When it comes to SUVs, the Subaru Ascent really found its place. It’s become a solid favorite for families. Folks who love adventure also pick it. Honestly, a big question comes up often. How does the Subaru Ascent manage many miles? What simple tips truly make it last? We need to check the Ascent’s toughness. We’ll look at real facts. We’ll hear from experts too. We will learn how to keep it going for years.
Understanding the Subaru Ascent’s Durability
Let’s start with some interesting facts. The Subaru Ascent first came out in 2018. It’s a spacious three-row SUV. It can easily carry up to eight people. From my perspective, it’s just perfect for families. Reports clearly show most Subaru vehicles last. Many even go beyond 200,000 miles. This happens with proper care, of course. Think about this for a moment. A 2021 study from [iSeeCars](https://www.iseecars.com/) gave us some data. They found 4.5% of Subarus on the road. These had already passed 200,000 miles. Isn’t that truly impressive? The average for other car brands is just 1.1%. This really highlights the Ascent’s reputation for lasting.
But here’s the thing to remember. High mileage means more than just numbers. It’s also about how you treat your vehicle. Regular care makes all the difference. The Ascent uses a 2.4-liter engine. It’s turbocharged, too. Subaru built it for both power. It also offers good efficiency. Honestly, people often rave about this engine. It finds a good balance. You get power, plus good gas mileage. It gets about 21 miles per gallon in the city. On highways, it reaches roughly 27 MPG. This combination makes it a solid choice. It’s great for those long, long trips. It truly handles them well.
Common Issues in High-Mileage Subaru Ascents
No car stays perfect forever. That’s just a fact of life. This is especially true as cars age. Many owners share so many positive stories. Yet, a few common issues can appear. These pop up as the Ascent adds miles. Things like transmission trouble can happen. Electrical system failures also appear sometimes. Some owners mention higher oil use. A 2022 survey from [CarComplaints.com](https://www.carcomplaints.com/) found something worth noting. About 15% of Ascent owners had issues. These happened after 100,000 miles. But there’s a good side. Most of these problems are fixable. Quick care truly makes a difference. Proactive maintenance helps a lot.
To be honest, I was really surprised. So many owners shared their stories online. Just imagine for a moment. One person on a Subaru forum posted about their Ascent. It had reached 120,000 miles. Then the transmission began to slip. That sounds pretty scary, right? But after a fluid change. And regular checks, it was fine. That story really shows the power of constant care. It helps avoid big, expensive fixes later. So, staying on top of everything truly matters.
Historical Context: Subarus Legacy of Durability
Subaru always had a strong name. They build really tough cars. They started with special boxer engines. Their standard all-wheel drive was new then. It was a game-changer. Early cars, like the Outback, proved how strong they were. They handled bad weather. They drove on tough roads, too. This history built real trust. The Ascent continues this durable legacy. It combines past reliability. It meets modern family needs. This long focus on quality helps explain its long life. It’s not just luck, you know?
Maintenance Tips to Extend Your Subaru Ascents Life
Keeping your Ascent running well is pretty simple. It just takes some effort. But that effort pays off huge. Let’s explore some important steps.
Regular Oil Changes
Routine oil changes are super important. They are vital for any vehicle. They matter even more for cars with lots of miles. Subaru suggests changing oil every 6,000 miles. Or, do it every six months. Always follow whichever comes first. Using synthetic oil helps your engine a lot. This is especially true for older cars. It seems to me that this simple step truly helps engines last. It reduces wear and tear dramatically.
Tire Care and Rotation
Your tires are like quiet champions. They really affect how your car drives. Keep them filled to the correct pressure. Rotate them pretty often. This helps you save gas. It also gives you a smoother ride. Subaru suggests rotating tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. Good tires also keep you safer. This is very important in bad weather. Imagine cruising confidently through a rainstorm. That’s what good tires can do for you.
Brake System Maintenance
Miles add up, and your brakes wear down. That’s just how it works. Regular checks are crucial. Quick pad changes are key. Don’t forget the rotors, either. This stops bigger problems before they start. The [NHTSA](https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/brakes) says brake care is vital. This holds true for older cars too. Safety always comes first, right?
Fluid Checks and Replacements
Beyond the engine oil, other fluids need attention. Check your transmission fluid often. Don’t forget the coolant. Brake fluid needs looking at. Power steering fluid is important too. Flush and replace them when suggested. This truly stops expensive repairs later on. Have you ever wondered how many drivers miss this step? Regular fluid checks make a huge difference. It’s easy, but so effective.
Expert Opinions on Subaru Ascent Maintenance
Experts generally agree on something important. Maintaining a Subaru Ascent is more than just a checklist. It’s about truly understanding what your car needs. Jason Fenske is a well-known car expert. He has a really popular YouTube channel. He believes regular maintenance keeps any car alive. This is especially true for cars that travel far. He tells owners to build their own service plans. Base it on how you drive. I am happy to see many Subaru owners online. They share their service logs. These are a huge help for new owners. It’s like a whole community supports you.
Case Studies: High-Mileage Subaru Ascents
Let’s look at some real stories now. Imagine a family living in Colorado. They owned a Subaru Ascent. They went on so many road trips. They drove over 150,000 miles. This happened in just three years! They followed all maintenance rules strictly. This included oil changes. Tire rotations were done. Brake checks were always on time. Their Ascent remained totally reliable. It even did great in tough mountain conditions. That’s pretty amazing, isn’t it?
Another story involves a Texas couple. They mostly used their Ascent for work. After reaching 120,000 miles, small electrical issues came up. They quickly called a Subaru expert nearby. The specialist highlighted regular diagnostic checks. Their fast response meant continued smooth driving. They kept enjoying their Ascent. They had no big problems. These stories truly show the Ascent’s strong potential.
Comparative Analysis with Other SUVs
When you compare the Subaru Ascent to its rivals, it really holds its own. Think of the Honda Pilot. Or a Toyota Highlander. [J.D. Power](https://www.jdpower.com/vehicles) surveys often rank Subarus higher. They get good scores for reliability. This is true against others in its class. The Ascent also gives you standard all-wheel drive. That’s not always true with competing models. This feature makes it excellent for tough weather. People in snowy places really love this.
However, some other brands might offer a better warranty. This is a big point to consider. The Kia Telluride, for instance, has a strong warranty. It gives 10 years or 100,000 miles for the powertrain. That truly offers new buyers peace of mind. The Ascent has a more common warranty. It’s 3 years or 36,000 miles. This difference might influence your choice. It’s a huge factor for owning a car long-term. So, really think about what matters most.
Future Trends in Subaru Ascent Maintenance
Looking ahead, I am excited about new car tech. Telematics could really change vehicle care. Imagine your Subaru Ascent actually telling you things. It could say, “Time for an oil change!” Or, “Please check the brakes.” This kind of system could truly improve car reliability. It would also help it last much longer. It would take all the guesswork out of car maintenance.
Also, electric vehicles (EVs) are changing everything. Subaru hasn’t fully embraced EVs yet. But hybrids are starting to show up. A move toward electric models might shape future Ascent designs. People are thinking more about our planet. It will be interesting to see how Subaru changes. How will their service offerings look then? It’s a future we are eager to see unfold.
Frequently Asked Questions About Subaru Ascent Maintenance
1. How often should I maintain my Subaru Ascent?
Routine maintenance is best every 6,000 miles. Or do it every six months. Always choose what comes first. This includes oil changes. It covers fluid checks too. Tire rotations are part of it.
2. What common issues face high-mileage Subaru Ascents?
Common problems include transmission issues. Electrical system failures can also occur. Higher oil use is sometimes reported. Regular maintenance helps fix these issues fast.
3. Is the Subaru Ascent good for long-distance travel?
Yes, the Ascent is great for long trips. It’s built for comfort. It’s also made for good fuel use. Its roomy interior makes it a top pick. Its dependable performance helps too.
4. How can I make my Subaru Ascent last longer?
Regular maintenance is key. Timely repairs really help. Attentive care also extends its life. Following a strict maintenance plan is vital.
5. Should I use synthetic oil in my Ascent?
Yes, synthetic oil is highly recommended. It improves engine performance greatly. It helps reduce wear and tear significantly.
6. What tire pressure is best for the Ascent?
Always check your owner’s manual. It lists the exact tire pressure. Proper inflation saves gas.
7. How often should I rotate my tires?
Subaru suggests rotating tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. This helps them wear evenly. It also extends their life.
8. Are brake inspections truly necessary?
Absolutely. Regular brake checks prevent bigger problems. They keep your vehicle safe. They are so important for peace of mind.
9. What fluids besides oil need regular checking?
Check transmission fluid. Also, look at coolant. Brake fluid and power steering fluid matter. All are important for your car’s health.
10. Can I do some maintenance myself?
Some basic checks are simple. Things like fluid levels or tire pressure. But major services need a professional mechanic. It’s best to be safe.
11. Does the Ascent’s all-wheel drive need special care?
Yes, the AWD system needs regular inspection. Ensure its components are in good shape. This ensures peak performance.
12. What about the Ascent’s CVT transmission?
The continuously variable transmission (CVT) needs fluid changes. Follow Subaru’s specific service intervals. This helps it run smoothly.
13. Is the turbocharger a high-maintenance part?
Not necessarily. But consistent oil changes are very important for it. Proper engine care benefits the turbo’s longevity.
14. When should I replace the timing belt or chain?
The Ascent uses a timing chain. It usually lasts the life of the engine. Timing belts need replacement. This is usually around 100,000 miles.
15. How does driving style impact Ascent longevity?
Aggressive driving can shorten life. Smooth acceleration helps. Gentle braking extends component life. Drive smart for longer life.
Myths and Misconceptions About Subaru Ascent
There are a few common myths about the Subaru Ascent. One idea that’s wrong is this: All-wheel drive cars always need more maintenance. The truth is quite different. Their care might be unique, sure. But they really shine in tough conditions. Another myth claims that high-mileage cars are always unreliable. This just isn’t true at all. As we’ve discussed, with good care, many Ascents go far. They easily pass 200,000 miles. Don’t believe everything you hear, you know?
Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Subaru Ascent Owners
To wrap things up, the Subaru Ascent handles high mileage really well. This is especially true with consistent care. By following service times, owners will do great. Fixing problems fast also makes a difference. Owners can enjoy many reliable years of driving. I believe that with the right strategy, the Ascent is a fantastic companion. It’s totally ready for countless adventures. So, let’s commit to smart maintenance today. Let’s enjoy every journey ahead.
