Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2019 Subaru Ascent
The 2019 Subaru Ascent has multiple recalls and a moderate number of complaints, particularly concerning electrical and powertrain issues. With nine recalls and 443 complaints, it's essential to examine this model closely before purchasing. The available data is comprehensive, necessitating a thorough inspection.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2019 Subaru Ascent has 9 NHTSA recall campaigns and 443 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #26V436000 Incorrect Weight Rating on Label/FMVSS 110 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V907000 Improperly Fastened Ground Bolts May Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V955000 Drive Chain May Break Causing Loss of Drive Power NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V587000 Fuel Pump May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V218000 Fuel Pump May Become Inoperative/Engine Stall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V855000 Incorrect Measurement of Hydraulic Fluid Pressure NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V856000 PCV Valve Can Separate NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V519000 Driveshaft may Disconnect NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V508000 Missing Spot Welds in B-Pillar Area NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 160 complaints
- Power Train 90 complaints
- Visibility/Wiper 66 complaints
- Unknown or Other 59 complaints
- Engine 47 complaints
- Service Brakes 26 complaints
Of the 443 complaints on file, 10 report a crash and 6 a fire; across all 443 complaints, owners report 8 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Improperly fastened ground bolt
How to check: Inspect under-dash wiring for signs of melting or damage.
Transmission control unit error
How to check: Test transmission responsiveness; look for delays in shifts.
Crankcase valve may separate
How to check: Check engine bay for unusual noises or leaks.
Missing spot welds on pillars
How to check: Inspect roof and pillar structure for integrity.
Service brakes complaints
How to check: Test brake responsiveness and listen for noises.
Incorrect weight rating label
How to check: Verify GAWR label matches specifications.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Persistent knocking or whining.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check dashboard for warning lights.
Red flag: Lit warning lights.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Monitor transmission shift smoothness.
Red flag: Harsh or delayed shifts.
- 04
Parking maneuvers
What to check: Test steering precision and ease.
Red flag: Difficulty in steering.
- 05
Braking in traffic
What to check: Feel for consistent brake pedal pressure.
Red flag: Soft or spongy pedal feel.
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth power delivery and acceleration.
Red flag: Hesitation or loss of power.
- 07
Final stop
What to check: Listen for noises at idle post-drive.
Red flag: New or unusual noises.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the electrical system been repaired?
- Were all recall repairs completed?
- Any transmission issues reported?
- Has the vehicle ever lost power?
- Any brake servicing done recently?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall repair documentation
- Vehicle history report
- Warranty documentation
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2019 Subaru Ascent at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2019 Subaru Ascent? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.