Subaru GPS Not Working: A Quick Fix

GPS navigation has become essential for modern driving, especially in Subaru vehicles where drivers rely on accurate directions and location services. However, some Subaru owners experience issues where the GPS stops working correctly, leaving them without guidance. This article will cover everything you need to know to fix a Subaru GPS not working, from understanding the features and benefits of GPS updates, performing a Subaru firmware update, and practical troubleshooting tips to resolve common issues.

Understanding Subaru’s GPS System

The GPS system in Subaru vehicles is part of the infotainment system, providing real-time directions, traffic information, and location-based services. Integrated with Subaru’s technology, the GPS uses satellite signals to track the car's position and guide drivers effectively. However, GPS systems can sometimes malfunction due to outdated firmware, software bugs, or issues with satellite connectivity. Subaru releases periodic updates to fix bugs and enhance the system’s performance, which can often resolve many common GPS issues.

Benefits of Subaru GPS Updates

A Subaru GPS update or firmware update can provide multiple advantages:

1. Improved Accuracy: Updates refine GPS location accuracy, reducing chances of errors in directions.
2. New Map Data: Firmware updates often include new maps and updated routes, so drivers can access the latest road changes.
3. Enhanced Performance: GPS updates improve the system’s responsiveness, reducing lag or freezes that can disrupt navigation.
4. Bug Fixes and Reliability: Regular updates resolve software bugs and improve GPS stability, making the system more dependable.
5. Better Compatibility: Updates keep the system compatible with other vehicle technologies and any new mobile operating system updates (e.g., iOS and Android).

Steps to Update Subaru GPS and Firmware

Updating your Subaru’s GPS and firmware is an essential step in fixing most GPS-related issues. Here’s how to perform these updates effectively.

Method 1: Updating Subaru Firmware and GPS via USB

1. Check for Available Updates:

   • Visit Subaru’s official website and go to the “Owners” or “Support” section.
   • Locate the “Firmware Updates” or “Map & GPS Update” section.
   • Enter your vehicle’s model, year, and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to view available updates.

2. Download the Update File:

   • If an update is available, download the firmware or GPS update file to your computer.
   • The download file may be compressed (e.g., ZIP file), so unzip it if necessary to access the update files.

3. Prepare a USB Drive:

   • Use a USB drive with at least 16GB of storage and format it to FAT32 (this format is required for Subaru compatibility).
   • Transfer the firmware update files to the root directory of the USB drive (avoid placing them inside folders).

4. Install the Update in Your Vehicle:

   • Start your Subaru vehicle and turn on the infotainment system.
   • Insert the USB drive into the designated USB port in your vehicle, usually in the center console.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions, which may include agreeing to terms and confirming the update installation.
   • Wait for the update process to complete, which may take 20–30 minutes. Avoid turning off the vehicle or infotainment system during this time.

5. Restart the System:

   • After the update completes, restart the infotainment system by turning the car off and then back on. This will finalize the update process.

Method 2: Updating Subaru GPS and Firmware at a Dealership

1. Visit Your Subaru Dealer:

   • If you prefer not to perform the update yourself, schedule an appointment at your local Subaru dealership.
   • A technician will complete the firmware update, including any GPS updates, for you.

2. Confirm Possible Charges:

   • Some Subaru dealers may charge a service fee for firmware and GPS updates, so check with them for potential costs.

3. Ensure System Optimization:

   • A dealership update ensures that all systems are working correctly, and you may also benefit from a general system checkup to resolve other potential issues.

Troubleshooting Tips for Subaru GPS Not Working

If your Subaru GPS not working after an update, try the following troubleshooting steps:

1. Check GPS Settings

• Access the GPS settings through the infotainment system and ensure that location services or GPS tracking are enabled.
• Some models allow you to reset GPS settings, which can sometimes solve issues.

2. Restart the Infotainment System

• Restarting the system can resolve minor software glitches.
• You can do this by turning off the car, waiting a few minutes, and then restarting it.

3. Check for Signal Interference

• GPS signals rely on a clear connection to satellites. If you’re in an area with dense buildings, tunnels, or thick foliage, the GPS may lose signal temporarily.
• Check if the GPS works once you’re in an open area, as this may reveal whether interference was the cause.

4. Recalibrate the GPS System

• Some Subaru models allow you to recalibrate the GPS system manually.
• Access the settings menu, look for a recalibrate option, and follow the prompts to recalibrate.

5. Verify USB Compatibility and File Format

• If you experienced issues during the update process, check that your USB is formatted to FAT32 and that files are unzipped in the root directory.
• Subaru systems sometimes have trouble recognizing USB drives larger than 32GB, so try a smaller one if needed.

6. Perform a Factory Reset

• If all else fails, you may consider performing a factory reset on your infotainment system. This can resolve deep-seated software issues, though it will delete custom settings.
• Refer to your vehicle’s manual for instructions on performing a factory reset, or consult a Subaru technician.

7. Contact Subaru Support

• If none of these steps solve the problem, contact Subaru customer support or your dealership for further assistance. It’s possible there’s an underlying hardware or software issue that requires professional diagnosis.

Common Issues and Solutions

Here are some additional common issues and how to address them:

• GPS Not Locking onto Location: If your GPS takes a long time to determine your location or doesn’t update, try restarting the infotainment system and checking for any software updates.
• System Freezing During Update: If the system freezes or crashes mid-update, turn off the car, remove the USB, and try again. Ensure that the USB drive is properly formatted and free from other files.
• No Map Displayed: Check that the GPS is enabled and that your location settings are accurate. A system reboot or recalibration may also resolve this.

Conclusion

A non-functioning Subaru GPS can be a frustrating experience, especially if you depend on it for navigation. Thankfully, performing a Subaru GPS update or firmware update often resolves most common issues, enhancing performance, accuracy, and compatibility. By following the update steps above and using these troubleshooting tips, you can resolve most GPS issues yourself. For persistent problems, seeking assistance from Subaru support or a dealership is recommended. Regular updates and occasional recalibration ensure that your Subaru GPS system continues to serve as a reliable guide on the road.

How to Update Subaru Firmware: An User Guide

Keeping your Subaru’s firmware up to date is essential for maximizing the performance of its infotainment and navigation system. Subaru firmware updates can improve the vehicle’s GPS, enhance safety features, and add new functionalities that enhance the driving experience. This article will walk you through what firmware updates are, the features and benefits of updating, the steps to update Subaru firmware (with a focus on Subaru GPS update), and troubleshooting tips in case of common issues.

What Is Subaru Firmware?

Firmware is the foundational software embedded in Subaru’s infotainment system, controlling everything from the touchscreen interface to GPS navigation. Unlike mobile apps or operating systems on a phone, firmware works behind the scenes, often unnoticed, but is critical for the smooth functioning of various car systems. Subaru periodically releases firmware updates to improve system performance, fix bugs, and ensure compatibility with new mobile operating systems (like Android and iOS).

Features and Benefits of Subaru Firmware Updates

Updating your Subaru’s firmware brings a range of benefits, including:

1. Improved Navigation: Subaru GPS updates improve the navigation system by adding newly mapped roads, rerouting capabilities, and refined destination search accuracy.
2. Enhanced Safety Features: New firmware can improve or even add safety features like lane departure warnings or collision detection.
3. Bug Fixes and Stability: Updates can address software bugs that affect system responsiveness, such as frozen screens, lagging interfaces, or Bluetooth connectivity problems.
4. Compatibility with New Devices: Firmware updates keep the infotainment system compatible with newer mobile devices and OS updates, so your smartphone integration (e.g., Apple CarPlay or Android Auto) remains smooth.
5. Better Fuel Efficiency: In some cases, updates can even impact the vehicle’s fuel efficiency by optimizing certain systems’ performance.

Steps to Update Subaru Firmware

Subaru firmware updates are typically completed through a USB download or at a Subaru dealership. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to update your Subaru’s firmware, including the GPS software update.

Method 1: Updating Subaru Firmware via USB

1. Check for Updates:

   • Visit Subaru’s official website and go to the “Owners” or “Support” section.
   • Look for the “Firmware Updates” or “Map & GPS Update” section.
   • Enter your Subaru model, year, and sometimes the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to see if any updates are available.

2. Download the Firmware:

   • If an update is available, download the firmware or Subaru GPS update file to your computer.
   • The file will likely be in a compressed format, so unzip it if necessary.

3. Prepare a USB Drive:

   • Use a clean USB drive with at least 16GB of storage.
   • Format the USB drive to FAT32 to ensure compatibility with Subaru’s infotainment system.
   • Transfer the unzipped firmware update files onto the USB drive.

4. Install in the Vehicle:

   • Start your Subaru and turn on the infotainment system.
   • Insert the USB drive into the USB port in your vehicle (usually located in the center console or near the infotainment system).
   • Follow the on-screen prompts, which may include agreeing to terms and confirming that you want to install the update.
   • The system will begin installing the update, which can take up to 30 minutes. Do not turn off the car or the infotainment system during this process.

5. Restart the System:

   • Once the update is complete, the system will prompt you to restart. Restart the infotainment system by turning off the car and restarting it to finalize the installation.

Method 2: Updating Subaru Firmware at a Dealership

1. Contact Your Local Subaru Dealer:

   • If you prefer not to handle the update yourself, you can schedule an appointment with a Subaru dealership. A technician will complete the firmware update for you.

2. Expect Possible Fees:

   • Some dealerships may charge a service fee for firmware updates, especially if it’s a GPS or map update. Check with your dealer for potential costs.

3. Get a Full System Check:

   • A benefit of having the update done at the dealership is that technicians can check for any additional system issues and ensure all systems are functioning correctly.

Troubleshooting Tips for Subaru Firmware Updates

If you encounter issues while updating Subaru firmware, try the following troubleshooting steps:

1. USB Compatibility Issues

• Ensure the USB drive is formatted to FAT32. Some systems may not recognize drives formatted as NTFS or exFAT.
• Avoid using USB drives larger than 32GB, as some Subaru systems have trouble reading larger capacities.

2. Error Messages or Installation Failures

• Check that the firmware files are properly unzipped and transferred to the USB root directory (not inside any folders).
• Ensure your car battery is adequately charged, as low power could interrupt the update.
• Try another USB drive if the system fails to recognize your current one.

3. Infotainment System Freezes or Crashes

• If the system crashes during an update, turn off the car and restart the process.
• Disconnect any other devices (like smartphones) to prevent interference during the update.

4. Contact Subaru Support

• If you are unable to complete the update or continue to face issues, contact Subaru customer support or your dealership for assistance.

Conclusion

Updating the firmware in your Subaru is an important maintenance task that can improve GPS navigation, enhance safety, and keep your car’s infotainment system up to date. Subaru firmware updates, whether done via a USB or at a dealership, can significantly impact the quality of your driving experience. By following these steps and troubleshooting tips, you can complete a Subaru GPS update or firmware update with confidence. Regularly checking for updates ensures your Subaru stays reliable, safe, and compatible with the latest technology.

How to Update Subaru GPS: A Complete Guide

Keeping your Subaru’s GPS system updated is essential for accurate navigation and enhanced convenience. With new roads, changed routes, and updated points of interest (POIs) regularly added to map data, a Subaru GPS update helps ensure your system provides the most reliable and efficient guidance. In this article, we’ll cover what the Subaru GPS system is, the features and benefits of a GPS update, a step-by-step guide to updating your Subaru GPS, troubleshooting tips, and a final conclusion to keep you confidently navigating every journey.

Understanding Subaru GPS and Its Importance

The Subaru GPS system, integrated into Subaru’s infotainment technology, provides real-time navigation assistance with accurate directions, traffic updates, and a vast array of POIs, including gas stations, restaurants, and service centers. GPS updates for Subaru ensure that your system reflects the latest road changes, construction updates, and new businesses, allowing you to navigate smoothly and efficiently without worrying about outdated information.

Subaru GPS is built to enhance the driving experience, making it easier to plan routes, avoid traffic congestion, and access essential services along the way. A Subaru GPS update maintains this level of functionality, ensuring accuracy and reliability.

Key Features of Subaru GPS

The Subaru GPS system offers various features to make navigation seamless and user-friendly:

• Real-Time Traffic Information: The GPS provides live traffic updates, alerting drivers to congested areas and suggesting alternate routes for faster travel.
• Turn-by-Turn Directions: Detailed voice-guided directions help drivers stay on course, even in unfamiliar areas.
• 3D Mapping and Landmarks: Subaru GPS systems include 3D mapping for better spatial orientation, which makes it easier to recognize landmarks and turns.
• Points of Interest (POI): Updated databases include locations like fuel stations, ATMs, and dining spots, making it easy to find essential stops.
• Route Options: Subaru GPS offers multiple route options, letting you choose between the shortest, fastest, or most scenic routes based on your preference.
• Hands-Free Voice Commands: Integrated with Subaru’s infotainment system, the GPS can be controlled by voice commands, enhancing convenience and safety by allowing hands-free operation.

These features ensure a reliable navigation experience, whether for everyday commutes or cross-country adventures.

Benefits of Subaru GPS Update

Installing regular updates for your Subaru GPS ensures that the navigation system provides the latest and most accurate information. Here are some key benefits:

1. Enhanced Navigation Accuracy: Map updates reflect new roads, rerouted highways, and road closures, ensuring your GPS guides you accurately.
2. Improved Efficiency: With real-time traffic updates and optimized routes, you can reduce travel time and avoid congested roads.
3. Increased Safety: Updated POIs and voice-guided navigation allow drivers to focus on the road, reducing distractions.
4. Fuel Savings: Efficient route options minimize unnecessary detours, helping you save on fuel costs.
5. Convenient Access to Services: An updated POI database helps you find nearby services and amenities, making long trips more comfortable.

How to Update Subaru GPS: Step-by-Step Guide

Subaru offers GPS updates through either a USB drive or by visiting a Subaru dealership. Here’s a detailed guide on how to complete the Subaru GPS update on your own.

Method 1: USB Update

1. Confirm Compatibility:

   • Ensure your Subaru’s infotainment system supports USB updates. Most Subaru models with STARLINK navigation use USB drives for map updates, but confirm with your owner’s manual or a dealership if you’re unsure.

2. Prepare a USB Drive:

   • Use a USB drive with at least 16GB of free space. Format the USB drive to FAT32 or exFAT to ensure compatibility with Subaru’s system.

3. Download the Update:

   • Go to the Subaru Map Update Portal and create an account if you don’t already have one.
   • Enter your vehicle’s model and year, and input your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to access the available Subaru GPS update.
   • Download the update files to your computer. Follow any Subaru-specific instructions provided to ensure that the files are correctly transferred to your USB drive.

4. Install the Update in Your Subaru:

   • Start your Subaru vehicle and ensure it remains in "Park."
   • Insert the USB drive into the USB port in your Subaru’s infotainment system.
   • Follow the on-screen prompts to begin the Subaru GPS update. The system will detect the update files on the USB and start the installation process.
   • The update process can take 20-60 minutes, depending on the file size. Keep the engine running during the update to prevent power interruptions.

5. Confirm Installation Completion:

   • Once the update is complete, a message will appear on the screen. Remove the USB drive and restart your vehicle to ensure the changes take effect.

Method 2: Subaru Dealership Update

If you prefer a more hands-off approach, Subaru dealerships can perform the GPS update for you. This is a convenient option if you’re unfamiliar with using a USB update.

1. Visit a Dealership:

   • Schedule an appointment with a Subaru dealership, where they will handle the GPS update process for you.

2. Professional Installation:

   • The dealership technicians will use specialized tools to update your GPS, ensuring the latest software and maps are correctly installed.

3. Confirm the Update:

   • After the update, confirm with the dealership that the latest maps and software have been installed, and check that your GPS system is functioning properly.

Troubleshooting Tips for Subaru GPS Update

If you encounter issues while updating your Subaru GPS, here are some troubleshooting tips to help resolve common problems:

1. USB Drive Not Recognized:

   • Ensure the USB drive is formatted to FAT32 or exFAT and that the update files are saved in the root directory.
   • Check that the USB drive is compatible with Subaru’s infotainment system; some drives may not be recognized by the system.

2. Download or Transfer Errors:

   • Verify that all files were correctly downloaded from the Subaru Map Update Portal. A partial download or transfer error could cause problems.
   • Try reformatting the USB drive and redownloading the files if necessary.

3. Installation Freezes or Fails:

   • If the installation process freezes, restart the vehicle and reattempt the update. Remove the USB drive, wait a few moments, and then reinsert it.
   • If the problem persists, consider visiting a dealership for assistance.

4. Incomplete Update:

   • Sometimes, an incomplete update can occur if the connection is interrupted. Restart the vehicle, reconnect the USB drive, and begin the installation process again.
   • Re-download the update files if the problem continues, as they may have been corrupted during the initial download.

5. Infotainment System Compatibility Issues:

   • In some cases, the infotainment system may need an additional software update before the GPS map update can be applied. Check for any necessary system updates on the Subaru Map Update Portal or consult a dealership.

Tips for Maintaining Subaru GPS Accuracy

1. Regular Updates:

   • Subaru recommends updating the GPS system annually to keep up with changes in roads, traffic patterns, and POIs.

2. Storage Management:

   • Delete any old or unnecessary files on your USB drive before beginning the update process to ensure sufficient storage for the new data.

3. Seek Professional Help if Needed:

   • If troubleshooting doesn’t resolve an issue, don’t hesitate to visit a Subaru dealership for assistance.

Conclusion

Updating your Subaru GPS is a valuable way to enhance your driving experience, keeping you equipped with the latest maps, POIs, and traffic information. With the Subaru GPS update, you gain more accurate navigation, improved route efficiency, and access to new points of interest that make each drive more convenient.