Last updated: 2026-04-20

Subaru Ascent

1 Subaru Ascent Years to Avoid

Years that score significantly below the Subaru Ascent average of 68/100

The Subaru Ascent years to avoid are 2019 based on reliability scores, NHTSA recalls, and owner complaints. The worst year is 2019 with a reliability score of 55/100. The best Subaru Ascent year to buy is 2025 76/100.

Verdict

The 2019 Subaru Ascent scores significantly below the model average of 68/100. The weakest year is 2019 with a score of 55/100 due to electrical system (150) issues. The best year to buy instead is 2022 70/100.

See years to avoid ↓See best year ↓See all years ranked ↓

Subaru Ascent Years to Avoid

These model years score significantly below the Subaru Ascent average of 68/100.

#YearScoreRatingRecallsComplaintsTop Issue
1201955/100Mixed8431Electrical System (150)

Why These Years Should Be Avoided

55
MixedReliability score: 55 out of 100, rated Mixed

2019 Subaru Ascent

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).

8 recalls431 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Electrical System (150), Power Train (79), Visibility Wiper (62), Unknown Or Other (39), Engine (20), Service Brakes (15)

View full 2019reliability report →

Best Subaru Ascent Year to Buy Instead

70
GoodReliability score: 70 out of 100, rated Good

2022 Subaru Ascent

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).

Score: 70/100 (Good)1 recalls50 complaints
View full 2022reliability report →
VIN History Report

Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car

Even the best Subaru Ascent year can have hidden problems. A VIN check reveals past accidents, title issues, and service gaps for the exact car you're considering.

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  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

All Subaru Ascent Years by Generation

All model years ranked by reliability score, grouped by generation.

Subaru Ascent Reliability Scores by Year

Excellent Good Mixed Risky

Our data covers 2019–2025 model years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Subaru Ascent years should you avoid?
Based on our data, you should avoid the following Subaru Ascent years: 2019 (score: 55/100). These model years score significantly below the Subaru Ascent average of 68/100.
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 ("Good"). It has 0 recalls and 8 owner complaints.
How many recalls does the Subaru Ascent have?
Across all years in our database, the Subaru Ascent has a total of 16 recalls. Recall counts vary by year — check individual model year reports for details.
Is a used Subaru Ascent worth buying?
Yes, especially the 2025 model year, which scores 76/100. Stick to years at or above the model average of 68/100 for the best ownership experience.
Is the Subaru Ascent reliable long-term?
The Subaru Ascent has an average reliability score of 68/100 across all model years in our database, rated "good". Overall, it is a reliable vehicle, though some model years perform better than others.
Is the 2025 Subaru Ascent a good used buy?
Yes, the 2025 Subaru Ascent is the highest-scoring model year with a reliability score of 76/100 ("Good"). It has 0 recalls and 8 owner complaints, making it a solid used buy.

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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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