How to play music from phone to Subaru Outback?

In short, you can play music from a smartphone in a Subaru Outback using Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or a wired AUX connection—depending on the model year and trim. Newer Outbacks generally support CarPlay/Android Auto (wired or wireless), while older ones rely on Bluetooth streaming or an auxiliary input. This guide covers setup for each method and tips for reliable playback.

Bluetooth audio streaming

Use Bluetooth when you want a wireless, plug‑and‑play option without relying on CarPlay or Android Auto. Pairing is straightforward and works with most music apps.

1. On your phone, turn on Bluetooth and make sure it is discoverable.


2. On the Outback’s infotainment screen, open Settings > Bluetooth and choose to pair a new device.


3. Select your phone from the list on the car screen, then confirm any pairing codes that appear.


4. On your phone, allow access to media audio if prompted, then start playing music from your preferred app.


5. Use the car’s volume controls or steering wheel buttons to adjust playback; you can also pause/skip from the phone or car interface.


6. If the connection drops, re-pair the device or forget-and-repair, and ensure the phone isn’t in a power‑saving mode that limits Bluetooth in the background.

Tip: Bluetooth is widely supported across model years, but audio quality and stability can vary. If you notice dropouts, try separating other Bluetooth devices and keep your phone’s software up to date.

Apple CarPlay

Apple CarPlay mirrors your iPhone’s apps on the Outback’s touchscreen for easier navigation, music control, and hands‑free use. Depending on the model year, CarPlay can work wired via USB or wirelessly if your Outback supports it.

1. Wired CarPlay: Connect your iPhone to the USB port labeled for CarPlay. If prompted, tap “Trust” on the iPhone and allow CarPlay to access apps.


2. Wireless CarPlay (if supported): On the iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay > Available Cars, then select your Outback. Ensure wireless CarPlay is enabled in the car’s infotainment settings as well.


3. Once CarPlay is active, open the Music app or use the CarPlay interface to select and play songs, albums, or playlists.


4. Use the car’s touchscreen or steering wheel controls to manage playback and volume.


5. To disconnect, unplug the USB cable or choose to disconnect Wirelessly in CarPlay settings.

Note: If CarPlay isn’t appearing, confirm your phone is running a recent iOS version and that CarPlay is allowed while the phone is locked. Some older Outback trims may have limited wireless CarPlay capability.

Android Auto

Android Auto brings Google’s interface to the Outback screen, enabling music playback and access to compatible apps through a simplified, car‑optimized interface. Like CarPlay, it can be wired or wireless depending on the vehicle’s features.

1. Wired Android Auto: Connect your Android phone to the USB port designated for Android Auto. You may be prompted to grant permissions and set up the app on first use.


2. Wireless Android Auto (if supported): On the phone, go to Settings > Connected devices > Connection preferences > Android Auto, then pair with the Outback (and ensure wireless features are enabled).


3. On the car’s screen, select Android Auto to launch compatible music apps (Spotify, YouTube Music, Google Play Music, etc.).


4. Control playback via the car’s touchscreen, steering wheel controls, or voice commands (where available).


5. To disconnect, unplug the USB cable or remove the car from the phone’s Android Auto available devices list.

Tip: For best results, keep Android Auto and Google apps updated. Wireless Android Auto availability varies by model year and trim, so consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure.

USB/auxiliary input and other options

If you don’t use CarPlay or Android Auto, you can still play music through the Outback’s USB storage support or an auxiliary connection—useful on older models or when CarPlay/Android Auto isn’t available.

1. USB (direct music playback): Connect your phone via the USB port labeled for media. On some systems, the car will recognize the phone as a media device and let you browse playlists or albums from the car’s interface.


2. USB (CarPlay/Android Auto when available): If your car supports CarPlay/Android Auto over USB, this connection will launch the respective interface (see above sections).


3. AUX input (3.5 mm): If your phone has a headphone jack or you have an adapter, connect via a 3.5 mm cable to the Outback’s AUX input. Select AUX on the car’s audio source and control playback from your phone.


4. Phone adapters or dongles: If your phone lacks a 3.5 mm jack, use a USB‑C or Lightning to 3.5 mm adapter as needed, ensuring the adapter is compatible with audio output.

Concluding note: The USB/AUX route is mainly for basic playback or for cars without CarPlay/Android Auto support. CarPlay/Android Auto typically provides the most seamless experience with integrated controls and voice commands.

Tips and troubleshooting

These quick tips help ensure reliable playback across methods:

• Keep your vehicle’s infotainment system firmware and your phone’s OS up to date.


• Check that the car’s audio source is set correctly (Bluetooth, CarPlay, Android Auto, USB, or AUX).


• For wireless CarPlay or Android Auto, ensure your phone’s hotspot/Bluetooth/Wi‑Fi settings aren’t conflicting with the car’s connection.


• If pairing fails, delete the car from your phone’s Bluetooth/CarPlay/Android Auto connections and try again from scratch.

If you run into persistent issues, consult the Subaru Outback owner’s manual for model‑specific instructions or contact your dealer for assistance with firmware updates or compatibility checks.

Summary: For most modern Subaru Outbacks, the easiest and fullest music experience comes from CarPlay or Android Auto, wired or wireless depending on the trim. Bluetooth provides a solid wireless fallback, while USB/AUX offers a straightforward option for older setups or when CarPlay/Android Auto isn’t available. With the right method for your model year, you can enjoy hands‑free, on‑screen control of your music while you drive.

Why is my Subaru Bluetooth not playing music on my Iphone?

Ensure your phone's Bluetooth functionality is enabled, and try restarting it or disconnecting and reconnecting. Not all smartphones or devices are compatible with your Subaru's Bluetooth system. Verify that your device is on the list of supported models. Your Subaru may have a limited number of paired devices.

How to play music from phone into car?

You can play music from your phone to your car using a Bluetooth connection, an auxiliary (AUX) cable, or a USB cable. To use Bluetooth, pair your phone with the car's system via the Bluetooth menu; for a wired connection, plug an AUX or USB cable into the corresponding ports on your phone and car and select the correct input source. 
This video demonstrates how to connect your phone to your car stereo using Bluetooth: 59sNeil Huffman Honda of FrankfortYouTube · Mar 24, 2022
Using Bluetooth

1. Turn on your car and ensure its Bluetooth is discoverable (check your car's manual for instructions). 
2. Enable Bluetooth on your phone and go to the settings. 
3. On your phone, select your car's name from the list of available devices to pair them. 
4. Once connected, use your car's stereo to select "Bluetooth Audio" as the media source. 

Using an auxiliary cable

1. Locate the 3.5mm headphone jack on your phone and the AUX input port in your car.
2. Connect one end of the AUX cable to your phone and the other end to your car's AUX port.
3. Use the car stereo controls to select "AUX" or "Auxiliary" as the audio source. 

This video demonstrates how to connect your phone to your car stereo using an auxiliary cable: 1mSimple Mechanic AdviceYouTube · Oct 13, 2024
Using a USB cable 

1. Connect a compatible USB cable from your phone to the USB port in your car. 
2. On your phone, you may need to swipe down the notification shade and tap the "USB connected" notification to select a file transfer or "mount" option. 
3. On your car stereo, select "USB" or "USB Audio" as the source. 
4. Some cars may require you to select a specific app, like Android Auto, to use this connection. 

This video demonstrates how to connect your phone to your car stereo using a USB cable: 57sMindPower009YouTube · Oct 20, 2010

How do I play music through Bluetooth in my Subaru?

How to Set Up Subaru Bluetooth

1. Make sure Bluetooth is activated on your mobile device.
2. On your STARLINK multimedia screen, click Setup > Bluetooth > Add.
3. On your mobile device, select your Subaru STARLINK system in the Bluetooth menu.
4. Your mobile device and Subaru STARLINK system are now connected via Bluetooth.

How to play music from iPhone to Subaru Outback?

On the iOS/Apple device, go to settings. Select “Bluetooth.” Select “Subaru BT” or whatever the device name is. Select “Pair.”