161 of the
558 complaints about the 2019 Subaru Ascent are about the
electrical system — 29% of everything
reported for this model year.
Half of the failures with a mileage on record happened before
10,550 miles.
Immediately after pushing the lift gate release button on the dash, a loud and constant alarm tone began. The gate would then not open using the button on the dash, remote, or handle on the exterior of the lift gate door. To access the items in the rear (and to stop the alarm), we needed to get the door open. We followed the owner's manual exactly to access the internal emergency release. We removed the plastic cover for the gear unit, then used a screwdriver to manually move the release to the right. Despite every amount of pressure we tried, including adding pressure by pushing down on the gate from the outside with one person while another tried the release procedure, the gate would not open. We ended up looking on YouTube, and found a video that this is not uncommon - and that the solution is to disconnect the battery or to remove fuse #14 on the fuse panel. With tremendous effort and using a pair of pliers, we finally removed the fuse. The alarm stopped but the gate (and other parts of the electrical system) were now off. We replaced the fuse and the door returned to normal function and opened using the handle on the lift gate. This is a tremendous safety issue. First, there is no easy way to open the gate manually from the interior in the case of an emergency (removing the safety cover and the use of a screwdriver or similar tool is required). Second, this emergency process failed completely, as the gate couldn't be opened at all using the manual release.
NHTSA complaint #11758028 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Staten Island, NY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
All the safety systems become disabled and check Engine light goes on because transmission fluid is being pumped Out of a faulty secondary pressure sensor part 31878aa020,( defective and replaced with 31878aa021), into the engines wiring at the car computer, transmission computer, and bulkhead connector in fuse box causing all sorts of engine codes. The setting of the engine code closes all the vehicles driver safety systems and changes the dynamic of the drivers driving experience. As the problem gets worse, it can render the car powerless on roads and highways making operation dangerous. I have my car parked in front of the house with the battery and electrical connectors unplugged. This problem is covered by one or more recalls and safety campaigns, but subaru refuses to fix mine and other peoples that I found on Facebook. Someone online listed a $6500.00 repair estimate. They just had it repossessed instead. This part causes the pressure differences that cause the jerky ride and is specifically alluded to in the recall, plus subaru even changed the part because it was defective.
NHTSA complaint #11755268 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dallas, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
NHTSA Vehicle Safety Complaint Vehicle: 2019 Subaru Ascent VIN: [XXX] Mileage: 72,093 miles I am submitting this complaint because my 2019 Subaru Ascent experienced a serious transmission-related electrical failure that may represent a broader safety defect. Sewell Subaru of Dallas diagnosed an internal failure of a transmission pressure sensor. According to the dealership’s written report, the failed pressure sensor allowed transmission fluid to leak into the electrical wiring harness. The transmission fluid then migrated through the wiring and into the bulkhead harness. The dealership advised that the fluid contamination had affected multiple parts of the vehicle’s electrical system and recommended replacement of the transmission wiring harness, engine wiring harness, bulkhead harness, Engine Control Module (ECM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), and related components. Because the wiring harnesses are routed throughout the engine compartment and vehicle, the repair also requires extensive disassembly of the vehicle, including disconnecting and removing numerous engine compartment components to access and replace the contaminated harnesses. The estimated repair cost was approximately $12,000. I also have video documentation of the dealership technician performing the inspection and explaining the transmission fluid contamination and migration through the wiring system. I am willing to provide the video, the dealership's written diagnosis, repair estimate, photographs, and any additional supporting documentation upon request. My vehicle falls within the published VIN range associated with Subaru recall WUV-07, which involved the CVT hydraulic pressure sensor harness and transmission hydraulic pressure system. That recall was later superseded by WRK-21. I understand that the published recall addresses electrical resistance and transmission hydraulic pressure readings rather than transmission fluid leakage. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11754232 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Antioch, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The battery is draining so quick that the car doesnt start at all. The battery drained completely in 3 days and it’s happening more often.
NHTSA complaint #11681026 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Versailles, KYFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I have a 2019 Subaru Ascent Limited model with 96,xxx miles as of January 2025. In 2023, there was a safety recall for the PTC heater ground bolt sent first class mail for multiple year Ascent models. This recall was completed by local subaru dealership on 3/27/2023 stating "WRL 22 completed. Removed ground bolts and cleaned threads. Found no signs of heat damage. Removed and replaced bolts." Move forward to Saturday, [XXX]. I remote started vehicle from inside the house while on vacation in Bristol Tennesee. Car was running for roughly 5 minutes, when fire alarms inside the house starting going off. Seemed odd considering nothing was going on inside. Walked inside to see large amounts of white smoke coming from the windows of the Ascent. I was able to jump into the car and turn the engine off. I opened all 4 doors to let the car air out. I checked the engine, nothing seemed off. I then turned my attention to the air cabin filter, everything seemed normal as well. After the engine cooled and aired out, there is smoke damage to the vehicle. I was able to transport the car safely to Wallace Subaru which was less than 0.25 mile from our airbnb. I was quickly notified by the service technician that the car is not safe to drive until it was fixed. After further investigation, it was found that the PTC ground bolt has failed again, and this time melting the wiring harness and bolt around it. This was right next to the carpet and put my life as well as my wife, who is [XXX] and my [XXX] daughter. Thankfully we weren't in the vehicle when this occurred. There was no warning. No check engine light, nothing. No other issues leading into the incident. Car is still parked in Bristol TN at the dealership and I am 5 hours away in Lexington KY. Subaru has been uncooperative with this situation and is avoiding talking to me or making this situation better. I literally have no answers. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11638826 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Weston, WV
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
STARTED THE VEHICLE TO DRIVE 30 MILES FOR AN APPOINTMENT. WHILE DRIVING, ALL OF THE INTRUMENT CLUSTER LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE EYE SIGHT TURNED OFF, CRUISE CONTROL NO LONGER WORKED, PARKING BRAKE LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED, ABS LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. TPMS LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THIS HAS OCCURED 2 TIMES BEFORE. THE FIX FOR THE PREVIOUS ISSUES WAS TO CLEAN THE BATTERY TERMINALS.
NHTSA complaint #11636557 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Issaquah, WA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
We have had to replace battery twice and had to have auto club give us a jump start multiple times. We drive this vehicle once or twice a month, but something is causing battery to run down way to fast. Manufacturer claims we need to drive more often. I have always had one car, that burned to much fuel, and was used as an occasional vehicle, but never had this type of problem. Something needs to be provided so that battery does not leak power when it is a low use car. I don’t want the internal lights to turn on when I walk by, or for it to access the internet. I believe that this leaves us vulnerable to non-availability at a critical time. We are planning a multi-week trip and have no idea if car will start when we return. Nor is their a way to disconnect unneeded activity that is draining battery.
NHTSA complaint #11630014 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Elk Garden, WVFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Over the course of 5 years, a lot has been mechanically wrong with our vehicle. Each service appointment yielded a 'cannot duplicate' response. Recently, my car has been in the service department a few times. My car had recall work performed on a ground bolt, and my husband advised them that the car had a 'rich fuel' smell when starting with the hood open. I've complained since 2021 of a smell when pulling up the mountain. The smell is what I described as a perm solution smell. Each time, the response was 'cannot duplicate.' In February, I took the car in to have the exhaust inspected because it was getting louder each passing day. I was advised that the entire exhaust needed to be replaced, and I would be responsible for costs. I brought my car home, unrepaired, and called Subaru of America to file a claim through them. I had repeatedly expressed concerns, and nothing was done, yet I'm expected to foot the bill now. Since February 12th, I have been back and forth with Subaru and just made the appointment to get the exhaust work completed, with a small contribution from Subaru. However, this past Saturday, [XXX] my vehicle caught on fire while driving. I am fine, but my vehicle has now been deemed a total loss. As I was descending the mountain, I smelled the same 'perm solution' smell, and shortly after, there was smoke coming from under the hood. The smoke entered the cabin as I pulled off the road. Upon exiting the vehicle, flames and smoke were visible from the hood. I grabbed my purse and ran, called 911, and watched my vehicle engulfed in flames. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11583533 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sugar Land, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Car battery died in store parking lot. Low mileage (24,000). I do lots of short trips and this is a reported problem for 2019 Subaru Ascents. I had to wait 2 hours for someone to bring a charger to drive to auto parts store fire replacement battery.
NHTSA complaint #11561880 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
San Marcos, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery keeps dying.
NHTSA complaint #11560454 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hartland, WI
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Rear lift gate drains battery to the point where the vehicle won't start. The tailgate will beep three times, but will not open. Within 24 hours, the battery is insufficient to start it. You have to do a manual override to open the lift gate. The battery, starter and alternator were all tested and had no issues. I have to keep a jump pack in the car as the issue has become more frequent. The local Subaru dealership in Mequon, WI said they would replace the battery, but won't replace the module identified in a technical service bulletin for no charge: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2019/MC-10163522-0001.pdf This seems to be a very common problem with the MY19 Ascents.
NHTSA complaint #11537790 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Flagstaff AZ, AZ
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The radio started turning on and off repeatedly and does not work. The back door will not open using any of the buttons.
NHTSA complaint #11536691 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Raeford, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Arrived at my car after traveling for the weekend, and arrived to my car to find out the battery was dead. Nothing on, lights were in Auto like normal. The last thing I did after getting out of my SUV was grabbed my suitcase from the trunk. I think it must not of latched correctly and it drained the battery. There is supposed to be a light delay to preserve the battery but it did not work in this case. I still can't open the trunk. This happened once before while camping with our dogs we left the tailgate up to unpack and pack the SUV. We loaded the dogs up to leave the campsite. When we went to start the SUV the battery was dead. Seems leaving the tailgate open drains the battery. The problem is even after we got our car jumped and the car was operating okay, we could not open the tailgate. It just makes a beeping sound like it wants to release but will not open. The manual handle should allow anyone to open the gate even if there is a electrical disturbance. This is a safety issue related to not being able to get our dogs out of the cargo compartment. Our dogs are over 100 lbs and their travel crates are large and need to be opened from the rear of the vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11535153 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oak Harbor, WA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Car has been not able to roll up driver side window for a year randomly. Suddenly 3 years old and battery is draining and RAB and Eyesight and engine light on. Took in and saying can’t replicate window after they DID replicate it 3 months ago and did not solve issue. Did battery parasitic draw and numerous parts of car are draining battery. Cannot find source.
NHTSA complaint #11522750 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Santa Cruz, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Car system drains battery for no reason. Opening a trunk or door for a 5-10min to load or unload vehicle is enough to drain a new full battery. This can leave people stranded in parks and remote areas. We have had the battery checked and verified it is good. This problem has happened multiple times on our Ascent.
NHTSA complaint #11516271 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mattituck, NY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery drains and goes dead at least once a month. Battery was replaced by dealer and still having battery drain issues.
NHTSA complaint #11515347 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Salisbury, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I parked my Ascent rear facing inside of my garage to unload my groceries. When i opened my hatch at the front button, the hatch only opened halfway. The hatch would not close with the push of the button and had to be closed manually. Once I returned to my Ascent to go somewhere, the hatch sensor beeped repeatedly, while driving, until coming to a complete stop. Once driving continued, the sensor continued beeping. This occurred with two straight vehicle drives. The entire course of the drive. I parked the Ascent in my garage and returned to the car the next morning and the Ascent would not start. AAA came to do a jumpstart with no remedy. We replaced the battery with a new, borrowed battery and the car started immediately with no beeping. We charged the old battery and replaced the new battery and the Ascent had no other issues, including easy startup and no beeping. There were no warning lights for any of the issues including the hatch or the battery.
NHTSA complaint #11511697 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Avon, IN
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery went dead after leaving tailgate open for 1hr
NHTSA complaint #11509798 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Colorado Springs, CO
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My vehicle won’t stay charged. We replaced the battery and still every single time I go out to start it it’s completely dead and I have to get it jumped.
NHTSA complaint #11501854 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Georgetown, MA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V907000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
NHTSA complaint #11497218 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Malibu, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that she became aware that the VIN was included in a recall. The VIN tool confirmed that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V907000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The local dealer was not notified of the issue. The manufacturer was notified of the issue and the contact was informed that she would be notified within 24 hours. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
NHTSA complaint #11497247 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Albuquerque, NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery dead, once 6 months ago when rear gate opened and closed several times before staying open for a few hours before neighbor asked if I knew it was open. Battery dead after driving to 2 stops on 10/24/22 then dead again in airport parking on 10/28/22 when returning from trip. Took into dealership 10/29/22 and problem confirmed although not sure if it is the battery or charging the battery. No warning lamps. Have to wait by myself until I can get a jump start. Don’t know when or where it might not start, puts my safety at risk by not knowing where or at what time of day or night I might be stranded.
NHTSA complaint #11491443 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fair Play, SC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery drains fully from unknown reason. This has happened at least 3 times since purchasing the vehicle, brand new, in 2019. I have had to call roadside assistance within the first year and have purchased a 2 other new batteries. There were no light or other electrical items on which would have drained the battery. It’s starts slow where I need to jump start the vehicle about 5 times before the battery is completely dead. It puts me and my family at risk of being in an isolated or unsafe place when the battery dies and need to wait for roadside service. To my recollection there were no safety checks completed for this issue. I do have a scheduled appointment at a Subaru dealer on 10/27/22 where I will ask them to look at this. There were no warning signs or indications prior to the battery draining.
NHTSA complaint #11488735 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Blair, NE
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Vehicle has experienced total loss of power while driving under normal circumstances. This has occurred in a drive-thru, at 45 and 50mph, and also twice during 70mph highway driving. The entire vehicle shuts down and multiple dash board lights illuminate at the time of power loss. I first documented this on 4/7/22 and it randomly occurs every month, once it even happened twice in the same day. I had called the dealership (where I purchased the vehicle and have it serviced) multiple times throughout the spring and summer awaiting parts for the TCM recall with the assumption that this could be the issue. However , my vehicle passed the recall and even after the new TCM was placed on 8/19, I again had the same event on 10/1. Vehicle was taken in on 10/6 for diagnostics on this issue again and nothing found. I do not feel like the dealership has been accurately documenting my issues so I will need to be more persistent in getting someone to address the problem as this could be a serious safety issue.
NHTSA complaint #11488247 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ellisville, MO
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2019 Subaru Ascent experience battery drain. Was able to start after jump and had 13 volts when returned home. Next morning it did start, barely, but was down to just above 12 volts. Appears to be the electrical system drain.
NHTSA complaint #11487821 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Moraga, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Subaru ascent issues with electrical system and battery. Engine cranks longer than it should before starting- anywhere from 5 to 25 seconds. Battery dead multiple times. Have taken to Subaru multiple times, they replaced the batter once but have ignored repeated requests to fix the issue of parasitic battery drain from faulty electrical system.
NHTSA complaint #11486279 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesChandlersville, OH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that the battery would be drained overnight and the vehicle had to be jumpstarted. The failure was intermittent at first but had since become constant. The contact stated that when the vehicle was first purchased, the dealer installed a new battery. The contact stated the battery level warning light was illuminated whenever the battery was drained. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
NHTSA complaint #11484335 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Southside, WV
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Electrical (dead battery) issues. On 4 or 5 different days during the last 3 years, I have attempted to start my car and found the battery completely drained. In March of 2022, I replaced the battery at my own expense ($235.30). I assumed this would surely cure the problem. However, another dead battery on 8-18-22. I learned (at that time) there are numerous 2019 Subaru Ascent owners with similar problems.
NHTSA complaint #11480322 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Williamsburg, VA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My battery continues to drain prematurely. It’s been replaced twice within the year, and I just took it in for a 3rd time and the Subaru service department cannot diagnose the problem claiming my batteries were bad. There has to be an electrical problem. I’ve never owned a car with this issue and it’s less than 3 years old. It’s left me stranded with my children.
NHTSA complaint #11479566 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mesa, AZ
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Electrical system repeatedly malfunctions. Intermittent starting and shut-off issues, rear hatch will not properly operate, per dealer the radio was replaced, and periodic unexplained battery drain issues resulting in replacement of battery. Dash warnings are displayed for no apparent reason. When radio was replaced there were still issues and dealer said it "would take a few days for the issues to resolve." Even after battery and radio replacement periodic shutting off car and restarting is necessary for volume control and station change. Safety could be an issue if car will not start, or shut off as related in a timeline attachment. Dealer is unable to reproduce periodic/intermittent issues.
NHTSA complaint #11478593 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.