Subaru Ascent 2018-2026 Owner's Manual: Starting and stopping engine (models with push-button start system)

Safety precautions

Always follow the general safety recommendations provided for the Subaru Ascent before operating the engine to ensure safe and reliable vehicle use.

Operating range for push-button start system

Refer to the specified operating range for the Subaru Ascent push-button start system to ensure proper communication between the vehicle and the access key fob.

Starting engine

WARNING

• When starting the Subaru Ascent engine, carefully observe all general safety precautions.

  These precautions are essential to prevent accidents and ensure proper operation of the vehicle.

• If the push-button ignition switch indicator flashes green after the Subaru Ascent engine has started, do not begin driving.

  This indicates that the steering lock has not been released, which may lead to loss of control and potential accidents.

CAUTION

• If the operation indicator on the Subaru Ascent push-button ignition switch flashes orange, it may signal a system malfunction.

  Contact an authorized SUBARU dealer as soon as possible for inspection and repair.

• If the indicator flashes green after engine start, the steering system may still be locked. Depress the brake pedal while gently turning the steering wheel left and right, then press the push-button ignition switch again.
• Avoid pressing and holding the Subaru Ascent push-button ignition switch for more than 10 seconds.

  If the engine fails to start, release the switch, turn the system OFF, wait at least 10 seconds, and then attempt to start the engine again.

NOTE

• After starting, the Subaru Ascent engine may temporarily maintain a higher idle speed as part of normal operation.
• When pressing the push-button ignition switch while holding the brake pedal, the starter motor operates for up to 10 seconds and automatically disengages once the engine starts.
• The Subaru Ascent engine can be started regardless of the current ignition mode as long as the brake pedal is depressed.
• If the security indicator light illuminates and the engine does not start, switch the system to "OFF" and retry the starting procedure.
• If the engine still does not start, press the ignition switch without pressing the brake pedal to turn the system OFF. Then press the brake pedal firmly and attempt to start again.
• Radio wave interference may occasionally affect the operation of the Subaru Ascent push-button system.

  In such cases, refer to the standard engine starting procedure.

• After battery disconnection and reconnection, starting may be temporarily difficult due to the throttle system self-check. Turn the ignition ON for approximately 10 seconds before starting.
• If the Subaru Ascent battery is discharged, the steering lock cannot be released.

  Recharge or replace the battery as needed.

• Do not move the select lever while the starter is operating.

1. Operation indicator
2. Push-button ignition switch

In the Subaru Ascent, pressing the push-button ignition switch while depressing the brake pedal initiates the engine start sequence. Follow the steps below carefully.

1. Ensure the Subaru Ascent access key fob is inside the vehicle, then sit in the driver’s seat.

2. Apply the parking brake securely.

3. Move the select lever to the "P" position. Although starting is possible in "N", using "P" is recommended for safety.

4. Depress the brake pedal until the operation indicator turns green. When starting in "N", the indicator may not illuminate.

5. While pressing the brake pedal, press the push-button ignition switch to start the Subaru Ascent engine.

NOTE

• If the select lever button is being pressed, the indicator may not turn green even when in "P".
• In emergency situations, if the Subaru Ascent engine does not start normally, switch to "ACC", press the brake pedal firmly, and hold the ignition switch for at least 15 seconds to attempt a start.
• If the brake pedal feels stiff, press it more firmly to ensure proper activation of the starting system.

Stopping engine

1. Bring the Subaru Ascent to a complete stop.

2. Move the select lever to the "P" position.

3. Press the push-button ignition switch to turn off the engine and electrical systems.

WARNING

• Avoid touching the Subaru Ascent push-button ignition switch while driving.

  The engine may stop if:

  • The switch is held for 3 seconds or longer.
  • The switch is pressed rapidly three times or more.

If the Subaru Ascent engine stops while driving, the brake booster and power steering systems will stop functioning normally.

This will require significantly more effort to steer and brake, increasing the risk of an accident.

• If the engine stops while driving, do not operate the ignition switch or open doors until the Subaru Ascent is safely stopped.

  The steering lock may activate, creating a dangerous situation. Contact a SUBARU dealer immediately.

CAUTION

• Do not switch off the Subaru Ascent engine while the select lever is not in the "P" position.
• If the engine is stopped in another position, the system may remain in "ACC" mode, which can discharge the battery if left unattended.

NOTE

• If the ignition switch is pressed while driving, the Subaru Ascent will display warning messages and sound alerts on the instrument panel.
• Although emergency shutdown is possible, avoid turning off the engine while driving unless absolutely necessary.

When access key fob does not operate properly

Refer to the Subaru Ascent section regarding access key fob malfunction procedures for additional guidance.

Steering lock

After stopping the Subaru Ascent engine and opening any door, including the rear gate, the steering wheel will automatically lock as part of the anti-theft system.

When restarting the Subaru Ascent, the steering lock will disengage automatically.

When the steering lock cannot be released

1. Operation indicator
2. Push-button ignition switch

If the Subaru Ascent cannot be restarted due to the steering lock, check the indicator and follow these steps.

Operation indicator flashing in green

1. Confirm that the select lever is in the "P" position.

2. Depress and hold the brake pedal.

3. While turning the steering wheel left and right, press the push-button ignition switch.

Operation indicator flashing in orange

This condition may indicate a malfunction in the Subaru Ascent steering lock system. Contact your nearest SUBARU dealer immediately for inspection and repair.

The Subaru Ascent push-button start system is designed for convenience and advanced control, but following proper procedures ensures safety, prevents system errors, and maintains long-term reliability.