Does Subaru Imprezas have remote start?
Remote start on the Subaru Impreza is available on many newer models, but it depends on the year, trim level, and regional market. In practice, you may access remote start through the key fob on compatible trims or via the Subaru Starlink connected services app, sometimes requiring a subscription after a trial period. For older or base-spec Imprezas, remote start may not be included unless added as an option or aftermarket solution.
What remote start means for the Impreza
Remote start lets you start the engine from outside the vehicle to preheat or pre-cool the cabin and run climate control before you get in. On the Impreza, this feature is typically available only on models equipped with the necessary hardware and software, and it is often tied to Subaru’s Starlink Connected Services or to a dealer-installed option on certain trims.
Availability by year and trim
To understand whether your specific Impreza can be equipped with remote start, it helps to know how availability has varied across model years and trims. The following overview provides a general sense, but exact details can differ by country and individual vehicle configuration.
- Model years 2017–2019: Remote start was not standard on base trims and was variably available on higher trims or through dealer-installed options in some markets; Starlink participation or separate packages were often required.
- Model years 2020–2023: Remote start became more commonly available on mid-to-high trims and often via Starlink Connected Services or optional packages; availability could still depend on market and exact trim.
- Model years 2024–2025: Availability continues to vary by market and trim. In many regions, remote start can be accessed through Starlink-based features (subscription may apply) or via the key fob on compatible configurations; confirm for your specific vehicle.
Conclusion: Remote start has become more common in recent years, but it is not universal across all Impreza models. Verify your exact year and trim, and consult a Subaru dealer or the official brochure for precise availability.
How to use remote start on a Subaru Impreza
There are two main ways to activate remote start on compatible Imprezas: using the key fob on models that support fob-based remote start, or using the Subaru Starlink mobile app for remote engine start. Each method requires the appropriate hardware and service activation.
- Remote start via key fob (for compatible trims): Lock the doors, then activate the remote start sequence on the key fob (the exact button sequence and duration vary by market and model year). The engine will start and the climate control may begin adjusting automatically. The engine typically runs for a limited period (often around 10–15 minutes) unless reactivated.
- Remote start via Subaru Starlink app (for compatible vehicles): Open the Starlink app, navigate to Vehicle Controls, and select Remote Engine Start. The vehicle will start remotely if the feature is activated and the subscription is in good standing. A trial period may apply, followed by a paid subscription for ongoing use.
Conclusion: If your Impreza is equipped with the necessary hardware and has the feature activated (either via the fob or Starlink app), you can use remote start. If not, you may need dealer activation or an aftermarket solution.
Safety and limitations
Remote starting a vehicle carries safety considerations. Ensure you are in a secure area, keep doors locked if you leave the vehicle unattended, and be mindful of local laws regarding idle emissions. Some markets also require the vehicle to be in Park and the hood to be closed; the system may disable starting if certain safety or security conditions are not met.
Subscription and requirements
For Starlink-based remote start, many configurations require Subaru Starlink Connected Services and may include a trial period. After the trial ends, continuing remote start typically requires a paid subscription and activation from Subaru or an authorized dealer. In some markets, app-based features may be the primary mechanism rather than a stand-alone fob feature.
What you need to know before using Starlink remote start:
- Active Subaru Starlink Connected Services account
- Vehicle must be equipped with Starlink hardware and remote engine start capability
- Phone with a compatible Starlink app and an active data connection
- Potential dealer activation or plan purchase to enable the feature
Conclusion: Subscriptions and hardware determine whether remote start via Starlink is available; contact your dealership for exact costs, activation steps, and eligibility.
Regional differences
Availability varies by market. In the United States, remote start for the Impreza is commonly accessed through Starlink Connected Services (with the appropriate plan) or, on compatible trims, via the key fob. In Canada and some other regions, remote start may be included on more trims or offered as a standard option on certain packages. Always verify for your specific model year and region with a dealer or official Subaru specification sheet.
Bottom line
Remote start is not guaranteed on every Subaru Impreza, but it is widely available on many newer models through either the key fob or the Subaru Starlink app, depending on year, trim, and region. If you want remote start, check your exact model year and trim, confirm whether Starlink Connected Services is required or optional, and ask your dealer about activation and any subscription costs.
Summary
In short, Subaru Impreza remote start exists on newer models but is not universal across all years or trims. Availability depends on hardware, trim level, and regional specifications, with Starlink-based remote start often requiring activation and a subscription. For precise confirmation, consult your vehicle’s official spec sheet or contact a Subaru dealer for your exact model year and market.
Does the Subaru Impreza have remote start?
All new Subaru models come standard with remote start, but not necessarily every trim. Except for the Base, all Subaru Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Impreza, and Legacy trims come standard with the STARLINK remote engine start system.
How do I find out if MySubaru has remote start?
Whether your Subaru has remote start depends on the model, trim level, and year, but most Subarus with push-button start and a key fob (especially those from 2015 and newer) have the capability, either standard or as an accessory. To check, look for push-button start and keyless entry, and then try the remote start sequence: press the lock button on your key fob, then press and hold the "lock" icon for a few seconds to start the engine.
How to check if your Subaru has remote start
- Look for a push-button start: Many models with remote start feature a push-button start ignition and keyless entry. If your car has a traditional key ignition, it likely won't have the built-in remote start functionality.
- Check your key fob: Look for a button on your key fob. Some key fobs have a remote start button, while others require you to press the "lock" button multiple times to activate the feature.
- Try the remote start sequence:
- Press the lock button on your key fob to lock the doors.
- Within 5 seconds, press and hold the "lock" button for a few seconds to start the engine.
- The turn signals will flash to confirm that the car has started. The engine will run for about 10 minutes before automatically shutting off.
- Look for the MySubaru app: Many modern Subarus are equipped with the MySubaru app, which allows you to start the car remotely from your smartphone. You will need to have a subscription to use the app's remote services.
- Check your model's specifications: Some Subaru models include remote start as a standard feature, while on others, it may be an optional upgrade. Consult your owner's manual or the Sport Subaru South website to see if your model and trim level come with the feature.
Which Subaru models have remote start?
Most modern Subarus with push-button start and an automatic transmission have remote start, either as standard on higher trims or included on all trims for models like the Ascent, Solterra, and WRX. Models like the Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Impreza, and Legacy offer it on most trims, but it is often absent from base models. The BRZ does not come with this feature, and manual transmission Subarus are not compatible with Subaru's remote start systems.
Models with remote start
- Ascent: All trims
- Solterra: All trims
- WRX: All trims
- Crosstrek: Higher trims (not base)
- Forester: Higher trims (not base)
- Outback: Higher trims (not base)
- Impreza: Higher trims (not base)
- Legacy: Higher trims (not base)
What to know if your Subaru doesn't have remote start
- Compatibility: Remote start requires a keyless entry and push-button start system. Manual transmission models are not compatible.
- Aftermarket or dealer-installed options: You can add remote start to compatible models through a dealer-installed system or an aftermarket kit.
- BRZ: The BRZ model does not have a factory remote start system and requires an aftermarket installation.
- Subscription: For newer models, the remote start feature is typically linked to the Subaru STARLINK subscription, which includes a trial period.
How to remote start a Subaru Impreza with a key?
Car will start (after a few seconds) Using the Remote Start key button (little fob) 1. Press lock button on key-less fob 2. Press the remote start fob button 3 times 3. Car will start (after a few seconds) Note: when you open the door, the engine will shut off for safety.
