2020 Subaru Ascent

The 2020 Subaru Ascent is a popular three-row SUV known for its spacious interior, standard all-wheel drive, and safety features. All 2020 Ascents come with the same engine and transmission: a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Owners often praise its comfortable ride and family-friendly design but commonly report issues with the infotainment system and the CVT.

Engine

2.4L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and the need to add oil every few thousand miles.
  • Solution: Some dealerships have performed oil consumption tests and, if deemed excessive, replaced piston rings or the entire engine under warranty. An updated PCV valve may also help.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the repair, ranging from a few hundred dollars for a PCV valve to several thousand for engine replacement if not covered by warranty.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Fuel Injectors
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, and potential engine damage can occur due to faulty fuel injectors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Lineartronic CVT

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh shifting, jerking, or hesitation during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds or when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update or CVT recalibration can mitigate the issue. In more severe cases, CVT replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300 for software updates; $5,000-$8,000+ for CVT replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, vibration, or unusual noises can be the result of a failing torque converter within the CVT.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement. In some cases, the entire CVT may need replacing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system is prone to freezing, crashing, or becoming unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Software updates are often released to address these issues. In some cases, replacing the head unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software updates); $500 - $1500+ for head unit replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially after the vehicle has been sitting for a short period.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the battery, or investigation of parasitic draws.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Cracked Windshield
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported windshields cracking easily from small impacts.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment Screen Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen delaminates, causing bubbling or peeling of the screen layers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head unit or screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Subaru Ascent, while praised for its practicality and safety, presents several common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine problems like excessive oil consumption and fuel injector failures can lead to costly repairs. The CVT transmission can exhibit harsh shifting and torque converter issues, potentially requiring expensive replacements. Electrical issues, particularly with the infotainment system, can be frustrating. Windshield cracking can be another recurring expense. Some of these issues can be costly, especially if they occur outside the warranty period. A thorough inspection and consideration of these potential problems are advised before purchasing a used 2020 Subaru Ascent.