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2021 Subaru Ascent Engine Problems

4 owner-reported engine complaints from NHTSA data

4
Complaints
Sep 2022Dec 2025
Date Range

Data sourced from NHTSA public database. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified mechanic.

Owner Complaints (4)

highENGINE
Filed: Dec 2025

Your car has a persistent fuel smell inside the cabin and in the garage, but the dealer hasn't been able to identify the source after multiple visits. This is occurring at 60,000 miles and doesn't appear to be related to a crash or fire. The fix will likely involve inspecting the fuel system components — including fuel injectors, fuel lines, and the fuel tank — to locate and seal any leaks or evaporative emission system issues.

NHTSA #: 11707202
mediumENGINE
Filed: Oct 2022

The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Ascent. The contact stated while driving at 65 MPH, the vehicle shut down completely. A message indicating that the vehicle had unexpectedly stopped, and to check the vehicle as the remote start had failed was displayed. The contact was able to veer to the side of the road safely and waited until the vehicle cooled down. The contact restarted the vehicle and continued driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that no issues were found. However, the failure reoccurred several times while driving. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact that they could not assist as the dealer diagnosed that no issues were found. The failure mileage was 300.

NHTSA #: 11488972
mediumENGINE
Filed: Sep 2022

I found a lot of oil leaking from the oil filter cup and that would splash all around the filter area. I brought the car at the dealership and they have replaced the filter but when I checked after few days ( smoke was coming out of the hood) there was oil all over again. I bought an aftermarket filter and I installed it myself. No one drop of oil found. So I believe this a is a safety concern because the oil might catch on fire with the heat of the engine. I believe a defective oil filter design or a bad technician training or both are causing the problem.

NHTSA #: 11486441
mediumENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Filed: Dec 2021

Unknown. I am smelling gasoline in the cabin of the car. A LOT of fumes fill my garage when I start the car. The car sometimes accelerates when I put it in park, resulting in more fumes. Fuel efficiency is lower than expected as well.

NHTSA #: 11442758

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