2022 Subaru Ascent Brakes Problems
9 owner-reported brakes complaints from NHTSA data
Data sourced from NHTSA public database. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified mechanic.
Owner Complaints (9)
While driving at 30-35 MPH and applying the brakes, you heard an abnormal rumbling sound and the vehicle repeatedly stopped and resumed driving on its own. Your brakes didn't respond as expected, which made your stopping distance longer than normal. Your dealer repaired the brakes, but you weren't told what the exact problem was—and this was the second brake repair at that dealership in a relatively short time. The repair may involve inspecting brake fluid pressure, brake line condition, or brake caliper function to prevent this issue from happening again.
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Your front brakes pulsate and vibrate when braking, especially on long downhill stretches, making the car feel unsafe. A dealer diagnosed this as warped rotors and replaced them, but you've found online reports of widespread front brake issues on your model with inconsistent fixes—some owners had pads replaced, others had rotors resurfaced, and apparently there are multiple brake versions available. The fix typically involves replacing brake rotors, pads, or both, but you're concerned about getting the latest brake version to prevent recurrence.
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Brake making squeaky noise when it's being applied. This happened less than 30,000 miles during April 2023. I went to dealership during a routine oil change and the service tech found nothing wrong. I took it to road trip and it was to the point where the vehicle shakes and everyone else around me could hear it when we apply the brake. I took it to another dealership and the service manager said he has seen several vehicle came in and the caliper sticks to the brake pad, so they had to change the inner brake system as well as the rotor. Well, after changing it in July, it is now November and I am hearing the squeak again so I know it will get worst very soon. It seems like the dealership that changed it knew it was happening to other 2022 Ascent vehicles, too. I scheduled an appointment with my local dealership for 12/6/2023 and I will see what they say.
The brakes have felt under-designed since purchase and began to chatter when applied shortly after purchase. This progressed to the point where the shaking was felt at every braking and we had several passengers ask "what is wrong with your brakes". The braking became progressively worse to the point we were concerned for our safety and those sharing the road with us. Called dealership and spoke with our service advisor. They said they had no other reports but would take a look. Technician confirmed the rotors were warped and both front rotors were "resurfaced" and "front brake pads adjusted". We have had no problems since the repair. The repair was done at 17608 miles. No warning lights or messages came on.
Brake rotors are warped around 8000 miles. I purchased a 2020 of same make and model and same problem, brake rotors warped under 10k miles. Subaru dealer employee told me the brakes were under engineered. After going 2 times to dealer, Subaru replaced rotors under warranty. I thought they figured it out since first Subaru Ascent hit market in 2019. I am going to attempt replacement with this 2022 through warranty.
Brakes are vibrating when on high speed. Same issue with 2020 Ascent. 2022 Ascent rotor needs to be resurfaced at 18k miles. This brake vibration happend even before 18k.
This is a brand new vehicle. Within ~3,000 miles the brakes started to shake the car. I took it into the dealer at ~6,000 miles for it's regular maintenance and they had to 'turn the rotors' to smooth them out. The technician said that "All the Ascents are having similar brake issues", and he believes that the brakes installed on the Ascents are too small for the size/weight of the car. He said the proper fix would be for a larger diameter rotor to be installed on the car. I asked him to do that, and I was told it was not an option, but that Subaru knew about the issue and would be issuing a recall soon. I would like to know what options I have to have safe brakes installed on my new car. Thanks
The contact owns a 2022 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed and depressing the brake pedal, the brakes were making abnormal squealing sounds. The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the contact was referred to the dealer for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 2,076.
The brakes on this vehicle continue to makes squealing sounds when slowing to a gradual stop, and now recently makes a grinding sound when driving from a complete stop to a gradual start. These sounds began when the vehicle was new at 500 miles and continues at 1500 miles. The vehicle has been taken to a Subaru dealership three times and nothing has been found that needs correction. I have contacted Subaru Corporate and they continue to direct me to the dealership. Meanwhile I do not feel the brakes are working correctly and fear there is a safety issue.