Today, I’m going to share five things about your Subaru that you probably don’t realize exist. Many Subaru owners are pleasantly surprised when they discover these features, especially if they’ve had their vehicle for years.
1. Steering Responsive Headlights
The first feature we’re discussing is steering responsive headlights. This technology is standard on most Subaru models but might not be available on some base trims. If you’re unsure whether your Subaru has this feature, you can check by:
- Testing it at night: Turn on your car and lights, and observe the headlights swivel left and right as you turn the steering wheel.
- Checking your touchscreen: Go to “Vehicle Controls” on the lower portion of your display. Look for the “Steering Responsive Headlights” toggle.
This feature enhances visibility during nighttime drives, especially on back roads or winding turns. If your Subaru lacks the 11.6-inch touchscreen, the on/off switch might be located on the left-hand side of your dash.
2. Customizable Touchscreen Display
Your Subaru’s touchscreen offers a level of customization to suit your preferences. Here’s how you can organize your apps:
- Long press an app and drag it to a new location on the same page or a different page.
- Click the home button to save your changes.
This functionality allows you to personalize your display, making frequently accessed apps like “Maintenance” or “Radio” more accessible.
3. Keyless Entry System and Dead Battery Hack
Most modern Subarus come with a convenient keyless entry system. Simply have the key fob on you to unlock the car by touching the handle and start the car with the push-button ignition.
What if the key fob battery is dead?
Here’s what to do:
- Remove the key shank from the fob.
- Use it to unlock the door manually (note that the alarm might sound).
- Place the fob next to the push-button ignition to disable the alarm and start the car.
This trick ensures you won’t be stranded due to a dead key fob battery.
4. Rear Cargo Features and Tools
Under your Subaru’s cargo floor, you’ll find several tools, including:
- Jack and spare tire: Many models, like the Wilderness trim, include a full-size, painted-to-match spare tire.
- Tow hook: This is used for emergency situations, such as being pulled out of a ditch.
To access the tow hook mounting points, use the provided screwdriver (which doubles as a flathead) to remove the bumper panel and secure the hook.
5. Soft Touch Heated Seat Controls
Subaru’s newer models feature soft touch controls for heated seats. Instead of tapping multiple times to turn them off, simply press and hold the button to power them down in one step.
If your system doesn’t look like this, you may need a software update. Check for updates under “Settings > General > Software Update.” Some updates can be done over the air, while others might require a visit to the dealership.
Bonus: Adaptive Cruise Control Customization
Subaru’s adaptive cruise control, powered by EyeSight cameras, adjusts the gap between your vehicle and the one ahead. You can customize this gap using the up/down arrows on your steering wheel.
If you prefer traditional cruise control, hold the up or down arrow to deactivate the adaptive feature. Keep in mind that adaptive cruise control reactivates by default when the car is restarted.
