Top 5 Hidden Subaru Features: Outback, Forester, Crosstrek and more

[@maryannerasnake1373]

I’m 65 and forgetful. I have a 2017 Forester that dark gray, charcoal, black that is so popular. When I am in a large parking lot finding my car is really difficult. This is what I came up with. I bought some bright colored slap bracelets. I put 4 of them on my roof rack 2 in front 2 in back. It has been sooo helpful. The second blessing. I hurt my knee and needed to be picked up curb side. I didn’t know where my husband parked. But when he was coming up the aisles I could see him from far off wending his way to me. Then I just stepped up right before he got there and jumped in. Didn’t tie up the traffic. I thought Subaru could make these as an advertisement and a gift to its customers.

[@Bullzeye1000yds]

You can tie your horn to the lock-unlock beep. Then, in a large parking lot you can press "Panic" button and hear your horn at a pretty good distance.

[@bennymclendon5546]

Alex ,I noticed as I drove to the outer banks and over bridges with water underneath, my GPS would stop working or lose destination. Is this a common issue or do I need to update my GPS on 2016 Outback.

[@quoththeraven.]

Hey Alex. I've been. Subaru owner for decades and recently purchased a New Forester. My first ever brand new vehicle!! Your videos have been invaluable to me, as my salespeople only demonstrated three or four very basic features. Your likeable personality and knowledge have been a godsend. I suspect I'm wrong, but I hope the Subaru organization supports you financially for your online work beyond what you make as a salesman. In fact, I'd propose that The Great Eye of Subaru hires you exclusively to produce videos to accompany new purchases. Because in my opinion, it's encyclopedic owners manual is only useful in a Jack London situation where the wind and wolves are howling and it can be used as tinder to start a fire! Thanks again, and I've continue watching and 'liking!!'

[@nataliavalentine1459]

Isn’t the forester amazing?! it’s my first vehicle purchase! I’m so in love

[@BoatsCop]

Love this!

[@annamarcus9466]

Thank you Alex I've watched your videos like learning new secrets

[@janelaplant5780]

Do you have any secret features for the 2025 Forester (limited)?

[@galeclay8866]

@@janelaplant5780 following

[@wilkoone9155]

I owned 3 Foresters in a row & the one thing I really loved on the car was the radio. There was a feature that I have never come across on any other car. That feature meant that if your mobile phone was connected via the car's Bluetooth & you were listening to the radio when a call came in, then the radio would pause the station, & when the call finished your radio would resume at the exact position it was when the call started. If you missed something on the radio it was possible to go back about 25 minutes & relisten to the part that you had missed! Like I said I have never seen this feature on any other car radio; it was brilliant!

[@quandale2648]

Bmws have that, not sure about the super new ones tho

[@5610winston]

I ordered a Crosstrek Premium with the six-speed on 7 January '23, got it 8 April. I have about 9500 miles on it, and enjoy the instantaneous mileage on the center display. It helps me maximize gas mileage on highway trips. My only real complaint is road noise, I'm guessing the Geolander G91 tires are the problem. Seneral cars were burglarized in my neighborhood on Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend and some were stolen. While I had glass damage, they didn't take the car. I think the miscreants were discouraged by the manual transmission.

[@zl14l41]

I had a 23 base, after several hydroplanes I swapped to more aggressive tires and it didn't get any worse. I suspect that there's less sound dampening on the front end so you can hear the engine better. I traded mine in due to inconsistent shifts. I've been driving manual since before I could drive on the road and that thing would shift rough a solid 1/3 of the time no matter how much you let it slip. Even tried to double clutch. Almost like something was hanging up. I was concerned about premature wear/failure. 2023 is the last year it came in manual too, I like my new forester but still a bummer. Despite the extra size and weight the 2.5L really is noticeably better, especially on steep hills.

[@Ksisler57]

Great video. I just bought a 2024 Outback Limited just yesterday. I'll be checking out these cool features on it today. Thanks, Alex!

[@kevinfpb]

Thanks! 2021 Forester any tips

[@alexpmo]

Thanks for the "super thanks"! Here's a video I made on the 2021 Forester. Let me know if you have any questions: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n53Gm4eAa7WcsJYsi=HoerENnXpwSQjMCE

[@tonilaskey5442]

I just purchased a 2024 Crosstrek and this video was eye opening!

[@nancyrowlands627]

May I ask how you like your Crosstrek, my husband and I are going back tomorrow to the dealer to test drive again, I did like the way it drove, but my husband thought it was too small. I didn't.

[@betsykitchen9185]

@@nancyrowlands627 I have owned 4 Crosstreks and LOVE THEM!!! I have also owned various other Subaru models, including the Legacy (not a fan), the Impreza (adored it until the re-design shrunk the size of the cargo hold too much), and the Forester (a wonderful model but a bit too big for my needs...and wallet!). The Crosstrek is my Goldilocks: not too big and not too small LOL. Enjoy your Subaru and know that once you've driven a Crosstrek, you'll be hooked!

[@Buckled-up_Buttercup]

I went from a 1998 Subaru to a 2021 Subaru. Everything was new. So I downloaded your vids on my ipad mini and take them with me for car lessons. Great way to quickly learn ALL the buttons. Thanks.

[@erinhills4290]

Thanks for all the great videos. I bought a new 2023 Outback a while back. It didn’t come with the cargo net, so I purchased one from the parts department. When I got home, I discovered the car doesn’t automatically come with the anchors to attach it near the rear hatch! Instructions came with the net on how to drill into the car to install the anchors. I don’t feel comfortable drilling into my brand new car, so I will have the dealer do it when I go in for service. So weird!

[@alexpmo]

You're welcome! Yes, you'll need the anchors first. I wouldn't feel comfortable drilling into my new car either. Best to have the dealer do it in my opinion

[@erinhills4290]

Yes! It is a great car though. Really enjoying it. I got the Limited.

[@cathierose2009]

Great advice. All that, but still no garbage bag holder

[@amberatkinson4230]

4:47 I love your point about getting the Subaru cargo net. When you talk about the pocket, I'd say if you are going on a trip and back your Subaru is already piled, that pocket is where you should put all the things you want to have easy access to. Talking to someone who goes camping regularly and piles her car high. 😊 great tip!

[@thisspotrules3631]

Can you use both the "pocket" and the "cargo net" flat at the same time? He didn't show that.

[@happy2b773]

I had a cargo net on another brand of SUV and used it all the time for shopping bags, etc. It is a feature of my Subie that I LOVE! I never want another SUV without one. I am a first-time Subie owner and am sold that it is the best out there on the market.

[@happy2b773]

@@thisspotrules3631YES!

[@michaelstahl7345]

Yes, you can! @@thisspotrules3631

[@CplcDesbiens]

Hi! First, great video. Second, I have a security concern about the last feature you have showned. This feature means that anybody can unlock your vehicle?

[@helenmckinnon8202]

Hello Alex, While our previous vehicle a 2020 Forester met our needs, I found it a little big for me. Now that we have a 2024 Crosstrek, not only is it the right size for me but I really like the vehicle. Hate to admit this but my husband did all the driving, now it's my turn and I was very intimidated by the screen. it's so new to me but when I found your videos it is making it easier to at least try and navigate the screen - it's not too intimidating. So thank you for making it just a little easier. I will continue to watch and learn.

[@gregfehervary2489]

Thanks!

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

I live out in the country and the Auto Highbeams are just amazing! Wether you're approaching a vehicle ahead or an on coming vehicle the lights switch to low at the exact time you would want them to. It's basically doing what you would do except faster. It's a useless feature in the city but a real blessing for rural drivers.

[@jerrymiller276]

I just finished writing a comment that posits an opposing opinion. Have a look at my post to see why. You must live in flat country with fairly straight roads. My situation is the opposite.

[@Wrang15]

I find it's a pain. It does not work on my township dirt roads. They are sub 15 mph. Without a light up head light switch you don't know what mode your in. I just keep mine in manual. On interstate driving it's fine.

[@marcyaxness3988]

@@jerrymiller276 We fall right in the middle. I actually love the feature, living about 17 miles off a freeway, deep into a rural forest area. BUT, the one instance where it doesn't work is when there's an approaching oncoming vehicle that is either just around a curve or on the other side of a rise, where the car's camera cannot register it. Then gotta go manual.

[@girtskalnins]

Is there an option to amend speed limit at which automatic high beams light up? In manual its 15 km/h but in fact it works only once vehicle has reached 60 km/ h.

[@michaelking42]

I have a different experience. I hate the auto highbeams. If there's a bright street light 2 miles ahead on a straight road, your highbeams won't come on unless you switch back to manual. I need complete control over my robots, not vice versa.

[@eastwood27]

Thanks for the tips. I have a 2019 Outback. I turn off the radio off at times when driving and the next time I start it up, the radio is back on. Is there a way to set it so that when I start it up, the radio is how it was set when I shut the car off. Thanks.

[@JamesSymmonds]

You're welcome! When I first went to use the cargo net, I was trying to figure out why there was two zippers and how to attach it. After a couple of tries, I figured out how it was designed so that you could have both nets deployed at the same time. On another note, I really wish the AVH was a persistent setting but I suspect that has something to do with the Auto Start Stop being reset with each start of the car to keep CAFE standards happy.

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

Theres a TSB update that puts the AVH button permanently on the home screen among other great things like larger AC buttons. Alex has a video on the update so check it out.

[@JamesSymmonds]

@@HomesteadOnThePreserve I think you misunderstood me. Like Auto Start Stop, AVH resets to OFF each time you turn your car on and off. (I have a Forester, our button is a physical button. )

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

@@JamesSymmonds Lucky guy. I wish my Outback had a physical button because I would leave it always on. At least now I don't have to click through the menu every time I start the car.

[@JamesSymmonds]

@@HomesteadOnThePreserve Ah, nope. Even with the physical button, you can't leave it on all the time. That was the point of my comment. It's just like the Auto Start Stop button, resets each time you turn the car off and on.

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

@@JamesSymmonds O geez I'm sorry, now I understand. That's crazy, a physical button that resets!

[@ph2363]

audio comparison of outback audio system please, standard 6-speaker vs 10-speaker harman kardon system

[@murrieta98]

I just purchased a certified preowned loaner vehicle, a 2023 outback. My dealer emailed me and offered a tutorial visit to show me all of the features. It was awesome. He pointed out all that one of the tips in this video. There are so many features in this Subaru to be happy about. Previous Subaru was a 2012 so this is a huge upgrade for us. I subscribe to the channel and I’m looking forward to more tips.

[@amirsartipi]

Alex, thank you so much for your videos, I find them very helpful. I recently got my Outback and I have 3 questions, 1- I noticed my cell phone gets very hot when I am using GPS and have it on the wireless charger, I wonder if I can turn off the wireless charger and just keep my cell phone on the pad? 2- I want to get a trailer hitch, I will use it mainly for my bike rack. I heard that the hitch that dealer install (both at Subaru and Toyota) is not compatible with most of the bike racks in the market. the issue is the safety pin location on the hitch 3- To install the hitch, is it require to take off the bumper and cut some piece of it? is the cut visible or it is just under the bumper?

[@alexpmo]

Thanks for watching! 1. I have experienced the same on my 2023 Outback. The new 2024 Impreza/Crosstrek have the on/off switch for the wireless charging pad, but unfortunately we don't get that on the Outback charging pad. 2. The OEM Subaru hitch will be compatible with most bike racks. Depending on the Subaru model, you will have a 2" or 1.25" receiver. The Outback hitch will be 2" and so you'll just get a bike rack with a 2" connector. If you have a bike rack with a different size connection, you can also get an adapter to size up or down. 3. The OEM Outback hitch does require the cut out in the bumper. This is done so the hitch can be installed without reducing ground clearance. Plus it tucks it away so I personally think it looks cleaner. They put a rubber trim piece in place where the bumper is cut so it looks nice.

[@larrymelton4750]

Thanks Alex, I bought 2020 Forester last month and you have already helped me figure out how to make some of the features work ( tried reading the manual but it can be a little confusing, you make it clear and easy. I’m part of the over the hill gang )

[@alexpmo]

So glad I could help! Congrats on your Forester

[@dgh5760]

Just got the first recall notice on my 24 crosstrek. Can you make a video on the problem they found with the harness and why it can be a major problem? Also, I bought the vehicle 3 months ago and got the rust proofing and glazes but noticed already my rotors are rusty - why?

[@thisspotrules3631]

No way they could coat the rotors. Safety hazard and law suits!... As far as removing the rust from the rotors, use an "iron remover" such as Adams and always use a quality wheel cleaner when washing your car. The iron remover can also be used on the paint to remove fall out that causes pitting and small spots in the clear coat. A must for white cars.

[@PerfectBasicStrategy]

Just got my 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness with the OP yesterday, magnetic grey 😎

[@alexpmo]

Nice!!

[@marc7491]

We have two Foresters: 2019 and 2020. Both have the AVH. However, they are on the console as a manual switch. Recently, I used a loaner from the dealer and found that Subaru has needlessly placed too many options on the touch screen. One of them is the AVH. As a result, the screen is now overly complicated.

[@WineHo888]

Thanks for these videos. We just bought a Forester last week and are loving it 😍. These videos have been super helpful.

[@MarybethS-zj3tu]

2022 Ascent. I've been able to disable the seat belt non-stop chime in the front row (with the rapid click-release in a short time), but can not disarm it in the back rows. We do wear our seat belts, and I realize the importance of them, but when I carry heavy things or my dog, it would be nice for the alarm to not go off the entire trip!

[@andersjeppsson8499]

Just keep back set belts clicked in all the time. Hate I haven’t been able to turn off the irritating front seat bell. Or the auto turn off engine on my Forrester when you stop in slow traffic.

[@RazgrizF14D]

I love showing these features to my customers when they buy a Subaru from me. Love the Subaru Love's Pets plug you put in there. My dealership is one of the sponsors for our towns Humane Society Woofstock event this month.

[@ralphsimon8755]

I have a 2022 Outback Touring XT. The turbo makes up for my 2018 Limited when granny in a Malibu would beat me in a race. Should I buy the factory extended warranty for the 2022? Thanks for your work!

[@danielroberto9183-w8j]

Hey Alex! I want to shae with you that I just bought a Crosstrek Limited with the more powerful motor and I love it. About a month and a half ago I'd purchased an Impreza RS. A small hatchback but surprisingly roomy and comfortable. It's the top of the line, however I coming from a Forester, felt it was too low to the ground. So I decided to once again trade for the Crosstrek. Nothing whatsoever wrong with the Impreza but for me it lacked the omph. I testdrove the Forester and felt right at home, but for my needs at this point in time a Crosstrek suits my needs better than the Forester, which it was wonderful to drive. Contrary to what some car reviewers claim (Consumer Reports is one), The 189 HP engine moves the forester very well and powerfully, I have the same engine in my Crosstrek and being a lighter vehicle it transforms it into a speed demon, in my opinion, and not much lower than the Forester. Solid, fun to drive, very quick, comfy, great visibility, loaded with features, and I worked a killer deal for it, I kid you not. I'm very pleased indeed and now on my third Subaru. To me the Crosstrek is a baby Outback or the Outback's smaller car. Regards and thanks for your videos!

[@thisspotrules3631]

"Baby Back"!

[@kathyhuglen1865]

Hi Daniel (&Alex) thanks to you both for your info! I’m currently shopping for a Subaru (Have an ‘08 Legacy on its last leg) I’ve test drove: Crosstrek, Forester, Ascent, Outback. Really like Crosstrek but it didn’t have the power I like. What Crosstrek model should I search for & td? Thanks again for info! So helpful!! Kathy

[@danielroberto9183-w8j]

@@kathyhuglen1865 I didn't see your reply before with your question. I don't know what Crosstrek model you test drove. I test drove and purchased a 189 hp Crosstrek Limited and I'm very happy I did. It's very powerful with a lot of pick up, agility and is also fun to drive. Just before I bought an Impreza RS, which is the top trim. It was very nice but also anemic, meaning underpowered. The Crosstrek comes with two motors and I just wouldn't want to get one with the weaker one. As an aside, my Crosstrek is quite a bit taller than the Impreza but not as tall as the Forester. For me is the Crosstrek or the Forester with natural aspirated engines and no turbo. As for the Ascent, I know very little about and It wouldn't suit my needs. To me the Crosstrek is a baby Outback, an exceptional vehicle. I hope I answered your question. I call my Crosstrek a "speed demon". And I made a killer deal. Not only did I get on for the Impreza close to what I'd paid (I had it for a month and a half) but I got the dealer to discount two thousand two hundred on the Crosstrek. Now I'm on my third Subaru. Best regards and good luck!

[@cstu444]

@@kathyhuglen1865 Any 2.5L 182hp or... the XT turbo on the Onyx package I believe... My Xtrek Sport w/ the 2.5L at 4800" elevation has plenty of power, especially in "S" monde

[@brentwoodbergmann8842]

I am a Subaru employee and sports car enthusiast. The Forester, Impreza RS, and Crosstrek Limited/sport all have the same 2.5L boxer engine. All three cars have identical horsepower. However the Impreza and Crosstrek make their torque peak at much lower rpm. It’s 178 at only 3,700 rpm. Forester must rev to 4400 rpm to make 176 lb ft. Of torque. The Impreza and Crosstrek are lighter also. They also have SI drive performance button. They are considerably faster to 80 mph than Forester.

[@vgabbott]

Alex, When I unlock doors, only front doors unlock in my 2022 Crosstrek. Is there a way to have all doors unlock?

[@jeannerountree952]

When I bought my Subaru, I asked the salesman if there was anything like the auto vehicle hold, and he told me no. I think I might’ve learned about it by accident or from your channel. I did not have my vehicle for long when this happened. So I called him back and educated him on this function. So hopefully now he can use this information to teach others. Remember, the vehicle hold will become a emergency brake once you open the door. I had this happen to me when at a drive-through pharmacy. So now anytime I go through the drive-through pharmacy I put it in park. Most people don’t have to open the door because they are tall enough and can reach far enough. But I am short and I do not have a far enough reach so I have to open the door. I learned the hard way and my vehicle put it into emergency brake once I opened the door.

[@kathygatos4623]

Alex in my 22 & 24 the AVH doesn’t flash??

[@sunofyourdrop]

It also switches to emergency brake if you unbuckle your seatbelt. Learned that one in a drive-thru as well.

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

What the hell, that's crazy! Thanks for the heads up, 2022 OBW here.

[@jerrymiller276]

My '23 Forester turns off the e-brake if you have the seatbelts fastened and the doors closed if you merely step on the gas.

[@CrankyGrandma]

I was really fortunate to have a salesperson that was part of the Subaru cult (of which I am now a member😄). He had Subarus for years and know all the features. The first dealership I went to wasn’t like that. So glad I bought from the next place. And I’m glad this Channel shows my dealership isn’t the only one with very knowledgeable staff!

[@fjg2896]

Alex mentions that the auto brake hold button is relocated next to the auto on/off button on a recent software update. I have a new 2024 Crosstrek Limited. Why don't I have this newer update?

[@experimental0000]

The dual cargo net is pretty freakin cool actually. Would like to see that being more common outside of this brand

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

Hmmmm, I thought about getting the cargo net but I never owned one. Maybe it's time I do!

[@DaosSinistral]

I have a 23 Forester Limited. Coming over from Ford, and so glad I did

[@lmckay3268]

Alex, I have learned about my 2020 Forester from you more than the Salesperson who I purchased it from, yes, I know we need to read our manuals, but they can get very complicated. Thank You Alex so much for your efforts on educating us the Subaru owners. I do have a question for you though. I have a 2020 Forester and it has 17,000, but my battery stalls on me from time to time. I took it to the Subaru dealership and was advised to turn off the “WiFi” feature at the end of the day and turn it back on at the beginning of the day or when I am going to drive it. I was told that the reason is that the battery looks for a wifi signal to start it. Is this true? Thank you again Alex!!

[@alexpmo]

Happy to help! Sorry to hear about your battery issue. I haven't heard of the wifi draining the battery before, but I could be wrong. Do you drive your car every day? I usually only see battery issues when cars are sitting often and haven't been started for multiple days.

[@bradh6185]

I saw a video a while back where a light at the bottom of the rear door was staying on a and draining batteries. I think it was accidentally being turned on and the light wasn't visible while the door was shut. But if that's not the issue, I hope you figure it out.

[@lmckay3268]

@@alexpmoNo, I don’t drive it every day. It sits in the garage most of the time. I have a second vehicle which I drive every day. The Service Associate suggested for me to buy a Subaru battery charger so I can hook it to the battery when it sits in the garage. He said this would fix the battery issue. I hope it does. Alex thank you so very much for your prompt reply. I appreciate it. I appreciate you too.

[@carolhawley7081]

​@@lmckay3268It should show up as a recall. Google Subaru battery goes dead. Needs to be reprogrammed. Mine has been updated back in the spring. Sadly we had already replaced the battery. There is a class action suit.

[@cherylrowe9309]

I have a 2021 Outback - battery went bad - recall on battery - you may be beyond cutoff on recall. Good luck!

[@annemarier.1866]

Hi I have a 2017 Forrester, is there an update for the GPS?

[@annemarier.1866]

How do I update it?

[@markleedom8899]

Hey Alex, I really enjoy your content and want to ask you about the AVH feature. I was taught many moons ago that for an extended stop it was better for the engine and transmission to put the vehicle in Park so there would be no load on those components. Is this no longer an issue? Was this never true in the first place?

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

That used to be true because of the transmission being constantly engaged. I believe the AVH simultaneously disengages the tranny (puts it in neutral electronically) so there's no extra wear.

[@markleedom8899]

@@HomesteadOnThePreserve Thanks! That wasn’t clear from the “press on the accelerator and go” demonstration.

[@thisspotrules3631]

​@@HomesteadOnThePreserveyour right!... Regular transmissions and manuals are better in neutral. With MT's you wouldn't have keep the clutch depressed. Park is for park"!... Plus it's a bad habit to take your foot off the brake!

[@TheBohemianStyle]

Hello Alex, we have 2005 Outback. How do you turn on the anti-fog? The body heat in the car while driving in rain or certain temperatures make the front and side windows foggy.

[@triestewoods8827]

New to you videos. Very helpful. I was fortunate to get a one hour tutorial on my 2023 Outback at the dealer. I was blown away. My favorite feature was the hatch button.

[@lovesakitas]

I have had my Outback for three years and have never known so many features. Like the lights and could not operate the hatchback without manual or fob? Still learning. But it ran on its own for TWO WHOLE DAYS without me knowing? I’m baffled.

[@mrens77]

G’day, Alex. I have both hands with a good grip on the steering wheel, yet the notification will come up to tell me to hold onto the steering wheel. I know you can’t turn this off but is there a sensitivity setting that can be changed? Thanks in advance!

[@jerrymiller276]

That has been a issue for me, too. It seems that you have to "fight" or "bump" the auto system every few seconds so it knows you are still there. I find it easier and more pleasant to just steer the car myself. I'm a smoother driver than the auto lane hold is anyway, especially on wide laned intertate highways.

[@MrnMrsHouston]

AVH is one of my absolute favorite features in my 2020 Forester Sport. I turn it on every time I get in the car (along with turning off the auto start/stop & disengaging the emergency brake). I also keep my high beam assist on out where I live because there aren’t many street lights (I turn it off in the city though)

[@sammyjamal9930]

Alex, I love your videos and passion on Subaru. Just got my 2023 Forester. Can I disable the feature that stops the engine when I stop at a red light or traffic jam? thx

[@alexpmo]

Yes, you can disable with a button on the dash. I show it here in this video. Just skip ahead to 3:18 in the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aqW8iZ58eqeCiqM

[@aganica]

good video for evening relax and tomorrow again: 🎶driving with tears in my eyes 😊 I just love my CrossTreck- and everytime I discover something new I just have tears in my eyes, how amazing friendly and supporting my car is yes I’m overreacting bc it was my dream car and I saved 2 years to get it)

[@Tnlopez74]

Just came across this video by chance. I love Subaru. I hope to get one as my next vehicle, and finding these new hidden items is GREAT!. Thanks 👍🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@dosvecesjaime]

Omg the chewbaru 🥹

[@traceyfromkc]

Right?!? Makes me want to get a pup just so they can have a Chewbaru!

[@betsykitchen9185]

I know! LMAO

[@1972CB350]

Hi, Alex. This is a great channel, and you're helping my daughter learn about the gadgetry and options in her 2024 CrossTrek (which she loves). Also, you are an *exact* doppelganger of my son. :D

[@RollerCoasterLineProductions]

Another hidden feature you could make a short out of is for DIY people who work on their engines. The hood opens further, look on the left side (passenger side) of the hood, towards the windshield and you’ll see a hole that exactly matches the hole ya normally put the hood prop into. So instead of opening at 45 degrees, the hood will almost open to 90. Do NOT do this if ya have ditch lights mounted, you’ll crack your windshield.

[@sunofyourdrop]

My understanding is that is for pulling the engine. But also good if you need to really get the hood out of the way.

[@RollerCoasterLineProductions]

@@sunofyourdropyeah Subaru had to pull the engine on my 19 crosstrek, it developed an engine leak at 25k

[@pauljennings4248]

When using the brake hold at traffic lights are you brake lights on??

[@alexpmo]

Yes!

[@tomsriveragility]

Definitely want more info on how to set up the pin with that hidden button. Thanks

[@josephflett]

thanks alex , my wife has a 21 outback touring with sooooo many features , we are going to look for all of your tips !!!! subaru is very lucky to have you

[@FLtrailblazer]

Just got a 24’ crosstrek and love it thanks for the videos!

[@smallfry2926]

I just happened on to this video. I purchased my 2025 Forester today and this is my first Subaru. I am looking forward to watching more of your videos.

[@stephenberndt]

Thanks Alex. Excellent advice and it’s appreciated and always applicable even on the west coast of Tasmania. Hello from Queenstown Tasmania, part of Australia!🇦🇺

[@davidlcolburn7745]

2021 Subaru Forrester. How do you keep the lights from coming on with the switch in the off position exclamation?

[@78mowen]

Love these videos, they are so helpful! Just picked up my new ‘24 touring XT Outback yesterday. Quick question, where are the front parking sensors that beep? My ‘18 Forester touring XT had them and I didn’t think I would miss them….but I kinda do! 😂

[@judymahan3826]

Just discovered your awesome videos! I have a 2017, my 2nd Subaru Outback! The high beam secret was amazing discovery for me! Can hardly wait to use it, since living in country road areas. Thank you. Will be checking out past videos and subscribed to future videos!!

[@anamariamolina4373]

Hello Alex, my name is Ana Maria, my husband and I just got our 2nd Subaru Outback, is a 2024 limited XT, the other is a 2017 Premium. The difference is great in comfort and noice, been the 2024 awesome! We did a lot of research for about a year 1/2, looking at different cars,before making a decision, and truly, Subaru won us back! I am 74 years old and from all the cars we have owned and tried, our Outback are the best! Thanks so much for your videos they truly help so much to learn and understand how to take advantage of our vehicle. It could be overwhelming to read everything and put it in practice, but when you take your time to actually show us how everything works, it makes sense! I can tell you love what you do, I hope that Subaru of America appreciate the passion and honesty you exhibit, as well as the details, which is ultimately what leads The consumers to say Yes! To Subaru! Thank you so much Alex!!

[@debbyusher6693]

Thanks... I have a 21 Forester sport and I had figured out most little things but this helped me understand a couple other features better!

[@mariad1216]

Brand new to the Subaru World….lots to learn Thank You!!! Interested in the Subaru Pet Box(adopted a new dog too!)

[@stephennault9884]

My question is about the "unlock your doors if you ever lose your key fob" hidden feature. I have a 2019 Outback and a 2024 CrossTrek. They both have the hidden button on the hatch but pressing them does nothing. Do I have to activate the feature somewhere? Thank you for this article. It is very helpful.

[@DS-uz8km]

I knew about the AVH button but thought it was only only used to prevent car from rolling back (hill situations). And as someone mentioned, the owners manual is not that easy to understand. Thx so much.

[@hollyzukowski4216]

I just bought a used 2021 Forester Touring model and while I love the car, the salesperson only showed me features that I asked about specifically, he didn't offer any additional information. Your videos have been invaluable in answering the questions such as "what does this button do?" Thanks

[@allentumminello2343]

Thanks for keeping us updated Just bought a 24 forester limited with 1300 miles. Yes 1,300 miles from a Toyota dealership in fort smith Arkansas Have been watching your videos so I can get familiar with all the features, as the Toyota dealership really didn’t know anything Again thank you

[@alexpmo]

That's awesome! Congrats on picking up a low mileage Forester

[@aaronwilson4579]

If you have the auto vehicle hold on does that negate the autostart/stop or do you still have to turn it off? Assuming you want it off of course

[@Tom-ld9hp]

They are separate. That autostart/stop is a pain in the butt. I tend to forget to turn it off.

[@alexpmo]

Tom is right. They're separate so you'll still have to click the auto start/stop button each time if you want it off.

[@HandleHandle233]

I have a 2015 crosstrek and I use the PIN code all the time!! Wish I knew more about it but it’s getting older and it seems like the cars have been updated so much since then

[@debglover177]

How do you turn off the radio? We end up hitting mute. We have a 2023 Outback. Thanks so much!

[@dumbo3200]

Not a fan of the auto high bean (2022 Outback Australian model) especially while country driving. It tries to be too smart and will do single beams and often dips from reflections on road signs etc. A good intention that has not quite been perfected in my opinion. Also - it seems to come on by default and takes a 2nd 'flick' of the stalk to turn it off. Is there a way to turn it off permanently or have it default to off?

[@jaydemunton1467]

I loved the idea at first, but they're now turned off immediately. Every night driving down the freeway the highbeams would light up halfway overtaking the b-doubles and blind the poor buggers!

[@tripleA613]

Just bought a 2024 Crosstrek Sport in alpine green and I’m loving it! It’s my first new car I’ve ever had and it’s far exceeded my expectations.

[@tanashaffer2413]

You are giving me much to look forward to if I should ever up grade my Subaru. I presently drive a 1998 Subaru Legacy Outback so none if these hidden features exist on it. It does have other hidden features which I have had to discover for myself and have shown others. I will never own anything other than a Subaru after having this one for the past 10 years and it has earned the name Mud Crawler over and over again. AWD over 4wd and I get home every time on nine miles of dirt road which often becomes mud and river. The 4wd drivers are in awe of my Subaru. Thanks so much for spreading the joy these cars bring.

[@alexpmo]

So cool! Happy to hear you've enjoyed your Subaru and found some of your own hidden features!

[@peterchiu9532]

Hi Alex, with my Forester 2009, the display went blank but my radio works normally when turned on. Sometimes the display will come back for a while but went blank again at it free will.

[@KarenBolick]

We just bought our first Subaru Outback. Your videos are just what we need! Thank you so much!

[@alexpmo]

Glad to help!

[@EMoore-jd6bx]

I recently purchased a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek and am enjoying its features. I've noticed a difference in how the All Wheel Drive System handles bumps or ripples in the pavement. I'm considering upgrading my shocks to improve and absorb uneven pavement or rough roads. What would you recommend for the upgrade?

[@brianstach756]

I have bought a 2022 outback touring the plan was to add a dash camera. Can you hard wire to the hot line of the ignition without electric problems

[@francksantromromano870]

Alex, I bought a cargo net for my Subaru outback 2023 but I don't know how to install the pair of hooks. I saw you have your installed.

[@haroldclark1787]

If it's 'love' that makes Subaru a Subaru, then it's Alex who brings it all home for all of us to enjoy. Your videos are replete with useful information and practical insight into these wonderful vehicles. Thanks for sharing your encyclopedic knowledge with us. It's greatly appreciated! I love my 2014 Subaru Impreza (although I'm looking at a $7,200 projected cost to repair a cracked steering column and an exhaust system after only 33,000 miles). They gave me a 2024 Outback as a loaner, and I've fallen in love. Maybe I'll trade in the Impreza toward a new Outback or Forester. We shall see. Thanks again; you really know your stuff! Be well, and safe Subaruing!

[@izabeltinagarcia4180]

Great info. Question: Is there a quick way to get my 22 Outback Touring to rescan the driver? Mine often doesn't recognize me and the only way I know to rescan is about 5 steps. Is there a quicker way?

[@grantthomas1818]

Hi, when you use the the AVH, do the brake lights stay on...imo if your at stop in traffic they should stay on...thanks...

[@sandracollins2401]

Love your hints! My auto start is set for 10 minutes. How do I change it to 15 minutes? On my Subaru 2024

[@harnesshouse]

I have a 2023 Outback and I can't figure out the secret to the hands-free opening of the hatchback. It only works if I put my hand right under the logo where you would press the button that opens it. When they showed me at the dealership they just waved their hand in front of the Subaru logo and it opened. What am I missing? Oh, and regarding the cargo net. Mine didn't come with it so I ordered it from my dealer. From what I understand, there was supposed to be a paper template that guided you where to drill the holes for the top two hooks. The hooks came with the net but no template. How can I get that template?

[@GrandsixM]

I’m a new 2023 Subaru Forrester owner and enjoy learning anything I can about it.

[@BillBuescher-w8t]

2018 3.6R Touring. Doesn’t seem to have integrated cross bars inside rails. Correct?

[@donbahn1319]

I own a 2006 Baja, stated in the owner manual, when a flat tire must be removed the spare tire must be placed on one of the rear wheel positions and a fuse in the under hood area must be removed to put the Baja into front wheel only drive. Do the new Subaru have the same feature? Will a new Baja be produced soon with manual transmission?

[@angelahoskyn9475]

Just bought a 2020 Outback. Have 2 queries... What is the VIEW button to R of gear shift? What is thin panel center on dash just above main screen and under rear view mirror? Ty

[@philipcarollo7721]

Hi Alex. Why doesn’t the temperature control go back to Sync’d after the car is turned off?

[@timcavenee3223]

Thanks for all your advice, and tips. I've got a 2022 Outback Wilderness, can't figure out the hand placement foe the steering assist, tried 10-2, 11-1 and it always warning my about hands on the wheel????

[@ImTazdByU]

Hi Alex - I bought my first 2019 Subaru Forester last March, and want to thank you for your posts, especially since you are literally in my backyard. I am still learning but really liked knowing about fuses and the autobrake...thanks!

[@alexpmo]

Glad to help!

[@celticfriar1129]

How do I change the automatic rear trunk lift to open higher, I have a 2014 Subaru Forrester.

[@zl14l41]

You know what I miss? Handle actuated E/parking brake. I had a manual crosstrek (23 the last year you could get them) that had it and subaru STILL had it setup so the lights black out when you pull up even slightly on the handle, my 03 forester had it too! Was also good in an emergency for correcting understeer on snowy/icy roads, I don't think "snow mode" will make up for that. Any way to totally black out a model (forester) with the push button parking brake?

[@johnwoods7730]

Chubaru?😂 I became the proud owner of a 2017 Subaru Forester Premium in November 2023. Only 65k with minor cosmetic issues. What an SUV! Your channel popped up on KZbin. I sold Nissan and Hyundai for eighteen months a few years back. My research led me to Subaru. I'm glad to find a channel like yours. Keep posting!

[@rochelleprovencher4800]

I bought a 2021 Subaru Forester last July 2023. I live in Northern Michigan. How do I use the anti slip feature?

[@amalsaaida821]

I just bought my second Subaru last weekend, and I'm very happy with it. Thank you for your educational videos 🙏

[@SusanWaite-s4p]

Thank you for your videos, super helpful!!!! :) I have a 2020 Forester, how do I play an MP3 on a USB?

[@kenhnsy]

Great video. Is there a way to permanently turn off the Auto Engine Stop on a 2024 Impreza base model? The EPA is determined to destroy our engines.

[@KarenNaven]

Hi. I have a 2020 Sabaru Forester. How do I reset the "tire inspection " light once the tires have been checked please?

[@silvanapironti3940]

Hi Alex, I’m new to the Subaru family bought a XV eboxer hybrid last year and love it. My question is - is there an audible warning as well as a visual warning when you go over the speed limit? If so how do you activate it? Thanks.

[@RenieErmert-df9yd]

I have a 2020 outback limited. How do I use that pin code feature you were talking about.

[@elizabethvillalobos4504]

Do you have videos for a 2017 Subaru Outback. Especially all the things on the instrument panel. Also my inside window fog up unless I turn on the heater. How can I fix this

[@rictravis8886]

Am I able to add a front camera to my 2023 Forester Touring like is available on the Accent Subaru??

[@henryyurkovic893]

2018 Legacy leds around drivers headlight are out. Are they repairable of have to replace the whole headlight assembly

[@annaoutdoors]

Hi Alex. I have a 2019 Outback Touring and the Car Play no longer works with voice command. I've tried several different iPhones and all have the same issue. Dealership said it was my phone. I've tried googling this issue but there are so many answers! Thanks in advance.