2022 Subaru Ascent Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2022 Subaru Ascent, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Powertrain (other)1421.5%
- Brakes1116.9%
- Engine913.8%
- Visibility710.8%
- Driver assistance69.2%
- Airbags46.2%
- Fuel system46.2%
- Interior & seats34.6%
- Electrical34.6%
- Other / unspecified23.1%
- Steering11.5%
- Tires & wheels11.5%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
The contact owns a 2022 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, there was a whining sound coming from the transmission, and the vehicle failed to properly accelerate. The vehicle was slowly driven to the local mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the transmission had failed and needed to be replaced. The transmission was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000. The VIN was not available.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
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 illuminated. The contact was able to drive to the residence. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where an unknown diagnosis and repair were completed. Additionally, the contact stated that the same dealer had previously repaired the brakes under warranty. The manufacturer was contacted and advised the contact to retrieve the vehicle from the dealer even though the contact had safety concerns. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000. The VIN was not available.
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 at all. The blow out happened on the sidewall where the bead is where the wheel is mounted just blew. The manager did not offer a vehicle and advised me they had none even with 4 kids I am willing to take any vehicle. I have not received the service and Subaru has not serviced my car as they should and they now claim they have no service records which I provided info and nothing. They want $160 for labor $140 for alignment and $1200 for tires. Its not my fault the service was not done and overlooked I have taken it to that dealership since I purchased it. Called Subaru of America they are dragging there feet the dealership has had my car on the donut since 7/17/24 still waiting on SOA I was told 2 business days and still nothing no vehicle had to get a rental. I do not want the car it is not safe. I almost died
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
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 common issue, often attributed to temperature fluctuations or body flexing. It seems Subaru used the same thin glass on the moonroof panels as they do on their windshields, which seems to be the problem. The vehicle is only three years old, yet Subaru has declined to cover the damage. I am hesitant to pay out of pocket to replace the panel, knowing the issue still exists on newer models, including the 2025s. My concern is that even after repair, it could easily happen again.
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!
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
My eyesight camera keeps failing, it just started like a week ago I had it scanned and it is saying there is an error with the eyesight camera, I have not had an issue with it until now.
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 ceiling; (2) detached vapor barrier in the passenger door allowing water to collect inside the door and drain into the car; (3) significant concern for mold based on the extent of damage and odor accumulating over time. Told by dealer the drains could be unclogged and they'd repair the popped off connection with a zip-tie fastener since it was not tight enough before, re-affix the vapor barrier in the door, but otherwise their expressed SAFETY concern related to the extent of suspected mold and the poor effects that would have on the health of us and our children. Told the mold was unlikely to fully remediate despite usual efforts, as it creates a fibrous web that is very difficult to ever fix, and the recommendation was that we probably not drive the car again. Told no water damage of any etiology is covered under any Subaru warranty. Dealer refused at first to give documentation about the service or recommendations. Later gave but left off mold documentation - we requested they add it back on, if we choose to sell or trade in the vehicle later we refuse to do so without the mold and associated health risks being public knowledge for a future owner of this vehicle. We also reported that our Subaru Eyesight (collision avoidance system) had been intermittently shorting out, online reports show this can be related to drain floods. No report/update thus far by Subaru on this, also not included in report. We filed a complaint with Subaru of America but have not been called back despite two weeks of repeated calls to them for an update.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
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 of vehicle control and risk of injury to occupants. The vehicle had not struck anything, and there were no road hazards or events that would reasonably trigger airbag deployment. The vehicle has since been inspected by insurance representatives and a dealership, and repair estimates have been completed. At this time, the cause of the deployment remains UNKNOWN. This incident raises serious concerns about a potential defect in the airbag system or related sensors, as the airbags deployed without a triggering event.
I hit a car that went through a red light. Despite hitting him squarely, and my front end bending, the airbags did not deploy
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
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 down and getting doused in water. It is the middle of winter and I couldn't begin to imagine how horrible that would've been had I needed to remove my 3 children from their car seats or if I would've smacked my head and passed out. I was very lucky to walk away unharmed, but many valuables were lost in my car from this.
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 miles. They drove the vehicle and did a software update and claimed it was fixed. It seemed ok for a couple of days and then started having the same issues again. I took it back to Wallace on [XXX] at 27,248 miles and also engaged Subaru of America. They had the vehicle until [XXX] during which time they replaced the transmission. It seemed ok for a few days and started doing the same thing again. I took it back to the dealership on [XXX] at 29,449. They performed no service because they claimed they couldn't replicate the issue. This past weekend, I almost had another wreck trying to merge from the on-ramp onto the interstate because the car literally just stopped accelerating and jerked for several seconds before engaging again. Cars were literally slamming brakes behind me to keep from hitting me. This car is unsafe to drive and it's either going cause me harm or someone else because Subaru, despite knowing this is a known issue with this model and certainly with this particular car, seems like they need me to have a wreck before they will continue servicing the vehicle and finding and fixing the issue. They need to buy it back for at least what I owe. I certainly don't want to trade it for another Subaru. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
The front driver seat cushion/seat cover is deteriorating and ripping at the front portion of the seat. While driving, I can feel road vibration and impacts through the driver seat much more than normal, and the seat no longer feels properly cushioned or supported. I am concerned this affects the driver seating position, comfort, and ability to maintain proper control, and it creates a distraction while driving. The failed component is the front driver seat cushion/seat cover and it is available for inspection upon request. I have seen Subaru Service Bulletin 12-273-19 for earlier Ascent model years describing redesigned front seat cushion trim covers due to early wrinkling/durability concerns, and my vehicle appears to have a similar front seat cushion/cover failure. The problem has not yet been confirmed by a dealer or independent service center. The vehicle/component has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance, or others. There were no warning lamps or messages before the problem appeared. The first symptoms were increased road feel through the driver seat and visible deterioration/ripping of the seat cushion/cover. Cause is UNKNOWN.
The Automatic liftgate in the rear of the vehicle upon opening, closes suddenly and immediately. I am not touching the key fob or anything. This happened several times and hit me on the head. The dealer has replaced the liftgate motor, but it happened again. This is dangerous and can be harmful to adults or children standing behind a vehicle.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
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 or 2 of service appt. Prev dealer did replace hatch motor over a year ago..but still works randomly..their fix for this is to manually reset everytime.. as for ' walking ' when parked, my ascent will very slowly move 6 to 8 feet when parked..dealer 'fix' is to only park with parking brake on. Hesitation issue is now worse since prev dealer did 'system update'.. now rpm drop to 1000 or lower, then after 3 or 4 seconds, car revs to 3 or 4 k & takes off..during the 3 or 4 seconds of hesitation, I am literally sitting in the middle of the road as the car initially starts to move forward, then literally just sits there until it revs up and takes off. This is random, so no way to record..and no rhym or reason to know when it's going to happen. Last week it nearly got me t boned by an 18 wheeler when I pulled out across 4 lanes after getting fuel. Have contacted Subaru of America requesting their help but have gotten no reply despite my 7 voicemail left for the assigned rep. My car is a 22 ascent touring with 17k miles..has been at same dealer repeatedly for same issues and their repeated reply us "unable to duplicate, so no issue.".. I am on Subaru Ascent page on FB.. There are numerous people complaining of same nasty hesitation issue with no resolution from their dealer service. I bought this car with a 10 yr 100k warranty..fortunately I have not been financially responsible for the numerous service calls, but I am seriously concerned with being a statistic..my car is listed as one of the top 10 safest in a crash, but I don't like feeling like a ' test dummy'
The contact owns a 2022 Subaru Ascent. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V907000 (Electrical System). The local dealer was contacted; however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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 at all. The blow out happened on the sidewall where the bead is where the wheel is mounted just blew. The manager did not offer a vehicle and advised me they had none even with 4 kids I am willing to take any vehicle. I have not received the service and Subaru has not serviced my car as they should and they now claim they have no service records which I provided info and nothing. They want $160 for labor $140 for alignment and $1200 for tires. Its not my fault the service was not done and overlooked I have taken it to that dealership since I purchased it. Called Subaru of America they are dragging there feet the dealership has had my car on the donut since 7/17/24 still waiting on SOA I was told 2 business days and still nothing no vehicle had to get a rental. I do not want the car it is not safe. I almost died
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
245/50 A20. Side wall ruptured at 55 mph . A pop and tire was flat. No sensor warning. Correct tire pressure. Immediately checked electronic psi reading. All tires ok but red 0 for tire that blew out. I have pictures. Not confirmed by any one yet. That may happen Thursday when I replace all 4 tires. Had 7780 miles on tires. Even tread wear.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .