5 Settings to change on your new Subaru

[@alexpmo]

Correction: I meant to say Subaru’s recommended service interval is every 6,000 miles or every 6 months (not every 12 months).

[@We-Cook-It]

Awesome Vid as always 👌🏽👍🏽👏🏽💯 I have a question the steering wheel button (i) what is it for?

[@richardko1959]

Hi Alex, just a follow up question. What if I only have 1200 miles when it hits 6 months, would you still recommend an oil change? I also have another question with starting the car. My friend recommended letting the dashboard display come on first before starting the engine is better for the engine. So it takes 3 steps for me to start the car: 1st time pushing the engine start button w/o pressing on the brake, nothing changed. 2nd time pushing the engine start button w/o pressing on the brake, the dashboard display comes on. 3rd time pushing the engine start button while pressing on the brake, the car starts. Is my friend’s recommendation a myth, what is the right way to start the car? 😅

[@alexpmo]

The recommendation from Subaru is to get your oil changed every 6,000 miles or every 6 months (whichever comes first). So you should still have your oil changed at the 6 months mark even if you only have 1200 miles. I haven't heard of your friend's recommendation before. This is not something I would personally follow. You can start your car normally without the 3 step process he has shared. Hope that answers your questions!@@richardko1959

[@romelarceno8959]

Good info tip

[@klouise8248]

I do mostly city driving and I take mine every 3 to 4 months

[@edk8017]

In California when wipers are turned on your headlights must be on also

[@andybaker4309]

Many other states have the lights/ wipers policy.

[@robertschulze7995]

As a new first time Subaru owner (24 Outback), I find your videos very helpful.

[@skateata1]

Same here. Through a series of events, a new 2024 outback was cheaper than a used car so I ended up with my first subaru but I know nothing about it.

[@nancyschaefer9748]

@@skateata1I switched after 4 Hondas so this helps learning a lot in an easy tutorial

[@oldtimerdad]

There is the hatch back height setting that can be very frustrating. For low ceiling heights, you can adjust the hatch so it doesn’t come all the way up. However, figuring out how to correct that isn’t easy. The button near the dash light adjustment controls it. Maybe you can add that to an upcoming video.

[@glennastevens2974]

just got my new Crosstrek yesterday, been going thru book, starlink, manual owners, and after an hr with salesman yesterday, felt overwhelmed. found your video tonite and made it clearer to me. Great video, thank you so much.

[@tombryant52jumpscoach]

I bought an Outback a few days ago and had the same experience.

[@cindymarks5839]

Me too!

[@nancyschaefer9748]

Same here

[@moviebuff6490]

I just got a 23 Crosstrek and I thank you for these videos. The dealer didn't tell me any of this. It's a REALLY COMPLICATED car.

[@alexpmo]

Happy to help!

[@emerdelacruz771]

I finally got delivery of my '22 Forester premium trim last week after pre ordering it after Christmas 2021. I have been watching your videos since summer of '21 and it made me decide to get the Forester aside from talking to people who owns Subaru vehicles. Your videos are very informative and helpful. Thanks and keep up the good work.

[@alvidasgladstein7830]

Are you happy with Forester Premium package instead like Limited package and does it have remote start?

[@emerdelacruz771]

@@alvidasgladstein7830 Yes, I'm very satisfied with the premium trim. I think the difference are the luxury options on the limited trim like leather seats, nav and sound systems , remote start and some more which I don't really need. The engine and most of the safety features are the same with the limited trim but thousands (5K plus) cheaper. I paid the MSRP but still satisfied considering the crazy market esp. Subarus. Good luck.

[@Doc1855]

Last November (2021), I bought my wife a 19 Outback for her birthday. (We never buy new only bc we want someone else to take the 2 year hit on depreciation). It had only 5,600 miles on it. It was our first Subaru. We have to have an AWD or a 4WD bc of our 5-6 feet of snow every winter. It’s my wife’s commuter car and our road car. We were so impressed with its AWD system in all driving conditions that we started looking around for a used Forester for me. We distain gloomy grey or boring black interior colors so her Outback came with Ivory interior. On 12/11/22 I found a 2019 Forester Touring in Shoreline, WA (3 hours from our home). It looked and smelled new. It had only 4,700 miles. It’s a beautiful Sephia Bronze with Brown leather interior. Coming home we had to drive over Snowqualmie and Blewitt passes. Snow and ice were on parts of Snowqualmie Pass (I-90), but Blewitt Pass had a LOT of snow and ice. Other vehicles were sliding in places and a few were off the road. Our Subaru’s never slipped. My wife’s Outback still has factory tires, but the previous owner of my Forester had put Michelin Cross Climate tires on, which are excellent on all road conditions as well as light off road tires. At the end of the day, when our Subie’s wear out, we’ll replace them with other low mileage 2 - 3 year old Subarus

[@bjamin]

For steering wheel position, I use the RallyCross approach of ensuring you can turn the wheel 120* without removing your hands and your shoulders stay against the seat. This places your arms in a more relaxed, bent position while ensuring you stay in control of the wheel when an emergency does occur

[@cristia.6477]

Yes, wrist on the steering wheel AND shoulder resting against the seat. It's not only that your arms are more relaxed, it's actually the ideal distance to the steering wheel's airbag

[@spookyvegan1402]

That’s good to know ❤😊thank you

[@VickiRichards]

I have a 2022 Outback and the one problem I have is keeping the upper info display on one screen. It keeps changing on its own. How can I keep it locked it?

[@danmagoo]

I hate, hate, hate the "Auto On/Off," and I wish Subaru offered a way to turn that feature off more permanently. Thanks for the helpful walk-throughs.

[@thirdeyenz]

It's the worst. And they will never change it apparently. Something to do with meeting fuel efficiency standards I was told by a dealer.

[@bikeman1x11]

@@thirdeyenz ther eis a relay that plugs in by eyesight that keeps it in the current position- ie if you shut it off it stays off until you change it even after turnong off car- search auto stop disable and your car

[@thirdeyenz]

@@bikeman1x11 Thanks yes I've seen that recently, the Autostop Eliminator. I'm tempted although the Lane Avoidance turning my wheel is pissing me off more these days. My car keeps trying to drive me off the bloody road because it's confused.

[@bikeman1x11]

@@thirdeyenz you can turn that off as well and just kee the beep same with automatic braking

[@matsandberger8226]

Love on/off. Saves fuel. I think its the generator, not the starter engine that fire upp. Its faster than any Porshe at red lights…🤣

[@IanPattisonOakville]

I always turn the headlight switch to "on" and leave it there. The thing I love about all of my Subarus is that they won't turn the lights on without the key in so by leaving them on, I always have my full lighting system on for safety.

[@wildbill23c]

Do the lights stay on after you close and lock the doors like courtesy lights for like 10-20 seconds? My Explorer does that...in the dark its nice, lights the way to the back door of the house without needing to carry a flashlight.

[@IanPattisonOakville]

@@wildbill23c nope. It's pretty low tech.

[@Adventuresinger]

Thank you so much. I'm getting an 2024 Outback soon. While I'm excited, I'm also overwhelmed by the technology. This was so helpful.

[@alexpmo]

You're welcome! It'll take a little time but I'm sure you'll love it. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions

[@lisakaye75]

I knew the steering wheel could be adjusted up and down but I didn't know it could telescope. Thanks for the tip.

[@Matty06001]

My 2011 Outback finally became unsustainable, mostly through my own fault of not going through car washes after tough Maine winters. Just got a white 2020 Forester I call Egg-atha Christie. These videos are fantastic, I have absolutely no patience for sitting down and reading manuals, I just press buttons until I get something to work. This is a whole lot more efficient. Thank you!

[@lkd8537]

Since Subarus last so long, please do more shows on older models. I have a 2010 and still can't find answers to many questions. Thanks! LKD

[@sansfinchy6799]

Thank you for this. I just picked up a Forester and trying to learn the controls. Coming out of a 2003 4runner so I have a lot of catching up to do.

[@dewandsky]

I’m going from a 1992 4-Runner (didn’t even have air bags!) to a 2023 Forester! It’s like going from the Flintstones to the Jetsons!

[@empathy212]

Hahahaha! I feel you! I went from a 2003 Honda Odyssey to my new 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness edition! It's mind blowing. I had a lot of rental vehicles last year while waiting the 7 months for my Wilderness to be built and arrive, so this helped with the technology. However, these videos are extremely helpful since I have yet to make it through my brick of user manuals! I hope you're loving your Forester as much as I Love mine!!!

[@christinekress9350]

For steering wheel position I’ve heard the same thing, but it was for safety. It was to make sure you were not too close to the wheel if the air bag deployed.

[@Soul2burn]

the auto start stop is the worst feature on my new Subaru. im glad you showed me how to disable it.

[@AndyTempleton-g9t]

You can buy an after market switch that replaces the original auto off switch that will disable this feature.

[@JA-zh5xi]

Ya - the dumbest feature on a car ever. Hate in the Toyotas and hate it on Suburu too.

[@bradmyst1339]

It can be an inconvenience for sure. I used to be really bothered by it and turned it off all the time. But I’ve chosen to keep it on now because it helps lower our smog input. when I learned the way it can help it made it more tolerable for me.

[@greginfla5324]

You can blame the overreaching US government regulations for this "feature". It gets Subaru a tad more MPG in their fleet's ratings, but really does not do much for the driver. Starting the car hits the battery and the starter. And if your AC is on (we are in Florida,so it is always on) the car needs to stay running.

[@mauimikey2491]

That's why I bought a manual transmission Crosstrek 2023, last year made Couldn't imagine living with the auto stop/start

[@matsandberger8226]

Just got my new Subaru Forester 2024. The owners manual is about 1200 pages! In swedish, not japanese thank God! Every setting I mostly learned from your videos Alex, saved me probably weeks of time! Thank you so much! 😀

[@Propnut48]

One thing you didn’t mention is if you set the headlights to auto and push the high/low beam lever to high it will automatically go from high beams to low beams automatically when it sees an other cars headlights. No need to manually switch back and forth between them.

[@alexpmo]

The auto high beam assist is a great feature!

[@Propnut48]

Found it by accident and not turned it off since. 👍

[@tinahough3583]

😉first thing i shut off!😅live in country and it went on off on off!

[@heathersmith249]

Does the 2016 outback have that feature

[@phubblewubbphubblewubb]

That's really useful, thanks, I'm used to an old Merc which has all these features, wondered whether the Suby had auto dip lights, (only had the Forester for 3 days! )

[@michaelbaumann7722]

I have had my 2020 Outback for 4 years. I have learned more from these videos than I ever learned from the dealership, which has been consistently unimpressive. This is my third Subaru. With my frustration at the three dealerships within reasonable driving distance of my home, my current Outback may be my last.

[@tracysmall8183]

Just got a 2023 Forester Limited two weeks ago and have not made it through all of the manual yet, so this video has been a huge help! I also learned about the paddle shifters through another video of yours, so I see me watching a lot of your videos in the future, as they are incredibly helpful. Thank you!

[@alexpmo]

Thanks Tracy! Congrats on your new Forester! Happy to help

[@judy19943]

I just ordered a new Forester Limited !! It comes next month .

[@empathy212]

Judy19943 did you get your new Forester? I built my 2022 Forester Wilderness online and took the paperwork to the dealership in February of 2022 with the required deposit and finally received mine at the end of August 2022. I had been told "next month" for well, months! But I can honestly say that I Love my Forester Wilderness and she (her name is Zelená) has hands down been the BEST vehicle I have ever owned. Granted I went from a 2003 Honda Odyssey (great van, still running well with 270,000 miles on original engine. Got a new transmission around 200,000 miles though). I spent 5 years researching my next vehicle, always landing on the Forester Limited or Touring edition. So when the Wilderness edition was released, it checked ALL of my boxes! I hope you've received your Forester and are loving it!!! They are WORTH the wait and even the full MSRP!

[@tracysmall8183]

@@empathy212 I think it is great that you mention the name of your vehicle, as I've always named my vehicles too. My Forester is white, so her name is Wynter, with a "y", in honor of the season in which I bought her. ☺ And, FYI, before I got my Forester, I had a Honda as well; a Honda Accord Touring. Great minds...

[@brentbielinski6164]

​@empathy212 my 2022 forester wilderness is names Gump... for obvious reasons.😂

[@bbrad1207]

RE: Auto Start/Stop on my new (2022) Crosstrek: It is very sporadic about when to stop at signals, sometimes not turning off for the entire light (up to 2 minutes), other times it turns off immediately. Also, there are very noticeable bumps and jerks both when stopping and starting, which can be quite disconcerting. If these objections could be overcome, I would use the feature all the time, especially since most of my driving is in the city, and, therefore, stop and go.

[@Soleya9]

I had a loaner from Subaru (Ascent) that had the auto stop start feature. I noticed if I was really light on the brake while stopped, it didn't shut off. Pressing it in slightly more and it shut off. Personally I hate the feature. To me it's a safety hazard since the car isn't capable of moving while shut off, and it took roughly 3 seconds from the time I hit the gas till the vehicle moved again. And just seems like it'll wear out the starter and other components over time. Not to mention that when your in 100+ degree heat, the AC doesn't work well when engine isn't running.

[@matthewk6731]

The feature does not use the starter. It just fires the spark plug in the cylinder that would have fired next anyway. It should take less than a second to get moving from the time you take your foot off the brake pedal.

[@gennyaltman205]

​​@@matthewk6731Well, that's nice to know, as I too was concerned about it wearing out the starter. Even so, it is the most annoying and disconcerting feature ever. I feel Subaru should allow us the ability to shut this feature off permanently. Having to wait for the display to come up so we can shut it off before moving is unacceptable. They're basically trying to force us to use it.

[@greginfla5324]

It may not turn off if the AC is running. AC running without engine on will tax the battery.

[@juleenlatvala7536]

Thank you! Clear instructions on how to use these features. I feel like there are so many features on my car I don’t know how to use or find properly.

[@coast2toast443]

Wow I thought my steering wheel was just a little bit too far forward and made my leg room awkward. This will be life changing. It's such an obvious oversight on my part, whoops!

[@alexpmo]

I never knew how to properly adjust it until recently either. Hope this helps!

[@cartmanpig92]

I heard the same thing about your wrist in a driver's edge defensive driving class. Not sure if they're still around but a great opportunity for new and existing drivers.

[@RyanCrase1]

I LOVE my 2021 Outback Limited, I just wish the seat heater controllers worked without opening another graphic. It should be one touch per heat setting, right on the screen where the graphic is, rather than touching the graphic and having another graphic open. I get that they want to “wow” you with the size of the screen, but sometimes that’s just not practical. Maybe if the processor was faster or would be a little better, but it’s slow which is okay. Thank the good lord for car play because the stock Subaru infotainment UI is gross. Fingers crossed that they’ll have an update that addresses the ear heater issue. They could have even made physical seat heater controllers, similar to the heater controls. That could have been nice. Again, I LOVE my Subaru. We have a Model X Tesla and I really do prefer driving the Outback.

[@barbrwilliams55]

Thanks!

[@tammyh3518]

So good! Thanks for explaining things, makes it so much easier than reading a manual:)

[@charlesjohnson9472]

These videos are so helpful. I purchased a new Subaru in Mexico where I am an expat. The sales people were very enthusiastic and knew their product. They gave me a great tutorial, but in Spanish! The Manuel is also in Spanish. my conversational Spanish was not up to making sense of either. I drove for a while Not understanding the features of my new car. Very frustrating. I was also unable to get a book translated into English. Ironically, most of the Subaru drivers around me are also gringos. Really a big oversight for Subaru who attends to so many details well! Subaru was completely unresponsive to the efforts of my dealer to get me an English book! Anyway, thank you for the time and effort you put into knowing your product and helping people understand it.

[@keithfaulkner6319]

I wonder if a bookstore can order one for you to buy???

[@crystallawrence131]

What part of MX do you live in that has a subaru dealership? I have been wanting to relocate to MX for lots of different reasons...but did not know I would be able to service a brand new subaru there.

[@CarEdge]

Great video, Alex!

[@alexpmo]

Thanks!

[@williamchase3500]

While operating in daylight does the auto light setting illuminate the tail lights?

[@williamchase3500]

I’ve been wondering this as well.

[@yvonnejohnson2980]

Thank you Alex-you explained it better than the dealer or salesman!!

[@evelynloewen6445]

What would you suggest that I could change or do about the tailgate on my new 2023 Subaru Crosstrek opening too high for me to reach and be able to close it comfortably. My height is 4‘11“.

[@countdown2xstacy]

I’m not sure that can be “fixed” Maybe a little step ladder in the trunk? Or high heel shoes? Just joking 😉

[@evelynloewen6445]

@@countdown2xstacy thank you, maybe I can implement both the high-heeled shoe and the stepstool at the same time. What could go wrong? 😉🤣 although I did figure out that duct tape works well when I double it up and stick it to the inside of the handle it hangs down just enough that I can pull it. 🙌🏼

[@countdown2xstacy]

@@evelynloewen6445 Haha Glad everything worked out well. 👍🏻 Stay safe out there.

[@duaneromanell3431]

As a new 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness owner, I'm finding your videos very helpful in understanding the vehicle. One request I'd make (but maybe just too time consuming for you to produce!) is to have a tutorial specifically dedicated to a deep dive into the settings menu on the multi-function/main display. I know the navigation of the system would be different for various models, but I find that level of detail explained to be super useful in understanding the vehicle better - even if it's merely to set someone once and forget it. There are so many bells and whistles, that knowing what they do just helps to provide folks like me with a better sense of ownership. Anyway, that's my 2 cents. Keep up the good work. Thanks!

[@adrianjacobs1478]

Maybe read the manual?

[@LloydStewart333]

@@adrianjacobs1478 Yeah, that's gonna happen. The manual is only 500+ pages long and there are other 100+ pages long manuals in with the main owners manual!

[@adrianjacobs1478]

@@LloydStewart333 yeah reading is such hard work and so difficult to understand, best to have someone explain it to you

[@LloydStewart333]

@Adrian Jacobs You missed the main point-500 plus pages. Honestly, what percentage of people do you think will read through all that vs watching someone explain it on KZbin? Get real.

[@adrianjacobs1478]

@@LloydStewart333 there is an index. Maybe you don't read user manuals, but many people like to get the best out of their purchases.

[@donnacollier8]

Thank you for always giving great Subi support!

[@dataspice3732]

I like the idea of saving gas and the environment by using the stop/start function. But I'm concerned with durability of the starter itself. Are Subaru starters robust enough to endure multiple restarts during the day? Will they burn out sooner if you use this function?

[@alexpmo]

That's something I was concerned with early on also. Haven't actually had one go out so I'd imagine they are designed to last a long time (possibly even the life of the car)

[@ekimandersom4478]

Obviously what gets used more often, even way more often than usual, will break sooner.

[@matthewk6731]

It doesn't use the starter. It just fires the next cylinder spark plug to get the engine going again.

[@tombryant52jumpscoach]

I just bought an Outback Wilderness this week and I'm glad I found this channel today. Liked, subbed, and rang the notification bell.

[@karlrado]

One note on the headlights: (2021 Forester) If the headlight switch is in the Auto position, you can momentarily turn on the high beams by pulling the stalk towards you, but you cannot push the stalk forward to leave the high beams on. You have to turn the main headlight switch to the ON position in order to be able to turn on the high beams by pushing the stalk forward to click it into place to keep them on.

[@alexpmo]

That's a great point! I forgot all about high beam assist

[@Surfnyolly]

This!!!! This was driving me mad bc I couldn’t figure out how to just toggle/push it forward to turn on my high beams! Thank you for this tip! PS Alex for President, he’s the best!

[@felissilvestris8190]

@@alexpmo thanks for the Tips, maybe you can show how to adjust the sensibility of this automatic feature. Thks

[@adams_1]

So not sure if this is the same for the US folk, but in AU, I can have my lights set to auto, and pressing the stalk forward twice bypasses the high beam assist and leaves the high beam on as it would in ‘manual mode’.

[@tombryant52jumpscoach]

Thanks, I puzzled over this for a half hour the first day I had my Outback Wilderness this week. Now I know!

[@MohammedLy2023]

Thank you Alex. Getting my 2015 Subaru. Too many buttons that make my excited and afraid at the same time. Been researching about it many articles talk about collision. Kindly shed light for a beginner. Thank you.

[@dianarchy]

"Wipers on, headlights on" is also the law here in Maine, and probably other places too. This feature alone is selling me on upgrading my beloved 2015 OB. Thank you!

[@corymcnutt5131]

Alex, another great and useful video. The Auto Stop feature is one that Subaru should allow the driver to turn off permanently...we rented a car with it on and it was a pain. A simple fix for Subaru.

[@Dutchovenderlinde]

This is something that’s uniform across all cars that have it. I rented a Jeep Wrangler a while back on a trip and I had to turn the Auto Stop off every time I started the car.

[@robertfoster2807]

If it's your car I recommend the stop/start eliminator from 4D tech. Simple to install and it simply reverses the default setting so it's normally off but you can turn it on using the same button (I will never turn it on). Costs about $100 but is SO worth it.

[@empathy212]

Robert Foster, if I were to install the Auto Stop eliminator will this void my warranty? It really doesn't bother me to have this feature and I understand why it's on the vehicle, but I've been told this will wear out my engine over time.

[@jamesdarcy3902]

At least it was a rental so excessive wear on the starter not an issue.

[@MegaRetr]

Once again, a very clear instructive, helpful video!

[@melrichard2745]

Hi Alex, thanks you for all the information about the subaru cars,we appreciate your videos keep up the great work!

[@divergentus]

The straight arms / wrist position for the steering reach is 100% correct and taught in many parts of the world for decades. And for steering height adjustment, you should be able to see the top of the dials without dipping your head. So pleased Subaru still using analogue dials...

[@kbird3637]

I had no idea about the headlight option of when they turn on or the wiper option, thank you!

[@JohnfromMD-h9x]

New Outback owner here. I find your videos to be very helpful.

[@dogman8436]

Thanks, Alex! Can you set moonroof so that it automatically closes when ignition is switched off? Lots of major rain damage when roof left open.

[@mostlydogvideos]

We have to use our own brains for SOMETHING!

[@coryrohrbaugh1208]

The other commenter is right. You still need to use your brain and just close it before turning off the car

[@rjstegbauer]

This is one of your best videos! Most relevant settings.

[@Madhaggis]

Back when I learnt to drive, the dark ages to you kids, we were taught resting your wrist on top of the steering wheel was the correct distance. I just bought a new Forester, yesterday, and it was the first thing I did. Love your videos they have been very helpful to me.

[@bradybunch5720]

Great! I bought a new 2022 Forester. How do I hook up my phone to the car? How do I listen to my phone stored music? What are the most useful apps? How do I use Google Maps in my car?

[@marykitts8166]

I LOVE these info posts. I have a new Outback and I am learning SO much more by watching these. Even if they aren't about my specific vehicle, they are still helpful. Thanks, Alex!!

[@alexpmo]

Thanks for watching Mary! Glad I could help

[@coffey1718]

Lol, is Alex your son?? If you learned anything from this you should NOT be driving!

[@CRVgarage]

How do you like the huge touch screen in the outback?? Is it distracting & confusing to operate??

[@jackbookerjr.3047]

I like the big screen on my 2020 Outback. I do wish Waze via Android Auto was full screen. I can use built-in GPS for full screen, I just like WAZE.

[@wadehood7238]

Just bought a 23 Crosstrek for our daughter in Texas. I am watching these videos to learn about the features. Thanks!

[@jamesbirch8309]

I use the Auto setting for my headlights on my 2012 Outback, but find it to be overly sensitive such that the lights come on even when I pass under a bridge or overpass for a second or two. The ability to desensitize will be a welcome addition for me on my next Outback. On a previous car, on Auto the lights came on too late and I actually put some black tape on a portion of the light detector to make them come on earlier.

[@duckwacker8720]

Don't sure auto. It's not hard to turn them on when it's dark.

[@e.k.sanchez]

I have heard there is a small device that goes under the seat and plugs in to overid the auto start stop and avoid having to turn it off each time - have you heard of any such thing?

[@VendetaBrown]

If you’re driving a car, your headlights should be on. Always. Daytime included. It’s not about what you can see… it’s people being able to see you. Lights are a must. Set your headlights to ON at all times. When you turn a Subaru off, the lights will always turn off with it. Battery will never drain.

[@TrailorSailYT]

...what if your "Car Settings" on the Head Unit do not show up? Mine are greyed out... :/ My 2022 BRZ had those settings when I first got it.

[@susanbartone1347]

Once again, a very clear instructive, helpful video! Your explanations as well as camera use are super! Thanks!

[@alexpmo]

Thank you Susan! I really appreciate it 😊

[@rhondachampion4798]

I have a new to me 2018 Forester and would love this info. My previous car was a 99 Forester so a big learning curve

[@johntaapken8283]

​@@rhondachampion4798 t

[@coast2toast443]

I'm not sure if you're allowed to say it, but I purchased an auto stop eliminator from a third party that installs into a control unit under the driver seat of my '21 Crosstrek Limited in just a few minutes. It remembers the setting of the auto stop. One of my favorite easy to do mods- and it's easily removable so it doesn't affect resale.

[@alexpmo]

I’ve heard of people doing that. You’re exactly right though, I’d never suggest it because of the liability. I’ve also never installed one myself so I wouldn’t have the first hand experience to feel comfortable sharing on that topic anyways. Subaru probably wouldn’t be too happy either lol

[@ryzenforce]

I discovered lately that even when you are in "D"rive mode on a CVT, the paddles still works for "downshifting" the CVT. Then you can upshift again and eventually when you are at the proper gear-speed, it will auto change back to D mode. I really wish there was a way to disable permanently the Autostart feature because it is really annoying and a dangerous feature imo that is almost on par as not having your car in-gear when waiting at a light. The 1+ sec delay for the engine to start and engage the transmission so you can move fast in an emergency situation is the reason why I keep Autostart off all the time.

[@saraaronzon4562]

EXACTLY!

[@saraaronzon4562]

I wish the car manufacturer would give the consumer the right of way or autonomy in deciding when to turn it on if so wish to. Not the other way around where we have to turn everything OFF!

[@frankweathersbee2553]

I have noticed in my 21 crosstrek sport if I don't mash on the brake pedal start stop won't engage, normal stopping for me.

[@kamX-rz4uy]

It's also terrible at knowing when it should and should not turn off. It really bugs me when the car turns off right as I am about to go or I pull into a parking space, it turns off, I put the car in park it turns back on, then I turn it off. Maybe use those EyeSight cameras with a bit of logic.

[@gaildonaldson249]

@@kamX-rz4uy I find the auto off and on when parking annoying too. I have now started to tap the icon on the touchscreen to disable the ASS as I pull into my parking spot, before fully braking, to prevent that sequence from happening.

[@gahvno]

That wiper activity link to the lights coming on is very helpful here in california. The yahoos in Sacramento made it a law that we have to have our lights on if there is enough drizzle coming down to use the wipers.

[@Quoodle1]

I just found your channel and it's very informative. I have a 2017 outback. One other thing (that is useful in places where it's required by law) is you can turn on daytime running lights. These are (at least on mine) is a subset of the full lights, kind of like extra markers on the front. Different than having lights on all the time.

[@jkritikson]

You may have heard of the problems Subarus have with the batteries. If the car is left parked for more than four or five days the battery dies. I have been complaining to the dealership for five years now about this issue. they keep saying there’s nothing wrong and eventually they got around to saying oh well there’s some kind of aftermarket collision detector detector under your dash and that is causing the problem. They also tried to make it my problem by insisting I must’ve put it in the vehicle after I bought it. Absolutely not. I recently got a letter from an attorney representing people in a class action suit about this but all Subaru seems to be offering is an extended warranty on the vehicle but not to fix the basic problem with the battery draining. Have you heard anything that might help correct this problem? All I am certain of is that I will never buy another Subaru or recommend Subaru to a friend.

[@jamessimonds4458]

We own 3 late model Subarus. We love all of them. But, I’m 76 years old. I’m not into all this hi tech stuff. I like to keep it simple and easy. So all this infotainment stuff is way over my head. But I’m sure that my kids love this stuff. However, I do find your knowledge intertaining. We especially love our 2020 Forester. But the 2022 Impreza is a fun car. Our 2018 Impreza was our first Subaru.

[@alexpmo]

Thanks James! Sometimes it can be a bit much, but I'm working with it each day so it gets easier with time 😅

[@aero95star]

I am 71 yrs old, and am afraid this technology is over my head. My new Outback is due mid March. Is anything simple anymore? Not everyone is tech savvy. Can I trade it in for an old used vehicle?!

[@cliffgrando859]

Alex your videos are extremely helpful, nice job on filming 🎥 👏 👍

[@alexpmo]

Thanks Cliff! I really appreciate that

[@MKubas799]

My aunt has a 2015 crosstrek and somehow the display window above the stereo changed to show how much gas she was using as she was driving from how many miles she had left according to how much gas was in her tank. How do you switch back and forth between the two? Hope this wasn’t hard to follow

[@kikismith1055]

The exact same thing happened to me!! 😮 I am trying to figure this out as well! This is why I even came on here! Mine originally was set to show: 📍The amount of gas I had left in miles until I would run down to E or out of gas Now it randomly switched to: 📍Miles per Gallon of the car, And I CANNOT FIGURE OUT HOW to CHANGE IT back SO that IT SHOWS me ⚠️THE AMOUNT OF GAS I HAVE LEFT IN MILES UNTIL EMPTY!!⚠️ Please can anyone help me with this? 😢🙏🏼 Also if someone already answered this question, I am not aware of it nor have read it. So please no negativity! ❤ Thanks😊🎉

[@dawna-ba-da-bing]

You are so helpful. I just bought my first Subaru and you were a main reason I did!!

[@garypolonetsky5712]

To get to the AVH on a 22 touring you suggested put the car setting on the screen,but if you hit the car icon just to the left of the home button it takes you right there

[@stevemoseley6383]

Thanks so much. I actually read my owners manual cover to cover and you still came up with useful stuff that I missed/forgot due to the volume of information. Question about the auto stop-start system: from an engineering viewpoint, how does it actually work? Does it stop at a predetermined crankshaft position favorable to restart? Does it determine which cylinder is in an appropriate position and inject-ignite that cylinder on restart in addition to normal starter motor action? I know there are all kinds of clever tricks they can use and I'm curious to know how Subaru does it. Thanks again!

[@bigglyguy8429]

Stop-start? If that cannot be turned off I won't buy one.

[@ekimandersom4478]

@@bigglyguy8429 It can be turned off in the screen, but will be on again after every start.

[@bigglyguy8429]

@@ekimandersom4478 Then I will never buy another one. Our 2016 XV/Crosstrek was written off by a drunk driver, but if the new ones have this crap I'll have to change brands. I hate that kind of thing. I test drove one just 2 weeks ago here in Malaysia and it didn't do that, but now I suspect the sales rep turned it off..? Because I had already told him we avoided buying a new one cos of the "Eyesight" stuff, which I guess I can put up with but 'Stop-start' is an absolute deal-breaker. I don't want a new car where every time I get in it I have to tell it to stop annoying me...

[@jamesdarcy3902]

How much will this accelerate the wear on the starter?

[@loissemanek1715]

I just bought my first Subaru. I know you'll have a video to answer my questions when they come up. Thanks

[@helencroskell8691]

Great video, thanks Alex! One thing I'm wondering... how do you switch off the "call in progress" reminder when in a call? The up and down arrows no longer work. The reason I think it is important is I am driving a US crosstrek in Canada and I am reliant on the digital speedometer in the center dash panel to know my speed (in kmph). The analog dial on the right has the kmph but they are too small to read. It also occurs to me if I am in cruise control mode I won't be able to see that data if I'm in a call (hasn't happened yet). Thanks!

[@victoriawilliamson5401]

We camp and found our 2020 outback drains the battery when the hatch is lifted up & down or left up to get to our gear. We found a tip on outback org to stick a carabiner in the latch & don't use the hand release just lift with the frame except when you need to close for good- beware when you use the hand release the hatch could go up & down & catch you!

[@davidjohn9006]

The extended arm/steering position is the best for control and comfort, and is the most obvious with truck driving/drivers … I learnt this from my days as a truck driver, and is still my preferred positioning and comfortable in all my driving. Once again your vid/info well done, easy to understand.

[@alexpmo]

Thanks David!

[@sherriwiegman559]

Alex - do you have a video on how to self-install an auto dimming rear view mirror with Homelink?

[@yieldtrack11]

Love your Subaru vids. Just got a Crosstrek so they’ve been very helpful. Do you know a way to hack the auto start/stop to where it stays off all the time? I hate it lol. I always forget to kill it when I start the car. Thanks 🤜🏽

[@alexpmo]

Thanks! Unfortunately no, it's not my favorite feature either lol

[@saraaronzon4562]

I deeply dislike Auto/Stop/Start. I would use a stronger phrase but want to keep it clean

[@rangerdanger766]

sucks

[@reginamackay8122]

this is so great. How do I set the interior lights to come on when I open my door? ( crosstrek)

[@bridgettepetritz1429]

Best video yet! Thanks for taking your time to do these for us. I feel like my lights are always on high beam… but the auto driving lights are too low… I’m excited to test out the adjustment feature and see if that helps!

[@alexpmo]

Thanks Bridgett!

[@Mama-wj6sn]

Thank you Alex. Very informative. I learn much faster hands on or watching vs reading the manual. I just got my 2023 Subaru Forester after waiting 5 1/2 months, (which was fine with me). I need to figure out how to get the digital speed up on my dash. If you can please compose a video for that, I would appreciate it. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with Subaru newcomers.

[@coryrohrbaugh1208]

Did you figure it out yet? Idk about your car but going off this video I'd assume they are the same/similar. I have a 2017 impreza sport and the 3 buttons on the left backside of the steering wheel change the dash screen to where it's a digital speedometer.

[@RK-ec1wu]

Alex, Another great informative video. Mainly setting up the steering wheel position. Something new learned today 😎. Thank you!

[@Baby1961-i5e]

Great video😊. My husband just bought me a brand new 2025 Subaru Forester Premium and I love it. Your video has been very helpful because I learned so much about the different settings. Thank you and continue with your channel😊

[@joshdyer9465]

I appreciate that Subaru made it so easy to turn off the auto-start-stop setting. They could have berried it somewhere in the display menu which would have sucked because I'm sure most people turn it off.

[@ktjamlex]

Awful to be berried - I prefer to be veggied

[@ekimandersom4478]

They could have made it even better if it would stay off.

[@Harvmorbi]

I would want to be able to turn auto on-off, to always off forever until I’m ready to turn it back on! Is there a way to do this. Not off for a single trip?

[@singerap]

@@Harvmorbi Look on-line there are defeat devices available. The good ones will remember if you turned start stop off and keep it that way. But they will allow you to turn it back on again if you want it.

[@edpowell5754]

Is there axesy to increase the brightness on the clock screen on a 2021 Forester? Thank you for your help.

[@cliffgrando859]

Alex, your a smart man when it comes to the Subarus. I do thank you for a wonderful job and the information that you have provided in all videos. The wilderness is 1 amazing car. This is one car I feel much safer than my 1985 full size Blazer. I greatly appreciate all the knowledge that you have provided for me and other Subaru owners. Thank you

[@texts..................]

Thank you 👍 for watching and leaving a comment, Text the above name on TELEGRAM to acknowledge your Prize.🏆

[@1linkbelt]

Alex, please tell me how to turn off the radio on a 2023 Forester without turning off the whole screen system. Thanks!

[@man0sticks]

The most annoying feature by far on my new Forester is that the Bluetooth stays on even when the car engine is off. For example, when I am listening to music using my phone and wireless headphones, anywhere near my car, the car keeps trying to connect to the headphones, even though the engine is off. Every few seconds, I hear a beep through my headphones. At first I didn’t know what it was, but then I figured out that it was my car trying to connect to the headphones. I’m sure that some bright young automotive engineer thought this was a clever idea.

[@Ale-vt4sv]

This sounds like it might drain the battery

[@carrieneiss8697]

exactly! I was at the subaru dealer today, almost bought a car, but discovered I could not turn off the bluetooth signal. I'm senstive to Bluetooth and Wifi, and the new feature for it to stay on, stopped me from buying it.

[@BC-qb1om]

@@carrieneiss8697lmao ok sure

[@xaby996]

You have to learn the trick: turn car off & pop driver door open for a second. Bluetooth connection should immediately cut. Might depend on settings. But this works in my Gen 5 Impreza. Use this to immediately switch to headphone with zero delay.

[@jameskelly9457]

I have a 2019 imprezza that is giving me the TPMS warning to check my manual. My mechanic checked the sensor batteries and I checked all tires including the spare. The 2019 has no reset button. Any ideas would be helpful.

[@barbarasepulveda8512]

I am looking for the dashboard light on the 2019 Subaru Outback

[@robinleebraun7739]

Auto Start-Stop is a pain. You should be able to turn it off permanently until you want it back on. It will certainly cause extra strain on the starter and you will probably have to replace the starter motor sometime during the life of the car. Subaru has made it a default in order to report better mileage that really won't happen.

[@richard200923322]

New engines are designed for Auto start stop from the beginning they didn’t put old starters on they are totally designed for it. And it in fact does give you better mpg

[@bigdaddymak1439]

​@@richard200923322miniscule no change on highway driving. Better starters?? 😂😂😂😂😂

[@bigdaddymak1439]

Auto Stop Start Eliminator it's about 100 bucks

[@ronsilva4615]

I remember in one of your videos, you made a comment about certain features that you might turn off. (Example: auto start/stop) But, when you turn the car off and then turn it back on, this feature is back on again. I remember you saying, it would be great if whatever way you left that feature, it stayed that way. I agree! However, I recently learned that on my 2022 Forester Premium, the lane departure warning stays the way you left it. I usually leave this feature on. But, for some reason I turned it off one evening and the next morning it was still off. I do appreciate your videos! It's been very helpful.

[@alexpmo]

Yes, some features default on while most default to the last setting you switched it to.

[@randischwarz5072]

Alex, I enjoy your videos as I currently own a 2015 Outback 2.5i Limited. I did own a 2021 Ascent Touring, but traded that in for a 2022 Outback Touring XT. Here is my question...You and others who extol the virtues of Subaru never mention the dumb stuff; such as: needing to unlock ALL the doors for access to the gas cap, unlocking all the doors to open the rear hatch from the dash button. These things are unsafe, and I have been writing to Mr. Doll telling him this is unsafe in our society, especially for a single woman like me. Another issue that is never mentioned is taking a Subaru through a car wash and making sure the staff is aware that they CANNOT spray anything inside the cabin as there is a danger of damaging the eyesight cameras.

[@adams_1]

I believe what you have stated is covered in the user manual. I agree, there should be a button to pop the fuel tank. Before getting my 2021 OB, I had a Mazda 6 and would pop the fuel lid, then lock the car once I got out. Also would be good to be able to open the boot without having to unlock the car.

[@jeffspicoli2643]

@@adams_1 My 2021 Outback doesn't have a locking gas door.

[@saraaronzon4562]

What is a boot?

[@adams_1]

@@saraaronzon4562 apart from something you put on your foot, it is also another word for trunk space.

[@mostlydogvideos]

@@saraaronzon4562 trunk

[@JasonDiLeo]

Is it possible to get an audible warning when using “Blind Spot” warning in addition to a “Flashing” warning?

[@chrismayer3919]

Pretty soon they’ll have the IRC mode; isoautotronic robot conversion. Using this will transform your Subaru into a bipedal alien robot for stepping/picking your way through city traffic jams 🤓

[@rossb61]

Is there a go fund me or something for that...

[@erinncarl9294]

LOL!

[@DeniseDeLara]

Can you change the color of the ambient lights on an ascent

[@PeteOliva]

I personally find the auto start stop feature to be horrible because of how much it shakes the car, and when I'm in town I'm always frequently stopping at lights and it's kind of bothersome to have the car just continuously doing that. But I understand why it exists, so I usually keep it on, especially if I'm going to be on a route where I don't stop all that much. To be honest, it's not that hard to make tapping the button part of your startup routine (check side mirrors, rearview, seatbelts), it's just a little click. I think people who say they'll never buy Subaru again over it are just speaking in hyperbole.

[@Matty06001]

I’ve only had my 2020 Forester for three days and my muscle memory already goes and turns it off automatically. It’s a stupid feature, in my opinion, but yes, easily turned off.

[@joeshaughnessy8482]

We have a 2019 Subi Outback. How do we turn on the collision prevention for objects in front of us? Thanks. Your videos are GREAT!

[@marcymcsheehan3579]

I absolutely enjoy the fact that you are using your phone on the horizonal recording rather than the boomer vertical position... TY

[@captscubadave]

Another KZbin vid showed how some older Outback info system setting allows the camera setting for the Back Up Camera could be setup so the camera would remain on for about 6 seconds after the car was taken out of reverse gear; has this capability setting still exist? I can’t find it in my 2024 Outback Wilderness. Any thoughts? Thanks!

[@davidp6630]

Lights - instead of messing with the auto sensitivity, just turn them to “on” and be done. Then you’re always visible from front and rear, and conditions like brightness during snow or fog doesn’t cause your sensor to think you don’t need lights. They still turn off when you turn off the ignition, so there’s literally no reason to do it any other way. Set it and forget it and always be seen.

[@iandesoucey9369]

I'm a new driver, no one told me that, but I'm gonna start doing that bc of your comment. Thanks!

[@TXL-BER]

I’m with you. I drive with my head- and tail lights on all the time. I see a lot of drivers driving in the dark with their headlights on but their tail lights off. Why would anyone do that?

[@joshuawest3906]

If you want to piss off everyone in front of you 24/7 then definitely do this

[@loufancelli1330]

This was really good. I had figured out the Auto Start Stop but didn't know how to shut off the lane warning signals so I am glad to know that! Is there any way to shut off the seatbelt warning signal? I tried turning all warning sounds to min but it didn't seem to impact that at all and it's annoying as hell! I have a '22 Crosstrek which is the first vehicle I have purchased since 2007 when all these damn noises didn't exist yet :)

[@judywein4013]

This video has been very helpful. Thank you very much. For some reason I do not see the settings button on my screen. I have a Subaru Outback Touring 2021.

[@LillianZhong]

For the security indicator light, does it always flashes when not using the car?

[@harnesshouse]

I have a '22 Legacy Limited, and I've found that the auto start/stop doesn't stop the engine unless I'm pushing the brake pedal down a certain amount.

[@keithfaulkner6319]

I rented an audi recently and accidently discoved the same thing.