In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected on-the-go is more important than ever. Subaru, known for its reliable and adventure-ready vehicles, offers several features that enhance the driving experience by allowing seamless connectivity with smartphones. Whether you want to access navigation, stream music, or utilize hands-free calling, connecting your phone to your Subaru is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your driving enjoyment. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of this process and provide you with valuable tips and insights.
Why Connect Your Phone to Your Subaru?
Connecting your smartphone to your Subaru comes with various advantages. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider making this connection:
- Navigation: Utilize your phone’s GPS capabilities to access real-time traffic updates and directions through your vehicle’s display.
- Hands-Free Functionality: Make and receive calls without taking your hands off the wheel, enhancing safety on the road.
By connecting your phone, you’ll have access to a world of convenience and functionality, ensuring that you remain focused on the road while enjoying your favorite apps.
Types of Phone Connectivity Options Available in Subaru
Subaru vehicles offer different ways to connect your smartphone, primarily through Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Understanding these connectivity options will help you select the best method for your needs.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows you to connect devices over short distances. This method is perfect for hands-free calling, audio streaming, and more.
Apple CarPlay
If you have an iPhone, Apple CarPlay offers a user-friendly interface designed specifically for driving. It integrates your phone’s functionality directly into the car’s infotainment system, allowing you to access apps, send messages, and make calls easily.
Android Auto
For Android users, Android Auto serves a similar function to Apple CarPlay. It provides access to apps and features, enabling seamless connectivity while you’re on the go.
How to Connect Your Phone to Your Subaru
Connecting your phone to your Subaru can be done in a few simple steps. We will break down the processes for Bluetooth as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Connecting via Bluetooth
To connect your smartphone using Bluetooth, follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare Your Phone
- Turn on Bluetooth: Go to your phone’s settings and enable Bluetooth. Ensure your device is discoverable.
Step 2: Access the Infotainment System
- Turn on Your Subaru: Start your vehicle and navigate to the home screen of your Subaru’s infotainment system.
- Select Bluetooth Settings: Look for the “Settings” icon and select Bluetooth options.
Step 3: Pair Your Device
- Find Your Phone: On the infotainment screen, select the option to pair a new device. Your Subaru should begin searching for available devices.
- Select Your Phone: Once your smartphone appears on the screen, select it. A pairing code will be displayed both on your phone and the Subaru screen.
- Confirm the Code: Check to make sure the code matches and confirm the pairing on both devices.
Step 4: Complete the Connection
- Access Permissions: If prompted, grant permissions for the devices to share contacts and other necessary information.
- Test the Connection: Make a test call or play some music to ensure that the connection is successful.
By following these steps, you will have connected your phone via Bluetooth, allowing you to enjoy hands-free calling and audio streaming right away.
Connecting Using Apple CarPlay
If you are using an iPhone, connecting via Apple CarPlay can enhance your driving experience. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Check Compatibility
Ensure that both your Subaru model and the iOS version of your iPhone support Apple CarPlay.
Step 2: Connect Your iPhone
- Use a USB Cable: Connect your iPhone to the USB port designated for Apple CarPlay in your Subaru.
- Unlock Your Phone: Make sure your iPhone is unlocked, as it will need to communicate with the car.
Step 3: Enable Apple CarPlay
- Allow CarPlay Access: A prompt will appear on your iPhone asking if you wish to allow CarPlay. Tap “Allow” to proceed.
- Access CarPlay on the Infotainment Screen: The CarPlay interface should appear on your Subaru’s display, allowing you to access compatible apps.
Connecting Using Android Auto
For Android users, here’s how to connect your phone via Android Auto:
Step 1: Download the App
Before connecting your phone to Subaru, download the Android Auto app from the Google Play Store if it’s not already installed.
Step 2: Connect Your Device
- Use a USB Cable: Connect your Android phone to the Subaru using a compatible USB cable.
- Unlock Your Phone: Your phone must be unlocked to establish a connection.
Step 3: Enable Android Auto
- Allow Permissions: A notification will prompt you to give permissions that are necessary for Android Auto. Accept them.
- Access Android Auto Interface: The Android Auto interface will then be displayed on your Subaru’s screen.
Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues
Even with the best intentions, you may encounter some issues while trying to connect your phone to your Subaru. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
Problem 1: Cannot Find Device
If your Subaru cannot find your phone during the Bluetooth pairing process:
- Ensure Bluetooth is Active: Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on both your phone and your vehicle’s infotainment system.
- Restart Devices: Sometimes simply restarting both your phone and the vehicle’s system can resolve connectivity issues.
Problem 2: Poor Audio Quality
If you’re experiencing choppy audio during streaming:
- Check Phone Volume: Make sure the volume on your phone is turned up. Sometimes the phone volume may be too low.
- Identify Interference: Electronic devices or nearby networks can sometimes cause interference. Try moving further away from potential sources of interference.
Additional Tips for Enhanced Connectivity
To ensure that your experience remains seamless, consider these additional tips:
Regularly Update Software
Keep your phone and the Subaru infotainment system current with the latest software updates. Outdated software can lead to compatibility issues.
Reset Connection if Needed
If connections seem faulty or unreliable, you may need to reset the device pairings. Go to the settings on your Subaru’s infotainment system and “forget” the existing device, then start the pairing process from the beginning.
Consult the Owner’s Manual
If you encounter unique issues, refer to your Subaru’s owner’s manual for specific troubleshooting guidelines related to your model.
Conclusion
Connecting your phone to your Subaru is a simple yet significant step towards transforming your driving experience. With features that promote safe driving, easy navigation, and entertainment, you can make the most of both your vehicle and your smartphone. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you will be equipped to connect your phone in no time, allowing you to enjoy all the benefits that come with it.
Whether you opt for Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto, the ability to stay connected while behind the wheel enhances road trips, commuting, and everyday driving. Don’t miss out on this essential feature—connect today and experience the convenience and safety it provides!
What are the steps to connect my phone to my Subaru via Bluetooth?
To connect your phone to your Subaru via Bluetooth, start by ensuring that your vehicle is in a safe, park position. Turn on your Subaru’s infotainment system and access the settings menu. Look for the Bluetooth option and select it to enter pairing mode. On your phone, navigate to the Bluetooth settings and ensure Bluetooth is enabled. Your phone should start scanning for nearby devices.
Once your Subaru’s system appears on your phone, select it. You will usually be prompted to verify a pairing code that will appear on both the phone and the Subaru screen. Confirm the code on both devices, and upon successful pairing, you can choose which features (like phone calls, contacts, and media) you would like to sync with your Subaru.
Can I connect my phone using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?
Yes, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are designed to enhance your connectivity options with your Subaru. To use these features, make sure your vehicle is compatible by checking the owner’s manual or Subaru’s website. If your Subaru supports these systems, you’ll need a USB cable to connect your phone initially. For Apple CarPlay, use a Lightning cable, and for Android Auto, a compatible USB cable for your Android device.
Once the initial connection is made, follow the prompts on your vehicle’s display to grant permissions for the app. After this, you can control various apps from your phone directly through your Subaru’s touchscreen, providing access to navigation, music, and messaging without distractions.
What should I do if my phone fails to connect to my Subaru?
If your phone fails to connect to your Subaru, start by ensuring that Bluetooth is enabled on both devices. On your Subaru, check that the Bluetooth settings are not in ‘hidden mode’ and are set to be discoverable. Sometimes, turning Bluetooth off and on again on both the phone and the vehicle can reset the connection and solve minor glitches.
If the problem persists, consider unpairing your phone and then re-establishing the connection. You can do this by going to your phone’s Bluetooth menu, finding your Subaru in the list of paired devices, and selecting ‘forget’ or ‘unpair.’ After this, repeat the pairing process. Additionally, ensure that your phone’s software and Subaru’s infotainment system are updated, as updates can often resolve connectivity issues.
Can I make phone calls through my Subaru while connected?
Yes, once connected via Bluetooth or using CarPlay/Android Auto, you can make phone calls through your Subaru’s infotainment system. After successfully pairing your phone, the system can access your contacts and call logs. You can initiate calls through voice commands or by navigating the touchscreen to select a contact or dial a number directly.
Using voice commands, you can say commands like “Call [Contact Name]” to make hands-free calls. The system may also have a built-in dial pad to help you enter phone numbers. This feature allows for a safer driving experience, letting you stay connected without the need to handle your phone while driving.
Is it possible to stream music from my phone to my Subaru?
Absolutely! If your Subaru is connected to your phone via Bluetooth, you can stream music directly from your device. After pairing, open your music app and press play; the audio will transmit through your car’s speakers. Many Subaru models also support streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music directly through the infotainment display.
If using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you can access your music apps seamlessly through the dashboard display. This enables you to browse your playlists and select songs with ease and safety while driving, providing a superior audio experience while on the road.
How do I reset the Bluetooth connection in my Subaru?
To reset the Bluetooth connection in your Subaru, first go to the Bluetooth settings on your vehicle’s infotainment system. Look for an option such as ‘Delete Device’ or ‘Forget Device,’ which will allow you to remove your existing phone. Doing this effectively clears the previous pairing information, creating a fresh slate for connection.
After deleting the device, you can proceed to re-pair your phone by following the standard Bluetooth pairing procedure. This can help resolve common issues related to connectivity or lag, ensuring a smooth user experience going forward.
Will connecting my phone to Subaru drain its battery?
Connecting your phone to your Subaru via Bluetooth or while using Apple CarPlay/Android Auto will have a minimal effect on your phone’s battery life. Bluetooth is a low-energy technology, so while it does use some power, it is considerably less than other features like GPS or mobile data. However, if you stream music or use navigation apps constantly while connected, that may have a more significant impact on battery consumption.
To mitigate battery drain, consider keeping your phone charged while in the vehicle using a USB charger or wireless charging pad if your Subaru supports it. This way, you can enjoy connectivity and entertainment without worrying about your phone losing charge during your drive.