Activating your MySubaru remote features allows you to control certain vehicle functions from your smartphone, such as starting the engine, locking/unlocking doors, and locating your car. The process typically involves linking your vehicle to your MySubaru account through the MySubaru app and ensuring your vehicle has the necessary telematics equipment and an active subscription. If you’re encountering difficulties, common setup issues often stem from incorrect account linking, subscription status, or vehicle communication problems.

Linking Your Vehicle to Your MySubaru Account

The first step to activating remote features is to ensure your vehicle is correctly linked to your MySubaru account. This process usually begins after you’ve created a MySubaru account and added your vehicle’s VIN.

1. Create or Log In to Your MySubaru Account: Visit the MySubaru website or download the MySubaru app and create a new account, or log in if you already have one.

2. Add Your Vehicle: Follow the prompts to add your vehicle to your account. You will typically need your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

3. Verify Ownership: Subaru may require a verification step to confirm you are the owner of the vehicle. This might involve checking your driver’s license or other documentation.

4. Download and Log In to the MySubaru App: Once your vehicle is linked on the website, download the MySubaru mobile app on your smartphone and log in with your account credentials.

Setting Up and Confirming Remote Features

After your vehicle is successfully linked, you can proceed to activate and confirm the remote features within the app.

1. Navigate to Connected Services: In the MySubaru app, find the section dedicated to “Connected Services” or “Remote Services.”

2. Enable Features: You may see a list of available remote features. Select the ones you wish to activate. For features like remote start, there might be additional security confirmations or settings within the app.

3. Allow Time for Synchronization: It can take a few minutes for the app to communicate with your vehicle and for the features to become fully active.

4. Test a Feature: To confirm activation, try using a basic feature, such as locking or unlocking your doors remotely. If the doors respond, the feature is likely working. For remote start, follow the in-app instructions precisely, and observe if the engine starts and the climate control activates.

Why Features Might Be Unavailable or Greyed Out

If you’ve linked your vehicle but find that certain remote features are unavailable or appear greyed out in the MySubaru app, it’s most commonly due to your vehicle’s specific equipment or an inactive subscription. Some Subaru models or trim levels may not be equipped with the necessary telematics hardware for all remote functions. Additionally, advanced features like remote start and climate control often require a paid subscription after an initial complimentary trial period ends.

• Verification: Check your MySubaru account dashboard online. It will clearly indicate your current subscription status for connected services and list which features are included or have expired. If a feature is listed as “not equipped” for your VIN, it means your vehicle does not have the hardware for that specific function.

Common Setup Issues and Solutions

Several common issues can prevent MySubaru remote features from activating correctly, even if your vehicle is equipped and subscribed.

Remote Commands Not Working

If you can see the features in the app but they don’t respond when you try to use them, the problem could be with the app’s connection to the vehicle or the vehicle’s own systems.

• Check Your Phone’s Connection: Ensure your smartphone has a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular data).
• Check Vehicle’s Telematics Signal: Your Subaru needs to have a good cellular signal for remote commands to be received. If your vehicle is in an area with poor reception (e.g., underground parking, remote rural areas), remote features may not work.
• Restart the App and Vehicle: Close the MySubaru app completely and reopen it. Sometimes, a simple restart of the app can resolve temporary glitches. You can also try turning your vehicle off and then back on.
• Re-pair the App: In some cases, unlinking and then re-linking your vehicle within the app can resolve persistent communication issues.

Remote Start Requirements Not Met

Remote start has specific conditions that must be met for it to function, even if activated in the app. Failure to meet these can cause the command to be rejected.

• Vehicle Status: Ensure the vehicle is locked, all doors are closed, and the hood is securely latched.
• Fuel Level: Most systems require a minimum fuel level (often around 1/4 tank) to prevent starting an empty vehicle.
• Parking Brake: The parking brake must be engaged.
• Transmission: The transmission must be in Park.
• Check Engine Light: If the check engine light is illuminated, remote start will typically be disabled for safety reasons.

If you’ve verified all these conditions and remote start still fails, consult your owner’s manual for specific troubleshooting steps or contact Subaru support.

Inconsistent Feature Availability by Model Year or Trim

It’s important to note that the availability and functionality of MySubaru remote features can vary significantly based on your vehicle’s model year, trim level, and the original equipment installed. Older models may have limited or no remote capabilities, while newer models with advanced telematics systems will offer a broader range. Always refer to your vehicle’s specific owner’s manual or the MySubaru website for details on feature availability for your particular Subaru.

• Practical Implication: Understanding your vehicle’s specific capabilities is crucial before relying on remote features. If your model year or trim level does not support a desired function, like remote climate control, you will not be able to activate it through the app, regardless of subscription status. This prevents frustration and ensures you are aware of your vehicle’s actual limitations.