Subaru Ascent 2018-2026 Owner's Manual: Ignition switch (models without "keyless access with push-button start system")

WARNING

• Never rotate the ignition switch of your Subaru Ascent to the "LOCK" position while the vehicle is in motion or being towed, as this will lock the steering wheel and result in complete loss of steering control. Additionally, once the engine is turned off, significantly more effort is required to steer the vehicle.
• Always remove the key from the ignition when leaving the Subaru Ascent unattended. Never leave children alone inside the vehicle, as they may accidentally operate power windows, the moonroof, or other controls, or even cause the vehicle to move, resulting in serious injury.

  This safety measure is especially important in the Subaru Ascent due to its advanced electronic systems and accessible controls.

CAUTION

Avoid attaching bulky keychains or large key cases to the Subaru Ascent key. Contact with your knees or hands while driving could unintentionally shift the ignition switch from the "ON" position to "ACC" or "LOCK", potentially shutting off the engine.

Additionally, heavy key bundles may be affected by centrifugal force during driving, which could also lead to unintended movement of the ignition switch in your Subaru Ascent.

The ignition switch in the Subaru Ascent includes four distinct positions: LOCK, ACC, ON, and START, each serving a specific function in vehicle operation.

NOTE

• Always leave the ignition switch in the "LOCK" position when the Subaru Ascent engine is not running to ensure safety.
• Extended use of electrical accessories while the ignition switch is in the "ON" or "ACC" position may discharge the battery.
• If the ignition switch cannot be turned from "LOCK" to "ACC", gently move the steering wheel left and right while turning the key.

Key positions

CAUTION

Never attempt to turn the ignition switch to the "START" position while the Subaru Ascent engine is already running.

NOTE

• To move the key from the "ACC" position to "LOCK", ensure that the select lever is in the "P" position, then press the key inward before turning it.
• If the Subaru Ascent does not start with a registered key, remove it once (the security indicator will flash), then reinsert and turn to "START" again.
• The engine may fail to start under the following conditions.

• The key grip is in contact with another key or metallic key holder, interfering with signal transmission.

• The key is positioned close to another key containing an immobilizer transponder.
• The key is near or touching another electronic transmitter, causing signal disruption.

Key reminder chime

In the Subaru Ascent, a reminder chime will sound when the driver's door is opened while the ignition switch remains in the "LOCK" or "ACC" position, helping prevent leaving the key inside the vehicle.

The warning sound will stop under the following conditions.

• The ignition switch is turned to the "ON" position.
• The key is removed from the ignition switch.
• The driver's door is closed.

Ignition switch light

For improved visibility at night, the Subaru Ascent ignition switch is equipped with illumination that activates when the driver's door is opened or unlocked using the remote keyless entry system.

This light remains on for several seconds and then gradually fades under the following conditions.

•  The driver's door is closed.
•  The doors are unlocked using the remote keyless entry transmitter.

The illumination will turn off immediately in the following situations.

• The ignition switch is turned to the "ON" position.
• All doors and the rear gate are locked using the remote keyless entry system.

Additional note: Proper use and understanding of Subaru Ascent controls, including the ignition system and sunshade features, significantly enhance safety, comfort, and long-term reliability of the vehicle.