This page covers 5 recalls, 314 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2020 Subaru Ascent.
23 mpg combined
10.2 L/100km
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Electrical system complaints dominate the 2020 Ascent owner reports, with drivers describing a range of issues from intermittent failures to more extensive problems involving wiring harnesses and onboard electronics. A notable subset of electrical complaints involves transmission-related wiring damage, where owners report pressure sensor failures that push transmission fluid into multiple harnesses, affecting both drivetrain and interior electronics. Visibility and wiper complaints are the second-most reported area, though the specific symptoms owners describe vary. Powertrain complaints round out the top three, with owners reporting hesitation and power loss during acceleration, particularly from a stop or when fuel is low, sometimes accompanied by stalling. A smaller number of owners report water intrusion into the cabin leading to mold growth inside the interior, though the entry point remains unidentified in those reports.
314
Total Complaints
5
Crash-Related
1
Fire-Related
4
With Injuries
By System
The 2020 Subaru Ascent has 5 recalls, the most serious including a steering defect where front tie rod ends can separate from their housings, causing a complete loss of steering control.
The remaining recalls cover fuel, drivetrain, and electrical concerns. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank can fail and stall the engine while driving. In the drivetrain, a software error in the transmission control unit can allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is fully clamped, causing the chain to slip or break and cutting drive power unexpectedly. On the electrical side, a loose ground bolt on the cabin heater circuit can cause the ground terminal and nearby components to melt, raising the risk of a fire inside the vehicle.
At a glance
What can fail
The ground bolt securing the PTC heater's ground terminal may not be properly fastened, potentially causing the terminal and nearby components to melt.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the PTC heater ground bolts and, if needed, the ground wire and connector holder at no charge.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The mounting holes on the steering knuckles were made incorrectly, preventing tie rod ends from fitting properly. This could cause parts to separate over time and result in loss of steering control.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace both steering knuckles, tie rod ends, and related parts to ensure proper fit and steering function.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The front tie rod end housings have an incorrectly tapered hole, causing the tie rod ends to fit improperly. If excessive torque is applied during assembly or service, the tie rods and housings can become deformed.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace both the left and right front tie rod ends and housings at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A software error in the transmission control unit may cause the clutch to engage before the drive chain is fully secured, risking chain slippage.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the transmission control unit software, check for chain slippage, and inspect the chain guide. If damage is found, the transmission will be replaced.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail, which could prevent fuel from reaching the engine.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
