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:
- Improved Navigation: Subaru GPS updates improve the navigation system by adding newly mapped roads, rerouting capabilities, and refined destination search accuracy.
- Enhanced Safety Features: New firmware can improve or even add safety features like lane departure warnings or collision detection.
- Bug Fixes and Stability: Updates can address software bugs that affect system responsiveness, such as frozen screens, lagging interfaces, or Bluetooth connectivity problems.
- 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.
- 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.