Is Subaru EyeSight always on?

No. Subaru EyeSight is not always on by default. It can be enabled or disabled by the driver, and it operates only when the system is activated and its cameras have a clear view of the road.

EyeSight is Subaru’s driver-assist suite that uses twin forward-facing cameras to monitor traffic and lane markings. When enabled, it can manage adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane-keeping features. However, its availability and behavior depend on the vehicle’s model year, trim, weather conditions, and whether the driver has chosen to deactivate it.

What EyeSight Does

EyeSight bundles several safety tools that help with speed control, collision avoidance, and lane discipline. The list below outlines the core capabilities you’ll typically find in most Subaru models equipped with EyeSight.

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) that maintains a set following distance from the vehicle ahead


• Pre-Collision Braking that can apply the brakes to reduce or prevent a collision


• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) that alerts you if you drift out of your lane without signaling


• Lane Keep Assist (LKA) that provides gentle steering corrections to help stay centered in the lane

These features activate when EyeSight is enabled and the system detects valid driving conditions, such as clear weather, adequate lane markings, and the vehicle traveling at speeds within the system’s operating range. They may not engage in low-speed stop-and-go traffic, on poorly marked roads, or when sensors are obstructed.

How EyeSight Is Activated and Deactivated

EyeSight can be toggled on or off through controls in the cabin. The exact location of the switch or menu option varies by model and year, but common patterns include a dedicated EyeSight switch on the dash or steering wheel, or a toggle within the infotainment or driver-assistance settings. When EyeSight is active, an indicator on the instrument cluster typically confirms its status.

In many Subaru models, EyeSight defaults to on when the vehicle starts, but drivers can override this with the switch or through the system settings. In some cases, the system may automatically deactivate if sensors are blocked (for example, by heavy rain, snow buildup, or dirt) or if a safety condition prevents reliable operation.

Limitations and Real-World Considerations

Even when EyeSight is enabled, it has limitations. The system is designed to assist, not replace, driver attention. It may not detect all obstacles, react perfectly in every scenario, or operate effectively in adverse conditions.

• Performance depends on weather and road markings; heavy rain, fog, snow, or glare can reduce sensor effectiveness


• Functions may be temporarily unavailable at very low speeds or in specific driving situations


• Sensor visibility can be compromised by dirt, bugs, or obstructions on the windshield or cameras


• Driver can and should override or disable EyeSight if it conflicts with safe driving in a given situation

In practice, EyeSight is a driver-assist system that you can turn on or off. It is not a feature that remains permanently active in all conditions or at all times, and understanding its limitations helps ensure you stay in control of the vehicle at all times.

Bottom Line

EyeSight is not permanently “always on.” It is activated when the vehicle is started and when the driver has not turned it off, but its engagement depends on speed, weather, road markings, and sensor cleanliness. Drivers should treat EyeSight as an aid rather than a guarantee of safety and remain attentive behind the wheel.

Summary

Subaru EyeSight is a driver-assist system that uses forward cameras to support features like adaptive cruise control and braking, lane departure warnings, and lane keep assist. It is not always active by default; you can enable or disable it, and its availability depends on operating conditions, model year, and maintenance of the sensors. Always verify its status before relying on it for extended driving and remain prepared to take full control of the vehicle.

Does Subaru EyeSight stop the car?

The EyeSight™ is even capable of bringing the car to a complete stop, in certain circumstances.

What is the lawsuit against Subaru EyeSight?

A recent Subaru EyeSight class action settlement resolved claims that certain features, like pre-collision braking, could malfunction. Eligible class members may be entitled to benefits including a 75% extended warranty on specific repairs and potential reimbursement for out-of-pocket repair costs. The settlement covers specific model years of Subaru Legacy, Outback, Impreza, Crosstrek, Forester, Ascent, WRX, and BRZ vehicles.
 
What the lawsuit was about

• The lawsuit alleged defects in the EyeSight system's pre-collision braking, reverse automatic braking, and Lane Keep Assist features. 
• These alleged defects could cause the system to brake unexpectedly or fail to activate when necessary. 
• Subaru denied the claims but agreed to a class action settlement. 

Who is eligible

• Current and former owners and lessees of certain Subaru models equipped with the EyeSight system's pre-collision braking, reverse automatic braking, and/or Lane Keep Assist features. 
• Eligible models include specific 2013-2024 Subaru Legacy, 2013-2022 Outback, 2015-2023 Impreza, 2015-2023 Crosstrek, 2014-2021 Forester, 2019-2022 Ascent, 2016-2021 WRX, and 2022-2024 BRZ vehicles. 

Potential settlement benefits

• Warranty extension: The New Vehicle Limited Warranty for the EyeSight system is extended to cover 75% of the cost of certain repairs for up to four years or 48,000 miles, whichever comes first. 
• Reimbursement: Eligible class members who paid for covered repairs can receive 75% reimbursement for one repair. 
• To qualify for reimbursement, you must provide proof of payment and other documentation . 

How to file a claim

• You can find the claim form and more information on the official settlement website: Subaru EyeSight Settlement. 
• The deadline for filing a claim was September 27, 2025. 
• The court approved the final settlement on April 21, 2025. 

How do I turn off my Subaru EyeSight?

To turn off Subaru EyeSight, you can press and hold the EyeSight button on the steering wheel for about five seconds, or navigate through the infotainment system's settings menu to disable specific features. For some models, there may be a dedicated button on the dashboard or a "Driver Focus" button near the steering column to turn off certain functions like the driver monitoring system. 
This video explains how to turn off the driver monitoring system on a Subaru Outback/Legacy: 18sOTTO'S SUBARUYouTube · Mar 1, 2024
Method 1: Use the EyeSight button 

• Press and hold: Find the EyeSight button (often with a car icon) on the steering wheel or dashboard and press and hold it for approximately five seconds. 
• Check the indicator: The system is off when the indicators on the dashboard or the EyeSight indicator turn off. 
• Note: This will temporarily put the system in standby mode, and most features will reactivate when the car is turned off and on again. 

Method 2: Use the infotainment system 

• Navigate to settings: On the main touchscreen, select the vehicle icon to access the car's controls. 
• Find driving assistance: Select "Driving Assist" or a similar option from the menu. 
• Toggle features: You can then toggle individual features like pre-collision braking, lane departure warnings, and blind spot detection on and off. 

You can watch this video to learn how to turn off the EyeSight system using the infotainment system: 57sSubaru of PuyallupYouTube · Nov 23, 2024
Method 3: Turn off individual functions

• Driver Focus: For the Driver Focus system (which monitors driver attention), press the "off" button located to the left of the steering column. 
• Steering wheel controls: Some models allow you to cycle through the EyeSight menus on the instrument panel using the steering wheel's multi-function buttons and turn off specific alerts or functions. 

Important considerations

• Safety first: Subaru does not recommend disabling EyeSight for normal driving. It's a safety feature intended to assist you.
• Reactivation: Many of these settings will reset to their default state once you turn the vehicle off and back on.
• Consult your manual: The exact process and button locations can vary by model year, so consult your owner's manual for specific instructions. 

Does Subaru EyeSight keep you in lane?

Lane Keep Assist in Subaru Vehicles
EyeSight cameras and sensors detect lane markings and automatically make slight steering adjustments to help keep you on your set path. This feature can help add an extra layer of safety when steering around curves in the road.