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2019 Subaru Ascent

2019 Subaru Ascent: electrical gripes lead, but check the powertrain and brakes too

Owners filed 431 complaints with NHTSA. Electrical System dominates at 37% of reports, with Power Train (19%) and Visibility/Wiper (15%) next. A handful of reports involved fires (4 electrical, 2 engine) and crashes (3 brakes, 2 powertrain, 1 engine), and one engine report noted an injury. Use the breakdown below to know what to inspect before you buy.

Most reported areas

Electrical System safety 37%
The single biggest complaint area: 158 reports (37%). Four reports involved a fire, so treat any electrical glitch seriously and have it diagnosed promptly.
Power Train safety 19%
The second most reported area: 82 reports (19%), including 2 tied to a crash. Watch for odd noises, RPM surges, or hesitation when accelerating on a test drive.
Visibility/Wiper0 15%
66 reports (15%), with no crashes, fires, or injuries logged. Check the windshield against direct sunlight or oncoming lights for glare and distortion.
Engine safety 11%
47 reports (11%) and the most severe mix: 2 fires, 1 crash, and 1 injury. Take any check-engine light or sudden power loss as a real safety concern.
Service Brakes safety 6%
26 reports (6%), but 3 are tied to a crash, so don't dismiss it. Test the brakes carefully and note any unexpected behavior or dashboard warnings.

Source: NHTSA owner complaints · 431 complaints

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General information compiled from public NHTSA complaint data, for reference only — not professional advice and not reviewed by automotive experts. Verify before acting; Team AM is not responsible for decisions made from it.