NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls and 56 owner complaints for the 2022 Subaru Ascent. Most complaints involve power train (14) and service brakes (10). The EPA rates it 22–23 mpg combined, and NHTSA gives it 5 stars overall.
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.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid, 2025-2026 Forester Hybrid, Forester, and 2019-2026 Ascent vehicles. These vehicles were manufactured with an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) on the certification label. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 110, "Tire selection and rims."
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
“The contact owns a 2022 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle experienced a loss of power steering assist, the speedometer was inoperable, and the transmission failed to shift into gear. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who inspected the brakes and reset the check engine warning light, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, who determined that the rear radar sensor module beneath the rear bumper had corrosion from car wash or road salt. The dealer replaced the rear radar sensor module and sealed it with silicone. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.”
“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 did not look over the car since its new they also sent me on my way and I asked for an inspection nothing. I call the dealership a week ago to speak to the service manager so I can get the info for the extended warranty since I am having these issues and its close to 20K miles now and they have not done anything regarding the issue. Waited never sent the info and before I could take it to the dealer ship a few days later I had a blowout. I replaced the tire with the spare but the tire is bald and you cant see it its on the inside there patchy and the brake pads are to small they admitted that they are small for the car and rotors and they would not under a recall but a service bulletin cover the brake pads and resurface the rotors there warped and pulsing its not safe…”
“The front exhaust pipe on my 2022 Subaru Ascent cracked at approximately 77,800 miles. The component is available for inspection. Prior to diagnosis, I noticed a rattle/fluttering noise coming from the undercarriage during acceleration. The problem was confirmed by an authorized Subaru dealership. Subaru has issued TSB 09-106-23 acknowledging this is a known design defect affecting 2019-2023 Ascents, and has redesigned the part to correct the issue. Despite being within the 8 year/80,000 mile federal emissions warranty period, the dealership denied warranty coverage, claiming coverage only applies in California and Maryland. This is incorrect - the federal emissions warranty applies nationwide. The dealership quoted over $1,000 out of pocket for a known manufacturing defect on a 4 year old vehicle. The cracked exhaust pipe poses a safety risk as exhaust fumes can enter the vehicle cabin. I am requesting NHTSA to investigate whether Subaru is improperly denying federal emissions warranty claims on affected vehicles outside of California and Maryland.”
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ascent Auto (AV-S8), 4 cyl, 2.4 L, Turbo · All-Wheel Drive | 21 | 27 | 23 | $2,800 | 384 |
| Ascent Limited/Touring/Onyx AWD Auto (AV-S8), 4 cyl, 2.4 L, Turbo · All-Wheel Drive | 20 | 26 | 22 | $2,900 | 401 |
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
2 safety recalls as of Oct 30, 2026, according to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a dealer. Check your VIN to see whether your car is included and whether the repair was done.
Owners filed 56 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are power train (14), service brakes (10), engine (9). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 2022 Subaru Ascent at 22–23 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (2 versions rated).
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2022 Subaru Ascent 5 out of 5 stars overall.