What does Subaru EyeSight record?
Short answer: Subaru EyeSight records data from its forward-facing cameras to enable safety features, but it does not function as a traditional dashcam with a user-accessible video log. Some data may be transmitted to Subaru for diagnostics and connected services, in line with the company’s privacy policy.
What EyeSight sees and records on the road
EyeSight relies on dual forward-facing cameras to monitor the road ahead. The system uses the captured information to detect hazards, lane markings, and road signs, and to inform warnings and automated interventions like adaptive cruise control and pre‑collision braking.
Before listing the specific data types EyeSight handles, note that the data are processed to support safety features rather than to create a video archive for drivers. The following items describe the kinds of road-scene data and related system data involved.
- Images and processed data from the dual forward-facing cameras, used to identify objects and road features.
- Detected objects in the scene, including vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles, and other potential hazards.
- Lane markings, road geometry, and, where available, road signs and speed limits recognized by the system.
- EyeSight's decisions and actions, such as warnings issued, braking or steering interventions, and adaptive cruise control status.
- Camera health, software/firmware version, and other diagnostic information related to the EyeSight subsystem.
- Data used for feature optimization and software updates, typically in aggregate form to improve performance over time.
Concluding: The data EyeSight analyzes are geared toward real-time safety functions and device diagnostics, not a personally accessible video log of your drive.
Data handling and privacy: how EyeSight data are used
Subaru’s privacy practices cover how EyeSight and connected-services data are collected, stored, and shared. In broad terms, EyeSight processing largely happens in the vehicle, with certain data eligible for transmission under consent-based connected-services terms.
Before outlining the key data categories, it helps to understand the general framework: much of the data is used for safety functionality, diagnostics, and service improvement, with options for drivers to manage privacy settings through vehicle menus or Subaru’s online privacy tools.
- On-board processing: EyeSight analyzes the camera data within the vehicle; in default operation, raw video is not stored as a user-accessible dashcam log.
- Diagnostics and health data: camera status, sensor health, software versions, and error codes related to EyeSight may be logged for maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Telematics and connectivity data: when connected services are enabled, EyeSight-related usage data (such as feature engagement, trip data, and approximate location) may be collected for service delivery and improvement.
- Data sharing with Subaru and partners: anonymized or aggregated data may be used for safety research, product development, and customer support, subject to consent and policy terms.
- Data retention and privacy controls: retention periods vary by data type and region; you can typically request data access, deletion, or export through official privacy channels or the Starlink/vehicle app where available.
Concluding: Subaru emphasizes that most EyeSight data serves safety and service purposes, with privacy protections and user controls shaped by the company’s privacy policy and applicable laws.
What you can control
Owners can influence how EyeSight data are collected and used through feature settings and connected-services preferences. Disabling certain EyeSight functions or opt-ing out of data sharing can reduce data collection, but it may also reduce some safety capabilities.
- Turn EyeSight safety features off: many models allow you to disable EyeSight-assisted features in the vehicle’s settings, which can limit data collection tied to those features.
- Manage connected services: you can enable or disable Subaru’s connected services and data-sharing options within the car’s infotainment system or through the Subaru privacy portal.
- Review privacy preferences: consult your owner’s manual and Subaru’s privacy resources to understand what data is collected and how to exercise control over it.
- Data access and deletion requests: you may request a copy of your EyeSight data or ask for deletion in line with local privacy laws and Subaru’s procedures.
Concluding: For most drivers, the key action is to review privacy settings and feature preferences to balance safety benefits with personal data preferences. If in doubt, contact Subaru support or use the official privacy tools for guidance.
Summary
Subaru EyeSight records data primarily to support its safety features, including object detection, lane tracking, and collision avoidance. The raw camera feed is not typically stored as a user-accessible dashcam log, and data handling is governed by privacy settings and policies. Some diagnostic and usage data may be transmitted through connected services with consent, and owners have options to manage or limit data sharing. For precise details on what is collected and how it’s stored or shared, consult Subaru’s privacy policy and the privacy controls in your vehicle or Subaru account.
