Subaru Ascent 2018-2026 Owner's Manual: Air conditioner control

In the Subaru Ascent, the air conditioning system functions only when the engine is running, ensuring stable performance and proper cooling efficiency.

To activate the air conditioner, make sure the fan is already operating, then proceed with the following steps.

• If the "A/C" icon is visible on the customizable shortcut area, simply tap "A/C". Once activated, the indicator will illuminate, and the A/C symbol will appear on the climate control mode indicator of the Subaru Ascent.
• If another function is displayed instead of "A/C", first open the climate control menu by tapping the mode indicator, then select "A/C" from the available options.

  After activation, the A/C indicator will light up, confirming that the Subaru Ascent cooling system is operating.

To deactivate the air conditioner in the Subaru Ascent, tap "A/C" again. The indicator light will turn off, signaling that the system is no longer cooling.

NOTE

For improved defogging and humidity control, especially in colder weather, it is recommended to activate the air conditioner even when cooling is not required. However, when the outside temperature approaches approximately 32°F (0°C), the A/C system and dehumidification function may not operate effectively.

Air inlet selection

In the Subaru Ascent, you can control whether fresh air is drawn from outside or recirculated within the cabin by selecting the appropriate air inlet mode via the climate control interface.

Recirculation mode: In this mode, interior air is continuously circulated within the Subaru Ascent cabin. This setting is particularly useful in the following situations:

• Driving on dusty or polluted roads
• Maximizing cooling performance during hot weather conditions

To activate recirculation mode:

• is displayed on the customizable icon:
  (1) Tap .
• is not displayed on the customizable icon:
  (1) Open the climate control menu.
  (2) Select the recirculation option from the air inlet controls.

will appear on the climate control mode indicator, confirming that recirculation mode is active.

Outside air circulation mode: This mode allows fresh air from outside to enter the Subaru Ascent cabin, improving ventilation and air quality.

It is recommended to use this mode in the following cases:

• After leaving dusty or polluted environments
• When the cabin temperature has reached a comfortable level

Switching back to outside air mode follows the same procedure as activating recirculation mode. When selected, will appear on the climate display.

WARNING

Extended use of recirculation mode in the Subaru Ascent may cause window fogging and reduce visibility.

Always switch back to outside air mode once external conditions improve to maintain proper airflow and clear windows.

NOTE

When outside air mode is selected in the Subaru Ascent, the system may automatically adjust airflow settings based on cabin temperature, selected temperature, and environmental conditions.

To turn off the front climate control system

To switch off the front climate control system in the Subaru Ascent, tap the "ON/OFF" button on the climate control display.