Nearly all major Subaru model lines have offered some form of Subaru multimedia or connected technology, but “STARLINK” does not describe one single feature. It may mean the in-dash infotainment system, the older STARLINK Safety and Security services, or—on newer vehicles—the renamed MySubaru Connected Services. Subaru’s EVs use a separate SubaruConnect platform.
For 2016–2025 vehicles, connected-service eligibility covers select properly equipped Ascent, BRZ, Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback and WRX models. For 2026 and newer vehicles, MySubaru Companion plans cover select Ascent, Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Outback and WRX models. Exact equipment still depends on model year, trim, package and VIN.
What does “STARLINK” mean on a Subaru?
Subaru has used STARLINK for two related but different technologies. Current Subaru pages increasingly call the infotainment system the Subaru Multimedia System, while connected services have been renamed MySubaru Connected Services.
| Term | What it refers to |
|---|---|
| STARLINK Multimedia | In-dash touchscreen infotainment, phone integration, audio and—in equipped vehicles—navigation or Wi-Fi. |
| STARLINK Safety and Security | Older branding for telematics services such as emergency assistance, remote controls and stolen-vehicle recovery. |
| MySubaru Connected Services | Subaru’s current name for the former STARLINK Safety, Security and Concierge suite. |
| SubaruConnect | A separate connected-services platform for Subaru EVs, including Solterra, Trailseeker and Uncharted. |
Subaru describes the rebrand and plan changes in its MySubaru Connected Services FAQ.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstall#1 Best Overall
- 【ATTENTION PLEASE】Because even if the type of the car is the same, the car key might be different based on the different years of manufacturing, so please Double-check your Key Fob with the picture left before Purchasing.
- 【FITS MODEL】This Key Fob Cover is fit for Subaru Forester Outback BRZ Legacy Ascent Crosstrek WRX Impreza STI.
- 【360° Protection】Full cover 360 degrees to protect your expensive key fob. Protect your key from falling, shock and scratch. Make your key fob always keep new and safe.
- 【PRODUCT BENEFITS】The key case features a luxurious gold edge to give your keys a new look. The key box is made of soft TPU, comfortable to handle, very durable.
- 【EASY TO INSTALL】The original car key has a 1:1 mold opening, and the keys are clear and tightly fitted. This key cover won't affect the key signal, giving you a great visual and tactile experience.
Which 2016–2025 Subarus offered STARLINK connected services?
For model years 2016 through 2025, Subaru lists the following model lines for MySubaru Safety and Security eligibility:
| Model line | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Ascent | Available on select properly equipped vehicles |
| BRZ | Available on select properly equipped vehicles |
| Crosstrek | Available on select properly equipped vehicles |
| Forester | Available on select properly equipped vehicles |
| Impreza | Available on select properly equipped vehicles |
| Legacy | Available on select properly equipped vehicles |
| Outback | Available on select properly equipped vehicles |
| WRX | Available on select properly equipped vehicles |
The phrase “select properly equipped” matters. A model name or STARLINK badge does not prove that every trim has the telematics hardware. Subaru’s eligibility list is at subaru.com/vehicle-info/connected-services/mysubaru-connected-services-iframe.html.
Which 2026-and-newer models use MySubaru Companion?
Subaru’s current Companion-plan list for 2026 and newer model years includes:
- Ascent
- Crosstrek
- Forester
- Impreza
- Outback
- WRX
BRZ and Legacy appear on the older 2016–2025 list but not on Subaru’s current 2026-and-newer Companion list. Subaru identifies these newer plans at subaru.com/vehicle-info/connected-services/subaru-starlink.html and subaru.com/vehicle-info/connected-services/companion-plans.html.
Rank #2
- [Fits Model] : Compatible with Subaru Forester Outback BRZ Legacy Ascent CrossTrek WRX Impreza STI Key Fob Cover.
- [Attention] : Even if the type of the car is the same, the car key fob might be different based on the different year of manufacturing, so please DOUBLE CHECK your key fob with the picture at left before you place the order, the same shape can be applied,thanks!
- [Material]: The key fob case is made with Premium Soft TPU,comfortable and soft, excellent touch feeling, looks good. Super thin, fits like a glove. It has strong color fastness with triple electroplating, pretty durable.The keychain is made with Premium leather and aluminum alloy,not easy to fade and peel.
- [360 Degree Protection]: This smart key protector is Full cover perfect to protect your expensive key fob. Protect your key from falling, dust, shock and scratch. Make your key fob always keep new and safe.
- [Design and Signal ]: New Gold rimmed design, stylish and elegant. 1:1 original key fob design, fits perfectly. Full signal, this key cover won't affect the signal.
What the Companion plans do
MySubaru Companion includes services such as SOS Emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance and vehicle location. Companion+ adds functions such as remote engine start, remote climate control, curfew and boundary alerts, valet mode and additional remote controls. Availability remains vehicle- and equipment-dependent.
Which Subaru EVs use SubaruConnect?
Solterra, Trailseeker and Uncharted should be treated separately from the MySubaru Companion lineup. Subaru identifies 2023-model-year-and-newer Solterra, Trailseeker and Uncharted vehicles with the SubaruConnect platform, subject to model and equipment details.
SubaruConnect can include remote start and climate control, charging-station location, cloud navigation, vehicle-health information, digital-key capability on supported vehicles, Safety Connect, Drive Connect and Wi-Fi Connect. See Subaru’s SubaruConnect information and Solterra Connect page.
What does STARLINK Multimedia include?
The multimedia system is the vehicle’s infotainment hardware, not the same thing as a telematics subscription. Depending on model and trim, it may provide:
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Rank #3
- 【High Quality】This for Subaru key fob cover uses high-quality soft TPU material, smooth surface is not easy to accumulate dust. Comfortable feel makes the keys easier, beautiful appearance, a variety of color key sleeve with key chain to choose from.
- 【Specific for Subaru】For Subaru forester key fob cover perfectly fit for 2014-2026 BRZ Legacy Outback Ascent Crosstrek Forester WRX Impreza STI,Etc 4-button car keys, please double check your key fob before ordering.
- 【Full Signal】For Subaru outback key fob cover 1:1 original car key design, thin TPU material affects the transmission of Subaru start key induction signal, advanced fashion elegant appearance.
- 【 360°Degree Protection】This for Subaru ascent key fob cover is made of electroplating process, which is not easy to fade, effectively prevents scratches and drops, and provides 360° all-round protection for your keys. Put new clothes on your car keys in a simple operation.
- 【Anti-Lost Design】This for Subaru crosstrek key fob cover with a D-shaped ring of screws and nuts locks the key, avoiding the loss and leave of key car keys, lightweight and compact, easy to carry.
- Touchscreen audio and vehicle controls
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth hands-free connectivity
- SiriusXM on equipped vehicles
- Built-in or subscription-based navigation on certain trims
- Wi-Fi capability on select vehicles
Examples from 2026 Subaru material show why trim-level checking is necessary:
| Vehicle example | Published multimedia equipment |
|---|---|
| Impreza | Standard 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. |
| Crosstrek base | Dual 7.0-inch Multimedia System. |
| Crosstrek higher trims | 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus System on specified trims. |
| Ascent | STARLINK Multimedia Navigation appears on specified trims; equipment varies by version. |
| Outback Wilderness | Standard 12.1-inch Subaru Multimedia System. |
Sources include Subaru’s 2026 Impreza features, 2026 Ascent features, 2026 Outback Wilderness features and the 2026 Crosstrek brochure.
Apple CarPlay or Android Auto confirms phone integration, not remote-start or emergency-service eligibility. A touchscreen and telematics hardware are related systems but are not interchangeable.
Are STARLINK or MySubaru services standard on every trim?
No. A feature can be standard on one trim, optional on another, package-dependent, limited to certain model years or unavailable without the required telematics module. Built-in navigation, larger displays, Harman Kardon audio, Wi-Fi and remote controls should each be checked in the exact trim’s equipment list.
Rank #4
- [Fits Model] : Compatible with Subaru Forester Outback BRZ Legacy Ascent CrossTrek WRX Impreza STI Key Fob Cover.
- [Attention] : Even if the type of the car is the same, the car key fob might be different based on the different year of manufacturing, so please DOUBLE CHECK your key fob with the picture at left before you place the order, the same shape can be applied,thanks!
- [Material]: The key fob case is made with Premium Soft TPU,comfortable and soft, excellent touch feeling, looks good. Super thin, fits like a glove. It has strong color fastness with triple electroplating, pretty durable.The keychain is made with Premium leather and aluminum alloy,not easy to fade and peel.
- [360 Degree Protection]: This smart key protector is Full cover perfect to protect your expensive key fob. Protect your key from falling, dust, shock and scratch. Make your key fob always keep new and safe.
- [Design and Signal ]: New Gold rimmed design, stylish and elegant. 1:1 original key fob design, fits perfectly. Full signal, this key cover won't affect the signal.
Do Subaru connected services require a subscription?
Usually, after an included trial. Subaru’s plans are opt-in and depend on a 4G network connection.
- 2016–2025 vehicles: Subaru’s FAQ states a three-year MySubaru Safety trial and a six-month MySubaru Security trial with a new-vehicle purchase, subject to the applicable vehicle and purchase terms.
- 2026-and-newer vehicles: Subaru states a five-year free MySubaru Companion trial with a new-vehicle purchase.
- Enrollment: Subaru says enrollment generally must occur within 180 days to start a free trial.
These trials are not guarantees for every trim, market, owner or used vehicle. Confirm the current offer in the MySubaru FAQ. Subaru’s connected-services page describes plans as available “as low as $69.95 for enhanced connectivity,” but that is not a universal price for every plan or billing term.
SubaruConnect pricing examples
On the Solterra Connect page checked by Subaru, Remote Connect is shown at $8 per month after its one-year trial and Drive Connect at $16 per month after the trial. Those amounts are tied to the applicable service descriptions and may vary by model year, trim, region or plan.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What services are included?
Older STARLINK/MySubaru services
- Automatic Collision Notification
- SOS Emergency Assistance
- Enhanced Roadside Assistance
- Stolen Vehicle Recovery
- Remote engine start on eligible vehicles
- Remote lock and unlock
- Vehicle location
- Vehicle health and diagnostic information
- Concierge services on eligible plans
Other connected subscriptions
Wi-Fi capability is listed for select Ascent, BRZ, Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, Solterra and WRX vehicles, but availability varies by equipment. Subaru also states that SiriusXM-equipped new vehicles receive a four-month trial; see Subaru’s service information for terms. Neither a Wi-Fi hotspot nor SiriusXM is proof that a vehicle has MySubaru telematics.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Best Value
- [Compatible car key fob models]:Compatible with BRZ Legacy Outback Ascent Crosstrek Forester WRX Impreza STI,Etc 4-button car keys,Depending on the model and year of the car,the car key will vary.please refer to picture 2.
- [Quality assured]: The car key case is made of high-quality soft TPU material, scratch-resistant, and you don't have to worry about fading. Installation is as easy as installing a phone case.
- [Does not affect the key function]: The key shell does not affect the signal output of the car key.Installation will not destroy the original car key.
- [Textured car key skin]: Multiple color options paired with a beautiful key fob that provides full protection without confusing it with other keys. Improve keychain without worrying about losing your expensive car keys with loose screws.
- [Packages]:key Protective Case,Metal Keychain,Not:Original remote key not included
How can you check a specific Subaru?
- Identify the exact model year.
- Identify the trim and any technology package.
- Check whether the vehicle lists Subaru Multimedia or STARLINK Multimedia, built-in navigation, Wi-Fi and telematics services.
- Enter the VIN in the MySubaru app or ask a Subaru retailer to confirm hardware and plan eligibility.
- Confirm whether any trial is active, expired, transferable or available for re-enrollment.
- Determine whether the desired feature is included, trial-based, subscription-only or unavailable.
This is especially important for used vehicles. A used Subaru may have the hardware but an expired trial, a different plan family, an ownership-transfer issue or cellular compatibility limitations.
What does the 4G requirement mean?
Subaru states that MySubaru plans are 4G-network-dependent. Coverage, account enrollment, regional service and the vehicle’s telematics hardware can therefore affect operation. Do not assume that every older STARLINK-equipped Subaru will support every connected feature indefinitely simply because it originally carried the STARLINK name.
Common mistakes to avoid
- “STARLINK is standard on every Subaru.” Model-year and trim differences make this too broad.
- “Every Subaru touchscreen has remote services.” Infotainment and telematics are separate systems.
- “MySubaru is exactly the same as STARLINK.” It is the renamed connected-services suite, but plan names and features vary by model year.
- “Solterra uses the same connected platform as Outback.” Subaru places its EVs under SubaruConnect.
- “A used Subaru automatically keeps its free trial.” Verify status and eligibility by VIN.
Bottom line for buyers
If you want CarPlay and touchscreen infotainment, most current Subaru lines have a Subaru Multimedia or STARLINK Multimedia system, but screen size and navigation depend on trim. If you want remote start, emergency assistance or vehicle-location services, verify MySubaru or SubaruConnect eligibility rather than relying on the STARLINK badge. For a used Subaru, check the model year, trim, VIN, plan status, trial expiration and network compatibility before treating any feature as included.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute
