Does 2017 Subaru have Apple CarPlay?
Apple CarPlay was available in some 2017 Subarus, but not across the entire lineup. It arrived with Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system on certain trims and configurations, meaning availability depended on the model, year, and whether the car had the navigation-enabled Starlink setup.
This article explains when CarPlay appeared in the 2017 Subaru lineup, which configurations commonly offered it, how to verify CarPlay support in a specific vehicle, and what options exist if a particular 2017 model does not have CarPlay.
Availability in the 2017 Subaru lineup
CarPlay was introduced for 2017 Subarus on models equipped with the Starlink multimedia system and the appropriate display size. It tended to appear on higher trims or models that included Starlink with Navigation or upgraded multimedia packages, rather than on base trims.
- Starlink infotainment compatibility: Vehicles with Apple CarPlay required a Starlink system that supports CarPlay, typically paired with a 7.0-inch or larger touchscreen (and often with navigation).
- Trim level implications: CarPlay was more commonly found on higher trims or when the vehicle was equipped with the navigation-enabled Starlink option.
- Model-year scope: Availability began in the 2017 model year for some Subarus, but not every 2017 model offered CarPlay out of the factory.
In practice, a 2017 Subaru owner should check the exact model and trim to confirm CarPlay support, and verify the infotainment hardware installed in their car via the owner’s manual or a dealer smile.
How to verify and use CarPlay on a 2017 Subaru
To confirm CarPlay on a 2017 Subaru and to use it, follow these steps. This is a practical checklist you can apply to most 2017 models with Starlink:
- Identify the infotainment system: Confirm the vehicle has Starlink with a 7.0-inch or larger touchscreen and a navigation option or Starlink Multimedia that lists CarPlay as a feature.
- Check the connection method: Most 2017 Subarus with CarPlay require a wired USB connection from your iPhone to the vehicle’s USB port.
- Verify on-screen availability: After connecting, look for the CarPlay home screen on the center display or a CarPlay icon to indicate successful activation.
- Prepare your iPhone: Use an iPhone 5 or later with a supported iOS version and ensure Siri is enabled if required by CarPlay setup.
If CarPlay does not appear despite meeting the above criteria, consult the owner’s manual, check for any available software updates from Subaru, or contact a dealer to confirm whether the specific 2017 trim can support CarPlay and whether any hardware upgrade is possible.
Compatibility and limitations: Even within 2017 models, CarPlay availability depends on the exact radio, firmware version, and whether the car was originally equipped with the Navigation or an upgraded Starlink package. Wireless CarPlay is rarely available on 2017 Subarus, so expect a wired connection in most cases.
Summary
In short, some 2017 Subarus did offer Apple CarPlay, but it was not universal across the year’s lineup. If you’re evaluating a 2017 model, check the specific trim and Starlink configuration to determine CarPlay support, and follow the verification steps above to confirm functionality. For buyers or owners with a model lacking CarPlay, consider dealer guidance on software upgrades or optional packages, or explore aftermarket alternatives if CarPlay is a priority.
