2021 Subaru Ascent: common problems and reliability
An average Ascent year.
102 owner complaints, most about power train. 2 recalls.
Should I buy a 2021 Ascent?The 2021 Subaru Ascent has 102 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and electrical system.
Safety record for the 2021 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2021 Subaru Ascent vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other Ascent years only. How we score it
Is 2021 a good year for the Ascent?
Across the 8 Ascent model years we track, complaint volume runs from 45 (2023) to 441 (2019). With 102 complaints, the 2021 Ascent sits above the model's median of 55.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2021 Ascent
electrical system:wiring:interior/under dash
Campaign 22V907000Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles. The ground bolt that secures the ground terminal of the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater may have been improperly fastened, which could result in melting of the ground terminal and surrounding components.
equipment:other:labels
Campaign 26V436000Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid, 2025-2026 Forester Hybrid, Forester, and 2019-2026 Ascent vehicles. These vehicles were manufactured with an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) on the certification label. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 110, "Tire selection and rims."
What owners say across generations
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The vehicle is widely praised for its safety, all-weather capability with standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, spacious and usable third row, strong towing capacity for the class, and car-like handling.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Ascent. See the full Ascent owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used Ascent listings typically run $18,899–$28,937.
Other Ascent model years
Compare every Ascent year side by side to see how 2021 ranks against the rest.
Compare the Ascent against its rivals
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