What is the green light on the rear view mirror on a Subaru?
The green light on the Subaru rear-view mirror is the EyeSight Driver Assist System status indicator. It signals that EyeSight is powered and actively monitoring the road, not a warning light.
Understanding the EyeSight indicator
In Subaru vehicles equipped with EyeSight, a small green LED on or near the rear-view mirror serves as a status cue for the driver-assist system. When illuminated, it generally means EyeSight is active and ready to assist, including features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping. The exact appearance and behavior can vary slightly by model year, but the intention is to reassure you that the driver-assist sensors are functioning.
- EyeSight cameras mounted near the top of the windshield are powering the system and monitoring traffic signals, lanes, and potential collisions.
- Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist are available while the light is on and EyeSight is functional.
- The light may illuminate briefly during startup or calibration, then remain steady while EyeSight is actively monitoring.
In summary, a green light on the Subaru rear-view mirror is an indicator that EyeSight is operational and ready to assist. If the light goes out or changes color, there may be a fault, obstruction, or the system may be temporarily unavailable.
What can affect the light or cause differences in behavior
Several factors can influence whether the green light appears, stays on, or behaves as expected. Keeping these in mind can help diagnose common EyeSight issues without immediately seeking service.
- Windshield cleanliness and camera obstruction: Dirt, frost, snow, or ice around the mirror area can block the EyeSight cameras, causing the light to turn off or EyeSight to deactivate.
- Weather and visibility conditions: Heavy rain, snow, or glare can reduce camera effectiveness and temporarily disable EyeSight.
- System faults or misalignment: A failed camera, software fault, or windshield replacement that misaligns the camera can cause the feature to be unavailable; a warning may appear in the instrument cluster.
- Power or setting changes: Some models allow drivers to enable/disable EyeSight features in the vehicle settings; EyeSight behavior may reflect those changes.
If you notice persistent absence of the green light when EyeSight should be active, or you see a warning in the dash, consult a Subaru dealer or a qualified technician to diagnose camera alignment and software status.
How to verify and maintain EyeSight
Regular checks and proper maintenance can help ensure the green indicator and EyeSight function reliably.
- Keep the windshield area around the rear-view mirror clean and free of obstructions.
- Avoid applying aftermarket tint or coatings directly over the camera area; if unsure, consult your dealer about compatibility.
- Have EyeSight calibration and camera alignment checked after windshield replacement or body work that could affect the camera position.
- Pay attention to the instrument cluster warnings; follow service recommendations if EyeSight reports a fault.
Maintaining a clear view and ensuring proper calibration helps keep the EyeSight light steady and the driver-assist features available when you need them.
Summary
The green light on the Subaru rear-view mirror is a status indicator for the EyeSight Driver Assist System. It signals that EyeSight is powered, calibrated, and ready to assist with safety features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping. If the light behaves unexpectedly, check for windshield obstruction, weather conditions, or potential faults, and seek service if issues persist. Regular maintenance helps ensure EyeSight remains available to aid safe driving.
