2019 Subaru Ascent engine problems

The 2019 Subaru Ascent has 48 engine complaints filed with NHTSA — 9% of the year's total, and the first year with meaningful reports in this category.

Engine complaints

Share of year

Crash-involved

Related recalls

Engine complaints by year

Ascent engine complaints by model year. Red bars are years to avoid.

Related recalls

19V856000EngineDecember 2, 2019 · 51,613 units

Defect

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent vehicles. The aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can separate, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, resulting in a loss of power while driving.

Consequence

An unexpected loss of power while driving can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the PCV valve, free of charge. If the PCV valve has separated and the components cannot be found, the short block engine will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began January 31, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUW-08.

What owners report

“The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at approximately 75 MPH, a deer ran across the highway and hit the left driver's side of the vehicle. The air bags did not deploy upon impact. A grayish smoke began to emit from the vehicle as the contact's…”
Complaint filed with NHTSA · Engine · March 20, 2026 · crash · fire

Common questions

How many engine complaints does the 2019 Subaru Ascent have?

NHTSA has 48 complaints about the 2019 Subaru Ascent engine — 9% of all complaints filed for that model year.

Are there recalls for the 2019 Subaru Ascent engine?

Yes — 1 NHTSA recall campaign for this model year is tied to the engine: 19V856000.

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.