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If you own a Subaru, you likely use its built-in navigation system to guide you to your destinations. While Subaru’s navigation systems are known for being reliable, just like any GPS system, they require regular updates to remain accurate. In this guide, we’ll answer the question, "How do you update Subaru navigation system?", walk you through the different update methods, and address common concerns related to navigation system updates.
Why Should You Update Your Subaru Navigation System?
Before diving into how to update your Subaru navigation system, let’s first discuss why it’s important to regularly update your system:
1. Accurate Directions
New roads, road closures, and updated speed limits are common, and an outdated map may lead you to incorrect routes. By updating your Subaru’s map, you ensure that your navigation system is providing the most accurate directions possible.
2. New Points of Interest (POIs)
Subaru’s navigation system not only helps you with routes but also provides valuable information about Points of Interest (POIs) such as gas stations, restaurants, hotels, shopping centers, and more. As new businesses and locations open, these updates ensure that your system keeps you informed about places near you or along your route.
3. Improved Traffic and Road Information
Subaru’s systems are equipped with features that offer live traffic information, helping you avoid congested roads and accidents. Keeping your maps updated allows you to take advantage of the most current traffic data available, helping you reach your destination more efficiently.
4. Enhanced System Performance
Sometimes, an update may bring more than just new maps. Updates could also include bug fixes or improvements to the navigation system’s functionality, leading to a better overall user experience.
5. Safety and Legal Compliance
Updated maps ensure that your system reflects current road signs, speed limits, and even changes to one-way streets. By keeping your navigation system updated, you can avoid unintentionally breaking traffic laws and ensure your safety on the road.
Methods to Update Subaru Navigation System
Subaru offers several methods for updating your navigation system, and the method you use may depend on the age of your vehicle and the features available in your Subaru model. The main methods include Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, USB updates, and updating via Subaru dealerships.
Let’s explore each of these methods in more detail.
Method 1: Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates
Many newer Subaru models come equipped with Subaru STARLINK, a connected infotainment system that allows for Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. This method allows you to update your Subaru navigation system wirelessly, meaning you don’t need to physically connect a USB drive to your vehicle.
Steps for OTA Updates:
Connect to Wi-Fi To perform an OTA update, your Subaru needs to be connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. You can use either your home Wi-Fi or a mobile hotspot. A strong and reliable connection is essential to avoid interruptions during the download and installation process.
Access the Settings Menu On the Subaru infotainment screen, navigate to the Settings or System menu. Look for an option such as "System Update" or "Navigation Update."
Check for Available Updates Once you’re in the right section, the system will automatically search for any available updates. If a map update is available, it will display on the screen. Some models may also show notifications when an update is available.
Download the Update Select the option to begin downloading the update. The download may take some time depending on the size of the map update and the speed of your Wi-Fi connection. It’s important that you don’t turn off the vehicle or interrupt the process while the download is in progress.
Install the Update After the download is complete, the system will prompt you to install the update. Make sure your vehicle remains in park mode with the engine running (or in accessory mode). Follow the on-screen prompts to begin the installation.
Wait for the Update to Complete The installation process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Once the update is successfully installed, the system will notify you that it’s complete. You can now enjoy the updated maps and features on your Subaru’s navigation system.
Method 2: Using a USB Drive to Update Your Subaru Navigation System
If your Subaru model doesn’t support OTA updates, you can update your navigation system via a USB drive. This method requires downloading the update to your computer and transferring it to a USB drive before installing it in your vehicle.
Steps for USB Updates:
Prepare a USB Flash Drive You’ll need a USB drive with at least 4GB of available space. The USB drive must be formatted as FAT32. If you’re unsure about how to format your USB drive, follow these steps:
- On Windows: Right-click the USB drive in File Explorer, select Format, and choose FAT32.
- On Mac: Use Disk Utility to format the USB drive to FAT32.
Download the Map Update Visit Subaru’s official website or the Subaru Owner’s Portal to download the latest map update for your vehicle. Make sure to enter your vehicle details (such as model year and infotainment system version) to get the correct update. Once the update file is downloaded, unzip it if necessary.
Transfer the Files to the USB Drive After unzipping the files (if required), transfer them to the root directory of the USB drive. Do not place the update files in any folders, as the Subaru system needs to access them from the root directory for the update to work correctly.
Insert the USB Drive into Your Subaru Plug the USB drive into the USB port in your Subaru. This port is usually located on the dashboard or center console.
Access the Update Menu Turn on your vehicle and access the Settings or Navigation Update menu on your Subaru infotainment screen. The system should detect the USB drive and prompt you to begin the update process.
Start the Update Follow the on-screen prompts to start the update. The system will copy the new map data from the USB drive to your vehicle’s navigation system. Be patient, as the process can take between 15 to 30 minutes.
Wait for the Installation to Complete Do not turn off your vehicle during the update process. Once the installation is complete, the system will notify you that the update is finished.
Method 3: Visit a Subaru Dealership for Map Updates
If you’re not comfortable with the DIY update methods or if you encounter any issues, you can always take your vehicle to a Subaru dealership for a map update. Some dealerships may offer free updates for the first few years, while others may charge a fee after the initial free update period.
Steps for Dealership Updates:
Contact Your Subaru Dealership Call or visit your local Subaru dealership to inquire about their map update services. You may want to ask if updates are free for your model or if there’s a fee after the initial update period.
Schedule an Appointment If your dealership requires an appointment for a map update, schedule a time that works best for you. Some dealerships may even perform the update while you wait, but it’s always best to check in advance.
Bring Your Subaru to the Dealership On the day of your appointment, bring your Subaru to the dealership and drop it off for the update. The service department will handle the entire process for you.
Wait for the Update to Complete The update process at a dealership typically takes between 15 to 30 minutes. Once completed, you’ll be notified, and you can check the navigation system to ensure everything is working correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How often should I update my Subaru navigation system?
You should aim to update your Subaru navigation system every 6 to 12 months. This ensures that your system stays current with new roads, points of interest, and traffic information.
2. Can I update my Subaru navigation system for free?
Many Subaru models offer free map updates for the first 3 to 5 years of ownership. After this period, updates typically require a fee, but some models may still offer complimentary updates periodically.
3. How long does it take to update my Subaru navigation system?
The update process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. However, this can vary depending on your vehicle model, the size of the update, and the update method you choose (OTA, USB, or dealership).
4. What happens if the update fails?
If the update fails, ensure that your USB drive is formatted correctly, the files are in the root directory, and that your vehicle has a stable Wi-Fi connection (if using OTA). If issues persist, contact your Subaru dealership for assistance.
5. Can I update my Subaru navigation system via my smartphone?
No, you cannot update your Subaru navigation system directly via your smartphone. You can use your smartphone as a mobile hotspot for OTA updates, but the actual map data transfer must occur via Wi-Fi or a USB drive.
6. Is it necessary to update the maps every time an update is available?
While it's not strictly necessary, updating your Subaru navigation system regularly ensures that you have the latest routes, points of interest, and real-time traffic data, which can greatly enhance your driving experience.
Conclusion
Updating your Subaru navigation system is essential for maintaining accurate directions, improved performance, and access to the latest points of interest and traffic data. Whether you update via OTA updates, a USB drive, or through a dealership, keeping your system current is an easy task that can significantly enhance your driving experience. With these steps, you can confidently keep your Subaru navigation system in top shape and ensure a smooth journey every time you hit the road.