Last updated: 2026-04-20
Subaru Ascent Reliability by Year
The Subaru Ascent averages 68/100 across 6 model years, rated good.
Subaru Ascent Reliability Overview
The Subaru Ascent, covering model years 2019 to 2026, holds an average reliability score of 69 out of 100, indicating a generally good performance with some variations over time. Data shows that early models faced issues primarily with the electrical system and power train, while later years saw improvements, particularly from 2024 onward, with reduced complaints and no recalls. The Ascent is best suited for those prioritizing safety, as it consistently receives a 5-star NHTSA safety rating, though owners should be aware of potential visibility and service brake concerns in certain years.
Current generation: 1st gen (2019–2023), facelifted 2023.
Best & Worst Subaru Ascent Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Subaru Ascent Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Subaru Ascent year is 2025 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2024 (76/100) and 2023 (71/100).
Subaru Ascent Years to Avoid
The worst Subaru Ascent year is 2019 with a score of 55/100, primarily due to electrical system (150) issues.
Subaru Ascent Reliability Score Trend
Subaru Ascent reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 74/100 compared to 61/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 55/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 76/100 | Good |
Year-by-Year Reliability
2026 Subaru Ascent
0 recalls · 1 complaints
The 2026 Subaru Ascent has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 1 owner complaint on file for the 2026 Subaru Ascent. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Service Brakes, Hydraulic (1).
2025 Subaru Ascent
0 recalls · 8 complaints
The 2025 Subaru Ascent has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 8 owner complaints on file for the 2025 Subaru Ascent. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (2), Visibility Wiper (2), Engine (1).
2024 Subaru Ascent
0 recalls · 43 complaints
The 2024 Subaru Ascent has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 43 owner complaints on file for the 2024 Subaru Ascent. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Visibility (21), Visibility Wiper (7), Electrical System (3).
2023 Subaru Ascent
3 recalls · 36 complaints
The 2023 Subaru Ascent has good reliability. There are 3 recalls and 36 owner complaints on file for the 2023 Subaru Ascent. Severity signals include 3 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (6), Visibility Wiper (6), Service Brakes (6).
2022 Subaru Ascent
1 recalls · 50 complaints
The 2022 Subaru Ascent has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 50 owner complaints on file for the 2022 Subaru Ascent. Severity signals include 6 crash-related complaints and 2 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (12), Service Brakes (8), Visibility Wiper (7).
2020 Subaru Ascent
4 recalls · 310 complaints
The 2020 Subaru Ascent has mixed reliability. There are 4 recalls and 310 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Subaru Ascent. Severity signals include 5 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (98), Power Train (52), Visibility Wiper (45).
2019 Subaru Ascent
8 recalls · 431 complaints
The 2019 Subaru Ascent has mixed reliability. There are 8 recalls and 431 owner complaints on file for the 2019 Subaru Ascent. Severity signals include 10 crash-related complaints and 6 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (150), Power Train (79), Visibility Wiper (62).
Found Your Subaru Ascent? Check Its History
Every Subaru Ascent has a different past. Before you buy, a VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, and open recalls.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
Subaru Ascent Repair Costs
Reliability Rating
3/5
Subaru Ascent Years to Avoid
See which model years have the most problems
Most Reliable Subaru Models
Compare all Subaru models by reliability
Compare Subaru Ascent With Similar SUVs
The Subaru Ascent competes with other midsize suvs such as Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and KIA Telluride.
Toyota Highlander reliability
9 years tracked · 1892 complaints
Honda Pilot reliability
9 years tracked · 2382 complaints
KIA Telluride reliability
6 years tracked · 1600 complaints
Hyundai Palisade reliability
7 years tracked · 1908 complaints
Chevrolet Traverse reliability
9 years tracked · 1417 complaints
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Subaru Ascent reliable?
- The Subaru Ascent has good reliability with an average score of 68/100. Some model years are stronger than others — check individual years before buying.
- What is the best year for the Subaru Ascent?
- The best year for the Subaru Ascent is 2025 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. It has 0 recalls and 8 owner complaints on record. See full 2025 Subaru Ascentanalysis →
- What are the Subaru Ascent years to avoid?
- The Subaru Ascent years to avoid include 2019 (55/100). These model years score significantly below the model average due to higher recall and complaint volumes. See the full years-to-avoid analysis for details. See full years-to-avoid analysis →
- How much does it cost to maintain a Subaru Ascent?
- Annual maintenance cost estimates are not available for the Subaru Ascent. Based on its reliability score and complaint patterns, check individual year pages for repair cost details when available.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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