2019-2025 Subaru Ascent Starter Motor: Noises, TSBs, and Replacement Guide

Symptoms of a Failing Starter Motor

A bad starter in a Subaru Ascent often gives warning signs before it fails completely. It's important to distinguish these from battery problems, which can cause similar no-start conditions. Always test your battery and check its connections for corrosion before assuming the starter is the culprit.

Common Failure Sounds

• Single Loud Click, Then Nothing: This is the most classic symptom of a failed starter. When you press the start button, you hear one distinct 'click' from the engine bay, but the engine doesn't crank. This usually means the starter solenoid is engaging, but the motor itself is dead and not spinning.
• Whirring or High-Pitched Spinning Noise: If you hear a fast spinning or whining sound but the engine isn't turning over, it points to a failure in the starter's one-way clutch or Bendix gear. The motor is spinning, but it's not successfully engaging the flywheel to crank the engine. This specific issue is a known problem for the 2019-2021 Ascent.
• Grinding Noise: A harsh, metallic grinding sound during or just after cranking means the starter gear is not meshing correctly with the flywheel's teeth or is failing to retract. Continuing to try and start the engine can cause expensive damage to the flywheel.
• Slow, Labored Cranking: If the engine turns over much more slowly than usual, it can be a sign of a failing starter motor drawing excessive electrical current. However, this symptom is also very common with a weak or dying battery.
• No Sound at All: While this could be a completely dead battery or an ignition system problem, it can also indicate a total failure of the starter motor and solenoid.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

While there are no direct safety recalls for the starter motor itself, Subaru has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that address related starting issues.

TSB 07-198-21: Whiny Starter & No-Crank Failure

Subaru identified an issue in 2019-2021 Ascent models where the starter develops a loud, whiny, or "chirpy" sound during startup. If ignored, this can lead to a complete failure where the starter whirs but does not crank the engine. The problem is caused by a faulty one-way clutch inside the starter assembly. The fix involves replacing the starter with an updated part. This repair is typically covered under the vehicle's basic 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.

TSB 09-88-22: No-Start in Cold Weather

This TSB addresses a condition on 2019-2022 Ascent models where the starter motor may not operate when trying to restart the engine after a short trip in temperatures below freezing (32°F / 0°C). The issue is caused by moisture freezing inside the ignition relay. The solution is an ECM (Engine Control Module) software update that changes the relay's operation to prevent this. This may also be associated with a P0890 trouble code.

Related Recalls

It's important to note that the Ascent has had several recalls for electrical and starting-related issues that are not directly the starter motor. These include a recall for a faulty PCV valve that could cause the engine to stall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V856000) and a major recall for an improperly secured ground bolt for the PTC heater that posed a fire risk (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V907000). These highlight the importance of ensuring the entire electrical system is in good order when diagnosing starting problems.

Buying a Used Starter Motor

For many owners, a used OEM starter is a smart choice, offering the same quality and fit as a new dealer part at a fraction of the price. Here’s what to look for:

• Verify Part Numbers: The original part number for the 2019 Ascent was 23300AA91A. This has been superseded by the updated part number 23300AA91B. When buying used, aim for the newer '91B' version if possible, as it may have internal updates to address the known clutch issue.
• Mileage is Key: Starters are wear items. A starter from a low-mileage vehicle (e.g., under 60,000 miles) is a much safer bet than one from a high-mileage vehicle. Ask the seller for the mileage of the donor vehicle.
• Physical Inspection: Check the electrical terminals for any signs of corrosion, arcing, or heat damage. Ensure the case is not cracked or damaged. The small Bendix gear should be clean and free of chipped teeth.
• Why Used OEM vs. New Aftermarket: A recycled OEM starter from a low-mileage Ascent is often more reliable than a new, cheap aftermarket part. Aftermarket starters can have issues with fitment and longevity, while the OEM part was designed specifically for your vehicle's 2.4L engine and electrical system.

Replacement Overview

Replacing the starter on a Subaru Ascent is a moderately difficult job that is feasible for a DIY mechanic with the right tools.

• Location: The starter is typically located on the top of the transmission bellhousing, accessible from the top of the engine bay after removing the air intake assembly.
• Difficulty: 2 out of 5. The main challenge is accessing the bolts and electrical connectors in a tight space.
• Estimated Time: 1-1.5 hours.
• Key Steps:
  1. Disconnect the battery negative terminal. This is the most critical safety step to prevent electrical shorts and injury.
  2. Remove the air intake ducting for access.
  3. Disconnect the main power cable and the small solenoid signal wire from the starter.
  4. Unbolt the two main mounting bolts that hold the starter to the transmission.
  5. Installation is the reverse of removal. Ensure all electrical connections are clean and tight.

Cost Comparison

Prices can vary by supplier and location, but here is a general breakdown of costs:

Frequently Asked Questions