2019 Subaru Ascent Safety Report
2019 SUBARU ASCENT Safety Analysis
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2019 Subaru Ascent
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2019 Subaru Ascent. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (8) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (431) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 16 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Electrical System | Compare electrical system issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2025 | Compare against the 2025 Subaru Ascent with 8 complaints and 0 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2020 | Check the 2020 Subaru Ascent before buying across this generation. |
Subaru Ascent Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Subaru Ascent years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 Subaru Ascent | 309 | 4 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2021 Subaru Ascent | 92 | 1 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2022 Subaru Ascent | 48 | 1 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2023 Subaru Ascent | 36 | 3 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2024 Subaru Ascent | 42 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2025 Subaru Ascent | 8 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
2019 Subaru Ascent Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2019 Subaru Ascent, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Electrical System
123 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System issues Subaru onlyPower Train
60 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Subaru onlyVisibility/Wiper
60 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Visibility/Wiper issues Subaru onlyUnknown Or Other
30 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Subaru onlyService Brakes
14 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes issues Subaru onlyEngine
13 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Subaru onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Subaru Ascent
Reliability Score
The 2019 Subaru Ascent receives a reliability score of 80 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2019 Subaru Ascent
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2019 Subaru Ascent
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Subaru Ascent:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System The ground bolt in the electrical system wiring under the dash can cause issues, leading to potential safety hazards. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Automatic Transmission Control Module Recalls have been issued for issues with the transmission control module, affecting vehicle performance and safety. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Exhaust System Emissions Problems with the crankcase emission control system can lead to exhaust fumes entering the cabin, posing a health risk. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Battery Drain The battery can drain quickly, causing the vehicle to fail to start, which is a significant inconvenience and safety concern. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Subaru Ascent:
Issues with the electrical system, particularly the wiring under the dash, are a common problem.
Problems with the automatic transmission control module are frequently reported.
Issues with the exhaust system, including emissions, are a recurring issue.
Battery drain issues are a common complaint among owners.
Recall Details for the 2019 Subaru Ascent
The following 8 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Subaru Ascent by NHTSA:
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles. The ground bolt that secures the ground terminal of the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater may have been improperly fastened, which could result in melting of the ground terminal and surrounding components.
Consequence: A melting ground terminal increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park their vehicle away from structures and to avoid leaving the vehicle unattended while the engine is running. An owner who notices or smells smoke coming from the dash or driver's footwell area should immediately stop operating the vehicle and turn the ignition switch to the "Off" position. Dealers will replace the PTC heater ground bolts and if necessary, replace the gr...
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2020 Legacy and Outback vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
Consequence: An improperly secured drive chain may slip and break, causing a loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 19, 2022. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 19V-855. Vehicles previously recalled under 19V-8...
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21.
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Impreza, Outback, Legacy, and Ascent vehicles. The low pressure fuel pump may become inoperative.
Consequence: If the low pressure fuel pump fails, the engine may stall without the ability to restart the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRD-20.
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent vehicles. The aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can separate, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, resulting in a loss of power while driving.
Consequence: An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the PCV valve, free of charge. If the PCV valve has separated and the components cannot be found, the short block engine will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began January 31, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUW-08.
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Ascent vehicles. The transmission hydraulic sensor may inaccurately measure the hydraulic fluid pressure.
Consequence: If the fluid pressure is measured higher than its actual value, the hydraulic pressure will be reduced. If this occurs, the transmission drive chain may not have the proper tension, resulting in a loss of drive power and an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the transmission control unit. The hydraulic sensor harness will be replaced on vehicles with certain stored diagnostic trouble codes. In addition, any vehicle confirmed to have experienced low drive chain tension will have the transmission assembly will be replaced. All repairs will be free of charge. The recall began January 31, 2020. Ow...
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Ascent vehicles. The center support bolts for the driveshaft may loosen, possibly resulting in the front portion of the driveshaft disconnecting.
Consequence: If the front end of the driveshaft separates, it can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driveshaft assembly, including the center support brace, free of charge. The recall began July 26, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUI-94.
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Subaru Ascent vehicles. These vehicles may be missing spot welds on, or around, the B-Pillar, compromising vehicle strength.
Consequence: In the event of a crash, the missing spot welds may compromise the vehicle's strength, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicle to check for missing spot welds. If the welds are missing, the vehicle will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began July 31, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WTU-80.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2019 Subaru Ascent
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2019 Subaru Ascent with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 2 complaints involved crashes. 3 involved fires. 1 reported injuries or fatalities.
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at approximately 75 MPH, a deer ran across the highway and hit the left driver's side of the vehicle. The air bags did not deploy upon impact. A grayish smoke began to emit from the vehicle as the contact's wife immediately pulled off to the side of the road. Due to the damaged cause by the impact of the deer...
We have been dealing with issues with this vehicle since 2024. We had 3 open recalls which we took into the closest dealership to us and things were okay for a few months and then started having issues again. We live in a small town and it is hard to get to the dealership so we had a few local mechanics take a look and one had found that the exhuast recall was not installed properly and so he addr...
Component/System Failed: The vehicle’s CVT transmission and related transmission components. The transmission and associated components have been replaced multiple times by authorized Subaru dealerships. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. Description of the Failure and Safety Risk: The vehicle has experienced repeated, intermittent transmission malfunctions, including warning l...
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while the engine was idling, exhaust fumes entered the cabin of the vehicle. Additionally, immediately after starting the vehicle, there was a loud ticking sound coming from the exhaust system. The vehicle was inspected by the local dealer, and it was determined that the exhaust manifold lines were faulty and needed to be replaced. The...
I leased a 2019 Subaru Ascent (VIN: [XXX] ), which is equipped with the EyeSight driver-assist system. In the Spring of 2019, while driving in a parking lot at night with low visibility and snow, the vehicle struck a pole. Despite the imminent collision, the EyeSight system failed to engage Pre-Collision Braking or provide any audible/visual warning to alert me of the obstacle. The system did not ...
Over the past few months the transmission has started randomly refusing to engage. When entering the expressway, you will press the accelerator, and the engine will rev and the vehicle will not accelerate at all. Then you let off the accelerator, let the engine RPM drop back down to idle, and press again and it will accelerate. This has happened 3 times in 2 months. Subaru is refusing to replace t...
The break pads had to be renewed after 2.5 months because the ABS was engaging every time I used the breaks. At all speeds. 84,000 miles
The battery is draining so quick that the car doesnt start at all. The battery drained completely in 3 days and it’s happening more often.
While driving on the highway, my vehicle suddenly lost the ability to accelerate—this is the second time this has happened, with the first incident occurring in June 2022. Each time I bring the car to the dealership, I’m told that because the issue cannot be recreated on the spot, despite codes that are warranted for the QMR to be done they’re unable to inspect or apply the WRK-21 procedure to rep...
All of a sudden my vehicle accelerated after placing it in reverse with my foot on the brake. There was a screeching sound and I immediately shifted into (at least) Park. In attempting to exit my garage again, it repeated the same events. I parked the car and never did leave my residence. No dash lights etc. I am afraid to now drive this vehicle. This occurred several days before this mentioned ev...
As a veteran and spouse of an active duty service member, we are currently fulfiling our overseas tour in South Korea. We were notified of the recall of our Subaru Ascent and made contact with Subaru via email for guidance on how to proceed as we are not within the continental United States. My email to them was as follows: Our family is currently stationed overseas in South Korea. Our family has ...
I purchased the car brand new in 2019. Shortly after purchasing, the transmission started having hesitation and slipping. I took the car back to the Subaru, and they replaced the transmission under warranty. Unfortunately, they replaced it with another full transmission, and very shortly there after, they had to replace it again. Unfortunately, they replaced it with another faulty transmission and...
When trying to maintain highway speeds (65 to 70 MPH) and driving in mountainous terrain of Pennsylvania, Maryland, or New York, the vehicle will shudder as if it is loosing power. The vehicle will rapidly loose speed. No warning code is issued. The only way to solve issue is depress the pedal to increase the RPMs. Took vehicle to dealer and reported that it felt as if the CVT chain was slipping...
Transmission belt broke while driving resulting in a catastrophic failure.
My vehicle smokes when starting it. A lot of white smoke that can fill a parking lot. The smoke has a strong chemical smell.
Subaru windshild in my 2019 Ascent have been replaced twice in 30,000 miles due to very inadequate glass. I'm struggling to get Subaru to acknowledge their responsibility to replace this current cracked windshield with a new part, as per my reading of a settlement that they should be following [XXX] ). They are currently trying to send me to a 3rd party repair business to do the repair, but sup...
I have a 2019 Subaru Ascent Limited model with 96,xxx miles as of January 2025. In 2023, there was a safety recall for the PTC heater ground bolt sent first class mail for multiple year Ascent models. This recall was completed by local subaru dealership on 3/27/2023 stating "WRL 22 completed. Removed ground bolts and cleaned threads. Found no signs of heat damage. Removed and replaced bolts." Move...
STARTED THE VEHICLE TO DRIVE 30 MILES FOR AN APPOINTMENT. WHILE DRIVING, ALL OF THE INTRUMENT CLUSTER LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE EYE SIGHT TURNED OFF, CRUISE CONTROL NO LONGER WORKED, PARKING BRAKE LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED, ABS LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. TPMS LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THIS HAS OCCURED 2 TIMES BEFORE. THE FIX FOR THE PREVIOUS ISSUES WAS TO CLEAN THE BATTERY TERMINALS.
Yes, inspect it. Bought 2019 Subaru Ascent from Carvana, March of 2022. 5 months later, the transmission started to low screech and hard shift. I took it to Osteen Subaru dealership. They test drove it, then reprogrammed transmission. Same day while leaving their parking lot, hard shifted and slighty screeched yet again, reprogrammed again. On my way home that day, did it again, problem persisted....
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the hood was flapping up and down. The contact was concerned that the hood might release and crash into the front windshield. The brake pedal was depressed but was slow to respond. The TPMS warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the interior lights were inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the local dea...
Showing 20 of 431 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Subaru Ascent
Has the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT been recalled?
Yes, the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT has 8 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT have?
The 2019 SUBARU ASCENT has 431 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 10 involved crashes. 8 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT?
The 2019 SUBARU ASCENT received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 5/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT involve electrical system (123 complaints), power train (60 complaints), visibility/wiper (60 complaints). Other affected components include unknown or other, service brakes, engine.
How many crash reports does the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT have?
There are 10 crash reports associated with the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT out of 431 total complaints (2.3% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT have?
There are 6 fire reports for the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT out of 431 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT.
How many injuries are reported for the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT?
8 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2019 SUBARU ASCENT?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT is research thoroughly before purchasing. It has 431 complaints, 8 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT?
The components with the most failures on the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT are: 1. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (123 complaints), 2. POWER TRAIN (60 complaints), 3. VISIBILITY/WIPER (60 complaints), 4. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (30 complaints), 5. SERVICE BRAKES (14 complaints). ELECTRICAL SYSTEM is the single most-reported problem area with 123 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2019 SUBARU ASCENT?
Be aware of potential electrical system and transmission issues, and regularly check the battery to prevent unexpected failures. The 2019 SUBARU ASCENT has 431 NHTSA complaints and 8 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT?
The 2019 SUBARU ASCENT receives a reliability score of 80/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 431 owner complaints, 8 recalls, and 16 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Electrical System and Automatic Transmission Control Module.
What are the known issues with the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT?
Known issues with the 2019 SUBARU ASCENT include: Electrical System, Automatic Transmission Control Module, Exhaust System Emissions, Battery Drain. These are based on patterns found across 431 NHTSA complaints. 8 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the most common issues with the 2019 Subaru Ascent?
Common issues include electrical system problems, particularly with wiring under the dash, and transmission control module issues.
Are there any recalls for the 2019 Subaru Ascent?
Yes, recalls have been issued for issues with the automatic transmission control module and the exhaust system emissions.
What should I do if I experience battery drain issues?
Check the battery regularly and have it tested by a professional to ensure it is functioning properly.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be aware of potential electrical system and transmission issues, and regularly check the battery to prevent unexpected failures.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Subaru Ascent
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Subaru Ascent. The data includes 431 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 8 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 10 reported crashes, 6 fire incidents, 8 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Subaru Ascent an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16