Shannon R. Brown

I accidentally joined a cult. Seriously. What cult did I join? Glad you asked. The Subaru Cult. Four years ago I bought a Subaru Outback. When my son graduated from college last year, the husband and I gifted it to him which meant I needed a new car. I loved my little blue Outback, but realized that I really needed a car with a little more room in the cabin for traveling. As such, I decided on the Ascent. And that’s really when it all began.

Before we bought the car, Mr. Brown noticed that there was an Ascent owner group on Facebook. At his suggestion I clicked on the Join button. Hello rabbit hole! I had no idea there was such a rabid fan base for the largest of the Subaru vehicles. Interestingly, the group members run the gamut of true motor heads, outdoor enthusiasts, animal lovers, and those of us that were just looking for handy tips and info on our vehicle. Plus a few people that are really just there to complain – I think that’s a requirement for any social media group.

I’ve known about several cult groups involving cars, particularly Jeeps and muscle cars, but I had no idea there was a similar type of thing for an SUV. But there is. Don’t get me wrong, there is lots of useful info shared in the group. It’s my go to for questions involving my car, Liza, but then there’s the other half of the things I see – I have no idea what they mean. What the heck does it mean to delete your chrome? That’s a new one to me and I’m still not sure I understand it. 

There are definitely some interesting discussions. What’s the best type of tire? How can you increase your fuel efficiency? Where can you get the best deal when purchasing? Best service facility near you? That’s all there. And then there are the true Ascent worshippers. Apparently, it’s an affront to your car if you run it through a car wash. Hand washes are the gold standard – and one I don’t even consider. Who’s got time for that? Well, I do, but I don’t have the patience or the will so, I’m just gonna blame it on a time issue, not the laziness factor.

I do have to thank my fellow group members for a storage hack. Who knew an Ikea recycling bin was the solution to my between-the-back seat needs? A fellow cultist, that’s who!

I know cults get a bad wrap, but I’ve decided to embrace my membership in the Ascent club. It’s been nothing but a positive experience so far. But I want to make it clear right now to the group moderator, I don’t like KoolAid, so if you want to play Jim Jones, you’re out of luck with me. 

Do I have any fellow cultists out there? I’d love to hear about it in the comments. Please make sure to give this a like, a share, and if you don’t already, a subscribe. Thanks!