If you’re wondering how to set up Subaru STARLINK, this guide is for you. Our John Kennedy Subaru team has put together this easy-to-follow article to demystify the process. The first thing to know is that Subaru has recently renamed STARLINK to MySubaru. This technology connects your car to your digital life while making Plymouth Meeting drives safer and more convenient.
What Is MySubaru?
MySubaru Connected Services links your Subaru with your smartphone and online services. It bundles MySubaru Safety, Security, and Concierge options that can notify emergency services after accidents, start your engine remotely, and provide roadside assistance when you need it.
Subaru’s 2025 lineup includes some nice upgrades, such as the new 11.6-inch multimedia touch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on 2025 Crosstrek Premium models. Almost all 2025 Subarus (except base models) can be started remotely, and this feature is standard on every Solterra. Your car communicates with the MySubaru app, letting you control its functions from anywhere.
You’ll pay about $100 yearly for a basic MySubaru subscription, with prices varying by model and year. Advanced features, such as remote door locking and crash alerts, are available with the Safety and Security packages, which are compatible with select 2016 and later models.
Presetup Requirements and Compatibility Check
First, ensure your Subaru can connect with MySubaru. While it works with most models, service availability depends on what you drive and which trim you choose. Your phone needs to be compatible, too; you’ll need Android 10.0 or iOS 15.0 (or newer) for remote control and service alerts. If you have an Apple Watch, the app will work on your watch, too.
Different Subaru trims offer different MySubaru features. For example, AT&T hotspot service comes with select Ascent, BRZ, Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, Solterra, and WRX models. Remote start technology requires a push-button ignition and isn’t available on base trims (except for the 2025 Solterra, which includes it on all versions).
Step-By-Step MySubaru Initial Setup Process
Start by downloading the MySubaru app from your phone’s app store. You’ll need an active email address, your Subaru’s vehicle identification number (VIN), and emergency contact information to create a MySubaru account. The VIN can be found on your registration, insurance cards, or the driver’s side dashboard near the windshield. Ensure a strong password by using eight to 15 characters with uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters.
You’ll receive a verification code in your email; it’s only valid for 15 minutes, so enter it quickly after you receive it. You can sign up for trial periods at the dealership when buying your car or through MySubaru.com within six months of purchase. If you get stuck, call Subaru Customer Support at 1-800-SUBARU3 (1-800-782-2783). They’ll help you through any problems during the process.
Bluetooth Pairing and Phone Integration
Connecting your phone is straightforward. Open the Bluetooth settings in your car’s system, follow the prompts, and type the displayed PIN into your phone. Once paired, you can make calls, text, and play music without touching your phone. You can also add family members and set different access levels for each.
Sometimes, Subaru Bluetooth connection issues happen. It could be software bugs, interference from gadgets, or perhaps your phone just doesn’t want to pair with the car system. Try updating both your phone and car’s software, deleting old device pairings, or resetting to factory settings as a last resort.
Configuring MySubaru Features and Services
You can set up safety services such as collision notification, roadside help, and stolen vehicle tracking, and then customize your infotainment options, such as Magellan GPS, iHeartRadio, and Yelp. Pennsylvania winters won’t feel as harsh when you can warm up your car without leaving your cozy bed — all you’ll need to do is tap your phone, and MySubaru will do the rest.
Using remote start is simple: Open the app, log in, pick your car, hit the start button, and confirm with your PIN or fingerprint. Your engine will run for 10 to 15 minutes before shutting off (if you don’t get in), and its doors lock automatically. You may be interested in setting up boundary and curfew alerts if you have teens who drive, so you can keep track of where they go and when they arrive.
Subscription Plans and Service Activation
Your MySubaru subscription offers three service tiers. MySubaru Safety comes free for three years, then costs around $99.95 yearly or $9.95 monthly. This package includes crash notification, SOS help, roadside assistance, vehicle alerts, maintenance reminders, service scheduling, vehicle checks, health reports, and over-the-air updates.
The MySubaru Security tier adds stolen vehicle recovery, remote start with climate control, remote locks, horn and lights, vehicle locator, immobilizer, boundary alerts, speed warnings, curfew notices, and trip logs. It’s free for six months, then around $4.95 monthly on top of your Safety subscription. The top tier, MySubaru Concierge ($4.95/month on top of the Security tier), helps find points of interest, book restaurants and hotels, buy event tickets, schedule service, and answer car questions. While the app itself costs nothing, you’ll need a paid plan for more comprehensive services.
Common Setup Issues and Troubleshooting
Quick connection fixes include restarting the system, updating software, performing a factory reset, ensuring both your phone and car have the latest updates, or replacing your USB cable with a better one.
Before panicking, investigate the basics. Is your internet working? Did you type your password correctly? Does your phone meet the requirements? If problems persist, Subaru’s customer service can walk you through solutions for account issues, subscription questions, and service activation. Have your VIN, account details, and problem description ready when you call to streamline the process.
Experience the Full Potential of the MySubaru System
With everything up and running, it’s time to make the most of your new technology. Add family members to your account with customized access (let your spouse start the car, but maybe not track your shopping runs). If you have an Apple Watch, you can sync the MySubaru app and control your car from your wrist. Look into cloud apps such as iHeartRadio, Yelp, and Magellan GPS for tunes, food finds, and directions without touching your phone.
The app also provides a digital owner’s manual with how-to videos that make car features crystal clear. Keep your system current with regular over-the-air updates for the latest tweaks and security patches. This technology connects your digital world with your Subaru, whether you’re headed to King of Prussia Mall or planning a Poconos weekend.
Explore the MySubaru Technology at John Kennedy Subaru Today
If you’re ready to try out MySubaru, contact our John Kennedy Subaru team today to schedule a test drive or get hands-on help with setup, updates, or special features. We even offer a convenient online service scheduler. Our local team is always available to ensure your Subaru’s technology works for you, not against you. Stop by our Plymouth Meeting dealership to see how we can help.
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