How Long Do Subaru Ascents Last?
The Subaru Ascent was launched in 2018 as Subaru’s midsize SUV offering. Its roomy design, safety features, and standard all-wheel drive have garnered attention. These are the characteristics that Subaru is known for, as their ads claim, “make a Subaru a Subaru.” This three-row SUV is praised for its combination of comfort and performance and is often marketed as a vehicle designed for long-term use.
However, as a relatively new midsize SUV, many people are asking: how long do Subaru Ascents last? Subarus are known for their ruggedness; what about longevity?
For today’s post, we discuss the potential lifespan of the Subaru Ascent, how many miles it can last, and whether it’s a good idea to invest in a used model. Let’s take a look.
How Many Miles Does the Subaru Ascent Last?
The Subaru Ascent is a robust and reliable SUV, estimated to last 200,000 to 250,000 miles. This means approximately 13-17 years of service, assuming an average mileage of 15,000 per year. As usual, this longevity is contingent on regular maintenance and responsible driving habits. In comparison, the Kia Telluride, which is similar to the Ascent in terms of passenger space, cargo volume, and safety features, also has an average lifespan of around 200,000 miles.
Remember that while these are average estimates, the actual lifespan of any vehicle will depend heavily on how well it is maintained and the conditions under which it is driven. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and timely repairs of any issues, is always crucial for prolonging your Ascent.
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What about real-world examples from owners? This Reddit thread on the Subaru Ascent’s longevity reveals a range of experiences from various owners. According to multiple owners, the Ascent seems to have a good potential for longevity, as they have reported high mileage without significant issues. One owner stated that they had driven 107,000 kilometers (approximately 66,000 miles) and encountered no major problems despite having regular service every 10,000 kilometers. Another owner has driven 95,000 miles with only routine maintenance like tire and oil changes.
Meanwhile, some owners have encountered issues, such as persistent seat rattles and AC problems, but these seem more related to individual cases rather than widespread problems. One owner mentioned replacing rotors and brake pads around 120,000 miles, which is relatively standard for many vehicles.
How long do Subaru Ascents last? Although the Subaru Ascent is a relatively new model, making it challenging to assess its long-term durability, early feedback from owners accurately indicates that it could have a long lifespan, particularly if it’s well-maintained.
Subaru Ascent Reliability Concerns
It’s hard to talk about the Ascent’s potential lifespan without touching on its track record for reliability. After all, reliability can directly influence the longevity of any vehicle. As such, many consumer-advocate websites such as Consumer Reports have criticized the Ascent for being unreliable – calling the midsize SUV a black sheep.
As highlighted by CR’s report for 2022, the reliability of the 2022 Subaru Ascent has been a topic of concern. This study places the Ascent among the ten models with the highest risk of encountering problems. The 2022 Ascent received a reliability score of 60 out of 100, ranking it the 10th least reliable new car. The primary issues identified include the transmission, power equipment, brakes, in-car electronics, and climate system, leading Consumer Reports to give the Ascent a low score of 1.0 out of 5.0 for predicted reliability.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE SUBARU ASCENT
Read on to learn more about the most reliable Subaru Ascent year, the least dependable selections on the market, and other critical information you should know before buying.
Subaru is generally known for its reliability among automakers, but the Ascent’s initial models, particularly the 2019 and 2020 versions, had significant reliability issues. These early models experienced transmission problems, which sometimes required replacements. There were also recalls for defective PCV valves and loose driveshaft bolts. Some models even had missing spot welds around the B-pillar. However, Subaru claimed that only a few of these models were sold to customers.
However, there’s a silver lining for the Ascent. For the 2023 report, the Ascent pulled itself out of the list. It seems that Subaru may have addressed and corrected the major issues in the more recent Ascent models. This highlights the fact that reliability can greatly vary by year. For Subaru Ascent model years to avoid, make sure to read our previous post for a comprehensive breakdown.
Should I Buy a Used Subaru Ascent with More Than 100k Miles?
How long do Subaru Ascents last, and is it a good idea to get a high-mileage unit? When purchasing a used Subaru Ascent with over 100,000 miles, reviewing the vehicle’s maintenance history and familiarizing yourself with common issues is important.
One of the notable problems with the Ascent is the Eyesight Driver Assist Technology, which may only sometimes function properly. This feature, designed to aid in driving decisions, relies on cameras that can be affected by movement, dirt, or debris, leading to potential reliability issues.
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Another common issue with the Ascent is the battery draining quickly. This problem is particularly prevalent when the tailgate is left open for extended periods, a common practice during outdoor activities like tailgating. If you plan to use the Ascent for such activities, be prepared for potential battery issues, and consider having a jump start kit handy.
The Subaru Ascent also has problems with its windshield spontaneously cracking. This issue has been linked to acoustic glass, which, while reducing noise, may be more prone to cracking without a clear cause.
In addition to these specific problems, general issues reported include:
- A weak or dead 12v battery.
- Corroded battery contacts.
- Broken starter motor.
- Clogged fuel filter.
- Defective alternator.
- Fuel pump failure.
- Even damage caused by rodents.
These problems can prevent the car from starting and require costly repairs, especially at higher mileage.
Final Thoughts: Is a Used Subaru Ascent a Wise Investment?
How long do Subaru Ascents last? As you can see, the Ascent has a good potential for a longer lifespan. However, it’s always best to check for maintenance records and use pre-purchase inspection when buying a high-mileage Ascent. The Subaru Ascent is far from perfect. However, many owners find that the SUV’s pros outweigh the cons, especially for those who value its safety features, roominess, towing capacity, and standard all-wheel drive.
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