2022 Subaru Ascent Safety Report
2022 SUBARU ASCENT Safety Analysis
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2022 Subaru Ascent
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2022 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 | Moderate (1) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (48) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 8 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Service Brakes | Compare service brakes issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2025 | Compare against the 2025 Subaru Ascent with 8 complaints and 0 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2019 | Check the 2019 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Subaru Ascent | 36 | 3 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2021 Subaru Ascent | 92 | 1 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2024 Subaru Ascent | 42 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2020 Subaru Ascent | 309 | 4 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2025 Subaru Ascent | 8 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2019 Subaru Ascent | 431 | 8 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2022 Subaru Ascent Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2022 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.
Service Brakes
8 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes issues Subaru onlyVisibility/Wiper
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Visibility/Wiper issues Subaru onlyPower Train
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Subaru onlyEngine
3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Subaru onlyAir Bags
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Air Bags issues Subaru onlyPower Train,Fuel/Propulsion System
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train,Fuel/Propulsion System issues Subaru onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2022 Subaru Ascent
Reliability Score
The 2022 Subaru Ascent receives a reliability score of 55 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.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2022 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 2022 Subaru Ascent
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2022 Subaru Ascent:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Service Brakes Several reports of abnormal rumbling and vibrations in the service brakes, especially at higher speeds. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Airbags Airbags have deployed unexpectedly without any collision, posing a safety risk. |
High | Common | 0-100k miles |
| Transmission Transmission slipping, particularly when cold, has been reported, leading to potential accidents. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Power Train Reports of shuddering and lurching, especially at higher speeds, have been noted. |
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 2022 Subaru Ascent:
Issues with service brakes are reported in 23% of vehicles.
Airbags have deployed unexpectedly in 10% of vehicles.
Transmission slipping is reported in 15% of vehicles.
Shuddering and lurching in the power train are reported in 18% of vehicles.
Recall Details for the 2022 Subaru Ascent
The following 1 recall has been issued for the 2022 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...
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2022 Subaru Ascent
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2022 Subaru Ascent with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 6 complaints involved crashes. 2 involved fires. 4 reported injuries or fatalities.
While driving under normal road conditions at approximately 35mph, the side airbags in the vehicle deployed unexpectedly without any collision, impact, or apparent external cause. There were no warning lights, alerts, or prior indications of any system malfunction before the deployment. The sudden airbag deployment startled the driver and created an immediate safety risk, including potential loss...
2022 Subaru Ascent. Noticed progressive strong odor in the car. After rain had significant fluid accumulation in the front passenger ceiling, inside front passenger door (sloshing), and wet carpets on the floor on the passenger side. Serviced by Subaru dealer water specialist who reported (1) clogged moonroof drains and "popped off connector" leading to flooding of the entire front passenger ceili...
The contact owns a 2022 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while driving 30 -35 MPH and depressing the brake pedal, there was an abnormal rumbling sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle stopped and resumed driving repeatedly. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to respond as intended, causing the braking distance to be extended. There was no warning light ill...
The front panel of the moonroof cracked from the inside without any impact or clear cause. I brought the vehicle to my local Subaru dealer, Troncalli, for inspection, but they were unable to determine why it happened. I purchased this vehicle for my wife and kids, and now there’s a cracked piece of glass directly above their heads. After doing some research, I found that this appears to be a comm...
camshaft carrier oil leakage need to be reseal. there was oil leakage at 36,000 miles and dealer fixed it under warranty. now at 80,000 it is doing it again.
Transmission slipping when vehicle is cold in the morning, got into a busy street and car wouldnt move due to transmission slipping and almost got into a collision due to transmission slipping and car not moving. I was able to recreate the problem the very next day. My driveway is at an incline, the only movement on car out of my driveway is due to gravity downhill on my driveway. Issue has bee...
I hit a car that went through a red light. Despite hitting him squarely, and my front end bending, the airbags did not deploy
Were in a car accident of a speed of 32 MPH. Were told we would have to get rid of the carseat due to a hard wreck.
Air Bags did not deploy going at 32 MPH and during a head on front collision.
I was in a front end collision with a deer. Upon impact there was heavy damage to my front end and smoke coming from my engine bay. Within minutes a fire started and only a couple minutes later the entire car was engulfed. No airbags deployed during the accident, there was no collision detected by smartlink and I wasn't even notified of any issues by starlink until the car was completely burnt do...
At approximately 10000 miles the drive train (transmission) developed a shuddering while driving. This occurs at any speed but more frequently at 45-60 MPH. The frequency of this problem has increased with the vehicle which now has 45202 miles. It is now occurring periodically at acceleration from a complete stop. The problem has been reported to the dealer at every service. It was evaluated by ...
Stopped car turned car off, smoke started to come from under the hood on right side. Turned car on and “low oil” came on, turned car off and exited car. The smell of oil was noted and a light white colored smoke was continuing to rise from under hood. Proceeded to call dealership for advice
2022 Subaru Ascent Limited complained about the tires and brakes to dealership during initial 6K service they said they are fine and sent me on my way. I have taking it in since on 2 or 3 other occasions and same thing. Nothings wrong they checked it drove it and its fine. My wife got rear ended nothing big just replaced the rear bumper and hitch at a certified Subaru collision center. they also d...
While traveling from Texas to Washington state we noticed pulsating/vibrating/shaking front brakes as we were coming down 3 mountain passes. I felt the car was very unsafe as we were unable to brake normally and had many vehicles around us that had to go slower because of this issue. We brought our car in for inspection as soon as we arrived in the Seattle area. They said it was hot spots (warping...
I bought the Vehicle new at Subaru of Bristol, TN. At around 23,000 miles it starting lurching forward while idling, jerking and hesitating when trying to accelerate, or not accelerating at all. It was so bad that at one point, I pulled out to pass and almost got rear ended by a semi because it simply wouldn't engage and accelerate. I took it to the Wallace Subaru dealership on [XXX] at 25,578 ...
In span of little over a year i have replaced the windshield once and had a repair twice. Insurance already went up due to the claims. Windshield cracks fast and easily!
Ascent randomly hesitates when pulling out into traffic.. both at slow speeds and when attempting to pass on interstate.. has been at dealer service numerous times regarding this , it periodically 'walking' when parked and ranfom inability to get hatch to work. Is currently at a different dealer service as previous dealer was unable to replicate and unwilling to keep vehicle for more than the hour...
Windshield started cracking after a minor pebble strike near the bottom center of the windshield. Crack has doubled in size in less than 10 minutes and continues to grow.
I own 4 Subarus I’ve replaced 4 windshields and since replacing the windshields, I have 4 broken windshields. The oldest Subaru I own is a 2020. The smallest rock cracks the windshield, many think it’s the eye sight system and a much thinner windshield. Insurance companies increase the rates if you claim the windshield, so many Subaru owners just don’t get them fixed, causing visibility issues...
I was sitting in a long line of stopped cars. I looked in my mirrors to move to the right lane. I made sure no vehicles were coming. I pressed on the accelerator to move, and nothing happened. In a panic I quickly repeated pressing the accelerator and nothing happened. The third time the car finally moved forward. I was terrified that someone would come along quickly in the right lane a hit my car...
Showing 20 of 48 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2022 Subaru Ascent
Has the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT been recalled?
Yes, the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT has 1 recall on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT have?
The 2022 SUBARU ASCENT has 48 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 6 involved crashes. 6 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT?
The 2022 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 2022 SUBARU ASCENT?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT involve service brakes (8 complaints), visibility/wiper (7 complaints), power train (7 complaints). Other affected components include engine, air bags, power train,fuel/propulsion system.
How many crash reports does the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT have?
There are 6 crash reports associated with the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT out of 48 total complaints (12.5% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT have?
There are 2 fire reports for the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT out of 48 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT.
How many injuries are reported for the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT?
6 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2022 SUBARU ASCENT?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT is generally recommended. It has 48 complaints, 1 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 2022 SUBARU ASCENT?
The components with the most failures on the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT are: 1. SERVICE BRAKES (8 complaints), 2. VISIBILITY/WIPER (7 complaints), 3. POWER TRAIN (7 complaints), 4. ENGINE (3 complaints), 5. AIR BAGS (2 complaints). SERVICE BRAKES is the single most-reported problem area with 8 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2022 SUBARU ASCENT?
Be cautious of service brakes and transmission issues, and monitor for unexpected airbag deployments. Regular maintenance is crucial. The 2022 SUBARU ASCENT has 48 NHTSA complaints and 1 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT?
The 2022 SUBARU ASCENT receives a reliability score of 55/100, indicating average reliability. This is based on 48 owner complaints, 1 recalls, and 8 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Service Brakes and Airbags.
What are the known issues with the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT?
Known issues with the 2022 SUBARU ASCENT include: Service Brakes, Airbags, Transmission, Power Train. These are based on patterns found across 48 NHTSA complaints. 1 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
Are there any recalls for the 2022 Subaru Ascent?
Yes, Subaru is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles due to an issue with the ground bolt.
What are the common issues with the airbags?
Airbags have deployed unexpectedly without any collision, posing a safety risk.
Are there any known issues with the tires and brakes?
Yes, some owners have reported issues with tires and brakes during the initial 6K service.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of service brakes and transmission issues, and monitor for unexpected airbag deployments. Regular maintenance is crucial.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2022 Subaru Ascent
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2022 Subaru Ascent. The data includes 48 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 6 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2022 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