2021 Subaru Ascent power train problems
18 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the power train on the 2021 Subaru Ascent — 18% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“My 2021 Subaru Ascent (40,000 miles) suffered multiple major mechanical failures that pose ongoing safety concerns: 1. Engine Oil Leak: The vehicle developed an active engine oil leak at 20,000 miles, posing a risk of fluid contacting hot exhaust/engine components under the hood or causing low oil…”
filed Jul 29, 2026
“The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle started to stall, and the transmission failed to properly operate. The vehicle was pulled over to a nearby shop and was advised to take the vehicle back to the facility that performed…”
filed Jul 24, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Power Train problems in other Ascent years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Ascent | 3 | 6% |
| 2023 Ascent | 3 | 7% |
| 2022 Ascent | 14 | 25% |
| 2020 Ascent | 56 | 18% |
| 2019 Ascent | 85 | 19% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2021 Subaru Ascent
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.