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Subaru Ascent reference

Subaru Ascent 2018-2026 Owner's Manual: Meters and gauges

NOTE

Some meters and gauges in the Subaru Ascent instrument cluster utilize liquid crystal displays. If you are wearing polarized sunglasses, visibility of certain indicators may be reduced.

Speedometer

The Subaru Ascent speedometer provides a clear and precise display of the vehicle’s current speed, helping the driver maintain safe and legal driving conditions.

Tachometer

The tachometer in the Subaru Ascent shows engine speed in thousands of revolutions per minute (RPM), allowing the driver to monitor engine performance efficiently.

CAUTION

Do not operate the Subaru Ascent engine with the tachometer needle in the red zone. In this range, the engine control module will automatically cut fuel injection to prevent engine damage caused by excessive RPM.

Normal engine operation will resume once the engine speed drops below the red zone threshold.

Odometer

Subaru Ascent odometer and trip reset switch location

  1. TRIP RESET switch
  2. Combination meter

When the ignition switch is set to the "ON" position, the Subaru Ascent odometer displays the total accumulated distance traveled by the vehicle.

This value represents the overall mileage and is essential for maintenance tracking and resale value assessment.

NOTE

Pressing the TRIP RESET switch while the ignition is in the "LOCK"/"OFF" or "ACC" position will temporarily illuminate the odometer/trip meter display.

The display will automatically turn off under the following conditions:

  • If the TRIP RESET switch is not used for approximately 10 seconds.
  • If the driver’s door is opened and then closed.

Double trip meter

Subaru Ascent dual trip meter A and B display

  1. TRIP RESET switch
  2. Combination meter

The Subaru Ascent is equipped with dual trip meters (Trip A and Trip B), which display the distance traveled since the last reset, offering flexible tracking for different journeys.

You can switch between trip displays by pressing the TRIP RESET switch, cycling through the available options as shown below.

Subaru Ascent trip meter switching sequence display

To reset either trip meter, select Trip A or Trip B and then press and hold the TRIP RESET switch until the value returns to zero.

CAUTION

For safety reasons, avoid changing display modes or resetting trip data while driving the Subaru Ascent, as this may lead to distraction and increase the risk of an accident.

NOTE

  • If the connection between the Subaru Ascent battery and combination meter is interrupted (for example, during maintenance or fuse replacement), stored trip data will be lost.
  • Pressing the TRIP RESET switch in the "LOCK"/"OFF" or "ACC" position will activate the display temporarily.

    During this time, you can switch between Trip A and Trip B displays.

    Additionally, holding the TRIP RESET switch allows you to reset the selected trip meter.

    The display will turn off automatically under the following conditions:

    • If the TRIP RESET switch is not operated for approximately 10 seconds.
    • If the driver’s door is opened and then closed.

Fuel gauge

Subaru Ascent fuel gauge showing remaining fuel level

The fuel gauge in the Subaru Ascent indicates the approximate amount of fuel remaining in the tank, helping you plan refueling stops efficiently.

When the ignition switch is in the "LOCK"/"OFF" or "ACC" position, the fuel gauge will display "E" regardless of the actual fuel level.

Fluctuations in the fuel gauge reading may occur due to fuel movement in the tank during acceleration, braking, or cornering.

NOTE

  • You will notice the " Subaru Ascent fuel filler lid direction indicator" symbol in the Subaru Ascent fuel gauge, indicating that the fuel filler door is located on the right-hand side of the vehicle.
  • Pressing the TRIP RESET switch while the ignition is in the "LOCK"/"OFF" or "ACC" position will illuminate the fuel gauge and display the current fuel level.

    The display will turn off automatically after approximately 10 seconds if no further action is taken.

Engine coolant temperature gauge

Subaru Ascent engine coolant temperature gauge normal range indicator

  1. Normal operating range

The engine coolant temperature gauge in the Subaru Ascent displays the temperature of the engine coolant when the ignition switch is in the "ON" position.

The temperature reading may vary depending on external weather conditions and driving style.

For optimal performance and longevity of the Subaru Ascent engine, it is recommended to drive moderately until the temperature gauge needle reaches the normal operating range. Avoid high engine speeds until the engine is fully warmed up.

CAUTION

If the temperature gauge needle exceeds the normal operating range, stop the Subaru Ascent safely as soon as possible to prevent engine damage.

ECO gauge

Subaru Ascent ECO gauge fuel efficiency indicator

The ECO gauge in the Subaru Ascent provides a visual indication of driving efficiency by comparing current fuel consumption with the average consumption since the last trip reset.

When the ECO gauge moves toward the right side, it indicates improved fuel efficiency and more economical driving behavior.

NOTE

  • The ECO gauge provides an approximate reference and should not be considered an exact measurement.
  • After resetting the trip meter, the Subaru Ascent requires approximately 1 mile (or 1 km) of driving before displaying average fuel consumption data. Until then, the ECO gauge will remain inactive.

Combination meter settings

The Subaru Ascent allows customization of meter settings through the central information display. For detailed instructions, refer to the general settings section.

Additional note: Understanding the Subaru Ascent instrument cluster and warning systems helps ensure safer driving, better vehicle maintenance, and improved fuel efficiency in everyday use.

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