2020 Subaru Ascent

The ground bolt securing the ground terminal of the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater may have been improperly fastened, potentially causing melting of the ground terminal and surrounding components. This creates a fire risk and affects up to 271,694 vehicles.

Subaru issued a recall for 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles to inspect and properly fasten or replace the PTC heater ground bolt and terminal. Dealers perform the inspection and repair free of charge.

Brake rotors warp as early as 8,000 miles, causing severe brake pedal pulsation and steering wheel vibration during braking. A Subaru dealer employee acknowledged the brakes were under-engineered for the vehicle's 4,500+ lb curb weight.

Rotor and pad replacement with upgraded components. Some owners have found success with aftermarket drilled/slotted rotors rated for heavier vehicles. Proper break-in procedure after replacement is critical.

The CVT transmission shudders and the vehicle jerks and lurches forward, particularly during low-speed maneuvers and when accelerating from a stop. Some owners are unable to accelerate smoothly after stopping, creating unsafe traffic situations.

CVT fluid replacement and TCM software update at the dealer. A TSB may address CVT calibration for improved low-speed behavior. In severe cases, the CVT torque converter or complete CVT assembly requires replacement.

A rumbling or rattling noise comes from the front undercarriage when driving over bumps. Subaru made a design change to the front strut assemblies to address this issue, indicating it was a known engineering concern.

A Subaru TSB addresses this with replacement of the front strut assemblies with redesigned units. Surface rust treatment on the strut mount retaining nut area is also recommended.

The windshield develops cracks spontaneously without any impact or stone chip, similar to complaints across the Subaru lineup. The large windshield area and steep rake angle may contribute to stress cracking.

Full windshield replacement with OEM glass. EyeSight recalibration is required after replacement. Subaru goodwill coverage may apply within the warranty period if no impact point is visible.

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.

A melting ground terminal increases the risk of a fire.

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.

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2020 Legacy and Outback vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.

An improperly secured drive chain may slip and break, causing a loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.

Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 19, 2022. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 19V-855. Vehicles previously recalled under 19V-855 will need to have the new remedy performed for this recall once available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRK-21.

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020 Ascent vehicles. Due to an incorrect tapered hole in the housing, the front tie rod ends may not fit properly. The improper fit can result in the tie rods and housings being deformed during assembly and service replacement if excessive torque is applied.

The tie rods may separate from the housing, causing a loss of steering control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Dealers will replace the left and right front tie rod ends and housings, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 7, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRL-21.

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21.