2019 Subaru Ascent
2019 Subaru Ascent
Overview
The 2019 Subaru Ascent, a three-row SUV, offers a blend of practicality and Subaru’s signature all-wheel-drive capability. It was introduced as a new model for this year, aiming to compete in a crowded segment. While generally well-received for its spacious interior and comfortable ride, like any first-year model, it has experienced some teething issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond standard maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for owners and prospective buyers. We will examine the performance and durability of its powertrain options, electrical systems, and other key components.
Engine
2.4L Turbocharged Boxer (FB24)
Coolant Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible coolant puddles under the vehicle, low coolant level warning light, engine overheating.
- Solution: Inspection and replacement of leaking hoses, seals, or gaskets. In some cases, a faulty water pump may need replacement.
- Cost: $200 - $600
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil stains under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty seals, gaskets, or oil pan.
- Cost: $150 - $500
Turbocharger Issues
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, check engine light.
- Solution: Inspection and potential replacement of the turbocharger assembly or related plumbing.
- Cost: $800 - $2000
Transmission
CVT (TR690)
Hesitation or Jerking
- Symptoms: Noticeable delay when accelerating from a stop, rough shifting feel, occasional jerking during acceleration or deceleration.
- Solution: Software updates for the transmission control module. In more severe cases, internal transmission repairs or replacement may be necessary.
- Cost: $300 - $1000 (software update/minor repair), $3000 - $6000 (replacement)
Overheating
- Symptoms: Transmission warning light illuminated, reduced engine power, burning smell.
- Solution: Inspection of transmission fluid cooler and lines, potential fluid flush and replacement, or repair/replacement of cooling system components.
- Cost: $250 - $700
Suspension
Standard Suspension
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
Infotainment System
Screen Freezing/Unresponsiveness
- Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, system freezes, audio cuts out.
- Solution: Software updates, hard reset of the infotainment system. In rare cases, head unit replacement.
- Cost: $100 - $300 (software/reset), $800 - $1500 (replacement)
Battery Drain
No major issues reported for this configuration.
Exterior
Body Panels & Seals
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cabin Materials & Features
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2019 Subaru Ascent, being a debut model year, exhibits some common first-generation issues, primarily concentrated in the powertrain. Owners have reported instances of coolant and oil leaks from the 2.4L turbocharged engine, as well as potential turbocharger problems. The CVT transmission can sometimes exhibit hesitation or overheating. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the infotainment system’s responsiveness and occasional battery drain, are also noted. While suspension, exterior, and interior components appear relatively robust with no widespread critical failures, potential buyers should be aware of these powertrain and electrical concerns. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any warning lights are crucial for mitigating these issues.