2021 Subaru Ascent

The 2021 Subaru Ascent is a popular three-row SUV known for its standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and focus on safety. It comes equipped with a single engine option: a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (FA24F) producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired exclusively with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners often praise the Ascent’s comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and suite of standard safety features. Some common complaints include perceived sluggish acceleration under certain conditions, issues with the infotainment system, and concerns about the long-term reliability of the CVT.

Engine

2.4L Turbocharged FA24F

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing excessive oil consumption requiring them to add oil between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, engine knocking, or visible blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: In some cases, Subaru has performed oil consumption tests and, if the vehicle meets certain criteria, has replaced the short block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+ for short block replacement (if not covered by warranty).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Oxygen Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: The oxygen sensor can fail prematurely. This may cause poor fuel economy and the check engine light to illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (High Torque Lineartronic)

• CVT Hesitation/Juddering
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have described experiencing hesitation, juddering, or shaking during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This can be most apparent when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Dealerships have addressed this issue through software updates to the transmission control module (TCM). In some cases, a CVT replacement may be necessary if the problem persists.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 for software update; $6,000 - $8,000+ for CVT replacement (if not covered by warranty).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Harsh Shifting/Clunking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh shifting or a clunking noise coming from the transmission, particularly when shifting between drive, reverse, and park.
  • Solution: This issue may be addressed by software updates or, in more severe cases, require replacement of the CVT.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 for software update; $6,000 - $8,000+ for CVT replacement (if not covered by warranty).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Front Lower Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature wear of the front lower control arm bushings, leading to clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. This can also affect steering feel and alignment.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings. In some cases, the entire control arm may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: A common complaint involves the infotainment system freezing, lagging, or randomly rebooting. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Dealerships have addressed this issue through software updates to the infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $150 for software update.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with the battery draining prematurely, especially when the vehicle is not driven frequently. This can lead to difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacing the battery with an upgraded unit, ensuring all accessories are turned off when the vehicle is not in use, and/or having the dealership perform a parasitic draw test to identify the source of the drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400 for battery replacement, $100+ for parasitic draw test.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the windshield is prone to cracking easily, even from small impacts.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rattling or squeaking noises from various interior components, such as the dashboard, seats, or trim panels.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the noise. This may involve tightening loose components, applying lubrication, or replacing worn parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2021 Subaru Ascent, while generally reliable, has exhibited some common issues. The most concerning problems relate to the engine’s oil consumption and the CVT’s performance, which can lead to costly repairs if not addressed under warranty. Electrical issues with the infotainment system and premature wear of suspension components are also prevalent. While some issues can be resolved with software updates or minor repairs, others may require significant investment. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history and condition before purchasing.