Is my Subaru equipped with remote start?

Yes, many Subaru models come equipped with remote start functionality, allowing you to start your vehicle from a distance. The availability of this feature depends on the specific Subaru model and trim level you own.

Understanding Remote Start in Subaru Vehicles

Remote start is a convenient feature that enables you to start your Subaru's engine from a distance, typically using a key fob or a smartphone app. This can be particularly useful in cold or hot weather, as it allows you to pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin before you get in the car.

The remote start feature is often included as part of Subaru's advanced safety and convenience package, which may be available as an optional add-on or standard equipment on higher-end trims. It's important to check the specific features and options included in your Subaru model to determine if remote start is available.

How to Use Remote Start in Your Subaru

To use the remote start feature in your Subaru, follow these steps:

• Make sure your Subaru is equipped with the remote start feature, as not all models include this functionality.


• Locate the remote start button on your key fob or in your Subaru's smartphone app.


• Press and hold the remote start button for a few seconds until the vehicle's lights flash or the engine starts.


• The engine will run for a pre-set duration, typically 5-15 minutes, to allow the cabin to reach the desired temperature.


• Once you're ready to drive, simply enter the vehicle and press the brake pedal to shift the transmission into gear.

It's important to note that remote start may have certain limitations, such as a maximum distance from the vehicle or the need to have the vehicle in park with the parking brake engaged. Always refer to your Subaru's owner's manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines.

Availability of Remote Start in Subaru Models

Remote start is a feature that is often included in Subaru's higher-end trim levels or as part of an optional package. Some of the Subaru models that commonly offer remote start include:

• Subaru Outback


• Subaru Ascent


• Subaru Forester


• Subaru Impreza


• Subaru Legacy


• Subaru WRX

It's always best to check the specific features and options available for your Subaru model to determine if remote start is included or can be added as an aftermarket accessory.

How do I know if my vehicle is equipped with remote start?

You can tell if your car has remote start by checking the key fob for a circular arrow button, looking for a sticker under the hood, or consulting the owner's manual. If your fob has the button, press the lock button first, then press and hold the remote start button. Some manufacturers, like Toyota, may require pressing the lock button three times and holding on the third press to activate the feature, even without a dedicated button on the fob. 
Check your key fob

• Look for a specific button: Most key fobs with remote start have a button with a circular arrow symbol (⟳). 
• Test the button: If you find the button, try pressing the car's lock button once, then immediately press and hold the remote start button for a few seconds. 
• Note: If your fob doesn't have this button, your car likely doesn't have factory remote start, though it could have an aftermarket system with a separate key fob. 

This video shows how to check for a remote start button on a key fob: 55sSteven WelchYouTube · Jun 19, 2021
Use other methods to check

• Consult the owner's manual: This is the most definitive way to confirm if your car is equipped with remote start and to learn how to use it. A PDF version of the manual is often available online if you don't have the physical copy. 
• Check the vehicle's dashboard: Some cars show a message or indicator on the dashboard when the remote start is successful. 
• Look for a sticker: Check under the hood, often on the radiator core support, for a label indicating the vehicle has auto-start. 
• Check the driver information menu: Navigate through your car's infotainment or driver information display for an option to enable or disable "auto-start" or "remote start". 

This video shows how to check if your car has remote start by looking at the dashboard and other parts: 1mBabbling BooleanYouTube · Sep 7, 2021
If you still can't tell

• Ask the dealership: They can look up your vehicle's VIN to confirm if remote start was an original factory option. 
• Contact the manufacturer: Check the manufacturer's website or support pages for information on your model's features. Some brands may have a vehicle-specific app that confirms remote start capabilities. 

How to tell if a Subaru has a 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: 
  1. Press the lock button on your key fob to lock the doors. 
  2. Within 5 seconds, press and hold the "lock" button for a few seconds to start the engine. 
  3. 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. 

Can I remote start MySubaru from my key fob?

Subaru's remote start feature allows you to start your engine from a distance using either your key fob or the MySubaru app on your smartphone.

What 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.