Things All Subaru Outback Owners Should Know!

[@TrailPass]

0:30 - One Month with the Wilderness 0:55 - LED Active Headlights are Amazing 1:25 - Welcome Lights are Actually Useful 2:02 - Cargo Area is Super Roomy 2:30 - Secret ways to Lock the Doors 3:19 - Fuel Door Locks too 3:33 - 87 Octane is perfect, even for the Turbo 4:08 - Screen controls everything! 5:58 - New Updates Coming 6:40 - Eyesight is busy, but Customizable 7:53 - Apple Carplay and Android Auto Setup Tip 8:52 - Awesome daily driver

[@ottomatic7823]

I've been watching lots of car reviews as I narrow down my next vehicle. As an official old guy I find it laughable when, in the review, people comment on how slow a screen is or in this case how deep in to the programs one needs to go to make adjustments. It's helpful to remember what cars were like in the 50's ~ 80's. About the only adjustment you could make was to dial in your preferred radio station & then pull a button out/in to set it. Or to go to Western Auto and buy colored door lock knobs. Power door locks with electric windows were only for the rich!

[@peterhost6928]

I concur. As a buttons and knobs guy, the touch screen is a step in the wrong direction for me. I can fumble in the dark in my old pickup and turn the fan up or down, change radio stations or adjust the heat without looking. When I complained to my service advisor, they said "you can give it a voice command to control all those things."

[@DPB1947]

Thanks for this video. One other tip about that right-hand rubber button on the tailgate above the license plate: you can program that button to open all doors and the tailgate without having the key fob present. You program 5 single-digit codes from 1-9, then when you want to unlock the doors without the key fob, you tap the rubber button with the first digit, wait for the beep, then proceed to second digit, and so on, until you hear 3 beeps and the doors unlock. Example: if the code is 1-3-1-4-7, you tap the button once, wait for the beep, then tap it again 3 times, wait for the beep, then once, wait for the beep and so on...

[@dannymcneal]

Another cool feature also pertains to the locking fuel door. Say you need to fill up, but are in a part of town that you’re unfamiliar with, and would be uncomfortable leaving your car unlocked while filling up. Once you push the fuel door open, simply lock the car with the key FOB and continue filling up. And you don’t even need to unlock the car in order to close the fuel door-just push it closed.

[@trumpius_maximus47]

Have this feature on my old Kia Sedona. 😂

[@loriwitkop1389]

Another feature. I was letting my friend test drive my new to me 21 outback and we stopped for gas. She asked if I needed her to turn it off to fill up and I said no. The car had other ideas! It will not open with the car on. LOL

[@Bajablast_scuba_cat]

Hey! love the content! I just got my 2023 outback wilderness Wednesday and there are some really great updates to how the climate stuff/heated seats work. A lot more user friendly. Keep checking for the software update because you should be able to update the 22 model to it soon!

[@tylergates772]

Just got a 22 Wilderness in white a week and a half ago as our new family car! Your car is our car's twin! Subscribed to learn more about the infotainment system lol

[@rickstokes2239]

Ordering the Touring XT version soon. The research and reviews have been a great source and very helpful.

[@puchatek200]

Tailgate - you can also program how far it can open. If you have a short or not tall garage you can program you tailgate to stop before it hits the ceiling or garage door.

[@robertgloverjr]

Only can be set if car is turned off and parking gear is engaged (on the 2020 Outback)

[@stevepowsinger733]

I’m still trying to figure out how.

[@stevenlageson1868]

Bought the 2024 last month. Love it. Apple CarPlay doesn’t have to be hardwired now. It works Bluetooth now too. I’m still learning all the stuff the car can do.

[@cajunqueen1971]

I have had my 22 Outback Wilderness 17 days and so far it is amazing! So comfortable! The big screen did take some getting used to, but once you are used to it, it is easy to use! I had trouble finding X mode, we went out on some trails, the small screen above the big screen, you can scroll it to the right or left, X mode is all the way to the right, so you don't have to go into settings, etc. I like that I can change the middle screen in between the gauges, shows so much useful info! I think this vehicle is going to just be fun, comfy and the get up and go is not bad, I am still in break in mode, so I have not "floored" it yet, I am trying to be nice to the car in break in period!😊

[@jackfis1]

Missy, I believe when you press the front view camera button, the X mode is automatically activated, quicker that way

[@cajunqueen1971]

@@jackfis1 That makes sense! I will try it next time I drive it! Thank you!

[@patrickweisback5835]

I bought a 2023 outback XT and it’s awesome in snow, rain and ice. The headlights are bright and I get flashed a lot- other than that it’s awesome and the turbo gives it power when you need it.

[@rsmnh7892]

The button at the back for locking is also for pin number to use it to unlock the car without a key.

[@gregoverley5349]

The active headlights are a great feature, especially where you live!

[@PH-md8xp]

Good video, we just bought a 2023 Outback, Touring XT. Love it so far, with the exception of a 360 degree overhead camera, it’s better equipped than my 2018 BMW X3. I didn’t know about that hidden trunk hatch lock button. These cars seem to have endless features. Your FJ Cruiser is nice, wish Toyota would bring those back!

[@PGB-ni1ji]

Nice video. We're going to order one soon. You either... 1 - Have a massive outside shed for all your stuff. 2 - Just moved in. That garage reminds me of ours... the day we made settlement on the house. :) 3 - Aren't human. I like your cleverly disguised yellow spaceship there.

[@TrailPass]

4 - Insanely particular with an unfinished basement for the other junk. Lol

[@jimbattista1120]

We pick up our 2023 Outback Wilderness tomorrow. It was the only Outback in the lot of that. They had plenty of Forrester's and a few Ascents. We hit it just right. The best part. No trade in and we paid for it in full. It will be put to the test. Upstate NY weather will hit us on Thursday and Friday.

[@TrailPass]

That's awesome. Enjoy your ride and stay safe!

[@richdhaliwal1494]

Love the wilderness. Waiting for that Android update!

[@cindylk11]

That little button on the right side is also used for a pin code, in the event you decide to leave your key in your car while hiking, or any activity that you don’t want to carry your key.

[@debbiechutka2492]

Thank you for this video. I’ve learned quite a bit for my first Subaru ownership. I have owned it now about a month as well, a 2021 Outback limited. I love it so far. Very comfortable and nice amount of room and I don’t feel like I’m in a massive SUV but more of a car feel.

[@briantodd4887]

Great video! I just ordered a 2024. I also heard that on that same rear hatch button you can actually set and press a code in case you lock your fob inside. I forget how that feature works, but is good to know in case your doors are all locked.

[@TrailPass]

I've seen that too, I need to learn how to set it up!

[@mondayloux2559]

I'm on my 2nd Outback and my new one is an Onyx edition XT and I love it!! But I'm not liking the braking part when the car thinks I am too close to another car. It just slams on the brakes. I did learn a few more tips about the car and the info system from you!! Thanks!!

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

Had my 2022 OBW for a few months now and it's the greatest vehicle I ever owned. It does have a couple very annoying features though. AVH defaulting to OFF is super annoying because I love that feature. Also, as you mentioned, the cruise control beeping every time the lead car changes. SOOOO STUPID AND POINTLESS!

[@dh00mketu]

you can turn off the cruise control beeping

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

@@dh00mketu How? I figured out how to disable the green LED that flashes every time a new lead car is detected but couldn't figure out the beeping.

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

@SHOCKNUTZ THANK YOU GREATLY! I went through those settings 3 times and missed that one. BTW cool name!

[@Doc1855]

Subaru’s “ding” WAY TO MUCH.

[@PH-md8xp]

It’s all configurable, you can set the car up to almost exactly as you want it, with a few exceptions.

[@chrisb9478]

We have a 21 XT Touring with 22k miles. It’s been great, no problems at all except for some glitches with the big screen randomly going black every once in a while & the radio will stop working other times. The dealer did a total software reinstall which helped a lot, but maybe once every couple months we see a glitch. Otherwise, it drives awesome and does not use a drop of oil. It’s an awesome road trip car. The engine almost has diesel like torque, like our 16 Jetta Tdi had. 😁

[@RyanCrase1]

I have a 2021 limited and it’s amazing. The new touchscreen update saved the day! I hated the weird buttons and am so glad they addressed them!

[@wearethree]

I love my Outback, however the infotainment system is horrible. The 2023 model fixes most of the things that drive my nuts, but that version isn’t available for the 2022 model. Or at least not yet. My infotainment system freezes all the time and sometimes will turn off all safety features automatically and at times the car will slam on the breaks for no reason at all while driving. No one around on the road, yet senses a collision, then the screen freezes. When the screen is frozen, none of the analog buttons on the dash or steering wheel will work. It’s just all messed up and can only fix if I park the car, shut off and restart. Other times it takes a few minutes to reboot while driving. Only other issue is I get brighted by other cars, because the suspension will bounce going over bumps and the way the headlights shine, it looks like I’m flashing my lights at people. Happens all the time.

[@TrailPass]

I'm really hoping for an update for the screen too

[@GaryCimsRN]

About a month ago there is an update for the infotainment system. The way I did it was too download the appropriate files from someone on an outback forum. Next I had to format a USB drive. Next I had to put that into the infotainment plug input. Then I had to put it in to dealership mode and then initiate the update process. Took about 20 minutes. Unfortunately, it did not update my 22 wilderness to the larger Android auto screen. However, there were improvements to the general user interface. Good luck!

[@wearethree]

@@GaryCimsRN Thanks

[@wearethree]

@@GaryCimsRN Thanks again for the information. I was able to download the files for the March 2023 update and successfully do the update in Dealer Mode. Hopefully it fixes all the infotainment issues.

[@dustystirm8966]

Not sure if it would work for the 2022 but you should be able to wave at the Subaru symbol on the back hatch and it will automatically open. Must have key fob on you.

[@notme3252]

I just bought a 23 model. It’ll be fun, I’m sure. Love your FJ Cruiser!

[@tombowers2020]

I have a 2022 OBW. It’s a fun ride. However, I’ve had to jump the damn thing 6 times in 7 months of ownership! Going back to the dealer!

[@GaryCimsRN]

For some reason. Outbacks and mini Subarus for years have had battery issues. My girlfriend just got hers replaced. It seems to be the factory batteries so go to a better quality one from a third party.

[@richrunger9397]

Thanks for the tip on setting up the android phone

[@jrnumex9286]

nice clean garage and room for a car, do you live in america?

[@edisongunter6714]

Yes your review excellent. My question is does the Wilderness use high octane 92 and second question how is street and highway handling . Looking to purchase a Wilderness

[@TrailPass]

No 87 octane is fine. It's a. Very comfortable and quiet vehicle in any condition.

[@GaryCimsRN]

He mentioned this in the video at the place he discussed locking the gas door.

[@bradsechrist9746]

nice looking vehicle, but 26mpg highway is a "no can do" for me. I might look at the 2.5 Onyx Edition. similarly rugged look with 32mpg highway. Glad you like yours though.

[@christaluongo8919]

Omg you never owned a truck with a V8 Hemi I guess 🤣🤣

[@afcgeo882]

@@christaluongo8919 No, but I do own a Rav4 Hybrid that gives me 42mpg highway, easily. More, if I start driving gently.

[@cb6182]

More like 18mpg! I have the exact same car.

[@stenyethanmathews945]

I have the onyx trim 2023 without the turbo. I like the look. And the gas mileage is good so far. I don't need the turbo plus turbo tends to decrease engine life. If you're looking to tow a light trailer or something maybe then get the turbo.

[@mrjjthor]

Owned a 22 Crosstrek with the 2.5 engine and I usually get 32-33mpg highway. Just recently traded it for a 23 Onyx XT and took a 2-3mpg hit which, IMO, isn't too bad and well worth it for the extra power.

[@JohannRichter]

Thanks for the informative video! 😊 We are actively looking to purchase a 2023 Wilderness in the next month. We haven’t been able to find an answer to this question: How bright is the Infotainment screen while driving at night? Is it distracting? Can it be turned off or dimmed? Thanks!

[@TrailPass]

it is dimmable and can be turned off, which is great. i don't like driving with screens at night at all

[@gorgon4061]

I don’t own a Subaru, but Mazda. The screen on both cars work similar. The screen on my cx-5 dims automatically after it gets dark or the headlights turn on after dusk. The screen gets brighter during daylight.

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

TrailPass is correct and the dim setting will retain its memory unlike Auto Vehicle Hold that defaults to OFF every time you start the car.

[@JohannRichter]

@@TrailPass Thanks for the feedback! We appreciate it.

[@azrwilkinson]

Great info. Really interested in this vehicle.

[@GurcharanjeetSingh]

request for the next video - try to camp on the top and share how comfortable and easy it is to setup. We are looking for Outback as our camping car and need reviews before the commitment on owning.

[@GurcharanjeetSingh]

and I am sorry, I just forgot to say Thank you for sharing such an informative video. It helped a lot in our decision-making.

[@TrailPass]

@@GurcharanjeetSingh thanks for watching! Are you suggesting camping in a roof top tent or in the rear of the car?

[@GurcharanjeetSingh]

@@TrailPass I would say both 😊

[@jlo5134]

You forgot to mention the secret unlock code using the button under the rear hatch. 5 digits to unlock the car if the keys are inside…

[@robquick3814]

This is what came to comment on, my 22 Wrx has the secret pin and it’s great little feature

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

I use that feature alot. When I go diving I shut the key fob off (pushing the proper buttons) and keep the key in the car. The secret pin is also great if the car doesnt realize the keys are inside and you lock them in. Rare situation but it does happen especially with a low fob battery.

[@bzs331]

Great review! Love Subie’s!!!!

[@szelop]

Where is the wheel locking nut? I couldn’t find it in my new 2024 Outback Limited XT.

[@TrailPass]

That would have been something your dealership would've installed I believe. I think they normally put them in the glove box or with the spare tire/ tools under the cargo mat

[@szelop]

@@TrailPass I couldn’t find it anywhere. Was wondering if it had a secret hiding place!

[@derspeed5796]

My white ‘23 is on its way. I’ve had a lot of awesome cars, but I haven’t been this anxious to get a new car in long time.

[@charleshewitt6180]

On my 4th Outback - been driving the XT Touring for two months now. Subaru please allow the vehicle to default the AVH, Stop/Start, and Distracted Driving to whatever the driver desires. I've put the custom icons on the main screen so I'm pretty much doing the triple-tap after every start up. The CVT is still funky with the turbo.

[@TrailPass]

I agree the cvt is funky with the turbo but not a deal breaker. I find the shift points to be much more distracting personally. I'm thinking your personal settings could probably be made permanent with a tune, but I'm not going to try that with mine until it's out of warranty.

[@mikewallace8087]

I loaded my music onto a thumb drive . It will display the song titles and album covers. Load your music on multiple drives because the catalogue can become too long to search.

[@scottcammack8339]

My onyx XT 2023 has piano black under the gearshift. I noticed yours was Matt an appearance I guess that’s just the way they make it.

[@howardraines5799]

Nice ride man. 👍 I’m also in Va and have the exact same model/color. I had to drive to WV to get $3k under MSRP.

[@TrailPass]

Awesome, congratulations on a great deal! Super cool Land Cruiser in your picture too!

[@jennifersherrick7195]

I didn't know dealers are selling below MSRP. I did a lot of research to find that was selling at MSRP. Congrats to you!

[@nickhorton785]

Really like my 21 outback premium, however, do a lot of highway driving and could use the extra power of the turbo motor.

[@Wilfredos_]

We just got a limited Outback an is sitting deadbeat in the lot, because the SOS will not work and they gave an STOP SALE! For all of us not Trail owners, can you add the difference features that work in other trims and not specific to the trail. I’m sure this will increase your subscription base followers! THANK YOU SO MUCH for doing these videos. Can wait to be behind Our Outback limited. See you on the Softroad👍

[@thoopra]

This thing is an absolute beauty!

[@1800dontcare]

There is perhaps one thing you are unaware of ;) The button beside the button to open the tail gate is also a PIN code system as well. You can set a I think it is a max 6 code pin so if you cannot find your keys and need to get into the car enter you PIN code and the car unlocks once done press the lock button to close and lock the car again

[@1800dontcare]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3OudmqVjtNmr5I

[@TrailPass]

Oh cool! Thanks for the tip!

[@1800dontcare]

@@TrailPass the video I posted he also has heaps of videos on the Outback’s which will be very helpful for you as well. I own the MY22 Outback Sports and absolutely love it however they finally brought out the Turbo in Australia so 11 months into owning ours we are upgrading lol

[@donwhitehead4587]

My 2021 Outback Touring XT has a horrible Denso infotainment system. Firmware update’s haven’t eliminated system crashes-resets. Laggy electronics are the norm. Other than that, it is a wonderful do-it-all machine.

[@TrailPass]

Haven't had that issue with our 22. Maybe try updating the system through the screen

[@donwhitehead4587]

@@TrailPass I’ve tried everything. The dealer has too. Subaru isn’t only make plagued with crap Denso head units. Hopefully they have it all worked out for your car.

[@richardkoellner8554]

The lock button on the tailgate is for locking all the doors and tailgate.

[@loriwitkop1389]

I just purchased a '21 Premium and I didn't need to have the parking brake on to set up my Iphone.

[@christaluongo8919]

The headlights need to be angled higher. I can see a straight line at night when I’m driving. I don’t pay to much attention to the touch screen. The navigation is horrible and primarily use Apple Car Play.

[@mikedwyer1944]

I think angled lower. With my high beams off, I get oncoming drivers flashing their highs at my bright LEDs. (I'm sure they're just jealous, as they are always incandescent-lit vehicles. 😉)

[@peterhost6928]

I have a 2022 wilderness, and while I like most features, I'm totally disappointed with BACKUP LIGHT illumination. The brake lights give more illumination than the backup lights. The other feature that disappoints is the side view mirrors when backing. The camera doesn't give enough view and the mirrors don't give a wide angle view. As someone who has mostly driven pickups with towing mirrors, I feel blind when backing up. Another flaw, is that the car can't be ordered with a heated steering wheel. Just baffling that a car called WILDERNESS gives heated seats but isn't available with heated wheel.

[@antoniocastellanos2098]

You own a FJ CRUSIER, SO LUCKY 👍

[@seymorefact4333]

🇺🇸 taco bandit... love the fj! I had a brand new outback once....squeaks galore. Trade it in for a Tacoma. Why not a 4runner?

[@TrailPass]

Hey nice to hear from you again! So far so good with the Outback Wilderness. We actually made a video on why we choose this over the 4runner. In short, the outback will do everything we need it to do and is a much more economical and comfortable daily for my wife. We still have the FJ for offroad use and we'll be looking hard at the next gen 4runner if it ever comes out.

[@Doc1855]

We have an odd quirk in our Outback. The horn randomly honks for no reason. We’ve had it into Subaru multiple times but they can’t seem to find the problem.

[@lupemarrujo3406]

I just brought an outback and have found it to be extremely noisy on the road. Not happy.

[@scottcammack8339]

Could you tell me where you got the cover for the bottom of the gearshift area? They get scratched quite frequently from what I hear. I just got a new vehicle and I would like to avoid that.

[@TrailPass]

We actually don't have any kind of cover. Our wilderness is completely stock.

[@RESPAWN1983]

How they tuned it to take 87 fuel is beyond me. I'm sticking to 91.

[@advfreedom]

I think what they should know is how to change the oil(very easy on subaru) and how to attach a towing harness again very easy. And then use subaru for it's intended use.

[@grouch29able]

I just bought a 2023 Wilderness a month ago. I have not been able to play around with it as much yet but one thing I am curious to know is if the "driver" profile is used to program your mirrors and seat? I am the only one who drives the car but on occasion my husband will be driving it but I hate having to adjust my seat and mirrors. He is six feet tall and I am a lot shorter than him by a whole foot lol. Does anyone know if there is a way to set memory seats or if it even has that feature?

[@genehulsey2673]

Has two memory positions 1 and 2. You can adjust the seat position and outside mirrors only. The outside mirrors can also be adjust to tilt down when backing up.

[@jennifersherrick7195]

I really love the Wilderness trim. Unfortunately for me, I won't be going off roading. Using it for commuting locally and once in a while long family trips. Do you think getting the Wilderness trim is a bit overkill if I'm not utilizing all of the features? With that said, I am looking at the Touring XT.

[@TrailPass]

The biggest factor is whether you're willing to pay extra for the look and sacrifice fuel economy.

[@elsaandnoah]

I keep flip flopping between OBW vs top trim XT which costs a bit more. But I’m obsessed with ground clearance (& fog lights). I really love the extra ground clearance with OBW.

[@dcam456]

Yes, it is overkill. A regular Outback is still really capable.

[@Dawn191]

It is not over kill. Get what you like and makes you happy 😊

[@relaxation2380]

If your not off roading or towing with it get a different model than the wilderness just my opinion from an owner

[@Jaygorski]

I was wondering how you've had that Outback for one month when it says you posted the vid 1 year ago? Otherwise good vids.

[@denismxx]

Thank's a lot !

[@drjsstuff1739]

Liking the Wilderness concept. Black plastics & paint usage a bit excessive. Subaru, I trust those trendy awful black wheels are an option?

[@GaryCimsRN]

Black wheels with Geolander tires only option with Wilderness model

[@petergust716]

I just started to add some kit to my wife’s 2021 OB Onyx XT. Was disappointed in the lack of recovery points. Seriously? Love the car but really no or at best limited recovery options does not fit the off-road capable packaging. Disappointed here Subaru. That 4Runner is looking good again.

[@GaryCimsRN]

Aren't all the copper plates covering recovery points? That's 8. I don't off road so I'm ignorant

[@JimGraham-w1w]

Great rendition of a computer on wheels

[@shirleyroaden7917]

You need to get your camera closer when doing your video on the inside.

[@hookenz]

It's sad that car companies are removing physical buttons from interiors.

[@leafyo123]

Every wilderness owner should know: click the paddle shifter down two gears, floor it and enjoy😬😬😬

[@CrucesNomad1]

To bad there is hold on all 2023 Subys, just cancelled my order.

[@MYSavannahMARJORIE]

I can't find how to defrost the windows!

[@GaryCimsRN]

For the rear window and side view mirrors the push button is on the right side of the center console. It's below the dial and above the up down temperature controls.

[@GaryCimsRN]

Where are you looking to Defrost the windshield? If that's the case, select that option within the choices for climate control.

[@petergeoghan7241]

40k replace short block, 100k transmission, 160k head gaskets, now there is a new noise. Next time it is going to be a Toyota or Honda. Thats all you need to know.

[@eellexa]

Nice job mate.

[@TrailPass]

Thanks for watching!

[@michaelstarr1285]

With dollar so strong why aren't foreign cars cheaper?

[@danielfair4675]

The average new car price in 2022 is $48k .... this is a bargin from Subaru.

[@Totosubie]

i prefer autum green color😂😂

[@mikedwyer1944]

Happy owner of a '23 Onyx XT! We're loving the Cosmic Blue Pearl, but that Pearl White looks pretty sweet. I looked up the color of the mineral onyx, and guess what: it's white and black! My only complaint is those LED headlights are so bright that oncoming drivers flash their high beams at me because they don't think I'm dimming mine. Also the lights have a black shadow at the top of the beam that can be disconcerting when the lights turn.

[@Joey-jw6ym]

👍

[@wvsubaruwrxstiusa8585]

I own two Subaru's your FJ bad @ss 😎👍

[@theamazinggoldfish8713]

My uncle hates how his does automatic breaking every garbage day when he passes the cans on his street. It ALSO hen picks at him if he slightly nods his head and says "distracted driver". I like my 2021 Impreza sport hatchback in "manual" transmission which has None of these annoyances. P.S. I like the manual AC control knobs too. 😅

[@ShonTolliverMusic]

So much money spent in this video. Keeping up with the Joneses is expensive.

[@thomasfarrell4883]

I will not consider buying a Subaru until the awful screen is eliminated.

[@Sticks1680]

How to use common sense and do your own research on tires, decals, wheels

[@highwaymaintainer]

You must be an ambassador ZZZZzzzzzzzzzzz

[@TrailPass]

Nope, just a regular guy sharing his experience with a new car to try to help folks