Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2020 Subaru Ascent
The 2020 Subaru Ascent has moderate issues based on recall and complaint data, with notable concerns regarding the electrical system and powertrain. Five recalls exist, addressing problems from transmission control to steering tie rod fitment. Buyers should inspect these areas with care. Complaint data is present but not overwhelmingly indicating systemic problems, suggesting that many Ascents may perform reliably.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2020 Subaru Ascent has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 324 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 #21V954000 Tie Rods May Separate NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V587000 Fuel Pump May Fail NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 101 complaints
- Power Train 59 complaints
- Unknown or Other 57 complaints
- Visibility/Wiper 49 complaints
- Engine 29 complaints
- Service Brakes 26 complaints
Of the 324 complaints on file, 6 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 324 complaints, owners report 5 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Wiring under dash melting
How to check: Inspect for burnt smells or signs of melting under dash.
TCU programming error
How to check: Check if transmission hesitates before engaging.
Improper tie rod fit
How to check: Inspect front tie rods for misfit or deformation.
Fuel pump failure
How to check: Look for starting issues or engine stalling.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or rough idle.
Red flag: Persistent knocking or stalling.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Transmission or engine warning lights.
- 03
Low-speed turns
What to check: Feel for steering smoothness and response.
Red flag: Steering feels loose or has noise.
- 04
City driving
What to check: Observe transmission shift smoothness.
Red flag: Rough or delayed shifting.
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth acceleration without hesitation.
Red flag: Engine hesitates or cuts out.
- 06
Braking
What to check: Check for noise or vibration when braking.
Red flag: Strong vibration or noise.
- 07
Parking
What to check: Test for ease of parking and tight turns.
Red flag: Difficulty steering or unusual noises.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the fuel pump been replaced?
- Any electrical issues experienced?
- Was the steering recall addressed?
- Any transmission repairs done?
- Has regular maintenance been performed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair history
- Service and maintenance records
- Original purchase invoice
- Warranty information
- Registration documents
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2020 Subaru Ascent at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2020 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.