What does it mean when a Subaru dashboard says EyeSight?

When the "EyeSight" warning appears on a Subaru dashboard, it indicates that the vehicle's advanced driver assistance system, known as EyeSight, has been temporarily disabled or is not functioning properly. EyeSight is Subaru's proprietary suite of safety technologies that uses dual-camera visual sensors to monitor the road and assist the driver in various ways.

What is Subaru EyeSight?

Subaru EyeSight is an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) that uses a pair of cameras mounted on the top of the windshield to monitor the road ahead. The system is designed to help prevent accidents and improve driving safety by providing features such as:

• Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe following distance from the car in front.


• Pre-Collision Braking: Applies the brakes automatically if the system detects an imminent collision, helping to avoid or mitigate the impact.


• Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without the turn signal activated.


• Lane Keep Assist: Gently steers the vehicle back into the lane if it starts to drift.


• Reverse Automatic Braking: Applies the brakes if the system detects an obstacle while the vehicle is reversing.

EyeSight is a key safety feature in many Subaru models, and the dashboard warning indicates that the system is not functioning as intended.

Reasons for the EyeSight Warning

There are several possible reasons why the EyeSight warning may appear on a Subaru dashboard:

• Obstruction of the Cameras: The EyeSight cameras may be blocked by dirt, snow, ice, or other obstructions, preventing them from properly detecting the road and surrounding environment.


• Extreme Weather Conditions: Heavy rain, fog, or snow can interfere with the cameras' ability to function, causing the EyeSight system to temporarily disable itself.


• System Malfunction: If there is a technical issue with the EyeSight hardware or software, the system may shut down to prevent potential safety risks.


• Calibration Issues: The EyeSight cameras need to be properly calibrated to function correctly. If the calibration is off, the system may not work as intended.

If the EyeSight warning appears, it's important to address the underlying issue as soon as possible to ensure the safety features are working correctly.

Resolving the EyeSight Warning

To resolve the EyeSight warning, you should take the following steps:

• Check for Obstructions: Inspect the EyeSight cameras on the windshield for any dirt, snow, or other obstructions, and clean them if necessary.


• Monitor Weather Conditions: If the warning appears during heavy rain, fog, or snow, the EyeSight system may have temporarily disabled itself. Wait for the weather to improve, and the warning should clear.


• Seek Professional Assistance: If the warning persists or you suspect a system malfunction or calibration issue, take your Subaru to an authorized dealer or service center for diagnosis and repair.

By understanding the meaning of the EyeSight warning and taking the appropriate steps to address the issue, you can help ensure your Subaru's advanced safety features are working correctly and keep you and your passengers safe on the road.

Why does my Subaru say EyeSight?

Subaru EyeSight is an innovative driver-assistance system designed to enhance safety and provide peace of mind during every journey. It employs a combination of cameras and sensors to monitor the road and surroundings, offering a range of features that actively assist the driver in various driving scenarios.

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. 

What does Subaru EyeSight mean?

Subaru EyeSight is a suite of driver-assist technologies that uses dual cameras to monitor the road, help avoid collisions, and provide driver peace of mind. Key features include adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure and sway warning, and lane keep assist. The system helps manage speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and keep the car centered in its lane, intervening automatically when necessary to help prevent accidents.
 
Core features of Subaru EyeSight

• Pre-Collision Braking: Alerts the driver of an imminent frontal collision and can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate an impact. 
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Manages your vehicle's speed and distance from the car ahead, accelerating or braking as needed to maintain a set distance. 
• Lane Departure and Sway Warning: Detects if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane and provides an alert to the driver. 
• Lane Keep Assist: Automatically provides steering assistance to help guide the vehicle back to the center of the lane if it starts to drift without a signal. 
• Pre-Collision Throttle Management: Reduces engine power to minimize potential impact if a collision is likely. 
• Lead Vehicle Start Alert: Notifies the driver when the car ahead has started to move forward after coming to a stop, like at a traffic light. 

How it works

• Two stereo cameras are mounted near the rearview mirror to monitor the road ahead. 
• These cameras work together to assess the distance and speed of other vehicles, pedestrians, and lane markings. 
• When a potential hazard is detected, the system provides warnings and can automatically take action, such as braking or steering, to assist the driver. 

How to clean EyeSight on a Subaru?

To clean your Subaru's EyeSight system, never touch the lenses directly. Instead, cover them with tape or use an air duster, and clean the rest of the windshield with a microfiber cloth sprayed with a mild, residue-free cleaner, or just water. If streaks remain on the lenses or your system has issues, recalibration by a Subaru dealer may be needed.
 
Step 1: Protect the EyeSight lenses 

• Do not touch the camera lenses. Subaru advises against cleaning or touching the lenses, as it can damage them or affect system performance. 
• Cover the area around the lenses with blue painter's tape before cleaning the rest of the windshield to prevent overspray. 

Step 2: Clean the windshield

• Spray a clean microfiber cloth with a mild glass cleaner or a small amount of water, not the windshield directly. 
• Gently wipe the windshield, avoiding the EyeSight lenses. 
• For stubborn spots, you can use a bit of distilled water or a dedicated lens cleaning cloth with light pressure. 

Step 3: Finish up

• Remove the tape from the lenses.
• Inspect your dashboard for any warning lights. 

Important considerations

• Use a fresh microfiber cloth. Do not use cloths that have been washed with fabric softener, which can leave residue. 
• Avoid harsh chemicals. Stay away from abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that could damage the sensors. 
• Recalibration. If your EyeSight system is not working correctly after cleaning, you may need a dealership to perform a system recalibration. 
• Automatic car washes. If you take your car through an automatic car wash, it is recommended to disable the EyeSight system beforehand to prevent accidental braking.