2020 Subaru Ascent — Known Issues & Recalls

Vehicle: 2020 Subaru Ascent (Build Date: March 2020) Component: Power Train – Automatic Transmission – Hydraulic Pressure Sensor / Wiring Harness The vehicle developed a flashing "Transmission Service" warning and check engine light. It was inspected by a certified technician at Lithia Reno Subaru.

Replaced front multi plate transfer clutch at 96,987 miles.

The CVT transmission has failed and been replaced three times despite proper maintenance. Subaru has replaced the transmission multiple times under warranty, but the failure continues to recur. •First CVT replacement at 50,542 miles •Second CVT replacement at 88,175 miles •Third CVT replacement at 92,832 miles This shows repeat failure, not wear-and-tear.

My 2020 Subaru Ascent experienced a sudden failure of critical safety systems due to CVT fluid leaking through the transmission pressure switch into multiple electrical components. This fluid leak damaged several wire harnesses and the Engine Control Module (ECM). The check engine light came on and all Eyesight safety features disabled.

Although the NHTSA form does not include a transmission category, this complaint concerns a critical transmission-related defect in my 2020 Subaru Ascent, which caused oil migration into the wiring harness and contamination of the Engine Control Module (ECM). This complaint concerns a critical transmission-related defect in my 2020 Subaru Ascent.

Vehicle: 2020 Subaru Ascent Issue: Cold weather software glitch If you are operating an Ascent or possibly other Subarus with the CVT in temperatures below -20F be certain to have either a small wrench or the appropriate size socket to loosen the ground clamp on the battery ground cable with you so you can employ what I call the magic Windows fix wherin one completely de-powers the system and reboots it.

I purchased this vehicle from Northwest Chevrolet in McKenna, Wa on [XXX] and they did not disclose to me that there were open recalls prior to my purchase. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C.

Car is making loud noises while going over uneven roads. Only have 64,000 miles on it and I need to replace the struts.

The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal rumbling sound coming from the undercarriage while driving over bumps in the roadway. No warning light was illuminated.

Extreme rattle/clunking driving over bumps especially on dirt roads. Seems to be many people are having this issue. I know of another co worker who has a 2020 ascent making the same noise.

Unknown PCV valve failure caused catastrophic engine failure on interstate highway (70 MPH speed limit). Luckily there was room to pull to the side and no one got hurt. This part was recalled in 2019 models due to possible loss of control from engine failure.

Car has 82,000 miles, has been maintained and requires an engine replacement due to 'Sludge'. Reading a lot of forums that indicate this is a common situation with this make and model and likely due to manufacturer's defects.

Oil Leak(s) (found cam carriers leaking, front timing cover leaking, oil cooler leaking, upper and lower oil pan leaking. recommend engine reseal). Massive oil leaks found in car due to RTV sealant.

The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator pedal to make a turn, the vehicle hesitated to respond. There was no warning light illuminated.

Water is leaking into your vehicle's interior, causing widespread mold growth on the seats, carpets, and child car seat—creating a health hazard, especially for children. The dealer confirmed the mold contamination and water presence but couldn't identify the leak source without expensive interior disassembly, and refused to enter the vehicle due to unsafe mold levels. Window fogging from excess moisture may also impair your visibility while driving. Identifying and fixing the leak will require extensive diagnostic work and interior removal to locate where water is entering the vehicle.

The driver front seat bottom frame has came loose and rocks back and forth when driving, especially during start and stops. It was serviced and the dealer stated the movement comes from the side rails of the seat and is referenced via bulletin 12-288-20 stating its a known issue and the frame has been redesigned for this issue.

While driving on the freeway, your check engine light came on and all safety features (lane departure warning and back-over prevention) shut down without warning. You were able to reach a Subaru dealer, where they discovered a recall on the engine. However, when you contacted the manufacturer about the recall, they stated it only applied to the previous owner and refused to help you with the repair. The dealer never disclosed this pending recall when you purchased the vehicle.

I have had my lane assist come on by its self a few times, which is very dangerous because it seems to take over and will pull on the steering wheel.

The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the local dealer for routine service, where it was discovered that the cam carrier was leaking from the engine. While having an oil change, the mechanic informed the contact that there were no further leaks found.

The driver's side headlamp assembly (one complete piece, LED lighting) has a thin strip at the top that is used for daytime running lights. These are automatically on when the vehicle is on and it's not yet dark. In early 2024, this driver's side thin strip daytime running lights stopped working entirely.