How to Connect iPhone to Subaru Legacy: The Ultimate Guide

Connecting your iPhone to your Subaru Legacy can significantly enhance your driving experience. From hands-free calling and music streaming to navigation and more, the integration of your iPhone with your Subaru can make your journeys safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the ways you can connect your iPhone to your Subaru Legacy, providing step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting tips. Whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned driver, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to seamlessly integrate your iPhone into your Subaru’s infotainment system.

Connecting Your iPhone via Bluetooth

Bluetooth is the most common and convenient way to connect your iPhone to your Subaru Legacy. This connection allows you to make and receive calls, stream music, and access other features on your phone through your car’s audio system.

Here’s how to connect your iPhone to your Subaru Legacy via Bluetooth:

1. Turn on Bluetooth on your iPhone: Go to your iPhone’s Settings app > Bluetooth and toggle the switch to “On.”
2. Pair your iPhone with your Subaru: In your Subaru’s infotainment system, navigate to the Bluetooth settings menu. The exact steps may vary depending on your Subaru’s model and year. You’ll typically find the Bluetooth settings in the “Settings” or “System” menu.
3. Select your iPhone from the list of available devices: Once your Subaru detects your iPhone, select it from the list of available devices.
4. Enter the PIN code if prompted: Your Subaru may require you to enter a PIN code (usually “0000” or “1234”).
5. Confirm the pairing on your iPhone: Your iPhone will prompt you to confirm the pairing request. Tap “Pair” to complete the connection.

Once your iPhone is paired with your Subaru, you can access features like:

• Hands-free calling: Make and receive calls through your car’s speakers and microphone.
• Audio streaming: Play music, podcasts, and audiobooks from your iPhone through your car’s audio system.
• Siri voice control: Use Siri to control your iPhone’s features without taking your hands off the steering wheel.

Connecting Your iPhone via USB

Connecting your iPhone to your Subaru Legacy via USB allows you to access even more features, including:

• Apple CarPlay: Apple CarPlay integrates your iPhone’s apps and features into your Subaru’s infotainment system, providing a safe and intuitive way to use your phone while driving.
• Music playback: Play music from your iPhone’s library or streaming apps directly through your car’s audio system.
• Charging: Charge your iPhone’s battery while you drive.

Here’s how to connect your iPhone to your Subaru Legacy via USB:

1. Connect your iPhone to your Subaru’s USB port: Use the Lightning to USB cable that came with your iPhone.
2. Select “Apple CarPlay” on your Subaru’s infotainment system: Once your iPhone is connected, your Subaru’s infotainment system should automatically detect it and prompt you to choose “Apple CarPlay.”
3. Accept the terms and conditions: You may need to accept Apple CarPlay‘s terms and conditions before it becomes fully functional.

Using Apple CarPlay in Your Subaru Legacy

Apple CarPlay is a game-changer for iPhone users who want to stay connected and entertained while driving. It allows you to access a wide range of iPhone apps and features directly through your Subaru’s infotainment system.

Here are some of the key benefits of using Apple CarPlay in your Subaru Legacy:

• Safe and convenient access to your iPhone’s apps: Use your favorite navigation apps, music streaming services, messaging apps, and more, all through your Subaru’s touchscreen display or steering wheel controls.
• Voice control with Siri: Use Siri to make calls, send text messages, navigate, and control music without taking your hands off the steering wheel.
• Improved audio quality: Enjoy high-quality audio playback from your iPhone’s music library or streaming apps.

Setting Up Apple CarPlay in Your Subaru Legacy

Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up Apple CarPlay in your Subaru Legacy:

1. Ensure your Subaru Legacy is equipped with Apple CarPlay: Check your Subaru’s owner’s manual or contact your local Subaru dealership to confirm if your model supports Apple CarPlay.
2. Connect your iPhone to your Subaru Legacy via USB: Use the Lightning to USB cable that came with your iPhone.
3. Select “Apple CarPlay” on your Subaru’s infotainment system: Once your iPhone is connected, your Subaru’s infotainment system should automatically detect it and prompt you to choose “Apple CarPlay.”
4. Accept the terms and conditions: You may need to accept Apple CarPlay‘s terms and conditions before it becomes fully functional.
5. Customize your Apple CarPlay settings: You can customize your Apple CarPlay experience by adjusting settings like the home screen layout, preferred apps, and voice control options.

Troubleshooting Common iPhone Connection Issues

While connecting your iPhone to your Subaru Legacy is generally straightforward, you may encounter some issues along the way. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Bluetooth connection issues: If you’re having trouble connecting your iPhone via Bluetooth, ensure both your iPhone and Subaru’s Bluetooth are turned on. Try restarting both devices and re-pairing them.
• USB connection issues: If your iPhone isn’t connecting via USB, make sure you’re using the correct Lightning to USB cable. Check the USB port on your Subaru for any debris or damage. Also, try restarting both your iPhone and Subaru.
• Apple CarPlay not working: If Apple CarPlay isn’t working, ensure your iPhone and Subaru are compatible with the feature. Check your iPhone’s software version and update it if necessary. You may also need to update your Subaru’s infotainment system software.

Keeping Your iPhone Connection Secure and Up-to-Date

To ensure a seamless and secure connection between your iPhone and Subaru Legacy, consider these tips:

• Keep your iPhone and Subaru’s software up-to-date: Regularly update your iPhone’s operating system and your Subaru’s infotainment system software to benefit from the latest features, bug fixes, and security enhancements.
• Use a strong passcode or Touch ID/Face ID: Protect your iPhone from unauthorized access by setting a strong passcode or using Touch ID/Face ID.
• Be mindful of what apps you connect to your car: Only connect apps you trust to your Subaru’s infotainment system. Avoid connecting apps that may compromise your privacy or security.

Enjoying a Connected Driving Experience

Connecting your iPhone to your Subaru Legacy offers a wealth of benefits, from hands-free calling and music streaming to navigation and more. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily integrate your iPhone into your Subaru’s infotainment system and enjoy a connected and enjoyable driving experience.

The Future of iPhone and Subaru Integration

As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more seamless and innovative ways to connect our iPhones to our Subaru vehicles. Future advancements may include:

• Enhanced voice control: More sophisticated voice assistants that understand natural language and can control a broader range of car functions.
• Wireless CarPlay: Eliminating the need for a physical USB connection, allowing for a more convenient and clutter-free experience.
• Over-the-air updates: Automatically updating your Subaru’s infotainment system and Apple CarPlay software without needing to visit a dealership.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I connect multiple iPhones to my Subaru Legacy at the same time?

A: No, you can only connect one iPhone to your Subaru Legacy at a time. However, you can easily switch between different iPhones by disconnecting the current one and connecting the new one.

Q: Is there a way to connect my iPhone to my Subaru Legacy without using Bluetooth or USB?

A: Currently, the only ways to connect your iPhone to your Subaru Legacy are via Bluetooth or USB. However, wireless CarPlay is expected to become available in the future, eliminating the need for a physical connection.

Q: What happens if my iPhone’s battery dies while I’m driving?

A: If your iPhone’s battery dies while you’re driving, your Subaru’s infotainment system will revert to its standard functions. You’ll lose access to Apple CarPlay and other features that rely on your iPhone’s connection.

Q: Can I use my iPhone’s data connection to access CarPlay features?

A: Yes, you can use your iPhone’s data connection to access CarPlay features, including navigation, music streaming, and messaging. However, using data may incur charges from your mobile carrier.

Q: How can I update my Subaru’s infotainment system software?

A: You can update your Subaru’s infotainment system software through your car’s settings menu or by visiting your local Subaru dealership. The specific steps may vary depending on your Subaru’s model and year.