2021 Subaru Ascent recalls and problems
The 2021 Subaru Ascent has 2 safety recalls and 106 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Subaru dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2021 Subaru Ascent vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2021 Subaru Ascent recalls
Recall 26V-436: Equipment
Problem: Subaru 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."
Risk: An incorrect GAWR label may lead to an overloaded vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Subaru will mail a new certification label to owners, free of charge. Owners may also choose to have a dealer install the new label, free of charge. Letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed August 27, 2026. Additional letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRH-26.
Recall 22V-907: Electrical System
Problem: Subaru 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.
Risk: A melting ground terminal increases the risk of a fire.
Fix: Owners are advised to park their vehicle away from structures and to avoid leaving the vehicle unattended while the engine is running. An owner who notices or smells smoke coming from the dash or driver's footwell area should immediately stop operating the vehicle and turn the ignition switch to the "Off" position. Dealers will replace the PTC heater ground bolts and if necessary, replace the ground wire and the connector holder, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed February 6, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRL-22.
2021 Subaru Ascent problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Power Train | 21 | |
| Electrical System | 18 | |
| Lane Departure | 17 | |
| Unknown or Other | 16 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 15 | |
| Engine | 13 | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 11 | |
| Service Brakes | 9 | |
| Steering | 7 | |
| Structure | 7 | |
| Visibility | 3 | |
| Tires | 3 |
Most reported parts
- Lane Departure › Assist — 12
- Structure › Body — 6
- Lane Departure › Warning — 4
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control — 4
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 4
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking — 3
- Visibility › Windshield — 2
- Steering › Rack and Pinion — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 3,187 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2021 Subaru Ascent complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Subaru Ascent years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2021 Subaru Ascent have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 Subaru Ascent: 26V-436 (equipment), 22V-907 (electrical system). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2021 Subaru Ascent?
Owners report power train problems most often (21 reports), followed by electrical system (18). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 3,187 miles.
Are Subaru recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Subaru dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.