How to Update Your Subaru Navigation System

July 11th, 2021 by

If you have a newer Subaru vehicle, it probably comes equipped with Starlink’s navigation system courtesy. This system provides easy-to-follow maps and driving instructions to any destination you can imagine. It does need to be updated occasionally as roads and points of interest change, but this is usually a simple matter.

Before you begin the update, you’ll first need a PC or Mac, your vehicle’s 17-character VIN, a valid email address, and a 2.0 or 3.0 USB drive with at least 16GB of space. If you don’t know your vehicle’s VIN, you can find it on a label on the center pillar when you open your driver side door.

To begin the update process, go to subaru-maps.com and create an account using a valid email address. After you’ve verified your email address, download the Map Downloader app on the Subaru Maps website and use your newly-created account to log in to the app.

Once you’re in the app, you should see a “+” button at the bottom-right corner of the screen. Click this and enter your VIN to find your vehicle. If there are any updates available for your car, they should appear under the “Updates” tab. Press “Start” to begin downloading the updated map file. The file is large, so this could take a while. When the download is complete, insert your USB drive and click “Start Installation.” After that, it’s time to take your USB drive to your vehicle and install your update into your navigation system.

Make sure your vehicle is outside where it can idle safely, and start your engine. Allow it to warm up for about 30 seconds or so, and press “I Agree” on your audio unit when the button appears. Plug the USB drive containing your updated map file into one of your USB ports, follow the onscreen prompts and wait for your update to install.

If you need any assistance with updating your Subaru’s navigation system, contact Subaru of Glendale and let one of our Subaru Certified Technicians assist you.

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