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Subaru Remote Start Not Working? Here’s How to Fix It

ByGreedy Wheels

To start your Subaru remotely, you have two methods: the key fob (if your vehicle has factory remote start) or the Subaru Starlink smartphone app. The exact fob sequence varies by model year—most 2019 and newer models use Lock → Lock → hold Lock for three seconds, while some older models require Lock → Lock → Lock. For the app, you’ll need an active Starlink subscription. Below we cover both methods, common failure points, and how to get it working quickly.

Before You Start: Confirm Your Subaru Has Remote Start Capability

Not every Subaru comes with factory remote start. It’s standard on many trims (e.g., Limited, Touring) and optional on others. Also, some models require a paid subscription to use the app-based remote start. Use this checklist to verify your setup:

  • [ ] Model year and trim – Factory remote start was introduced around 2019 on Outback, Forester, Legacy, Crosstrek, Ascent, and Impreza (on select trims). Check your window sticker or owner’s manual.
  • [ ] Key fob type – If your fob has a separate remote start button (icon of an engine with arrows), you have factory remote start. If not, it may still work via the lock sequence.
  • [ ] Starlink subscription – For app-based start, go to my.subaru.com and log in. Your subscription must include “Remote Engine Start” (typically part of Safety Plus or Security Plus plans).
  • [ ] Doors and trunk closed – The system won’t start if any door, the trunk, or the hood is ajar.
  • [ ] Transmission in Park – Remote start only engages when the gear selector is in Park.
  • [ ] Battery voltage above 12.4V – A weak battery often disables remote start to preserve starting power.

If everything checks out, you’re ready to proceed.

Step-by-Step: Using the Factory Key Fob to Remote Start

The fob method works without a subscription and is the fastest way to start your Subaru from up to about 400 feet away.

1. Lock the doors

Press the Lock button once. The horn will chirp and lights will flash.

2. Press Lock a second time (or three times for some models)

  • 2019 and newer Outback, Forester, Legacy, Ascent: Press Lock again within 2 seconds.
  • 2015–2018 models (depending on trim): Some require pressing Lock a total of three times (press Lock, Lock, Lock quickly). For example, a 2017 Outback 2.5i Premium often uses the triple-lock method.
  • 2024+ models with dedicated remote start button: If your fob has a separate remote start button, simply press and hold that button for 2 seconds. No lock sequence needed.

3. Hold the Lock button for 3 seconds

On the third press (or after the second lock if using the two-press method), hold the Lock button down for about three seconds. The parking lights will flash, and the engine will start. If it doesn’t, release and repeat the sequence without pausing.

Important: On 2020–2023 Outback and Forester, pushing Lock twice then holding Lock for 5 seconds is the correct sequence—the hold time can feel longer than expected. Check your manual if in doubt.

Branch after no response: If the engine still doesn’t start, check your battery voltage first. A battery below 12.4V often disables remote start to protect starting power. Drive for 20 minutes or use a trickle charger. If voltage is fine, open and firmly close the hood—the hood latch sensor is a frequent culprit even when the hood looks closed. On a 2020 Outback, a slightly misaligned hood latch caused intermittent failures until the latch was adjusted at the dealer. Then retry the sequence.

4. Drive-off procedure

When you enter the car, insert the key or press the brake with the fob inside (push-to-start vehicles) and turn the ignition to ON. Then shift into Drive or Reverse. The engine stays running.

Using the Subaru Starlink App for Remote Start

If you have an active Starlink subscription and your Subaru is equipped with the telematics module, you can start the engine from anywhere with cellular signal.

1. Download and log in

Install the MySubaru app (iOS or Android). Log in with your Subaru online account credentials. Register your VIN if prompted.

2. Tap “Remote Engine Start”

On the app’s main dashboard, you’ll see a large button labeled Remote Engine Start. Press it once.

3. Confirm the command

The app will ask you to confirm. Tap Start. The vehicle will attempt to start and you’ll receive a confirmation notification (including a photo from the vehicle’s 360° camera on some models).

4. Keep in mind

  • The app only works if the vehicle is in range of a cellular network (your fob range doesn’t apply). Make sure your phone has a data connection as well.
  • The engine runs for 10 minutes by default. You can extend it once via the app for another 10 minutes.
  • You must have completed the Starlink setup process, including pairing the phone, before the first use. If you haven’t, go to Settings → Starlink Setup in the vehicle’s infotainment system and follow the prompts.
  • Location permissions on your phone must be enabled (set to “While Using” or “Always”) for the app to send the start command reliably.

Common Remote Start Failures and How to Fix Them

Many readers hit a wall when the engine refuses to start. Here are the most frequent culprits and how to find them early.

Failure mode: “No response from key fob” or “app says command failed”

Likely cause #1: Battery drain

If you haven’t driven for a few days, the battery may be too low to support remote start. The system conserves power by disabling remote start below a certain voltage. Check with a multimeter—12.4V or lower is suspect. Drive for 20 minutes to recharge, or use a trickle charger. On a 2021 Forester, a battery at 12.2V prevented remote start entirely; after a 30-minute drive it worked again.

Likely cause #2: Hood switch trigger

The hood latch sensor is a frequent culprit. If the hood isn’t fully closed (even slightly ajar), the system won’t allow remote start. Open and firmly close the hood, then try again. If the problem persists, have the hood latch switch tested at a shop—it can fail internally.

Likely cause #3: Starlink subscription expired

In the MySubaru app, go to Account → Subscriptions. If your plan shows “expired” or “trial ended,” you can’t start via app. Renew online or call Subaru customer support. The trial typically lasts 3 years from the vehicle’s original sale date on Safety Plus, but check your specific plan.

Likely cause #4: Key fob out of range or interference

Try moving closer to the vehicle (within 50 feet) and away from metal structures. If other keyless functions work but remote start doesn’t, the battery inside the fob may be weak—replace the CR2032 battery and retry.

Failure mode: “Engine starts then shuts off immediately”

Symptom: You hear the engine crank and run for a second or two, then it dies. Likely cause: The vehicle has detected an obstacle. Subaru’s remote start will automatically turn off the engine if:

  • A door is opened during startup.
  • The shift lever is moved out of Park.
  • The brake pedal is pressed without the key fob inside.
  • A child lock or aftermarket alarm sends a false signal.

Safer next move: Confirm all doors are locked, stay clear of the brake pedal, and make sure no one inside the vehicle touches the shift lever. If it still shuts off, test with the fob method while standing away from the car. If the problem persists, check for an aftermarket tracker or alarm that might conflict. A dealer can test the hood latch switch and related sensors with a diagnostic tool. On some 2019–2020 Outback models, a software update fixed intermittent shutdowns—ask your dealer about TSB 15-225-20.

Success check

After a failed attempt, wait 30 seconds before trying again to allow the system to reset. Success is confirmed by the parking lights flashing twice and the engine running steadily for at least 5 seconds. If the engine cranks but doesn’t start at all, check fuel level and fuel pump operation.

Subaru Remote Start FAQ

Q: Which Subaru models have factory remote start?

A: Factory remote start is available on most 2019+ models including Outback, Forester, Legacy, Crosstrek (Limited trim and up), Ascent, and Impreza (some trims). For older models, check your VIN at a dealer or look for the remote start icon on the key fob. If your key fob has only lock/unlock/panic buttons, your car may not have factory remote start.

Q: Does the Starlink app remote start work without a subscription?

A: No. You need an active Starlink Safety Plus or Security Plus plan. A free trial is usually included with new vehicles (3 years for Safety Plus on some models). After the trial, you pay monthly or annually. Pricing varies, so log into your account to see current rates.

Q: Can I install an aftermarket remote start if my Subaru didn’t come with one?

A: Yes. Many aftermarket kits are compatible, but installation often involves splicing wires and may require a bypass module for push-to-start vehicles. If you want a plug-and-play option, look for a kit specifically designed for your model year and trim. Verify compatibility before buying. Some aftermarket systems also offer smartphone control without a subscription.

Q: Why does my Subaru remote start only run for 10 minutes?

A: That’s the factory default. After 10 minutes the engine shuts off automatically. On the app you can extend once for another 10 minutes. The key fob does not support extension. This is a safety feature to prevent the engine from running unattended indefinitely.

Q: The remote start stopped working after I changed the battery. Do I need to reset something?

A: Usually no. Just make sure the battery is fully charged and all doors/hood are closed. If the problem persists, try disconnecting the negative battery terminal for 30 seconds to reset the ECU, then try again. If that doesn’t help, a dealer can recalibrate the system. Also check that the new battery is the correct type for your vehicle (e.g., an AGM battery instead of a standard flooded battery may require a reset of the Battery Management System).

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