Connecting your Bluetooth in a Subaru can enhance your driving experience, allowing you to enjoy music, make calls, and access navigation without the hassle of wires. This article will guide you through the process of connecting Bluetooth to your Subaru, ensuring you enjoy all the features your car has to offer.
Understanding the Basics of Bluetooth Connectivity
Bluetooth technology enables devices to communicate wirelessly over short distances. In your Subaru, connecting via Bluetooth typically allows you to pair your smartphone with your vehicle’s infotainment system. This seamless integration enhances convenience and safety.
Benefits of Connecting Bluetooth in Your Subaru
Connecting your Bluetooth offers several advantages:
- Hands-Free Communication: Make and receive phone calls without taking your hands off the wheel.
- Music Streaming: Listen to your favorite songs and playlists directly from your phone.
Before You Start: Ensure Compatibility
Not all Subaru models have the same infotainment system. Before proceeding, verify that your model supports Bluetooth connectivity. Most modern models, including the Subaru Outback, Forester, and Impreza, feature this capability.
Check Your Subaru Model
To proceed effectively, identify the model year of your Subaru:
- 2017 and newer: Typically equipped with advanced STARLINK multimedia systems.
- 2016 and older: May have simpler Bluetooth setups—check your owner’s manual for specifics.
How to Connect Bluetooth: A Step-by-Step Guide
Connecting your smartphone to your Subaru’s Bluetooth system involves several straightforward steps. Follow this guide to complete the pairing process efficiently.
Step 1: Prepare Your Smartphone
Before you can connect your phone, make sure Bluetooth is activated on your device. Here’s how to check:
For iPhone Users:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on Bluetooth.
- Toggle the switch to turn Bluetooth on.
For Android Users:
- Open the Settings app.
- Select Connections or Devices.
- Tap on Bluetooth and activate it.
Step 2: Access the Subaru Infotainment System
To connect, you must navigate your Subaru’s infotainment system. Here’s how to do it:
- Turn on the vehicle: Ensure the engine is running and the infotainment system is activated.
- Navigate to the Bluetooth settings: Depending on your model, go to either Settings or Phone on the main menu.
- Select Bluetooth or Bluetooth Devices to access pairing options.
Step 3: Pairing Your Smartphone with Subaru
Once you have access to the Bluetooth settings, follow these steps:
- Select ‘Add Device’: Look for an option indicating ‘Add Device’ or ‘Pair New Device.’
- Search for your devices: Your Subaru system will begin searching for available Bluetooth devices.
- Select your smartphone from the list: Once the search is complete, your phone should appear on the screen.
- Confirm the pairing: A code will display on both your phone and the Subaru screen. Ensure these codes match, then confirm the pairing on both devices.
Step 4: Finalize the Connection
After confirming the pairing, your smartphone may ask for permission to access your contacts and messages. Granting access allows for a smoother experience during calls.
Step 5: Adjusting the Settings
Once paired, you should verify your Bluetooth settings to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
For iPhone Users:
- Go to the Bluetooth settings.
- Tap on the information icon (i) next to your Subaru’s name.
- Select the options you want to enable.
For Android Users:
- Tap the gear icon next to your Subaru in the Bluetooth settings.
- Adjust the settings according to your preferences.
Troubleshooting Common Bluetooth Connection Issues
While connecting Bluetooth in your Subaru is generally a hassle-free process, you may encounter a few common issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you overcome these challenges:
Bluetooth Not Discovering Your Device
If your Subaru isn’t finding your smartphone, consider the following:
- Ensure your smartphone is in discovery mode: Check that Bluetooth is activated and your phone is visible to other devices.
- Restart both devices: A simple reboot can often resolve connectivity issues.
Connection Drops or Fails
If you experience frequent disconnections, you can try these solutions:
- Reset your Infiniti Bluetooth settings: You may need to remove your previous phone pairing to clear any glitches. Go to your Subaru’s Bluetooth settings, select the previous device, and delete or unpair it before attempting to connect again.
- Check for software updates: Ensure your smartphone and your Subaru’s infotainment system are running the latest software versions.
Additional Features of Subaru’s Bluetooth System
Subaru’s Bluetooth technology often includes additional features that enhance user experience:
Voice Command Functionality
Many Subaru models support voice commands, allowing you to control your phone and infotainment system hands-free. Using voice commands can be an effective way to maintain focus while driving.
Accessing Apps Through Bluetooth
Depending on your model year, Subaru’s STARLINK system aggregates various apps that can be accessed through Bluetooth. This feature allows you to stream music, access navigation apps, and utilize weather updates directly through your car’s display.
Keep Your Device Charged for Optimal Use
While Bluetooth connectivity is fantastic, it’s essential to keep your smartphone charged. When using Bluetooth for prolonged periods, streaming music or making calls can drain your phone’s battery rapidly. Using a charging cable or portable charger can ensure uninterrupted connectivity during your journeys.
Conclusion
Connecting Bluetooth in your Subaru can significantly enhance your driving experience, combining safety and convenience. By following the outlined steps, troubleshooting common issues, and utilizing additional features, you can fully leverage your Subaru’s Bluetooth capabilities.
Whether you’re driving to work or embarking on a road trip, integrating your smartphone with your vehicle ensures a more enjoyable and connected drive. Don’t hesitate to explore your Subaru’s infotainment system fully, as it can transform the way you interact with technology on the go. Happy driving!
What is Bluetooth connectivity in Subaru vehicles?
Bluetooth connectivity in Subaru vehicles allows for wireless communication between your car’s audio system and your smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This technology enables hands-free calling, audio streaming, and accessing various apps via your vehicle’s infotainment system. By utilizing Bluetooth, drivers can stay connected while maintaining their focus on the road.
With Bluetooth, you can seamlessly pair your device with the car’s system, which can enhance your driving experience significantly. It provides convenience by allowing you to make and receive calls or play music without the need for physical connections, thus reducing cable clutter inside your car.
How do I pair my phone with my Subaru’s Bluetooth?
To pair your phone with your Subaru’s Bluetooth, start by ensuring that Bluetooth is enabled on your phone. Next, turn on your Subaru and access the infotainment system. Navigate to the Bluetooth settings, which is often found under “Settings” or “Connections.” Select the option to add a new device, and your car will start searching for nearby Bluetooth devices.
Once your car is in pairing mode, go back to your smartphone and search for the Subaru system in the list of available devices. Select it, and you may be prompted to enter a PIN or confirm a code on both your phone and the car’s display. After confirming, your phone will be successfully paired, and you’ll be able to use Bluetooth features.
What if my phone does not connect to Bluetooth in my Subaru?
If your phone fails to connect to Bluetooth in your Subaru, begin by ensuring that your phone’s Bluetooth setting is activated. It’s a common issue that can arise from interference or the Bluetooth feature being turned off. Restart both your phone and your vehicle’s infotainment system, as this can often resolve connectivity glitches.
In case the issue persists, try deleting the Bluetooth pairing from both your phone and the car. Then re-attempt the pairing process afresh. Updating your phone’s operating system or the Subaru’s infotainment system may also help address compatibility issues that can hinder successful connections.
Can I stream music through Bluetooth in my Subaru?
Yes, you can stream music through Bluetooth in your Subaru. After successfully pairing your phone with the vehicle, you can access media applications such as Spotify, Apple Music, or any audio source on your device. Simply select the corresponding audio source in your Subaru’s audio system to begin streaming your favorite tunes.
Ensure that your phone’s media playback is also enabled, as some Subaru models may require you to select ‘Media’ or ‘Bluetooth Audio’ from the infotainment screen. This allows you to control playback directly from your car’s interface, providing a seamless listening experience while driving.
How do I disconnect my phone from Subaru’s Bluetooth?
To disconnect your phone from your Subaru’s Bluetooth, you’ll need to access the Bluetooth settings on your vehicle’s infotainment system. Look for the list of connected devices and select your phone from that list. There should be an option to disconnect or remove the device, which will sever the Bluetooth connection.
Alternatively, you can also disconnect your phone via its Bluetooth settings. Depending on your device, locate the connected Subaru system in your phone’s Bluetooth menu and select ‘Forget’ or ‘Disconnect.’ This action will ensure that your phone is no longer connected to the vehicle.
Is it possible to connect multiple devices to Subaru’s Bluetooth?
Many Subaru vehicles support the ability to connect multiple Bluetooth devices, but usually, only one device can be active at a time. This means that while several devices may be paired, you will need to select which device you want to use for calls or music at any given moment. The process for switching between devices can typically be done through the vehicle’s Bluetooth settings.
To manage multiple devices, simply follow the same pairing process for each additional device. If you reach the limit set by your vehicle’s Bluetooth system, you might need to remove a previously connected device before adding a new one. Check your user manual for specific details regarding simultaneous connections and device management.
What should I do if my Subaru’s Bluetooth is not functioning properly?
If your Subaru’s Bluetooth is not functioning properly, the first step is to check for any software updates for your vehicle’s infotainment system. Manufacturers often release updates that can fix bugs or enhance Bluetooth functionality. Ensure your Subaru’s software is up-to-date by visiting a dealership or checking the manufacturer’s website for instructions.
Additionally, troubleshooting common issues such as resetting the Bluetooth connection can be beneficial. This involves clearing the Bluetooth cache or factory resetting the infotainment system, as outlined in the owner’s manual. If the problem persists after these steps, contacting your local Subaru dealer or service center may provide further assistance and diagnostics.