2023 Subaru Ascent Safety Report
2023 Subaru Ascent: Strong crash ratings, but significant recalls and owner complaints regarding brakes, visibility, and powertrain issues.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2023 Subaru Ascent
Reliability Score
The 2023 Subaru Ascent receives a reliability score of 65 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 2023 Subaru Ascent
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2023 Subaru Ascent:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sudden Unintended Braking/Acceleration The EyeSight Driver Assist system, including forward collision avoidance and cruise control, has been reported to cause sudden, aggressive braking or unintended acceleration, leading to dangerous situations on highways and during parking. |
High | Occasional | 0-15000 miles |
| Windshield Cracking Multiple owners report the windshield is highly susceptible to chipping and cracking from minor impacts, with small chips quickly spreading into long cracks, often requiring multiple replacements. |
Medium | Common | 0-20000 miles |
| Brake System Malfunctions/Premature Wear Owners have experienced brake vibration, premature wear of rotors and pads requiring early replacement, and general brake system issues, despite recall repairs. |
High | Common | 0-15000 miles |
| Tire Damage/Premature Wear Reports of tire blowouts at highway speeds and unusual, rapid tire wear (e.g., needing replacement at 15,000 miles) align with a recall for damaged tire beads. |
High | Occasional | 0-15000 miles |
| Driveshaft Disconnection Risk A recall addresses loosening center support bolts for the driveshaft, which can lead to disconnection and loss of vehicle control, increasing crash risk. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Issue A recall identifies improperly tightened ball joint castle nuts on the front lower control arm, potentially causing ball joint separation and loss of vehicle control. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2023 Subaru Ascent:
Frequent complaints about brake vibration, premature wear, and issues with the automatic braking system engaging unexpectedly.
Numerous reports of windshields easily cracking from minor impacts, leading to costly and frequent replacements.
A variety of miscellaneous issues, including heated seat malfunction and battery drain.
Concerns about rapid tire wear and sudden tire failures, including blowouts, consistent with a manufacturing defect recall.
Malfunctions of the EyeSight system, including sudden braking without obstruction and intermittent disabling.
Issues related to the driveshaft, as highlighted by a recall for loosening support bolts.
Intermittent passenger seat airbag status light, raising concerns about deployment.
Complaints about the front passenger seat lacking height adjustment and heated seats not functioning effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2023 Subaru Ascent
Is the 2023 Subaru Ascent safe?
The 2023 Subaru Ascent received excellent 5-star overall safety ratings from NHTSA, including 5 stars for frontal and side impacts, and 4 stars for rollover. However, it has 3 open recalls addressing critical safety components like the driveshaft, lower control arm, and tires, which could lead to loss of vehicle control or sudden tire failure. Owner complaints also highlight issues with the automatic braking system, windshield durability, and brake performance, indicating potential real-world safety concerns despite strong crash test results.
What are common problems with the 2023 Subaru Ascent?
The most reported issues for the 2023 Subaru Ascent include problems with the 'SERVICE BRAKES' (16.7% of complaints), often involving premature wear, vibration, and unexpected automatic braking. 'VISIBILITY/WIPER' (16.7%) is another frequent concern due to windshields cracking easily. 'TIRES' (8.3%) have also been reported for premature wear and blowouts, and the 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' system (5.6%) has been cited for malfunctions like sudden, unintended braking.
Are there any recalls for the 2023 Subaru Ascent?
Yes, the 2023 Subaru Ascent has 3 open recalls. These include a recall for 'POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT' where center support bolts may loosen, a recall for 'SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM' due to improperly tightened ball joint castle nuts, and a recall for 'TIRES' where the internal tire bead may have been damaged during mounting. All these issues can increase the risk of a crash.
How does the 2023 Subaru Ascent perform in crash tests?
The 2023 Subaru Ascent performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for both frontal crash and side crash tests, and a 4-star rating for rollover resistance.
What should I look out for if buying a used 2023 Subaru Ascent?
If considering a used 2023 Subaru Ascent, ensure all 3 open recalls (driveshaft, lower control arm, tires) have been addressed by a Subaru dealership. Pay close attention to the condition of the windshield for any chips or cracks, and inquire about the vehicle's brake service history. Test the EyeSight driver-assist features for any erratic behavior, and check tire wear patterns carefully.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the 2023 Ascent's significant recall history and common owner complaints regarding brakes, windshield durability, and driver-assist system malfunctions; verify all recalls are completed and inspect these areas thoroughly.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2023 Subaru Ascent
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2023 Subaru Ascent. The data includes 36 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2023 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.