2019 Subaru Ascent Technical Service Bulletins

638 technical service bulletins (TSBs) are on record for the 2019 Subaru Ascent. TSBs are notes manufacturers send to dealers about repair procedures for issues seen in the field. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault.

• 10168622Nov 11, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. This bulletin provides information on a new reprogramming procedure (FOTA) to optimize the Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units (H/U) utilized in the models as listed above.
• 10168610Nov 8, 2019Electrical system. "On December 14th, 2018, the first TomTom map update for Gen 3.1 Harman navigation equipped vehicles was made available. While the map update process is user-friendly, we ask that retailers assist customers with the map update procedure when requested as a courtesy, an opportunity to build retailer loyalty, enhance customer satisfaction and in keeping with the Love Promise.
• 10168600Nov 8, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head…
• 10166952Oct 25, 2019Suspension. This bulletin provides an inspection procedure to follow when addressing customer concerns of a rattling, knocking of klunk type sound when going over slight bumps and/ or uneven road surfaces.
• 10166949Oct 25, 2019Electrical system, Engine cooling. This bulletin announces availability of reprogramming files to optimize the Engine Control Module (ECM). The new files will address isolated concerns of an extended cranking (hard starting) condition. They will also address a DTC P1604 which may be stored in the ECM memory without illuminating the Check Engine light.
• 10166916Oct 18, 2019Air bags. This Service Information Bulletin announces a design change made to the side curtain and knee airbag modules on the models listed above to optimize commonization with the Japanese production parts. The change involves the mixture ratio of Argon to Helium used in the inflator gas: • OLD gas ratio: 94% Argon, 6% Helium • NEW gas ratio: 96% Argon, 4% Helium. All other specifications of these modules are unchanged.
• 10166913Oct 18, 2019Electrical system. This Service Information Bulletin provides the answer to potential inquiries regarding the STARLINK app being unable to play music files stored on a customer’s Android® phone / device through the head units (H/U) used in the applicable models listed above. This information is applicable ONLY to Android devices operating with Operating System (OS) version 10. IOS (AppleTM) devices are not affected.
• 10166885Oct 2, 2019Electrical system. This Service Information Bulletin announces availability of a map update which includes new software to address a route searching error. A “Route Calculation Unsuccessful” message may be displayed when the selected route crosses state borders (e.g. Route 53 which crosses between Alabama and Tennessee).
• 10165553Sep 30, 2019Seats. This bulletin announces availability of redesigned leather seat cushion trim covers to address isolated customer concerns of wrinkles appearing during early stages of vehicle use as shown in the example photo below. The new covers utilize materials with higher durability and resistance to wrinkling.
• 10165548Sep 26, 2019Electrical system. This Service Information Bulletin provides additional diagnostics to follow when addressing a Telematics-related DTC B2A16. In most cases involving this DTC, the following scenario(s) occur: • When trying to use the remote engine starter (RES) feature through Telematics (STARLINK / My Subaru app) the request is unsuccessful and the red Telematics indicator lamp illuminates.
• 10165547Sep 26, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. This bulletin announces availability of new heater control panels assemblies with revised operating logic. Previously, when A/C cut-off control was activated (e.g. under full acceleration), the air inlet mode would be switched from inside (recirculation) to “fresh” and allow outside (fresh) air to enter the cabin. This is considered normal and intended operation, consistent with the design of the system.
• 10165544Sep 26, 2019Body and structure, Engine cooling. This Service Information Bulletin clarifies a bolt tightening sequence procedure for the three (3) turbocharger stay bracket mounting bolts. Torsional stress may remain in the stay bracket if the tightening sequence is not followed. The applicable Service Manual will be updated with this information soon.
• 10165497Sep 26, 2019Transmission and drivetrain. This bulletin has been developed in response to a small number of customer concerns regarding fluid seepage found coming from the CVT assembly. Investigation has identified likely sources of the seepage to be the sealant used on the CVT’s oil pump chain cover and the input shaft oil seal. The repair involves chain cover removal, a thorough cleaning and inspection of the sealing surfaces followed by re-sealing the…
• 10165501Sep 11, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. This bulletin announces availability of new Harman audio unit amplifier units with revised internal logic designed to optimize efficiency while addressing the following customer concerns: Symptom 1: No audio output is heard but, the volume level displayed changes when turning the knob Symptom 2: Audio volume increases to maximum intermittently without turning the knob Symptom 3: A buzzing, screeching or…
• 10164446Aug 29, 2019Transmission and drivetrain. "This bulletin has been developed in response to a small number of customer concerns regarding fluid seepage found coming from the CVT assembly. Investigation has identified likely sources of the seepage to be the sealant used on the CVT’s oil pump chain cover and the input shaft oil seal. The repair involves chain cover removal, a thorough cleaning and inspection of the sealing surfaces followed by re-sealing…
• 10164278Aug 29, 2019Electrical system, Seats. This bulletin announces a change made to blower unit assemblies used for front seat cushion and backrest ventilation. The change was made in response to a small number of customer concerns regarding vibration and excessive airflow-type sound levels.
• 10164415Aug 23, 2019Electrical system, Equipment. This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure. The exchange program policy can also be found in Sections 8.4.9 and 11.2.10 of your Claims Policies and Procedures Manual found in Subarunet.
• 10164389Aug 22, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. "This bulletin announces availability of new Harman audio unit amplifier units with revised internal logic designed to optimize efficiency while addressing the following customer concerns: Symptom 1: No audio output is heard but, the volume level displayed changes when turning the knob Symptom 2: Audio volume increases to maximum intermittently without turning the knob Symptom 3: A buzzing, screeching or…
• 10164194Aug 21, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head…
• 10164187Aug 19, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. This bulletin announces a change made to optimize the sealing of the pressure switch connector used on a metal refrigerant pipe on the models above. The sealing capability of the connector may have been compromised during manufacture and result in a refrigerant leak. This condition has been determined to primarily effect vehicles produced during January and February 2019.
• 10163529Jul 15, 2019Electrical system, Equipment. This bulletin announces a change made to optimize the sealing of the pressure switch connector used on a metal high-side refrigerant pipe. The sealing capability of the connector may have been compromised during manufacture and result in a refrigerant leak.
• 10163522Jul 9, 2019Body and structure, Latches, locks and linkages, Electrical system. This bulletin announces a design change made to the PRG control module. This change is in response to a limited number of customer concerns regarding the rear gate not opening when operating the gate switch or dashboard switch on the vehicle or the button on the key fob. This condition is also accompanied by three short beeps. Logic changes have been incorporated into the new module to ensure proper operation of…
• 10163519Jul 8, 2019Electrical system. This service information bulletin provides a procedure for customizing the maintenance period settings of the MFD. When accessing the maintenance period information on the SSM4, the maintenance interval default values for mileage and number of months are different from those displayed on the MFD. This procedure describes how to synchronize the MFD and SSM4 values to insure proper customer notification.
• 10162818Jul 2, 2019Transmission and drivetrain. Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain 2019 model year Ascent vehicles. A total of 166 U.S. vehicles are affected by this recall. This recall involves replacement of the propeller shaft assembly.
• 10163017Jun 27, 2019Engine. This Service Information bulletin provides new inspection and repair procedures for AVCS (Active Valve Control System) -related DTCs on the FA and FB engine equipped models listed above. The applicable Service Manuals will be revised with this new information in the near future.
• 10163009Jun 19, 2019Transmission and drivetrain. This Service Information bulletin provides an updated procedure to follow when diagnosing / repairing a DTC P0842: ?TRANSMISSION FLUID PRESSURE SENSOR/SWITCH ?A? CIRCUIT LOW?.
• 10163008Jun 17, 2019Equipment. The purpose of this bulletin is to provide a description of current changes to Service Manuals available via the Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) web site. The tables contained within this bulletin are to be used as guides for becoming aware of the latest changes.
• 10163003Jun 11, 2019Electrical system. This bulletin announces a design change made to the sunglasses holder portion of the EyeSight camera cover. In rare cases, the sunglasses holder may bind or otherwise not operate smoothly when trying to open and / or close it. The mechanism has been changed in the area circled in the illustration below to eliminate binding and provide smooth operation during opening and closing.
• 10161826May 22, 2019Electrical system, Equipment, Body and structure. This bulletin announces a change made to the PRG control module. This change is in response to a limited number of customer concerns regarding the PRG reversing direction before reaching the fully open position. The control module senses that an object is caught in the PRG and engages the system?s reverse (safety) function. The new PRG control modules contain improved operating logic to correct this condition.
• 10161825May 21, 2019Equipment. This Service Information bulletin has been developed for use as a quick reference tool to aid in diagnosing operational concerns of the Gen 2 Telematics system?s remote access features on all 2019 vehicles with Gen 2 Telematics.
• 10161824May 21, 2019Equipment. Subaru Service and Technical Support Line Newletter.
• 10161820May 10, 2019Equipment. This bulletin provides helpful information about operating conditions observed in the field for Technicians to use when diagnosing customer concerns which may arise while operating Harman Gen 3.0 and 3.1 Navigation and Display Audio systems. We will continue to add to this bulletin as more information becomes available.
• 10161818May 8, 2019Equipment. This bulletin announces availability of new audio system amplifiers to address the following operating concerns with the Harman Kardon Gen 3 infotainment system: Symptom 1: No audio output is heard but, the volume level displayed changes when turning the knob Symptom 2: Audio volume increases to maximum intermittently without turning the knob Symptom 3: A buzzing, screeching or crackling-type sound is heard coming…
• 10161813May 6, 2019Equipment. To help reduce confusion and increase technician efficiency, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has developed the following cross reference list to help locate the appropriate Special Service Tool.
• 10160217Apr 29, 2019Body and structure. This Service Information bulletin provides recommendations for removing stains from the rear bumper cover on the 2019MY Ascent when using a mild automotive detergent does not provide the desired results. There have been reports received describing difficulty removing stains from the accessory?s chrome finish.
• 10160206Apr 10, 2019Air bags. This Service Information bulletin serves a quick reminder to always perform the Clear Memory function of the Airbag system using the Subaru Select Monitor 4 after replacement of any airbag system sensor. Failure to do so will most likely result in the sensor-related DTC(s) remaining in memory, Airbag warning light illumination and possible unnecessary component replacement.
• 10160507Mar 25, 2019Electrical system. Immediately discontinue the use of latest 2019 MY Gen 3.1 Harman Software update.
• 10160501Mar 25, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head…
• 10160496Mar 13, 2019Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to follow when diagnosing a customer concern of the display screen being either frozen (unresponsive) or black (blank).
• 10160493Mar 11, 2019Equipment. This Service Information bulletin is in response to a small number of customer concerns regarding the audio unit not being able to play certain types of audio Compact Discs (CDs). Harman Gen 3.0 head units which have previously received software updates (see claims history) and Gen 3.1 head units (used in 2019MY year vehicles) cannot play ?CD Extra? or ?Enhanced CD? -type audio CDs.
• 10160491Mar 11, 2019Electrical system, Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to follow when diagnosing clock-related customer concerns. Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will help with diagnosis and will be required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting.
• 10160490Mar 8, 2019Engine cooling, Equipment. This Service Information bulletin provides new inspection and repair procedures for AVCS (Active Valve Control System) -related DTCs on the FA and FB engine equipped models listed above. The applicable Service Manuals will be revised with this new information in the near future.
• 10160487Mar 4, 2019Equipment, Engine. This bulletin announces availability of ECM reprogramming files to optimize the ECM. This bulletin announces availability of ECM reprogramming files to optimize the ECM. The new files contain logic which will revise: (1) the ECM detection of DTC U0122; (2) the EGR flow rate to address a limited number of customer concerns about a slight hesitation felt while driving at highway speeds and using the cruise control.
• 10160485Mar 4, 2019Equipment. This bulletin provides a procedure to follow for addressing customer concerns of a shuddering condition or chattering -type sound heard or felt when making sharp turns. If an applicable vehicle presents with the condition as described, it is recommended to perform the transfer clutch break-in procedure as described.
• 10155225Feb 22, 2019Equipment. This Service Information bulletin announces a design change made to the rubber timing hole access plug to improve its retention and prevent water intrusion into the converter case.
• 10155214Feb 12, 2019Engine cooling. This bulletin announces availability of ECM reprogramming files to optimize the ECM. The new files contain logic which will revise: ? the ECM detection of DTC U0122 ? the EGR flow rate to address a limited number of customer concerns about a slight hesitation felt while driving at highway speeds and using the cruise control.
• 10155212Feb 11, 2019Equipment, Exterior lighting. This bulletin announces a service procedure requirement to follow whenever removing the rear tail lamp access covers. The change involves the two retaining clips which are now ONE-TIME USE items and MUST always be replaced before reinstalling the covers.
• 10154408Jan 10, 2019Body and structure. This bulletin outlines a design change made to the inner frame assembly used with the silver (?chrome?) type outer door handle to improve its reliability.
• 10154207Jan 10, 2019Equipment, Air bags. This Bulletin provides information regarding Event Data Recorder (EDR) functionality which has been incorporated into the airbag system.
• 10154205Jan 7, 2019Electrical system. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head…

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