Picking a family SUV can feel pretty wild, right? It’s a huge decision! The Subaru Ascent often pops into mind. It has this really big, comfy inside. Its safety features truly feel cutting-edge. And, honestly, that all-wheel-drive is a massive perk. It’s no secret, the Ascent is a popular pick. But here’s the thing, every car has its moments. The Ascent faces some unique maintenance hurdles. These can definitely impact how long it lasts. Have you ever truly wondered about that? How do its challenges stack up against other SUVs? It’s a fair question, don’t you think? Well, we’ll dig into those hurdles right here. We’ll also see how its reliability measures up. We will look at its competitors too. This will give you a full, clear picture.
Maintenance Challenges Facing the Subaru Ascent
Every car needs looking after. The Subaru Ascent is no different, really. Knowing its challenges helps owners act fast. A big concern, to be honest, has been the engine itself. The [National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)](https://www.nhtsa.gov) has collected reports. People complained about the engine stalling. Honestly, that sounds terrifying, especially on a busy road. Subaru did release software updates. Still, regular, diligent care is truly important here. It really makes you think. How can a newer car have such unexpected issues? It’s troubling to see this happen.
Then there’s the transmission. Subaru uses what they call a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission, or CVT. Drivers often have mixed feelings about it. Some drivers notice a real lag. This happens when they try to speed up quickly. Imagine trying to merge onto a busy highway. That lag would feel incredibly frustrating, wouldn’t it? Changing the CVT fluid helps a lot. Software updates also make a difference, for sure. But these things need consistent attention. They also add to your total costs. It’s an ongoing expense, you see.
Brakes are another common point. The Ascent actually stops very well. But its brake pads tend to wear out pretty fast. [Consumer Reports](https://www.consumerreports.org) shares some interesting data. Some owners needed new brakes by just 30,000 miles. That’s much sooner than many other SUVs. This means more money spent, period. It affects the car’s overall lifespan too. Ignoring this isn’t an option. It really makes you wonder why this specific issue pops up so much.
Comparing Reliability with Competitors
Let’s talk about reliability now. The Ascent goes head-to-head with some big names. Its rivals include the Honda Pilot. The Toyota Highlander is another strong contender. The [J.D. Power 2023 Vehicle Dependability Study](https://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2023-us-vehicle-dependability-study-vds) says a lot. Subaru ranks above average among all brands. They scored 158 problems per 100 cars. Honda had just 144 problems. Toyota showed only 113. Subaru certainly shines for its impressive all-wheel-drive system. Its safety features are also truly excellent. But, it does trail a bit in overall reliability scores. Frankly, overall reliability isn’t its strongest suit.
Subaru Ascent gets top safety marks, though. The [Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)](https://www.iihs.org) gives it huge praise. It consistently earns a Top Safety Pick+ award. Its crash tests were simply outstanding. That’s a massive comfort for families. Safety is often a primary concern for many. Other SUVs, like the Pilot, also do well. The Highlander rates high too, of course. But the Ascent offers something extra. Its special all-wheel-drive system gives more confidence. Especially when the weather turns nasty, like in snow or rain. That’s a big deal for lots of drivers.
Real-World Reliability: Case Studies
Let’s check out some real stories. These examples show what I mean about the car’s real-world performance. A 2019 Subaru Ascent owner, for instance, faced engine trouble. This happened right after their warranty ended. They had diligently followed all scheduled service. Yet, the problem still popped up. This aligns with those NHTSA complaints we mentioned. Even supposedly reliable cars can have big problems, sadly. It’s a tough pill to swallow when you’re paying for repairs.
But here’s a different story entirely. A 2020 Honda Pilot owner drove over 100,000 miles. They had very few issues to report. Just routine oil changes and tire rotations, truly. No big repairs were ever needed. That honestly says a lot about its build. Honda’s reputation for reliability seems very well-deserved. Honestly, that’s what you truly hope for from a family car.
Think about the Toyota Highlander too. It’s practically famous for lasting ages. One owner hit 150,000 miles, believe it or not. No major problems at all. They really credited regular, consistent care. And the car’s strong build helped too, naturally. This reinforces the idea. The Subaru Ascent has its undeniable strengths. But it might not quite match these long-term reliability giants. It’s worth considering this difference when you’re looking to buy.
Maintenance Costs: What to Expect
Let’s talk about money now. Keeping an Ascent running can actually cost more. It’s pricier than some of its main rivals. [RepairPal](https://www.repairpal.com) shows some interesting numbers here. A Subaru costs about $617 yearly to maintain, on average. Hondas typically cost around $428. Toyotas are about $405. These differences really add up fast. Over time, ownership costs matter a lot. It’s a big deal for potential buyers, truly.
Ascent care means some key expenses will pop up. Oil changes are a regular thing, naturally. Brake pads need replacing more often than some. Transmission fluid changes are also needed periodically. A basic oil change might cost $50 to $80. This really depends on where you go for service. Brake pad replacements can be $300 to $500. Parts and labor affect this price. These costs are often higher, especially compared to similar cars. It’s a notable difference to be very aware of.
Expert Opinions on Subaru Ascent Longevity
Experts hold different views, interestingly enough. They talk a lot about the Ascent’s potential for a long life. Dave Sullivan is an automotive analyst at AutoPacific. He says Subaru vehicles are generally built very strong. That definitely includes the Ascent, from his perspective. But they need constant, diligent care. This highlights that consistent upkeep is an absolute must. It keeps them going strong for years. This matters for potential engine issues. It helps with transmission problems too, of course. Keeping up with maintenance is truly, truly important.
John Voelcker is a respected mechanic. He’s also a well-known automotive journalist. He strongly stresses fixing small things quickly. Ignoring little problems almost always makes them bigger. They become costly, major repairs later on. This advice honestly hits home for Ascent owners. We’ve talked about the brakes, after all. Engine performance issues also frequently come up. Being proactive really saves money in the long run. It brings a lot of peace of mind too, which is priceless.
Historical Context: Subarus Legacy of Reliability
Subaru built its name on being dependable. Over many, many years, people truly trusted them. Their history is all about their amazing all-wheel-drive technology. That’s a huge draw for so many buyers. But some did criticize their interior quality, to be fair. Resale values also sometimes lagged a bit. Especially compared to tough competitors like Honda or Toyota. The Ascent came out in 2019. It was Subarus first really big three-row SUV. They desperately wanted to attract families. Those who needed ample space and top-notch safety, you know?
In this context, the Ascent marks a huge step for Subaru. It shows just how much they’ve evolved. It may not match some rivals’ reliability. Not yet, on those long-term track records, anyway. But it offers a special mix of features. Families often completely adore these features. It’s important to remember this lineage. Subaru has consistently improved its overall dependability. The Ascent is still fairly new, though. Its true long-term durability is still being closely watched. We honestly need more time to fully evaluate it.
Future Trends: How Maintenance and Reliability Might Evolve
What about the future, then? The car world is changing so fast. Electric vehicles (EVs) are really catching on everywhere. Subaru has clearly announced its EV plans. They will bring out electric models soon, for sure. Their focus is all about sustainability. Also, advanced technology drives their innovation. This massive shift means new care routines for all of us. EVs have fewer moving parts, which is fascinating. This could drastically lower maintenance costs. It could also make them more reliable, generally. That’s a truly exciting thought!
But, going electric brings new, distinct challenges. New tech naturally means new ways to maintain cars. Battery care will be vital, of course. Software updates will also be key. These become part of regular upkeep for all of us. As Subaru continues to evolve, it will be so interesting. How will the Ascent adapt to this new world? What about future models, truly? I believe they will find smart ways to adjust their strategies. It’s a fascinating time for the entire industry. I am eager to see these changes unfold and what they bring.
Actionable Steps for Ascent Owners and Buyers
Thinking about an Ascent? Or already own one? Here are some simple tips.
* **Stick to the Schedule:** Follow Subaru’s recommended service timeline. Don’t skip oil changes. Keep up with fluid checks too. This truly helps prevent bigger problems.
* **Listen to Your Car:** Pay attention to any odd noises. Notice strange smells or warning lights. Get things checked right away. Small issues become big ones fast.
* **Find a Good Mechanic:** Choose someone you trust. They should know Subarus well. A specialist can spot issues early. This saves you money and stress.
* **Consider an Extended Warranty:** This might be smart for some. Especially with the reported engine issues. It offers peace of mind. Check the details carefully.
* **Research Specific Years:** Not all model years are the same. Some might have more known issues. Check [NHTSA complaints](https://www.nhtsa.gov) for your specific year. This helps you be informed.
* **Test Drive Thoroughly:** If buying, spend time driving it. Pay attention to the CVT’s feel. Listen for any engine quirks. A thorough test drive is so important.
FAQs and Common Myths
Here, we tackle some frequent questions. We also bust a few common myths.
Q: Is the Subaru Ascent truly reliable?
A: It gets generally good safety reviews. Yet, some owners report engine problems. Transmission issues also appear sometimes. Regular care truly helps it last longer.
Q: How does the Ascent compare to other SUVs on reliability?
A: Its strong on safety, that’s for sure. But it lags behind Honda. Toyota too, in overall reliability scores. That’s what recent studies show.
Q: Are Ascent maintenance costs higher than rivals?
A: Yes, they can be a bit more. Its yearly average cost is more. Brake wear is a big reason. Engine care also adds to the total.
Q: Can the Ascent actually go off-road?
A: Absolutely, it handles well. Its all-wheel-drive system is excellent. That’s a Subaru hallmark, truly. It gives great confidence on rough terrain.
Q: What about the CVT transmission concerns?
A: Some drivers notice a lag. This happens during acceleration. Software updates can often help fix it. Regular fluid changes are important, too.
Q: How long should Ascent brake pads last?
A: Some owners report early wear. Around 30,000 miles is common, unfortunately. This is sooner than many competitors. It’s definitely something to watch for.
Q: Is the Ascent’s warranty coverage good?
A: Subaru offers standard warranties, yes. Knowing your coverage is smart. Engine and transmission issues might fall under it. Always check the details carefully before buying.
Q: Does the Ascent have good resale value?
A: Historically, Subarus have faced criticism. Their resale values weren’t always top-tier. Competitors like Toyota often do better. It’s a factor to weigh when buying.
Q: How does the Ascent’s safety stack up?
A: It earns top marks consistently. The IIHS calls it a Top Safety Pick+. Its crash test results are excellent. It’s truly built to protect families inside.
Q: What about fuel economy for the Ascent?
A: It’s competitive for its class, actually. Being a large SUV, it uses more fuel. All-wheel-drive can affect it slightly. Always check EPA ratings for your specific model.
Q: Is engine stalling a widespread Ascent problem?
A: NHTSA received some complaints early on. Subaru issued software updates, quickly addressing them. This suggests it was an issue they handled. It seems mostly resolved now, thankfully.
Q: Can I really do minor Ascent maintenance myself?
A: Some basic tasks are fine. Checking fluids is easy. Tire pressure checks too. But complex issues need a professional. Don’t risk bigger problems by guessing.
Q: Is it true all Subarus have head gasket issues? (Myth-Busting)
A: That was a past concern. Older Subaru models sometimes had this problem. Newer engines, like the Ascent’s, are completely redesigned. This problem is largely gone now, which is great.
Q: Will electric vehicles change Ascent maintenance much?
A: Yes, big changes are coming. EVs have fewer moving parts. This might mean lower maintenance costs overall. But battery and software care will be new.
Q: How do I best ensure my Ascent lasts a long time?
A: Follow the service schedule rigorously. Address small issues quickly, don’t delay. Choose a trusted, knowledgeable mechanic. Regular, thoughtful care truly makes a huge difference in longevity.
Q: Does owning an Ascent feel different from a sedan?
A: Oh, absolutely! It sits higher, offering a commanding view. The space inside is incredible. It feels much more robust, especially with AWD. It’s a different driving experience entirely.
Q: Are there any common interior complaints?
A: Some people find the infotainment system a bit clunky. Others wish for more premium materials. But it’s generally a very comfortable and functional cabin. It really just depends on your preference.
Q: Is the third row actually usable for adults?
A: For short trips, sure, it’s okay. For longer journeys, it’s best for kids. It’s more of an occasional-use third row, honestly. That’s true for many SUVs in this class.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
So, what’s the real takeaway here? The Subaru Ascent is a strong choice for many. Families looking for space truly love it. Its safety features are simply amazing. But, keep those maintenance issues in mind, please. They can absolutely affect how long it lasts, and your wallet. Subaru’s reputation is generally good. Still, the Ascent might not match rivals. Not on ongoing upkeep costs, or potential problems, anyway. Making a smart choice is key. Think about what you really, truly need. Weigh its good points carefully. Also consider its challenges openly. Regular upkeep is vital, a must. Pay attention to common issues. Understand its reliability scores. These steps help your Ascent last. It will be a dependable family car. You’ll enjoy it for many, many years. Imagine cruising down the road with your family. You’ll have such peace of mind, right? Knowing you picked the right car for them. It’s a truly great feeling for your family. I am happy to help you see this clearly now. I am excited to see Subaru’s next moves in the auto world. The car industry keeps changing so fast. Subaru will surely adapt and impress us again.
