2019 Subaru Ascent Safety Report
2019 Subaru Ascent: Excellent Crash Ratings Undermined by Numerous Recalls and High Complaint Volume for Powertrain and Electrical Issues
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Subaru Ascent
Reliability Score
The 2019 Subaru Ascent receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cvt Transmission Failure/Slipping Owners report the CVT transmission slipping, hesitating, or completely failing, leading to a loss of drive power. This is directly addressed by multiple power train recalls. |
High | Common | variable, often under 100000 miles |
| Electrical System Malfunctions Frequent complaints about rapid battery drain, instrument cluster lights illuminating, and the EyeSight system malfunctioning. A recall exists for a PTC heater ground bolt increasing fire risk. |
Medium | Common | variable miles |
| Fuel Pump Failure Low-pressure fuel pump issues can cause engine stalling while driving, increasing crash risk. This was subject to two separate recalls. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Missing B-Pillar Spot Welds Some vehicles were manufactured with missing spot welds on the B-Pillar, compromising vehicle strength in a crash. This was a manufacturing defect recall. |
High | Rare | new miles |
| Pcv Valve Separation The aluminum PCV valve can separate, leading to an unexpected loss of power while driving, increasing crash risk. This was subject to a recall. |
High | Rare | variable miles |
| Windshield Cracking Multiple reports of windshields cracking without obvious impact, suggesting potential quality issues with the glass. |
Medium | Occasional | variable 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:
The most reported component with 123 complaints, including battery drain, instrument cluster issues, and PTC heater ground bolt concerns (subject to recall).
With 60 complaints, issues include CVT transmission slipping, hesitation, and complete failure, directly related to multiple recalls for TCU programming and hydraulic sensor inaccuracies.
Also with 60 complaints, this category includes issues like windshield cracking and wiper malfunctions.
30 complaints fall into this general category, often indicating various unresolved or hard-to-diagnose issues.
14 complaints, including ABS engaging prematurely and slow brake response.
13 complaints, including issues like exhaust fumes in the cabin, ticking sounds, and oil pan leaks.
12 complaints, primarily related to the low-pressure fuel pump failures that led to two recalls.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Subaru Ascent
Is the 2019 Subaru Ascent safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Subaru Ascent received excellent 5-star overall, frontal, and side crash test ratings, and a 4-star rollover rating. However, it has 431 owner complaints, 10 crashes, 6 fires, and 8 injuries reported, along with 8 recalls addressing significant safety concerns like loss of drive power, fire risk, and compromised structural integrity. While it performs well in crash tests, the high volume of recalls and complaints, particularly for powertrain and electrical systems, indicates potential reliability and safety issues.
What are common problems with the 2019 Subaru Ascent?
The most reported issues for the 2019 Subaru Ascent are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (123 complaints), POWER TRAIN (60 complaints, often CVT transmission failures), and VISIBILITY/WIPER (60 complaints, including windshield cracking). Other notable problems include fuel pump failures, engine issues like oil leaks and exhaust smells, and suspension concerns.
How many recalls does the 2019 Subaru Ascent have?
The 2019 Subaru Ascent has 8 recalls issued by NHTSA. These recalls address critical components such as the electrical system (fire risk), powertrain (loss of drive power, driveshaft issues), fuel system (engine stall), engine (loss of power), and structural integrity (missing B-Pillar spot welds).
Are there any fire risks with the 2019 Subaru Ascent?
Yes, there have been 6 fires reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2019 Subaru Ascent. Additionally, one of the 8 recalls specifically addresses a melting ground terminal for the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater, which increases the risk of a fire.
Does the 2019 Subaru Ascent have transmission problems?
Yes, the 2019 Subaru Ascent has significant transmission problems, with POWER TRAIN being the second most complained about component (60 complaints). Owners frequently report CVT transmission slipping, hesitation, and catastrophic failures. Multiple recalls have been issued for the transmission, including issues with the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) programming and hydraulic sensor inaccuracies, which can lead to a loss of drive power.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high number of recalls and owner complaints, particularly concerning the powertrain and electrical system, potential buyers should proceed with caution. Ensure all 8 recalls have been addressed and consider an extended warranty, especially for the transmission.
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.