CarFix Answers

2019–2020 Subaru Ascent: Loss of power, CVT problems and recalls

Likely causes, ranked

  1. CVT chain slip or MPT clutch judder (covered by Subaru programs if eligible)$0–$0Shop
  2. Defective PCV valve separating (recall)$0–$0Shop
  3. Transmission sensor or TCU software (recalls)$0–$0Shop

Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.

DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section

Parts to check

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Symptom: Judder or shudder from a stop, a sudden loss of power, or a transmission warning.

Likely causes

  1. CVT. Ascent Forums owners report CVT problems. Subaru offers VIN-specific coverage for chain slip and MPT clutch judder.
  2. Recalls. Several recalls address the PCV valve, a transmission sensor and TCU software.

DIY or shop?

Dealer.

Useful steps

  1. Check your VIN for all four recalls.
  2. Ask the dealer to run a vehicle coverage inquiry for the CVT programs.
  3. Document judder with video.

Vehicle focus: 2019–2020 Subaru Ascent.

Safety / mechanic note

A loss of power on the highway is dangerous. Verify with a dealer.

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Recalls & service bulletins

Recalls

  • 19V855000 2019-12-02 2019 Ascent: the transmission hydraulic sensor may mis-read pressure. Details
  • 19V856000 2019-12-02 2019 Ascent, Crosstrek and Forester: the aluminum PCV valve can separate and cause loss of power. Details
  • 21V955000 2021-12-09 2019–2020 Ascent and 2020 Legacy/Outback: transmission control software error. Details
  • 18V508000 2018-08-02 Some early 2019 Ascents may be missing B-pillar spot welds. Details

Technical service bulletins

  • Subaru Ascent CVT coverage (MPT clutch) Subaru program covering MPT clutch shudder, judder or vibration on 2019–2020 Ascent CVTs (VIN-specific). Details

NHTSA complaints: 123 keyword-matched complaints (of 763 unique complaints filed under NHTSA model names ASCENT, 2019–2020; NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-15).

Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Sources

What actually fixed it?

Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.

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