I had NO IDEA you could do this HANDS-FREE on Subaru

[@jjr007]

I put 3800 songs on a flash drive plugged into the usb, and use the voice command for genres, artists, or songs. Saves memory on my phone, and works even if my phone has no signal.

[@Wendell_Irby]

Impressive! How are the songs structured into genres, etc.? Do you use a program like Apple music, Windows Media Player, or something else?

[@philsmgb4393]

"Please say a command". "Turn off auto start/stop and never come back on ever again." Seriously, this is a great video, I had no idea about the climate control and seat warmer functions.

[@randomgrinn]

Why would you not want auto startstop? I hate a lot on my car, but why that one?

[@khadijaathman1808]

I didn't know about the climate control either

[@Freddie-gv1yg]

@@randomgrinn Because considering the small amount of gas it saves, every time the engine turns on and off it's wear and tear on the starter. Do you know how much a new starter costs? Over $800.00. Now do you get it why most people hate the start/stop feature.

[@FordEnthusiast413]

@@randomgrinnbecause it is the most annoying feature!!

[@paulnewhart4838]

@@Freddie-gv1yg I also find it annoying and somewhat of a safety issue. However, the argument that it wears out the starter is not accurate. The newer starters are built and designed to accommodate the feature. Gas savings is highly dependent on driving conditions. It's just another way to foist emissions reductions on the consumer rather than designing a more efficient engine.

[@KateFischer-lg3zp]

I bought myna Subaru nearly one year ago and found your KZbin series a few weeks later. Thanks to you I can easily use many of the functions in my car that I would never have known were there. Thank you!

[@alexpmo]

Better late than never! 😅 Thanks for stopping by!

[@WildernessForever]

​@@alexpmo I told my Subaru dealer about you when they asked how I knew so much about Subi functions. Thanks, Alex

[@Ardyh79]

There is absolutely no other videos that has the tips for my 2021 Outback than yours. TY for all your time and tips!!

[@alexpmo]

Thanks for watching!

[@mikeL5183]

There are others, you're not looking hard enough.

[@Freddie-gv1yg]

@@alexpmo Alex, does this feature turn the heat on as well as the A/C?

[@gailjohnson6670]

@@Freddie-gv1yg Yes...He showed it video.

[@303MoTo]

3:48 so glad I have a 6spd manual and do not have to deal with that auto stop start shenanigans

[@loonypeat312]

I always felt it was unsafe to take my eyes off the road to make climate changes and heated seat too. I appreciate all the work you’ve done to get these videos out to us. Thanks, Alex 😊

[@Freddie-gv1yg]

This feature doesn't seem to work with the heat. Only the A/C

[@mmmeee1685]

I pick up my new 2024 Crosstrek Limited in a few days. I'm moving from a manual 2000 Forester to my first automatic and one with all these bells and whistles to boot. I'm (excited and) terrified. Alex, your videos have been a singular resource for making me less scared of driving this car off the lot. Thank you for the amazing service you provide!

[@Misterwhistle]

Good to know about the climate control options and seat warm options. I find the dash controls quite distracting.

[@sparkyastwo]

Alex, keep doing what you love. We love what you’re doing!

[@kenp9277]

I've had my Outback for three years. How did I not know all these? Thank you, Alex!

[@kelliems75]

Thank you thank you!! I have had my Outback for 1.5 years and am still learning thanks to you!

[@karendepasquale6078]

Just purchased a 2025 Outback. It is my first Subaru, so I'm not familiar with any of their capabilities. Have been binge watching your videos since I signed the papers, lol. Thanks for such great information!

[@alexpmo]

Happy to help! Enjoy your new Outback!

[@OttoTheWeim]

Same here. Just bought my wife a 2025 and just wanted to get out of the dealership so pushed off the intro class they always do. These videos have been amazingly helpful. Going to have to use some of these tips on my mother in law’s 22 touring Forrester.

[@markmccollum4969]

With the new apple updates, you don’t have to push the button you simply have to say, “Siri” and then say your command or request. It works great in my 2023 Ascent Touring

[@Offutticus]

Works with "Hey Google" too. I'm not sure if I need to have phone plugged in or not. Usually mine is plugged in while driving.

[@roger3786]

... I'm over 70 , thanks for this info , been waiting since the '60s for this kinda tech - also now I'll have "someone" to talk to lol ...

[@WildernessForever]

I'm 70 too, and talk to my car all the time 🤣

[@davidnjuguna9477]

With the Mercedes MBUX systems you need not even press a button to talk. You just say, "Hey Mercedes ...", then ask to be told a joke or some other random thing you want to know. I'm not 70, but I was a child when 'Knight Rider' came out, and I always wanted a car I could talk to like KITT. I love that Subaru has this too.😊

[@peggymcgeary143]

I'm 81 and just got a Crosstrek. I read the manual but your voice commands have helped me so much. Especially the auto start and stop to turn off ..so annoying. And seat heAting and climate control. Thank you

[@Molly1NM]

Great video explanations for older driver new to Suburu who is baffled by so much technology. Many thanks, Alex for your help.

[@danataylor1592]

Wow! I've had my Outback for over a year. Didn't know all these hands-free options existed. Your videos are awesome!

[@alexpmo]

@@danataylor1592 never too late!

[@marcmanzo6736]

Dude, your videos are so helpful. Thanks!

[@alexpmo]

No problem! Thank you for watching!

[@lindabernhardt963]

Thanks so much for sharing, I had no idea on most of these, I can't wait to utilize these new command options. Keep up the good work!!

[@alaish360]

I had no thought of voice command climate controls. Thanks as we enter the cool months of winter weather

[@diment0857]

2022 Forester e-boxer owner here. Your channel and Mr Subaru are my go-to places for everything Subaru, the complexity of these fantastic vehicles is mind-boggling and your info-packed videos make owning one almost an art form, keep them coming.

[@janetsingleton9141]

Thanks for this very useful video! I just got my first Subaru Forester 3 days ago and I'm loving it more and more each day!

[@MattROCHE-x6b]

Thanks Alex. Great info. Maybe you should teach some of the sales guys here in Australia. Love to watch your channel for new info.

[@pauldimichiel8685]

I am a new Subaru Crosstrek owner in Australia and am most appreciative of your great videos. Thanks!

[@Kevin-hy8ok]

I prefer physical controls. They make for an easy adjustment without taking your eyes off the road or interrupting a conversation to give a voice command.

[@alexpmo]

The physical controls do have their advantages!

[@garry6954]

Thanks for this, I'm sure that there are many features owners never learn about. You are appreciated. Cheers.

[@adriennegerdes7977]

Thank you for this video. Bought my 2020 Outback Touring XT during the pandemic and wasn’t able to get a full in person review of the car. So many things I am still learning!!😊

[@aw7250]

Have had mine for over a year and did not know this!

[@alexpmo]

I didn't know about the heated seat voice command controls until just a few weeks ago and I'm around them every day 😂

[@judybahorski9148]

Thanks!

[@alexpmo]

Thank you so much Judy! 😊

[@marthabradas8873]

What would I do without your tutorials? You have helped me tremendously with my 2022 Outback and I cannot thank you enough!👋👋👋👋👍

[@alexpmo]

Thank you for watching my videos! I really appreciate it and I'm happy to hear they have helped

[@GennyMcguinness]

Thank you Alex, I’m learning heaps from you. I’m from Sydney Australia- apart from you steering wheel being on the wrong side, I find your videos very easy to follow 😊

[@cliffjones6924]

Perfect timing. Leaving on a driving trip with my new 2025 Outback and this is really going to help. As much time as was spent with me at delivery of the vehicle last month nothing was ever said about this feature. Thanks!

[@charlespizzo]

Hi Alex, first time commenting. Even before leasing a 2024 CT Sport, I watched several of your videos. Since signing, I subscribed to your channel and find it invaluable as a new Subaru driver. Thank you for educating me on so many aspects of the vehicle. Can't wait to try out the temperature controls by voice. Man, you're really helping me to master this investment. Much appreciated.

[@gretroman8235]

OMG. I love this instructional video about hands free and phone syncing options. I have had my Outback 18 months and have learned so much from your videos. Always new information about useful tips. Especially the on/off of car stsrt at stops. I turn it off every trip because I do not need it to wear out my starter. The system said I saved 0.5 gallons of gas the first 2000 miles. Not worth it. Now I can do it hands free when I think of it. Thank you.

[@tpolerex7282]

It’s not for saving gas as much as reducing emissions. The starter system is designed to easily endure thousands of S/S cycles, you can be irritated at its function but you aren’t saving your starter or battery by turning it off.

[@jimgrant4348]

Two other Subaru mechanics I follow on KZbin both posted Subaru redesigned the starter for stop start. The consensus was it is designed to last for about 10 times more cycles than the old starter. I have had my 23 Forester for 16 months and have 6300 miles. I've saved 9.5 gallons. My mpg is also 29.6 combined, mostly city. I don't know how much higher my mpg is and wish I had a way to compute it. I also use the AVH feature. Great vehicle.

[@robinr5337]

Had our Ascent a little over a year. Learning new things every video. Thanks!

[@marykaylombardo1342]

Alex you’re awesome. Your videos are so informative. I’ve had my Outback for a year now and because of YOUR videos I’m falling more in love with it.

[@vickiemccubbin]

So very helpful!! I really appreciate all of the tips you give so I can utilize more of the things my Subaru can do!!

[@alexpmo]

Thank you for watching! 😊

[@garypolonetsky5712]

This is a great feature...at first I thought it only did the drivers side since the passenger can easily do it while driveing...driving... love all your videos

[@alexpmo]

Thank you!

[@447L]

I have a new 2025 outback and really appreciate this video as I was wondering how to fully utilize my phone in the car. Thanks so much for your easy to understand video.❤

[@tanyabromley82]

Alex, you do a great job! Your assessment of the voice commands and phone on the on board systems are exactly right. Very cumbersome and missunderstands the address or call contact more often than it recognizes it. I’m glad the climate controls can be done with voice command because as you say, you literally have to take your eyes off the road to adjust them because they are so low on the screen. Additionally because your sense of touch can’t help you on a screen you must keep your eye on the screen to adjust. Since these are probably used more frequently than checking the time, weather or readio station, I have wondered why Subaru doesn’t do a software update to give the option to put these controls at the top and shift time, etc to the bottom which can be seen at a glance and doesn’t require touch for any major action. Maybe you can put a Bug in Subaru’s ear! Also, I have found when using prescription/polarized sunglasses, the screen almost blacks out even at the brightest setting. Hope Subaru can improve that feature. Maps aren’t very helpful when you can’t see the screen. Keep up the good work. The tips are helpful.

[@tleinwol]

Did not know about the hold down the talk button to activate Siri. That’s great. Thank you!

[@lynellethompson5521]

Thank you!! I’m going to try this for my heater and radio!! Can you get your rear defroster turned on this way too??

[@richardsander3936]

Thanks for sharing the Subaru tips. One point - to access Siri, a long hold and release suffices. No need for press and hold.

[@josephibarra1757]

Thank you I learn something every time I watch your videos

[@alexpmo]

Happy to help! Thank you for watching!

[@sparkyastwo]

Voice command also works on cruise control.

[@jimgrant4348]

Alex, another great video. My only suggestion is let us know what year and our models features apply. Im going to try the climate change on my 23 Forester. Keep up the good work. 😊

[@txdave13]

Thank you so much for this. I'd only been using the really simple voice commands. I had no idea you could do so much and even get to Google Assistant/Siri using the hands=free.

[@patrickgoss4729]

That is the best Subaru tips/tricks video I've watched

[@misterfeedback202]

Thanks for teaching more new things. Great video!

[@darla.9dc]

I got my new Forester 4 mnth ago. New to the Subaru family and found your channel. Thanks so nuch!!! Very helpful

[@vedder10]

Thank you for the video this was extremely helpful. Just a word of caution. Be very very nice to your Subaru. The other day I asked the voice assistant to unlock the doors and it responded with "I can't do that Dave, that would jeopardize the mission." Let's just say it's due for a firmware update. 😪

[@alexpmo]

Lol that's great! 😂

[@WildernessForever]

🤣

[@buckgrafix]

These are great tips that solve a lot of issues while driving!

[@randyderheim2742]

I'm in the process of learning more about my '25 Outback Touring XT. Your videos are perfect!

[@juliomazariegos7786]

Mister Alex good afternoon I’m sorry to boder you I just bout usedSubaru forester but the front door won’t open automatic with the bottom or the remote control but the rears doors work good what do think it is thanks

[@blahblah2788]

You have a lovely bride! Congratulations to you both and have a very happy new year! 😊

[@doyoulookup]

I love your videos. They help a lot with my new Subaru. Thank you.

[@jamierowland6347]

Just got my first subaru this week. So glad I found this channel😊

[@FrancisLinton-c3j]

Love all the information. Driving my new Subaru is so much more enjoyable. Thanks

[@SrDocDiva]

Love these videos! They are so helpful. Many thanks Alex. I didn’t know about this handsfree command’s functionality and am excited about it!! Thanks!

[@davidmeltzer1126]

The short press to make a phone call only works if you paired it as Bluetooth not CarPlay. If the phone is connected to CarPlay you need the longer press and hold. That’s why it didn’t work.

[@bobbieandrews5359]

Well done!! This was very helpful!

[@dineshshah1891]

Excellent tips. Never knew these capabilities and didn't know that one can do all these commands. Thank you, learnt a lot of great tips. Please keep it up & publish a book of tips.

[@Chicago_jake]

Can you use the voice commands while also using Apple car play? When I try it Siri comes up

[@matthewrobinson4323]

I've had my 2023 Subaru Forester Premium for almost a year and a half, and I'm still learning how to operate it. My previous vehicle was a 2006 Chevy Trailblazer LS, and as a 77 year old who's been driving since 1965, I feel like Fred Flintstone driving George Jetson's car. But I'm learning. And your videos are a tremendous help. Thank you so much. I'm a retired salesman, having started my sales career as a car salesman in 1985, and I know a good salesman when I see one. And YOU are an excellent salesman! Keep up the good work.

[@markjoyner5118]

Thanks for your channel and time to explain functionality of Subaru. I purchased 2025 Forester , love it. Q - On hands free can you skip a song on a play list ? I have Apple music and would be nice there was a way.

[@alexpmo]

Thank you for watching! I haven't tested this with voice command, but something even easier is with the buttons just above voice command button (top left) that allow you to change songs just from the steering wheel!

[@maryannpdna7755]

Morning Alex, I lease a Subaru Forrester wilderness love love love this vehicle. I’ve said it before I feel like Subaru should have a class on how to use all the gadgets and learn how to do all the things this vehicle does. And then I found you.😀 this video was exceptional! I often wondered why can’t I speak a text while I was driving and now I can 😀 thank you so much. I look forward to your next video. I tell everyone I know that has a Subaru about your videos.

[@alexpmo]

They have someone called a "Re-delivery Specialist" at the dealership that can go over your car later with you. However, I find it's easiest to watch a video instead. Happy to hear you've found some value in my videos!

[@barbcarpenter7207]

I just got my 2025 Forester. Your videos will help me so much. Thank you.

[@mikhailfong6234]

Got to test this on my 2017 forester and 2019 crosstrek.

[@rickeymullins3173]

Did it work on the 2017 forester?

[@herbmeyerowitz4635]

Thank you so much for this one. Holding the button down to get to Android Auto is best find!!

[@mamalovesthebeach437]

I have a 2018 OB Touring. I thought I had plenty of options. I see benefits in voice commands but not enough to buy newer. Thanks for all your tips!

[@AlfredSonnyPic]

Your clear, concise videos are great. Thank you for helping me learn and figure out so many things about my new 2025 Subaru Outback Limited model.

[@jjr007]

I found out recently that I could use the source button to pause music, so much safer than trying to hit a small button in the middle of the huge screen.

[@kristenmfclark1966]

My new 24 Subaru Forester wilderness supposedly has a one touch lane change option. But I can’t figure it out. Can you do a video on that?

[@alexpmo]

Haven't heard of that one! Is is the one-touch blinker instead?

[@nancyschaefer9748]

I just bought my Subaru Crosstrek and this was a good tutorial! Thanks

[@MidwestGirl-fb6zi]

Thank you, Alex! I already know this is better info than that call I’m expecting three weeks after purchase.

[@rileydj8764]

Great videos! Had my 2025 Forester Sport for 3 months and never knew what that button was for. (Only a few more to go 😡)

[@KMcF]

Very helpful video. Does any of this apply to the 2019 Outback Touring? Thanks

[@txb4u]

My baby is 2 weeks old! I still have lots to learn, thanks for the vid!

[@kdel45]

This is great! Thank you! I didn't know you could use voice for climate controls or to turn auto start/stop off! I wonder if you can turn off driver monitoring? That's one I always forget to do before I start driving. I put a shortcut for the settings on my homescreen, but it still takes a couple of touches to make it happen. I have to try it later.

[@wendysteinberg3252]

Really great video. So many ideas I have never thought of doing with voice commands.

[@BobVogel-t1u]

Perfect timing. I just found the button the other day, and used it to set fan speed while driving. Wanted to find other ways to use it. 🙂

[@chipsovek419]

Great video, thanks Alex! Wondering if this works on a 2019 Outback? I tried it and the voice command doesn't seem to trigger as advanced, could it need software update?

[@judybahorski9148]

Thanks for all the great tips! I love the hands free tips. I have a 2025 Forrester Touring.

[@tigerclaw4537]

Another outstanding video... 😉✌

[@Amberdogproductions]

Ok...now I gotta play with this...lol another great video

[@adamblakeley5865]

Love your videos. Always very informative and helpful. Just as an aside, and maybe the Crosstreks are different, but in my 22 CT Limited, when using CarPlay, there is no need to hold down the button. I just press the answer call button once, just a quick press and Siri activates. And really you don’t even need to use your hands at all, you can just say “Siri” and it will activate and you can say your commands.

[@MultiEmoto]

Same with Android Auto - No button press required. Just say "hey google" and it will make a tone. After the tone you can say a command. (This is on a 2023 WRX)

[@juleenlatvala7536]

You always have the BEST info on our Subarus!! Thank you.

[@BillYovino]

I have a 2020 Forester Sport. The driver's door Lock/Unlock button and the Side mirrors adjustments only light up when the car is put in gear. This seems to be backwards, as you would want to unlock the passenger door and adjust the mirrors before you start driving. Is this a design flaw or was my car wired incorrectly from the factory?

[@nicoleparedes7955]

I have 2020 forester touring and same issue on the mirror adjustment. I thought there was a way to program the side mirror setting to the driver profile…? I need to adjust my left side mirror every time I drive. Alex- is this a glitch?

[@KLSYFY]

10:58 Siri should've put (Christopher Walken accent) in brackets like you sounded 😂 Just jokes... Awesome videos by the way. Taught me a bunch of stuff on my Crosstrek.

[@alexpmo]

@@KLSYFY lol I can sorta hear it 🤣

[@scotthenning2890]

Thanks for the info. I use talk and text all the time. The radio and climate control stuff will be very helpful as I’m driving.

[@gailjohnson6670]

Your teaching and learning videos are awesome...Thank you so much. Blessings to you..

[@m3rdpwr]

Yeah, I tested that out when I bought my 2023 touring XT. You can do it with the heated seats, but only for the driver side. The passenger side doesn't seem to work with the voice command. At least not on mine.

[@KenWhite-lc5yi]

Great Job as always! Very helpful!

[@m.g.1391]

Thank you for another video that showed me many more things I could do by voice control on my 2024 Outback that I had no idea about! This is a game changer for me as I hate taking my eyes off the road to do it by touching the screen, even stopped at a traffic light.

[@jimpederson1328]

Another great video---- Thanks!

[@angelafellows4671]

Thank god for you! I have learned so much about my car and I've had it for 2 years...lol

[@ljohnson615]

Is this feature available on the 2023 Forrester?

[@djangsthemangs4085]

Love your Subaru videos - so helpful

[@ulanaL]

very useful video - thanks!

[@brucekatkin5310]

I read the owner's manual from from front to back and did not notice some of these. I knew about the phone through bluetooth but not the rest. you can also make calls or text by saying "hey siri' or "siri'. I have a 2024 Crosstrek and the seat warmers are physical buttons so I am sure that doesn't work, but will try.

[@brendallsterling4117]

I have a 2022 ascent. Will it work on it?