Can You Install a Middle Seat on Subaru Ascent 2021?
You’re loading up the Subaru Ascent for a weekend trip. The kids are stoked, the gear is packed—but wait. You need one more seat. Maybe there’s a new addition to the family. Maybe you’re carpooling with friends. Suddenly the 7 seater doesn’t feel big enough.
Did you know the Subaru Ascent 2021 comes in 2 configurations? A 7 seater with captain’s chairs and an 8 seater with a bench seat. But what if your Ascent has captain’s chairs and you want that middle seat? Can you do it?
This article will cover adding a middle seat to your Subaru Ascent. You’ll find out what options are available, what Subaru recommends and if it’s for you.
Your Subaru is built for family adventures. Let’s see if it can keep up with your growing needs! Keep reading to find out the options and solutions for you.
Can You Install a Middle Seat in Your 2021 Subaru Ascent?
Yes you can add a middle seat to your 2021 Subaru Ascent even if it came with captain’s chairs. This involves replacing the second row captain’s chairs with a bench seat.
But Subaru doesn’t offer an official modification kit for this so it would be considered an aftermarket modification.
Structural Feasibility
Yes the 2021 Ascent’s structure can accommodate a middle seat. But it’s complicated. But it’s doable.
The 2021 Subaru Ascent comes in 2 configurations:
- 7 seater: 2 captain’s chairs in the second row.
- 8 seater: Bench seat in the second row for 3 passengers.
In 2021 models with captain’s chairs the vehicle has specific anchor points and mounting hardware for those seats. Converting to a bench seat requires:
- Anchor Points: Verifying the existing anchor points match the ones needed for the bench seat. Some models may have pre-existing anchor points for both configurations, others may not.
- Seatbelts and Safety Systems: Ensuring the seatbelt assemblies and airbag systems are compatible with the new seating arrangement. This includes verifying the LATCH system is in the correct position for child safety seats.
How to Add a Middle Seat to the Subaru Ascent of 2021 Model?
Here’s the step by step guide to add the middle seat in the second row of Subaru Ascent:-
- Get a compatible bench seat
- Find a second row bench seat that fits the 2021 Subaru Ascent.
- OEM parts are the safest option as they are designed to fit the Ascent’s floor and anchor points perfectly.
- Bench seats can be found at salvage yards. Or specialized parts dealers or online platforms selling used Subaru parts.
- Verify compatibility
- Make sure the bench seat matches the existing floor mounts, seatbelt anchors and airbag system of your vehicle.
- Ensure the new seat has all the necessary components. Such as headrests, seatbelt latches and child seat anchor points (LATCH system).
- Check the Subaru Ascent’s owner manual or a Subaru expert to confirm the bench seat’s fitment.
- Remove the Captain’s Chairs
- Unbolt the captain’s chairs from the floor.
- Disconnect any electrical connections such as the heated seat functions.
- Store the removed seats somewhere safe as you might need them back.
- Install the Bench Seat
- Place the bench seat in the second row and align it with the vehicle’s floor mounts.
- Use the original bolts or hardware that came with the bench seat.
- You need to connect the seatbelt systems and then do test them before using them.
- Do Safety Checks
- Put pressure on different parts of the bench seat to check the stability
- Look that all the are locked and released.
- Ensure that the airbags are not blocked and work well.
- Get a Professional Inspection
- After the installation is done get it checked by a Subaru expert. To make sure it meets all the safety standards.
- Quickly resolve any issues with airbag functionality, seat installation or seatbelt alignment.
Few Safety Risks of Adding a Middle Seat:
Here I have listed some of the safety risks that come with installing middle seat in your Subaru Ascent:
Seatbelts and Airbags
- Seatbelt Placement: The 7-seater does not have a factory-installed seatbelt for a middle seat in the second row. Adding a seat requires an aftermarket seatbelt system. These systems may not match Subaru’s crash-tested designs. Increased risk in sudden stops or crashes.
- Airbag Limitations: Subaru’s airbag system is designed for the factory seat configuration. Adding a middle seat may put the passenger out of the side-impact airbag’s range of protection. This could result to insufficient protection in case of an accident.
Stability and Crash Safety Implications
- Weight Distribution: The Ascent’s weight distribution is designed for the original seating layout. Changing this could shift the center of gravity. Which may affect handling and stability during turns or emergency maneuvers.
- Structural Anchoring Challenges: The 7-seater has no anchor points for a middle seat. Retrofitting these points requires drilling into the vehicle’s frame. If not done correctly it could weaken the structure or compromise its integrity in case of an impact.
- Crash Test Compliance: Factory configurations undergo crash testing. Adding a seat means you’re skipping this process. You’ll be left wondering how the seat will perform in real world crash scenarios.
Why You Must Follow Safety Standards
- Regulatory Standards: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and other agencies have strict guidelines for vehicle safety. Aftermarket seats rarely meet these standards as they are not tested to the same level.
- Warranty and Insurance Risks: Modifying the seating configuration may void your Subaru’s warranty. Insurers may also deny claims if the modification is found to be a contributing factor in an accident.
- Passenger Safety: Beyond legal and financial risks, passenger safety is the top priority. Improperly installed seats or untested modifications can lead to severe injuries even fatalities in crashes.
Other Legalities:
- Legal Requirements: Some places have laws against seat modifications. Check your local laws.
- Professional Installation: If you do, have a certified tech do the installation to ensure proper anchoring and alignment.
Now that you know the risks, make the smart choice. Prioritize your family’s safety over extra seating capacity.
What is the Impact on Warranty of Adding a Middle Seat?
Changing your Ascent’s seating configuration will void your warranty. Warranty covers factory installed parts and systems. Adding a middle seat is not included in these terms. If a problem occurs due to the modification Subaru will deny the related warranty claim.
Subaru does not recommend changing the original vehicle configuration. They design and test their vehicles for specific configurations.
Adding parts not approved by Subaru will compromise safety and performance. Subaru says in their warranty unauthorized modifications will void the warranty.
Why Do Modifications Affect the Warranty?
- Unapproved Parts Installation: Warranty covers factory installed parts. Installing aftermarket parts like a middle seat will create problems Subaru won’t fix under warranty.
- Changes to Vehicle Integrity: The car’s seating, airbags and frame are tested as a unit. Modifying these will affect performance in accidents. It’s hard for Subaru to ensure safety.
- Maintenance Conflicts: Aftermarket seats may interfere with maintenance. For example added seats may block access to systems under the floor. Subaru may consider these as tampering.
Conclusion
Adding a middle seat to your 2021 Ascent is possible but stupid. Safety, warranty and lack of Subaru approved options makes it a tough call. It seems easy but the costs and risks far outweigh the benefits.
If you need extra seating consider safer options. Trade in your vehicle for an 8 seater model designed for the job and save yourself the hassle in the long run. Always consult a professional before making any changes to your car.
Your family’s safety and peace of mind should come first. Choose the path that keeps everyone safe and worry-free!