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⚑ NHTSA Official DataUpdated: Jun 2026How we calculate this
Severe Issues

2022 Subaru Ascent: Is It Reliable?
Problems, Recalls & Buyer Verdict

Shopping for a used 2022 Subaru Ascent? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Current data includes 52 complaints, with Transmission / Drivetrain as the top reported area.

52
Complaints
6
Crashes
2
Fires
6
Injuries
β€”
Deaths
1
Recalls

2022 Subaru Ascent Fuel Economy

βœ“ EPA Official Data

EPA-rated fuel economy across 2 2022 Subaru Ascent trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.

21
MPG City
20–21 range
27
MPG Hwy
26–27 range
23
MPG Combined
22–23 range
384
g COβ‚‚/mile
Regular Gasoline
⚠️Costs $2,750 more than avg vehicle over 5 years

Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 2 trims analysed.

2022 Subaru Ascent Safety Ratings

NHTSA 5-Star Program

Official crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.

Overall

5/5

17% rollover risk

Frontal Crash

5/5

Side Crash

5/5

Rollover

4/5

17% probability

βœ“Stability Control: Standardβœ“Forward Collision Warning: Standardβœ“Lane Departure Warning: Standard

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.

Quick Answer

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2022 Subaru Ascent has 52 owner complaints, 6 crash-related complaints, and 1 recall campaign on record. The most frequently reported component is Transmission / Drivetrain. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.

2022 Subaru Ascent β€” key reliability facts
Make
Subaru
Model
Ascent
Model year
2022
NHTSA owner complaints
52
Crash-related complaints
6
Safety recall campaigns
1
Top reported component
Transmission / Drivetrain
Reliability signal
Severe Issues
EPA MPG combined
23
EPA MPG city / highway
21 / 27
Fuel type
Regular Gasoline
NHTSA overall safety rating
5/5 stars
NHTSA frontal crash rating
5/5 stars
NHTSA side crash rating
5/5 stars
NHTSA rollover rating
4/5 stars
Electronic stability control
Standard

Most Common 2022 Subaru Ascent Problems

Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.

#1
13
complaints

Transmission / Drivetrain

#2
11
complaints

Brake System

#3
7
complaints

Visibility/Wiper

Complaint patterns center on Transmission / Drivetrain, Brake System, Visibility/Wiper. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.

Should You Buy a Used 2022 Subaru Ascent?

The 2022 Subaru Ascent shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase.

Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.

What to Check Before Buying a Used 2022 Subaru Ascent

Inspection Focus

  • Inspect transmission/drivetrain performance during test drive.
  • Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
  • Request service records for transmission, brakes, and wiper systems.
  • Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.

Before You Close the Deal

  • Inspect transmission/drivetrain performance during test drive.
  • Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
  • Request service records for transmission, brakes, and wiper systems.
  • Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.

Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.

Before buying a used 2022 Subaru Ascent, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.

What the Complaint Data Suggests

Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology

Complaints for the 2022 Subaru Ascent are concentrated in the transmission/drivetrain and brake system, with a moderate number of visibility/wiper issues. The data suggests potential concerns with these components, though the low confidence level and limited sample size warrant caution.

Key Findings
  • Transmission/drivetrain complaints are the most reported issue, with 13 complaints.
  • Brake system complaints total 11, making it the second most common concern.
  • Visibility/wiper issues account for 7 complaints, indicating a possible pattern.
Top Concerns
  • Transmission / Drivetrain
  • Brake System
  • Visibility/Wiper
Data note: NHTSA complaints are consumer-submitted and do not confirm a manufacturing defect. The analysis covers only one model year (2022) with 52 complaints, limiting generalizability. Confidence level is low, so patterns may not be representative.

All 2022 Subaru Ascent Complaints by Category

Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2022 Subaru Ascent. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.

ComponentComplaintsCrashesFiresAvg MileageVolume
Transmission / Drivetrain13β€”β€”β€”
Brake System11β€”β€”β€”
Visibility/Wiper7β€”β€”β€”
Uncategorized Issues611β€”
Engine Problems611β€”
Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB52β€”β€”
Airbag Malfunctions431β€”
Fuel/Propulsion System411β€”
Lane Departure3β€”β€”β€”
Electrical Faults3β€”β€”β€”
Door Lock Issues2β€”β€”β€”
Seat-Related Issues1β€”β€”β€”
Hydraulic1β€”β€”β€”
Other/I Am Not Sure11β€”β€”
Wheel Issues1β€”β€”β€”
Back Over Prevention11β€”β€”
Tire Issues1β€”β€”β€”

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.

Real Owner Complaints

Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2022 Subaru Ascent. Type a keyword (e.g. β€œtransmission”, β€œstalling”, β€œbrakes”) to filter.

Showing 52 most recent complaints

Seat-Related IssuesApr 26, 2026

The front driver seat cushion/seat cover is deteriorating and ripping at the front portion of the seat. While driving, I can feel road vibration and impacts through the driver seat much more than normal, and the seat no longer feels properly cushioned or supported. I am concerned…

Transmission / DrivetrainApr 17, 2026

The contact owns a 2022 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, there was a whining sound coming from the transmission, and the vehicle failed to properly accelerate. The vehicle was slowly driven to the local mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle and d…

Lane DepartureApr 2, 2026

My eyesight camera keeps failing, it just started like a week ago I had it scanned and it is saying there is an error with the eyesight camera, I have not had an issue with it until now.

Transmission / DrivetrainMar 26, 2026

Traveling back home from our vehicle downhill the vehicle started aggressively started to downshift that caused disengaging it was scary and almost wrecked into a tree. The car was very hot and smoking . We were stranded and afraid to move the car as we sat for over an hour and h…

Airbag MalfunctionsMar 23, 2026

While driving under normal road conditions at approximately 35mph, the side airbags in the vehicle deployed unexpectedly without any collision, impact, or apparent external cause. There were no warning lights, alerts, or prior indications of any system malfunction before the depl…

Uncategorized IssuesMar 20, 2026

2022 Subaru Ascent. Noticed progressive strong odor in the car. After rain had significant fluid accumulation in the front passenger ceiling, inside front passenger door (sloshing), and wet carpets on the floor on the passenger side. Serviced by Subaru dealer water specialist who…

Brake SystemJul 31, 2025

The contact owns a 2022 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while driving 30 -35 MPH and depressing the brake pedal, there was an abnormal rumbling sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle stopped and resumed driving repeatedly. The contact stated tha…

Visibility/WiperJul 9, 2025

The front panel of the moonroof cracked from the inside without any impact or clear cause. I brought the vehicle to my local Subaru dealer, Troncalli, for inspection, but they were unable to determine why it happened. I purchased this vehicle for my wife and kids, and now there’…

Engine ProblemsMay 5, 2025

camshaft carrier oil leakage need to be reseal. there was oil leakage at 36,000 miles and dealer fixed it under warranty. now at 80,000 it is doing it again.

Transmission / DrivetrainMar 6, 2025

Transmission slipping when vehicle is cold in the morning, got into a busy street and car wouldnt move due to transmission slipping and almost got into a collision due to transmission slipping and car not moving. I was able to recreate the problem the very next day. My driveway…

Airbag MalfunctionsπŸ’₯ CrashMar 3, 2025

I hit a car that went through a red light. Despite hitting him squarely, and my front end bending, the airbags did not deploy

Other/I Am Not SureπŸ’₯ CrashFeb 15, 2025

Were in a car accident of a speed of 32 MPH. Were told we would have to get rid of the carseat due to a hard wreck.

Airbag MalfunctionsπŸ’₯ CrashFeb 15, 2025

Air Bags did not deploy going at 32 MPH and during a head on front collision.

Airbag MalfunctionsπŸ’₯ CrashπŸ”₯ FireJan 9, 2025

I was in a front end collision with a deer. Upon impact there was heavy damage to my front end and smoke coming from my engine bay. Within minutes a fire started and only a couple minutes later the entire car was engulfed. No airbags deployed during the accident, there was no co…

Transmission / DrivetrainSep 30, 2024

At approximately 10000 miles the drive train (transmission) developed a shuddering while driving. This occurs at any speed but more frequently at 45-60 MPH. The frequency of this problem has increased with the vehicle which now has 45202 miles. It is now occurring periodically a…

Engine ProblemsAug 18, 2024

Stopped car turned car off, smoke started to come from under the hood on right side. Turned car on and β€œlow oil” came on, turned car off and exited car. The smell of oil was noted and a light white colored smoke was continuing to rise from under hood. Proceeded to call dealership…

Wheel IssuesJul 20, 2024

2022 Subaru Ascent Limited complained about the tires and brakes to dealership during initial 6K service they said they are fine and sent me on my way. I have taking it in since on 2 or 3 other occasions and same thing. Nothings wrong they checked it drove it and its fine. My wif…

Brake SystemJul 10, 2024

While traveling from Texas to Washington state we noticed pulsating/vibrating/shaking front brakes as we were coming down 3 mountain passes. I felt the car was very unsafe as we were unable to brake normally and had many vehicles around us that had to go slower because of this is…

Transmission / DrivetrainMar 20, 2024

I bought the Vehicle new at Subaru of Bristol, TN. At around 23,000 miles it starting lurching forward while idling, jerking and hesitating when trying to accelerate, or not accelerating at all. It was so bad that at one point, I pulled out to pass and almost got rear ended by…

Visibility/WiperMar 5, 2024

In span of little over a year i have replaced the windshield once and had a repair twice. Insurance already went up due to the claims. Windshield cracks fast and easily!

Page 1 of 3

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2022 Subaru Ascent.

2022 Subaru Ascent Recalls

1 campaign

NHTSA recall campaigns for the 2022 Subaru Ascent. 1 recall campaign is on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.

22V907000Aug 12, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH

Compare Subaru Ascent Model Years

Compare complaint and recall volume across years to see whether 2022 lands in a lower-risk or higher-risk part of the model timeline.

2025202420232022202120202019

2022 Subaru Ascent Buying FAQ

Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.

Is the 2022 Subaru Ascent reliable?β–Ύ

Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 52 owner complaints, 6 crash-related complaints, and 1 recall campaign for this model year. The 2022 Subaru Ascent shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.

What are the most common problems with the 2022 Subaru Ascent?β–Ύ

#1: Transmission / Drivetrain (13 complaints). #2: Brake System (11 complaints). #3: Visibility/Wiper (7 complaints)

At what mileage do problems start on the 2022 Subaru Ascent?β–Ύ

Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.

How safe is the 2022 Subaru Ascent?β–Ύ

Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2022 Subaru Ascent, NHTSA complaints include 6 crash-related reports and 2 fire reports out of 52 total complaints. 6 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.

Does the 2022 Subaru Ascent have any recalls?β–Ύ

Yes. 1 NHTSA recall campaign affect the 2022 Subaru Ascent. A major recall area is ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH. 1 recall campaign is on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.

Should I buy a 2022 Subaru Ascent?β–Ύ

The 2022 Subaru Ascent shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Transmission / Drivetrain during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.

Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.

Wider context: See the full Subaru Ascent reliability report with year-by-year comparison.

Owner Reliability Rating

Rate the 2022 Subaru Ascent based on your ownership experience.

Add your rating:

Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.

Check the Exact Vehicle History Before You Buy

Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.