A few days ago my Accent wouldn't start because there was too much tension on the steering wheel locking mechanism. I finally noticed the Turn Steering Wheel message and turned the wheel enough (it should turn one way or the other) to relieve the tension, held it there and pressed Start. It started ok then. I didn't see any of the goofy electronics fireworks though.

 

A few days ago my Accent wouldn't start because there was too much tension on the steering wheel locking mechanism.

I've had this happen with our MY11 Outback Limited...while in the parking lot at Costco a few months ago, as a matter of fact. It was indeed the steering wheel lock being in funky tension and after I "man handled it" a bit, I was able to start the vehicle. I've not had a problem with the Ascent, however.

 

If your engine won't start...reboot the thing like you would a computer. Yes too many electronics in cars these days.

Just push and hold the start button for 10 secs until it resets.... Read it somewhere in the manual. Haven't had this issue myself yet.

Same goes for rear lift gate if it ever seems to "do nothing".

 

I think you have to take a video of what's happening the next time this occurs, as proof. And re emphasize how bad this would be if you or your wife and kids were stranded far from home when this happened. Admittedly, intermittent things like this are hard to diagnose. Unfortunately, if they can't recreate it, or there's no code that's picked up, it's hard for them to do anything.

 

I have had same thing happen 4 times over 4 years. Scary for sure when not at home. This time I couldn’t correct and had to have it towed to dealership. I took video of the dash and issues. Mine they are attributing to a bad battery. Not sure I’m believing that, but when I pick it up if it works maybe that was it. I honestly think this is a significant safety hazard - especially if kids in tow. I’m 60 yr old women and I travel alone a lot and I am thinking of trading it in for something more reliable. I bought it new and have done all schedule maintenance - it’s always been garaged. Scary! And Subaru doesn’t seem to recognize this as an issue. Not sure what else to do but buy something else - I like to keep my vehicles for many years that why o bought a Subaru - no more of them for me! Don’t forget to get your front brakes looked at - they are faulty as well.

 

You won't find the solution buying another new car. Ever since engine control computers were introduced in the 80's, a failing battery can stop you in your tracks. Battery doesn't have to be stone cold dead to be a problem. This kind of problem affects all modern cars.

BTW, if you're 4 years into the original battery, it was in fact time to charge it. I'm in Florida and change the battery in all my cars every 3 years.