Subaru Recalls Ascent SUVs for a Fire Risk, Tells Owners to Park Outside
Subaru has announced a recall that could affect thousands of 2019-2022 Ascent SUVs. The recall, announced Friday Dec. 9, is for a major fire risk with the three-row Subaru Ascent SUV. Subaru is asking owners to not park in a garage or car port until they can get their Ascent fixed. The Ascent is Subaru’s largest SUV and holds seven passengers.
Why is there a Subaru Ascent recall?
Subaru recalled the 2019 to 2022 Ascents because of a problem with a part called the positive temperature coefficient, or PTC, heater. Essentially, the wires that connect the PTC in the engine bay, which gets extremely hot, could have been improperly fasted when the SUV was built. It can melt wires and cause a fire.
There have been no crashes, according to Subaru. However, Subaru says that owners should park their cars away from garages, car ports or other structures, and to avoid leaving an Ascent unattended while the engine is running. It also warns that you smell smoke from the dash or driver’s footwell area to immediately turn the car off.
The Subaru Ascent recall will be handled by dealers
Subaru dealers will replace the bolts and wires, if necessary, for free. Some will also need a new ground and connector. Owners will be contacted by mail. However, to find out if your vehicle is part of the recall, visit Subaru’s recall site.
Recalls are common for all manufacturers. However, earlier this year, Subaru recalled some Impreza and Outback cars and SUVs for improper windshield attachment. In January it issued a recall for Impreza headlights.
What are the cons of a Subaru Ascent?
The Subaru Ascent has a “great” quality and reliability score from J.D. Power, and owners report that the driving experience is also “great.” It’s noted for its great ride and standard all-wheel drive. However, this midsize SUV has a few drawbacks. It’s the biggest Subaru available and seats seven, but it only has a 2.4-liter engine that contributes to slow acceleration times.
The Ascent is large, and it can tow up to 5,000 pounds. But, it’s third row is mainly for children or small adults. The Ascent can hold a surprising amount of cargo when the seats are folded. Behind the front seats it can hold 72.8 cubic feet of cargo, which is about three cubic feet more than a Toyota RAV4.
How much does a Subaru Ascent fully loaded cost?
Subaru refreshed the Ascent for 2023 and newer models get a new 11.6-inch touchscreen. It also now comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard, as well as an optional 360-degree camera and a Cabin Connect system that allows the front row to talk to the third row easily. The top level trim, the Touring, starts at nearly $50,000. The base version, however, starts at about $35,000.
