Can I update my Subaru radio?

Yes—many Subaru radios and navigation systems can be updated, but the approach depends on your model year and whether your car has built‑in navigation. In many cases, updates are handled through Subaru’s MySubaru portal or via USB/SD card media, and when you use CarPlay or Android Auto, those updates occur on your phone rather than the head unit.

For models with built‑in navigation, map updates are typically downloaded from Subaru’s official site and installed with a USB drive or SD card, sometimes through a dealership. Infotainment software updates may also be available and can require dealer involvement or a USB transfer. If your car relies on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for navigation, updating those apps is a function of your phone, not the car’s head unit.

Types of updates you might encounter

Understanding the two main categories—navigation maps and infotainment software—helps you determine the right path to update your system.

• Navigation map updates for built‑in systems (where available) delivered via USB/SD card or through Subaru’s MySubaru portal


• Infotainment system software updates (head unit firmware), which may require dealer assistance or a USB update package


• Smartphone‑driven updates for navigation via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (these are handled on your phone, not the car’s head unit)

Updates for navigation maps and for the head‑unit software are not universal across all models; always verify compatibility with your exact Subaru model and year before proceeding.

How to check and install updates

Follow these steps to determine if an update is available and how to install it on your Subaru.

1. Identify your exact model, trim, and year, and note the current software or map version shown in the infotainment settings.


2. Visit Subaru’s official support portal or log in to your MySubaru account to search for available updates for your vehicle.


3. If a navigation map update is available, download the update package from Subaru and prepare a USB drive (or SD card) as instructed by Subaru.


4. Insert the media into the vehicle and follow the on‑screen prompts in the head unit to install the update. Do not interrupt the process.


5. For infotainment software updates, follow the dealership’s guidance or the USB update procedure provided by Subaru; some updates require a dealer visit.


6. After installation, verify that the update is reflected in the system version and test basic functions (radio, Bluetooth, navigation, and CarPlay/Android Auto).

If you’re unsure about the process or run into errors, contact your local Subaru dealer or Subaru Support for assistance to avoid bricking the system.

Navigation maps versus in‑vehicle software

Navigation map updates

Built‑in navigation maps can require periodic updates to reflect new roads, changes in routing, and points of interest. These updates are often sold or provided via Subaru’s channels and may need to be installed via USB/SD card or dealership services.

Infotainment software updates

The head‑unit firmware that powers radio controls, Bluetooth, and general UI may receive bug fixes or feature improvements. Availability varies by model and region; some updates are available through a dealership or via a downloadable package for self‑installation.

Note that updates to CarPlay/Android Auto are separate and occur on your smartphone; keeping your phone’s apps current is part of the overall experience.

Do I need a dealer?

When dealer involvement is recommended

Major map updates, complex firmware changes, or updates that require a fresh initialization are often best handled by a Subaru service department to ensure proper installation and to avoid potential issues with the head unit.

When you can handle it yourself

Some infotainment updates and certain navigation updates are designed for user installation via USB/SD card with guidance from Subaru’s official portal. If your model’s instructions explicitly allow self‑service, you can perform the update at home, following the manufacturer’s steps precisely.

Always confirm whether a self‑service update is supported for your specific vehicle and year before attempting any procedure to protect your system’s warranty and functionality.

Tips and precautions

• Back up any custom settings or saved favorites if the update process supports exporting settings.


• Ensure the vehicle is in Park and the engine is on or in a stable state as directed during the update; keep the ignition on during installation if required.


• Use the exact USB drive format and file structure specified by Subaru to avoid installation failures.


• Do not interrupt the update once it has started; a partial install can render the head unit unusable.


• Check for any post‑update quirks or re‑pair requirements (e.g., reconnecting Bluetooth devices or re‑pairing CarPlay/Android Auto).

Being cautious and following official guidance reduces the risk of update failures and helps you get back to a fully functioning system quickly.

Summary

Updating a Subaru radio or infotainment system is often straightforward, but it depends on the model year and whether your car has built‑in navigation. Check Subaru’s MySubaru portal or your owner’s manual for the exact update path, which may involve USB/SD card media or dealership assistance. If your vehicle relies on CarPlay or Android Auto for navigation, those updates come from your phone, not the head unit. When in doubt, contact your local Subaru dealer for guidance to ensure the update is compatible with your vehicle and does not affect warranty coverage.

How do I update my Subaru radio?

You can update a Subaru radio using either a Wi-Fi connection or a USB drive. To use Wi-Fi, connect the car to a strong network and go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for, download, and install updates directly. Alternatively, you can download the update file onto a USB drive from your computer and install it in the car, which also updates the navigation maps.
 
This video demonstrates how to update your Subaru's infotainment system wirelessly via Wi-Fi: 54sNexologyYouTube · Oct 18, 2025
Method 1: Update via Wi-Fi

1. Start the vehicle: and go to the home screen on your Subaru's touchscreen. 
2. Navigate to Settings, then General, and then Software Update. 
3. Connect to an active Wi-Fi network, such as your home network or a phone hotspot. Note that this method will not update the navigation maps. 
4. Select Check For Updates. 
5. If an update is available, select Download Now and wait for the process to complete. The car must remain running during the download. 
6. Once the download is finished, follow the prompts to install the update. The system may reboot one or more times during the installation. 

Method 2: Update via USB drive

1. Use a computer: to go to the Subaru Technical Information System website to download the correct update for your model. 
2. Format a USB flash drive: as NTFS on a Windows PC or Mac OS Extended on a Mac, and then transfer the downloaded file onto it. 
3. Start the vehicle: and insert the USB drive into the designated port. 
4. Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update. 
5. Select the update option and follow the prompts to install from the USB drive. This method will update both the multimedia software and the navigation maps. 

Important notes

• The Wi-Fi method is convenient for software updates but does not update navigation maps. 
• The USB drive method is ideal for simultaneously updating both software and navigation maps. 
• Ensure the vehicle remains on and running throughout the download and installation processes. 

Can I update my car software myself?

Yes, you can update your car's software yourself, especially for newer vehicles that support over-the-air (OTA) updates via Wi-Fi or a built-in data connection. For older vehicles or certain complex updates, you may need to manually download files to a USB drive and install them, or even take the vehicle to a dealership. 
Over-the-air (OTA) updates

• How it works: Many modern cars automatically download updates when they have a connection, and you just need to follow the on-screen prompts to install them. 
• Requirements: You will need a strong Wi-Fi or cellular connection, so avoid parking in underground garages or covered areas where the signal may be weak. 
• How to check: You can often find the option to check for updates in your vehicle's infotainment system under the "Settings" or "Vehicle" menu. 

This video demonstrates how to install vehicle updates over the air: 49sChevroletYouTube · Feb 14, 2023
Manual updates via USB

• How it works: Some manufacturers allow you to manually download an update file from their website to a USB drive and then install it in your car. 
• Requirements: You will need a USB drive of the correct size (often 32GB or larger) and your vehicle identification number (VIN). 
• How to check: Visit the manufacturer's support website for your specific model, enter your VIN, and see if a manual update is available. 

You can watch this video to learn how to manually update your car's infotainment system using a USB drive: 1mThe Ioniq GuyYouTube · Sep 22, 2024
Important considerations

• Installation complexity: Some software updates are highly complex and may be best left to a dealership to avoid potential issues or damage to your car's systems. 
• Free vs. paid: Some updates may be free, but it's important to check your warranty or service plan, as some manufacturers may charge for certain updates, especially if they are a few years old. 
• Check with your manufacturer: The best way to determine if you can update the software yourself is to check your owner's manual or visit your manufacturer's official website to see what options are available for your specific vehicle. 

How do I update my Subaru to CarPlay?

Plug the iOS/Apple phone into the USB port of the vehicle. Ensure a quality USB-IF or MFI cable is being used. Select “Allow” when prompted. Select “Apple CarPlay” on the vehicle infotainment screen.

How to manually update Starlink software?

To manually update Starlink software, ensure your Starlink dish is plugged in and has a clear view of the sky, then open the Starlink app and select "Update now" if prompted. If there is no prompt, power cycling the dish may trigger an automatic update. For aviation customers, manual updates are handled through the Starlink dashboard. 
For residential/RV Starlink

1. Power on and place the dish: Plug in your Starlink dish and set it up outdoors with a clear view of the sky. 
2. Connect to the app: Connect your phone or computer to the Starlink Wi-Fi network and open the Starlink app. 
3. Initiate the update: The app will often prompt you with a "Manual update" notification. Tap "Update now". 
4. Wait for completion: Do not close the app or disconnect from Wi-Fi while the update is in progress. The process can take up to 60 seconds or longer, depending on the update size. 
5. If no prompt appears: If you don't receive an update prompt, power cycling the Starlink dish by unplugging it for a few seconds and then plugging it back in may force an automatic update on the next boot. 

For aviation Starlink

1. Log in: Access the Starlink dashboard through your account.
2. Navigate to updates: Find the "Software Change Log" or a similar section related to updates.
3. Apply manually: If your account is set to "Aviation Manual," you will need to manually select and apply the updates from this dashboard. 

38sHow to Update Your Starlink & What Zero-G Really Means | SpaceX ...YouTubeI Am Magnus · 7mo 42sChoose Your Starlink Dish Update ScheduleYouTubeTheTechGuy600 · 8mo 0:15Starlink now allows you to schedule software updates! Previously ...FacebookDISHYtech · 8mo 41sStarlink App Software Update: A Quick GuideYouTubeTGBATG · 7mo (function(){
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