CarRecallWatchThe 2021 Subaru Ascent has 2 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 104 complaints with NHTSA, including 3 crashes, 1 fire, 3 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Power Train (20 reports).
2021 Subaru Ascent recalls
Incorrect Weight Label Can Lead to Overloading and Crash Risk
Certain Subaru Ascent and Forester vehicles were built with an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) on the certification label, so the vehicles do not meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 110 for tire selection and rims.
Wiring Under Dash Can Melt and Cause Fire
A ground bolt for the heater's PTC unit under the dashboard may have been improperly tightened.
Most common 2021 Subaru Ascent problems
Problem areas named in the 104 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Power Train | 20 |
| Electrical System | 18 |
| Lane Departure | 17 |
| Unknown Or Other | 16 |
| Visibility/Wiper | 15 |
| Engine | 12 |
| Service Brakes | 9 |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 8 |
| Steering | 7 |
| Structure | 7 |
What owners report
Trying to turn onto the street from a parking lot the vehicle wasn't accelerating as expected and I wasn't able to turn as expected. I am taking the car in soon to be diagnosed with an issue.
I purchased a new 2021 Subaru Ascent in XXX. In XXX, at about 36,000 miles, I discovered water leaking into the cabin through the panoramic moonroof during rain and brought it to Lynnes Subaru ([XXX]) immediately. Through repeat visits and recurrences, Lynnes failed to diagnose it, blaming clogged drains. In fall 2025 they identified it, with help from a Subaru corporate regional engineer, and performed a moonroof replacement. Because I acted quickly EACH TIME water entered, there was no odor or upholstery damage at that time. Water intrusion continued in areas not visible inside the cabin (seatbelt recess). [XXX] and SOA knew right away water was still entering the vehicle. SOA told me to
After my husband replaced the 12V battery in my 2021 Subaru Ascent Touring ($90,000, fully paid off), Apple CarPlay stopped connecting via USB entirely. Android Auto and Bluetooth continued working fine on the same phone, cable, and port, proving the defect was isolated to Subaru's CarPlay system, not my device. I spent significant time and money troubleshooting this myself: multiple cables (including two labeled "Apple certified"), a full infotainment factory reset, and a software update attempt, none of which fixed it. The issue only resolved after I purchased yet another cable at my own expense, with zero meaningful help from Subaru. When I filed a formal complaint, I received a respons
My local Subaru dealership / service provider has told me my car needs a new transmission at 66k miles, due to an issue within the CVT solenoid causing slipping and lag that will eventually lead to catastrophic failure of the transmission - per the Subaru of America service tree. This issue began on July 23, 2026, when a slew of warning lights illuminated on the dash and my car went into limp mode, not accelerating properly. It eventually began driving normally and all dash warning lights dissipated. Dealership couldn't see the car at that time, then I was out of town for about a week. Came back, experienced the same issues within 2 days of driving the car. I was able to get it into the deal
My 2021 Subaru Ascent (40,000 miles) suffered multiple major mechanical failures that pose ongoing safety concerns: 1. Engine Oil Leak: The vehicle developed an active engine oil leak at 20,000 miles, posing a risk of fluid contacting hot exhaust/engine components under the hood or causing low oil levels during operation. Repair time more than 35 days due to parts not available. 2. Loose Factory Engine Mounts: At 25,000 miles, excessive engine shifting, vibration when braking, the dealer discovered loose engine mounts. 3. Transmission Valve Body Failure: At 40,000 miles The transmission Valve Body Failure and need replacement.
2021 Subaru Ascent questions
Does the 2021 Subaru Ascent have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls for the 2021 Subaru Ascent: Incorrect Weight Label Can Lead to Overloading and Crash Risk; Wiring Under Dash Can Melt and Cause Fire. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Subaru Ascent?
Based on 104 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Power Train (20), Electrical System (18), Lane Departure (17).
How do I check if a recall on my 2021 Subaru Ascent has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.