% of complaints: lane departure — 12 distinct reports on file.
10% of complaints: engine — 10 distinct reports on file.
FIRESAFETY TIMELINE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park their vehicle away from structures and to avoid leaving the vehicle unattended while the engine is running.
Campaign 22V907000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Subaru Ascent — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (17 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (15 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for visibility/wiper issues (14 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 22V907000 (electrical system) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2021 Subaru Ascent reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2021 Subaru Ascent is rated "worse than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Subaru Ascent?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 18% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Subaru Ascent have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.