Recently noticed some issues with my Subaru’s system lagging and crashing. I think it might be due for a software update. Can someone guide me through the steps to update the software? Any insider tips or things to watch out for would be really helpful. Thanks!
The process for updating Subaru software, particularly for the Starlink system, can seem a bit daunting, but it’s quite manageable if you follow a series of steps. The steps vary slightly depending on the model and year of your Subaru, but here’s a general guide that should cover most bases.
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Check Your Current Software Version:
- Start your car and ensure the infotainment system is on.
- Go to the “Settings” menu on the display screen.
- Navigate to "System Information.”
- Note down your current software version so you can verify later if the update was successful.
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Download the Update:
- Subaru often releases software updates on their official website. Visit the Subaru owner’s portal.
- You’ll need to enter your vehicle’s VIN to find the correct update for your specific vehicle.
- Once located, download the update file to your computer. It’s usually in a format like
.zipor.iso.
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Prepare the USB Drive:
- Use an empty USB drive with at least 8 GB capacity, formatted to FAT32.
- Extract the downloaded update file onto the USB drive. Make sure there are no other files on the drive to avoid any confusion in the car’s system.
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Install the Update in Your Car:
- Insert the USB drive into the USB port of your Subaru. This is typically located in the center console or below the infotainment screen.
- Turn on your car but make sure it’s in park and the engine is running. Do not turn off the car during the update process.
- On the display screen, navigate to the “Settings” menu and select “System Update” or "Software Update.”
- Follow the onscreen instructions to start the update process.
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Wait for the Update to Complete:
- The update process can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the file size and the system complexity.
- The infotainment screen might restart multiple times during the update. Do not turn off your car or remove the USB drive until the process is 100% completed and you get a confirmation message.
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Verify the Update:
- Once the update is complete, return to the "System Information” menu.
- Verify that the software version matches the one that you downloaded.
Insider Tips and Common Issues:
- Stable Power Source: During the update process, ensure your car remains on a stable surface with the engine running. Sudden power loss can corrupt the update.
- Correct File Structure: Verify that when you extract the update file onto the USB drive, there are no nested folders. Sometimes the files need to be directly on the root directory of the USB (not in a sub-folder).
- Check for Official Instructions: Sometimes specific models might have unique steps or requirements. Checking your owner’s manual or reaching out to a Subaru dealership for instructions can help avoid potential issues.
- Back-Up Your Data: If you’ve stored personal data or settings in your infotainment system, it’s a wise idea to back these up if possible. Some updates might reset settings.
Troubleshooting:
- If the system fails to recognize the update file on the USB, double-check the file format and ensure the USB is correctly formatted to FAT32.
- Should you encounter persistent issues, the dealership can perform the update for you typically.
- If the system continues to lag or fail post-update, it might be a hardware issue or a need for a full system reset, which only a dealership should handle.
Remember, although DIY updating can save time and potentially money, always prioritize safety and accuracy, ensuring you understand each step completely before beginning the process.
byteguru laid out a solid guide, but I want to toss in a bit of a different perspective here. Especially if you’re not super tech-savvy or just want an easier route:
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Dealership Update:
Sometimes the hassle of downloading, transferring files, and hoping you didn’t miss a step can be too much. Many Subaru dealerships will perform a software update for you, often at no charge if it’s within a certain service window or warranty period. This way, you can avoid any risks of something going wrong and potentially bricking your infotainment system. -
Subaru Mobile Apps:
Subaru has a few mobile apps, including MySubaru and Subaru Starlink, which sometimes notify you about updates. Double-check these for possible OTA (over-the-air) updates that can just be downloaded directly to your car’s system without needing a USB drive. -
Wi-Fi Updates:
For newer models, there are often settings in the infotainment system where you can connect to a Wi-Fi network and perform updates directly through there. It completely skips the USB step, and the system handles the download and installation automatically.
Extra Tidbits
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Inconsistent USBs: Not all USB drives are created equal. USB 3.0 drives tend to be more reliable and faster for this purpose. Also, beware of cheap, no-name brand drives, as they can often have compatibility issues.
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Battery Drain: Cars have died on me before during long updates. If you’re going the DIY route, consider connecting a battery maintainer or trickle charger to your car while it’s running to keep the battery from draining too much, especially if it’s an older battery.
Possible Issues
I’ve read some horror stories where users tried to update the software only to end up with a completely non-functional infotainment system because of a power spike or corrupted files. If your car’s infotainment system acts as a central hub for a lot of functions (navigation, climate control, etc.), a botched update can be a real nightmare.
So yeah, while byteguru’s guide is really comprehensive, I’d argue for considering an easier path if you’re not confident with tech stuff. Sometimes paying a pro to do it is worth the peace of mind!
Are you serious? Who has the time to mess around with downloading files, prepping USB drives, and following all those steps? Honestly, Subaru should make these things simpler. If I’m paying that much for a car, the software updates should be over-the-air and seamless. What’s the point of all this tech if it’s not convenient?
Listen, dealerships are rip-offs sometimes, but I’d argue it’s worth it just to avoid the headache. Let them deal with the potential bricking of the system. I tried updating mine once, and I had to redo the whole thing twice because of a corrupted file. Waste of time.
And Wi-Fi updates? Don’t count on those working smoothly all the time. Subaru’s not exactly Apple or Tesla. Half the time, the Wi-Fi update option doesn’t even connect properly. If you’re not confident, just save yourself the trouble and let a professional handle it. And for god’s sake, make sure you have a good battery. I’ve seen people end up with dead batteries halfway and then blame the car.