I have the Thule AeroBlade Edge that I have had for a year. I like them but am concerned about the rubber bands but they seem easily replaceable. They are relatively easy to install and remove.
I use a magnetic mount on an adjustable flexible stick-thing stuck into the center cup holder. I’ll try to post a photo tomorrow.
Picked it up on amazon. This looks similar: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MRBTFXZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_R4qYCb2HXYTE8
I got the Amazon Basics one. It's dirt cheap and it fits pretty well.
It has two adjustable buckle straps that go around the headrests, some elastic bands for the corners of the seat bottoms, and these kind of rod things that you tuck into the gap between the seat bottom/back to hold it down. I wish the elastic bands were slightly tighter, but beyond that it's a really good fit for a $18 generic cover.
I don't know what long-term durability will be like, but it seems pretty good. I have a 95 pound pit/Dane mix who likes to stand and move around a bit when we drive and I don't have any worries about this for general running around with the dog.
It has slits for the seatbelt buckles that make the back seat usable for people, but this might be a liability if you move really wet/muddy dogs around. But for just avoiding basic wet paws I don't think it's a big deal.
So, I've been looking into that as well. Here's what I have learned.
It's not everything, but, it's a start to get you in the right direction. Hope it helps!
If you run into problems and need some info or tips, shoot me a message on Facebook (I'm not as active here as I'd like to be).
We use this vent mount on the passenger side center vent. It's not ideal due to blocking air but it doesn't slide around and we can still open and close the air vent. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07W12KHKD/
Another premium LED retailer is VLEDS. I like that they offer 5000K bulbs, which are very white without the bluish tint that many LEDs have. I have had VLEDs installed for the door puddle lights, rear cargo, backup, and front turn signals going on 4 years now. I had them in my previous Subary too and they last forever. My rear turn signals are Xenon Depot Xtreme VF bulbs. Thay are over $100, but very bright. I had VLEDS V3 in another car that were just as good, also about $100.
All that being said, i like warm white (2700-3000K) in my interior. White light on the inside makes my ivory leather interior look gross. I never invested in VLEDs or Diode dynamics for the 6 dome lights. I use warm white LEDs from Amazon that do the trick, but they don't last forever - maybe 1-2 years before they start flickering. But $15 for 10-pack is cheap...
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07ZK7DFCZ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
Also—add you probably know—the ‘tow package’ includes the writing for a brake controller, but not the controller itself… you’ll need something like this guy: Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001P11SCM?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Took <10m to install, and ~7m of that was my psyching myself up to put the first screw through the trim.
I have this one. According to their product description, it accommodates 36 oz Yeti Ramblers and 40 oz Hydroflasks, among other brands and sizes. I use it with a 32 oz steel Camelbak.
Just posted this, I'll do it again so you see my reply to you..
These work great for me with my large soda cups:
2 Pack Car Cup Holder Expander... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0885WDKXN?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I like large cups of Coke Zero, usually around 44oz size. The cupholders are too small for the cups I get so I picked up these, they work great:
2 Pack Car Cup Holder Expander... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0885WDKXN?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Thanks for the suggestion on the foam blocks. Often it's tempting to spend more on whatever's top-of-the-line, but I don't think I'd benefit from that here -- since I don't have any other uses for the cross bars.
As far as a hood loops, I may get something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Seattle-Sports-Sherpak-Quick-Loops/dp/B094DTH8CH. That should allow the canoe to be attached to two points in front more securely.
Shynerk Baby Car Mirror, Safety Car Seat Mirror for Rear Facing Infant with Wide Crystal Clear View, Shatterproof, Fully Assembled, Crash Tested and Certified https://www.amazon.com/Shynerk-Crystal-Shatterproof-Assembled-Certified/dp/B07F8HTSKD
This is mine- it gets super tight on my ascent headrest in the second row. Highly recommend.
I have two of these (one for ascent one for outback). I had another mirror, but it needed constant adjustment. I always transport my big dog in the car, he does NOT knock this one around.
Check this out! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008HCXIU2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref_=cm_sw_r_ud_dp_Q8SMQBB4Q5DFQ6ZC7DAK
We replaced a Chevy Venture with our 21 Ascent. The higher floor of the Ascent cut into the total capacity when compared to the van. But the captains chairs in the second row more than made up for it. We leave the rear seats folded all the time. But still found space lacking when going on extended trips with camping gear. So broke my little 4x5 trailer out of retirement, cleaned it up and will be using it for added space. That still leaves me with all the room in the car for people, stuff to keep the kids entertained while traveling and luggage in the back while still able to see out of the back windows. So you might want to look into a good hitch rack, a roof rack or a small trailer, even better if you can find a small enclosed trailer that is not very tall.
If you do go with a hitch rack or trailer I would advise you get a hitch clamp to tighten the hitch in the receiver so it isn't rattling around and bouncing all over behind your vehicle. I got a heavy duty one from amazon and I love it. you have to fight a bit to get it on and tight due to the plastic trim below the receiver but once on it is so nice This is the one we bought but you can find others. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0068D1M1E?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
I use an aluminum jack pad, works great on my Ascent and K900.
I have one of these. Wife got it for me when we upgraded from a 2003 Corolla to our new 2021 Ascent. I have clumsy fingers and she was adamant I use it so I don't damage the FOB.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08PVC86NK/
I honestly like it. I saw my wife's keys last week and I was confused because I'm so used to my wrapped FOB. It hardly adds any bulk and looks like a natural part of the key.
I do it myself. Due to ground clearance, I don't even jack up the car.
I did my first change at 3k and another at 6k. I prefer to do them every 3k miles, since it's so easy and cheap. I pay more to fill the gas tank than to change the oil haha
What you'll need:
*Oil drain pan * Shop towels * Disposable gloves * Wheel chocks * 5q 0W20 Synthetic (I use Mobile 1, but it doesn't matter a ton) * 1 oil filter * Cardboard to cover for spills * Optional: floor mat, tarp, or roller (I use a mat) * Optional: oil filter wrench
Here are the steps I take:
Id also recommend keeping all your receipts for warranty purposes. It is a pretty simple process, and after you've done it once it gets way easier.
I am doing it myself, it's super easy.
For my first oil change I switched out the drain plug for a fumoto valve.
Once installed, you can access the valve from under the vehicle and just flip the ball valve open and drain into a pan or use a hose to drain into a bottle.
My process is:
Run engine for a bit to warm oil,
Turn off engine
Put oil pan under vehicle
Flip valve open
Open oil cap in engine bay
Wait for oil to drain
Remove oil filter
Rub small amount of oil on new filter seal
Screw on new filter (hand tight)
Go under car, remove oil pan and close ball valve, slip on safety clip
Pour in new oil until correct level is reached
Close cap
Run engine a few minutes, let cool
Check oil level again, add if needed
Close cap
Forget about it for 6k miles then rinse and repeat.
You really don't even need tools other than an oil pan for this.
I use Costco's synthetic oil and get my fuel filters online in 6 or 12 packs for cost savings.
Bro come on
Reduce Roof Rack Wind Noise | Stop Crossbar Whistle | Universal Fit Roof Rack Noise Reduction - NXTGEN AeroGrips (2 Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09VCCYPSP/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_3NPY430J9N2F278XBBTG
You yourself said you found your crossbar at Amazon. You know how long it took to find? I pissed and was shaking the last few drops.
Por 15 or chassis saver are really good options. I personally prefer chassis saver and it has worked really well for me.
Prep of your vehicle is really important for best results. I've lived in MN and Wisconsin for 30+ years and no matter if used or new, my cars always get rust removed then a good coat of one of these products
You can get genuine Subaru ones from Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/Subaru-Crossbar-Set-2019-2020-Ascent/dp/B07VXK1CF2/
It says it fits 2019-2020 but the Subaru part number is the same for all Ascent models. We have it on our '21 without issue. If you're more comfortable you can buy it from a Subaru part store instead of Amazon. Price is slightly cheaper, but will end up costing more after shipping.
This is the one we have.
It fits a small bathroom-size trash can, tissues, snacks, and more. When driving, I can reach my arm back and reach the trash can that sits in there. Sometimes a roll of paper towels finds its way in for longer trips. It fits very well between the captains chairs.
I ordered these for the seat backs.
Lusso Gear Heavy Duty Kick Mats (2 Pk) - Back Seat Protector, Sag Proof, Waterproof, Car Back Seat Cover for Kids Who Make Big Messes, 3 Reinforced Storage Pockets, Premium Oxford Fabric https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7AIRYD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_D9CAQMG615RNXH21R4MV?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Get the OEM one from any online supplier. If you need to trim it to fit there is an outline in the back showing you exactly where to cut it. Get car rubber trim to make it look good after the cut.
Winunite 16-2/5Ft Car Door Edge Guards No Glue Universal Fit Black Rubber Automotive Door Edge Guard U Shape Vehicle Fender Flares Edge Trim Car Door https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JMM66HB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_S68awyiuSTzLC
Try this out - seriously. Once they have something to put their feet on, the kicking completely stops.
Sunany Inflatable Foot Rest Pillow for Travel, Kids/Adults Airplane Travel Pillow-Adjustable Height Cushions,for Kids to Sleep While Traveling,Suitable for Office, Home and Any Travel (1 Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07K69DZWK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_W65CVV3J8HATP1B81FH9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
It sounds like the Ascent did exactly what I’m assuming you bought it for: to protect your new and growing family. For me, that one factor supersedes all other “drawbacks” combined, and why I’ll likely ONLY buy Subaru as our daily driver until my kids are fully grown.
That said…
1- Give them something to put their feet up on so their feet aren’t just dangling. We got this adjustable inflatable foot rest off Amazon for $20 and it works like a charm.
2- The higher trim levels are much, much better. If they’re still not supportive/comfortable enough for your needs though, I’d definitely try a support insert before considering a less safe SUV.
2022 Wireless Carplay Adapter Suitable for The Car Models which Have OEM Wired CarPlay - Upgrade to Wireless CarPlay Connection, Support iOS System, for car from 2017 to Now (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08TVL9XP9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_PE513QFEC0GVEA3XCD81?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I got this brand and model. It works in my 2021 Subaru ascent and alpine head unit in my Mazda 2014.
I'm a fan of the touch up paint pen options like this one and have used them on my previous vehicles and my wife's Subaru for little chips and things like this. That would be my recommendation, get one that matches your vehicle's color
It’s the MaxxHaul 46" x 35.87" x 4-1/2" rack. Got it on Amazon and have been very pleased with it. Had it on the Outback with plenty of cargo and zero issues. Also bought the bungee net to help hold everything together.
Link to net:
47"x 36" Cargo net Bungee Nets... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C2KH7TN?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Link to Roof Rack:
MaxxHaul 46" x 36" x 4-1/2" - 150... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073G49NPV?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
CURT 45900 Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, 2-Inch Receiver, 6-Inch Drop, 2 and 2-5/16-Inch Balls, 14,000 lbs , Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004SMGAJ6/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_NXWGXX1E66QMQQZN6TX0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I just got an Ottocast U2 Now, but I haven’t driven yet since receiving it. I did hook it up, which was quick and easy.
Echoing mcdano, though, you can’t also connect to WiFi.
There are reviews of other units at https://www.carplaylife.com/
Could be your phone, and believe it or not, could be your cable.
Do me a favor - do you know what plackers are? Go buy a pack, and fold out the little plastic bit and see if you can dig out any accumulated lint in the Galaxy S9 USB connector area. It's like belly button lint, it adds up over time. I had to do this with my S9 and it fixed charging issues as well as Android Auto issues.
About your cable - make sure you have a DATA cable and not a cheap POS charging cable. My personal preference is for right-angle connectors like these guys. But, triple check to make sure you're using a proper cable.
I got these:
Munchkin Brica Deluxe Kick Mats... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B7M7CLA?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
and:
Diono Two2Go Ultra Mat, Car Seat... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07S3L9B96?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
They do not look great but protect the seat (s) from dirty little shoes.
Mine kept disconnecting, swapped to a 90 degree angle I figured there was some sort of leverage issue with the cable connecting to the port
UGREEN USB C Cable 90 Degree Type... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PHRPCSR?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Only downside is this isn't a fast charging cable. If you can get a fast charging, 90 degree angle, go for it.
I went down an android auto rabbit hole a couple of months ago. AA always disconnected in my outback, bought a new phone, same issue so I figured it was the car. Traded in my outback for an ascent and 1 mile from the dealership it disconnects.
I ended up finding this cord in my rabbit hole and so many of the reviews called out the issues I was having, so maybe it will help you too!
[Upgrade] USB C Cable 10Gbps, CONMDEX (2-Pack) USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 USB-A Android Auto Cable, 3A Type C Charger Fast Charging Sync Data Transfer Cord for Samsung Galaxy S10/S9/S8 Note 9/8, LG V20, 3.3FT https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087JMJSVC/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_7ZQ79D2BGSV9QVW0ZPN1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Bright side? It hasn't disconnected since!
These guys - they’re not cheap, but you only ever have to one per kid per car. Really easy to set up too.
I have used these for years on my Outback
Replace the cup holder man. I ordered mine from Amazon and install is very easy.
Genuine Subaru Parts - Ascent Cup Holder in (J131SXC100) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08C91DXWQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_RFNB285766R082N03HAF
I bought the premise wiring harness for P3 that is custom for the Ascent. I think it was like $20 and it comes with a proper “click in” connector that clips into the Subaru female plug under the dash on the left side behind/under the cover by the hood release. I’ll take a picture when I’m near it.
Tekonsha Trailer Brake Controller Harness, Compatible with Select Subaru Ascent https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MW3GX61/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_S5ZBS4SHQ7B15WJRNP2M?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Given how much of the vehicle's functionality is integrated into the HU; i dont think there's a viable option to the swapping of the screen units. the most effective and cost efficient thing i can i can think of would be to get one of these units and repurpose the backup camera for the inside.
​
I got these locking crossbars. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005EY2X16/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_uxid13IEifcAz
And this cargo box https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BCLL8C0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_dgTwNb8b4nHnl
Had the box since 2015. Used it on my Forester till recently. Just took it on the Ascent for a 3500 mile trip with no issues.
I love this one. I’ve purchased three!
Shatterproof Baby Car Mirror, Fully View Infant in Rear Facing Car Seat - Newborn Safety, Crash Tested & Extra Wide, Crystal Clear, 100% Lifetime Satisfaction Guarantee, Easy to Install by COZY GREENS https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O6UCXUK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_GYTNPE190H17CSARFFK2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
We have used this one for years on multiple Subaru’s (ascent included). Simple, easy to move around, works great! It’s stayed on while on some fairly bumpy roads.
Magnetic Phone Mount, WixGear [2 Pack] Universal Air Vent Magnetic Phone Car Mount, Phone Holder for Car for Cell Phones and Mini Tablets with 4 Metal Plates https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01G0X56YU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_536ZWPJ4H7D302E05NK7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
They make clip removal tools you can buy on Amazon. It looks like it may unscrew first then pop off
> Random additional opinion: the front seat center console cup holders are weirdly large. I ended up buying some 3-D printed inserts from someone on Etsy so drinks will fit securely.
There's an OEM part you can get for that, actually; I think it comes pretty much standard on newer ones. Part number J131SXC100.
We bought this one from Amazon a couple of years ago for our ~100 pound Great Pyrenees. It sits about level with the parking sensors so it’s not much of a step in from the ramp. The supertrax has worked well in rain and snow, and easier on the paws than the sandpaper kind of non slip. We just stick it in the back with her, when it’s flat there’s still enough room for her to lay down but she can stand on it too. I rigged it up vertically with bungees once but it was more hassle than it was worth.
We have captains seats in the second row and these (https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07KQJMZGQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_83v7FbEZBDFS5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1) have been really good. Not lots of thickness in-between the seat and carseat so there has still been some minor imprinting but it has reduced it. Has definitely kept them cleaner though. Amazing how much crap a kid in a carseat leaves behind...
There are a couple of aftermarket options but they aren't any better priced and probably require a longer installation time. Based on my experience in working on my 2020 Ascent the OEM package is going to be a lot easier to install as the harness is already there.
I'm looking at the OEM options and I see that the installation time is 1 hour which means there probably isn't any wire splicing and that you just have to plug them into an existing harness. The OEM kit also comes with the button for the dash which makes it a very clean install and gives you the option to turn the fog lights off whereas an aftermarket kit would either run when the headlights are on or has a separate, uglier button to add somewhere.
IMO go with the OEM kit. Here are a couple of aftermarket options if you want to look at them.
This one is really cool actually. It has options for amber or white as well as focused or wide beams. I'd go with the OEM wiring plug with that kit.
Certified Lightning Cable,iPhone Charger 5 Pack(0.7FT/3FT/3FT/6FT/10FT) Extra Long Nylon Braided USB Charging&Syncing Cord Compatible with iPhone Xs/XR/XS Max/X/7/7Plus/8/8Plus/6S/6SPlus/5se/5s/5 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MTXNBZW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_v-gTFbMPY6VXE
There's an Amazon Basics one for $20.
IMHO, it's slightly too small width-wise -- I'd like it to cover more of the outside edges of the seat for entry, but other than it's decent and so far has been pretty durable for me and my 95 pound pit-dane mix. I've run it through the washing machine twice without any ill effects (air dry).
I have the Rove R2 in mine and it's good. I have mine behind the rear view mirror just below the eyesight camera and I've had no issues. I haven't hard wired it yet but I bought the kit to do so. Just need it to not be 115 degrees outside before I pull the interior apart. For now I have the cable hiding in the A pillar plastic which it just pushed behind and across the top of the driver side visor.
Some details... This is the module I bought.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074WYMZ4S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fab_yRMzFb1MPPF88
The harness for the tail is under the rear camera. Red wire connects to the green, black to black. I unplugged the harness first, held wires in place to confirm the function before I cut.
I cut before the plug, and hindsight is 20/20, I should've cut after the plug, between the plug and the tail. But, it works as intended.
Not sure how big your boy is, but you could try one of these https://smile.amazon.com/Protector-Waterproof-Scratchproof-Protection-Pets/dp/B078L2MWRN/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=backseat+dog+hammock+car&qid=1596405045&sprefix=Backseat+dog&sr=8-4
I think they also make inflatable fillers for the foot wells, maybe they do for the center part as well? Or just pack a duffel with a big blanket.
I use one of the hammocks in the third row for my two dogs (30lbs ea) and we do mostly highway driving so they can't have windows down.
Something like this? I have no experience with these but Amazon has several of these type of liners to choose from. This particular one goes up the sides of the cargo area and is machine washable.
I've been meaning to get something similar for picking up bags of mulch, etc.
Here ya go man. It’s a win for the price can’t go wrong
It's pretty easy if you take your time. Plan on 4 hours. Make sure you buy a set of Scotty Peelers (https://www.amazon.com/Scotty-Peelers-Label-Sticker-Remover/dp/B0068QIQVA) so you don't mar any of the plastic finishes.
Watch their Forester installation video that is on the product page. It's VERY similar for the Ascent.
If you want to see a picture of what it looks like at night just do a search on the Forester subreddit (/r/SubaruForester) and or the Forester forum (https://www.subaruforester.org/vbulletin/). I saw someone posted a picture of how bright it is there.
So I bought BottlePro - Cup Holder Adapter... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M028L5E?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share that one and it just does not work. If you look at the front cupholders, they're kind of slanted and this thing just slides out. I'm apprehensive about buying a new one just to have it not work.