Can you put a remote start on a Subaru?
Yes—it's possible to add remote start to a Subaru, either through factory options offered by Subaru or via aftermarket kits installed by a qualified technician. The best route depends on your model year, trim, and where you live, and it can affect warranty, insurance, and how the system integrates with other features like climate control and the factory alarm.
What remote start is and why Subaru owners consider it
Remote start lets you start your engine from outside the car, usually turning on climate control so the cabin heats or cools before you get in. For Subaru owners, remote start offers comfort in extreme weather, convenience when commuting, and a potential resale value perk. The way it’s added—via an official factory option or an aftermarket kit—determines how well it works with your Subaru’s security system and how it affects the warranty.
Factory options vs aftermarket
Factory remote start is integrated with Subaru’s electrical system, security features, and sometimes with StarLink access in newer models. Aftermarket kits provide broader model coverage but require professional installation to ensure proper immobilizer handling and to preserve engine safety features. Each route has its own cost, warranty implications, and compatibility considerations.
Availability by model and year
Subaru has offered remote start in various forms on several models in recent years, but availability varies by model, year, and market. The feature may appear as a standalone option, part of a convenience package, or included on higher trims. If you’re considering adding it, verify with your local dealer whether your specific model and year supports an OEM remote start option and what the installation would entail.
OEM/Factory remote start options
When available, factory remote start is designed to integrate with your vehicle’s security system and can often be activated or programmed using the factory tools. It tends to be more seamless with existing remotes or key fobs and is usually backed by dealership support and a warranty path. Availability is tied to the exact model year and trim level, so a dealer quote is essential.
Aftermarket options
For models and years without factory remote start, aftermarket kits from brands such as Compustar or Viper are common choices. These systems require a professional installation to handle the vehicle’s immobilizer, CAN bus wiring, and any integration with an existing alarm or climate controls. Many offer smartphone control or additional features, but they can affect the vehicle’s warranty if not installed properly and may require ongoing maintenance or programming if Subaru updates its electronics.
Installation considerations
Before you commit to a kit, it helps to understand the main options and what they entail for cost, warranty, and reliability.
- OEM/Dealer remote start: Often the simplest path if your model/year supports it, with dealership installation and warranty alignment.
- Professional aftermarket kit: Broad compatibility, with a professional install to ensure proper immobilizer bypass and secure integration with the vehicle’s systems.
- Smartphone-enabled aftermarket kit: Many aftermarket options include a companion app, allowing remote start from a smartphone in addition to the remote fob.
Options at a glance, with implications for cost and compatibility:
Whichever route you choose, plan for installation time and budget, and confirm what features will be included (remote start range, climate control integration, trunk release, and alarm compatibility) before authorizing work.
Safety, warranty, and legal considerations
Adding remote start can affect warranties and, in some markets, insurance coverage. Have a clear conversation with your Subaru dealer about how an aftermarket install might impact your warranty and what kind of documentation you’ll receive. Remote-start systems must be installed with safety in mind: automatic transmission safety interlocks, proper climate control remotes, and anti-theft integration are essential. If you own a manual-transmission Subaru, check whether remote start is supported and what safety features are included. Always use a reputable installer with experience in Subaru vehicles and immobilizer systems.
What to ask the installer
Use this checklist to ensure you’re choosing a qualified installer and a compatible system.
- Is the system compatible with my exact model year and trim?
- Will the installer address the vehicle’s immobilizer and alarm so I don’t lose anti-theft protection?
- What is the total installed cost, including parts, labor, and warranty on the work?
- Does the kit support smartphone control or only a remoted fob?
- How long will the installation take, and what testing will be performed?
Questions to verify compatibility and service quality:
Having clarity on these points helps you avoid surprises and ensures the system works smoothly with your Subaru.
Summary
In short, you can add remote start to many Subarus, either through factory options on select models or via reliable aftermarket installations. The right approach depends on your car’s year and trim, your location, and your tolerance for warranty considerations. Always work with a qualified installer, verify compatibility, and understand how the modification will affect security and insurance before proceeding.
What Subaru years have remote start?
Generally speaking, every Subaru Outback model produced in 2015 and beyond provides remote start capability. Further, if your Outback is equipped with a keyfob–most newer models are–you can use that to remote start your Subaru, as well.
Can I add remote start to MySubaru?
MySubaru makes owning a Subaru easy.
From your phone, you can monitor your vehicle's health, schedule service, access owner resources, and use MySubaru Connected Services controls like remote start and lock. MySubaru activation with subscription required.
How much does it cost to put a remote start in a Subaru?
How Much a Subaru Remote Start Costs. The cost of a remote starter depends on several factors, like the type of system, the make and model of your vehicle, and the installation cost. A basic aftermarket remote start system can cost anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the features and capabilities of the system.
How much does it cost to install a remote starter in a car?
between $150 and $500
The cost of installing a remote car starter is determined by a number of factors. You may need to purchase a bypass module in addition to the starter itself to make it work with your car. In general, the professional installation of a remote car starter will cost between $150 and $500.
