What sets off the Subaru car alarm?
In Subaru models, the alarm is primarily set off when the vehicle is armed and an intrusion or tampering event occurs. The most common triggers are opening a door, hood, or trunk without disarming, or detecting movement or impact with the car’s sensors. Some trims may also include a glass-break sensor that can react to breaking glass near the vehicle.
Subaru’s security system typically blends an immobilizer with a sensor array to deter theft. The exact sensors and behavior can vary by model year and market, so owners should consult their manual for specifics on their particular car.
Common triggers that set off the alarm
These are the events that typically activate the Subaru alarm across many models, though exact configurations can differ by year and trim.
- Opening a door or lifting the hood/trunk while the system is armed, especially without using the key fob to disarm.
- Movement or impact detected by the vehicle’s shock sensor, such as a strike or heavy vibration near the car.
- Tilt or jacking detected by a tilt sensor, which can happen if the car is being towed, raised, or heavily tilted.
- In some trims or markets, a glass-break sensor may trigger the alarm if a window is broken or shattered near the vehicle.
- The engine immobilizer helps prevent starting with an unauthorized key; while this is a security feature, it complements the audible alarm rather than constituting the alarm sound itself.
These triggers illustrate the typical scenarios that can set off a Subaru alarm, but exact sensors and sensitivities vary. Checking the owner’s manual for your specific model year and trim will give the most accurate details.
Reducing false alarms and protecting your car
To minimize nuisance alarms and ensure the system functions as intended, consider these practical steps.
- Keep your key fob battery fresh and ensure you are within range when arming and disarming the system.
- Make sure doors, hood, and trunk are fully closed and latched properly; a misread switch can cause false alerts.
- Avoid aftermarket devices that may conflict with Subaru’s factory alarm; if you install accessories, verify compatibility with the security system.
- Be mindful of pets or heavy wind, which can sometimes trigger sensors if the car is parked in a windy, exposed area.
- If you notice persistent false alarms, have the system inspected at a Subaru service center to verify sensor integrity and calibration.
By following these precautions, owners can reduce unwarranted alarms while preserving the effectiveness of the factory security system.
What to do if the alarm goes off
If you hear the siren or see lights flashing, take these steps to regain control safely and quickly.
- Wait for the alarm to finish, then try to disarm using the key fob. If the fob is within range, press the unlock button to silence the alarm.
- If the fob battery is dead or unavailable, use the physical key in the driver's door to unlock and start the car as needed. This should disarm the system.
- Check for the likely cause after disarming—door left ajar, hood not fully closed, or a sensor issue. Address the root cause before driving.
- If the alarm continues to go off or you suspect tampering, contact a Subaru dealer or roadside assistance for further evaluation.
Summary
Subaru car alarms are primarily triggered by armed-entry attempts (doors, hood, or trunk) and by motion, impact, or tilt detected by onboard sensors. Some trims may include a glass-break sensor. To minimize false alarms, maintain the fob’s battery, ensure all latches are properly closed, and avoid incompatible aftermarket devices. If the alarm sounds, disarm with the fob or the physical key, check for the most likely cause, and seek service if alarms persist. Understanding your model’s specific sensor setup will provide the clearest guidance for your vehicle.
