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Ascent Transmission issue

15K views 37 replies 13 participants last post by  Robert.Mauro  
2019 Subaru Transmission recall. Had the transmission recall addressed & all the issues the recall said “could” happen happened going down the freeway with my wife & 3 year old in the car after it was supposedly fixed. Currently back in the shop waiting to find out what happened. Numerous recalls!! absolutely NOT satisfied. Looking at solutions to have Subaru take it back.
there has been no and there is no transmission (CVT) recall. There have been related parts (wiring harness or pressure sensor software update) to the transmission that have been recalled for replacement or software updates. Some 2019 CVT had to be replaced because they were damaged from the above parts failing for too long (these parts were listed in the recalls), but the CVT itself had no manufacturer defects itself. It was replaced under warranty if the CVT was damaged in this sequence. My 2019 CVT has been fine (no replacement needed at 27,000 miles). I had the recalls for the harness and the software update. I know some vehicles had premature brake issues that were dealt with under warranty. Mine have been fine and have not needed any service.

I know it can be terrifying with a child in the vehicle for any vehicle mishap. Years ago I had a engine fire in the moving vehicle with wife and child (very well maintained vehicle - not a Subaru). The issues you have are well known and have been dealt with sequentially for other owners in your position. Yours will as well, so while understandably frustrated, I would not ultimately be too concerned. You will end up being taken care of by repairing your vehicle under warranty. Just make certain you communicate with SOA and the dealer is providing an appropriate loaner.
 
Agreed. I will update once I get the car back & review the issue verbatim from the dealer. The exact recall or service advisory I mentioned was related to the transmission sensor or computer upgrade regarding a sensor, unless I am mistaken. I may have misspoke when I said transmission recall The possible results that could possibly happen from the notice did happen “after” the service requested was performed. The service technician said over the phone that the transmission housing bolts “backed out” ( his words) damaging a “booster” & O ring. Waiting on parts , but I will update. I’m not sure how the bolts could come out. But I agree I trust we’ll get to the bottom of it. It is at a trusted Subaru dealer now that I normally do not use. I called my normal dealer & they want to see the car when I get it back to analyze it to help ease my wife’s concerns as she doesn’t want to drive it because of what happened. Stay tuned.
Let Subaru of America know what is going on.
 
I had same problems. Transmission replaced at 11,000 miles. Was not identified until a second test drive with service manager. New transmission bogs down nust like the old one, but apparently that's the way they drive. Today notified of the fuel pump recall. Other problems, fit and finish. The front and rear doors rub together when you open them at same time. You'll figure it out. Doors are off kilter, looked at new ones on the show floor with the manager, they all are. Overall, I've been somewhat dissatisfied with the Ascent, our first time away from Honda and Toyota since 1989. Funny thing, Toyota just recalled 44,000 Rav 4's for possible engine cracks. We almost bought that one. Nobody's perfect I guess!
There is in fact a replacement for that door seal. I read in the forum it is thinner.
 
I guess I always considered that the 3 year rule was for certain brands only. Unfortunately, it seems like Subaru has become one of those brands. They just can't seem to figure out or are unwilling to create effective Quality Control & the testing protocols necessary before putting a new car on the market. Yes, it costs money and requires hiring the appropriate folks. I own an 2018 Outback (which is the 4th year of the vehicles 5 year cycle). The first 3 years of that 5th generation Outback were also full of issues! My vehicle has not been perfect, but it has been very good :) But I would love to move up to more room and comfort that an Ascent would provide. I just can't do it, yet. I just don't have the confidence either in the Ascent or Subaru's handling/working out of its issues (the dealers, on the other hand, along with the customer support line seem to be doing a better job on their end though). I looked at the new Toyota Highlander, but gosh, its just so much more expensive than the Ascent - comparing the most equivalent trim levels with adding the AWD option. In the end, I would have to buy a Highlander Base or LE - the bottom two trim levels (of 5 I believe). I would be actually going backwards or stepping down in terms of refinement, comfort & technology? Which makes no sense at all. You just can't beat the Subaru value proposition. BUT, value minus reliability or a car that requires your constant attention due to issues is not a bargain ether? Which is why I no longer drive or consider Land Rovers, Volvos, Volkswagens, Hondas etc. Very frustrating.
I disagree with your second sentence. I believe all vehicles are increasingly prone to this phenomenon as they become increasingly technically complicated.