The One Subaru Accessory I Regret Buying
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- Опубликовано: 13 май 2024
- Out of all of the Subaru accessories I have on my 2023 Subaru Outback, there is one I regret getting. Unfortunately, it hasn't performed as well as I had originally expected. There are however many accessories on my Subaru Outback that have been well worth it. I'll cover all of my Subaru Outback accessories today and share insight into why I chose them.
Comment below with any questions you have about Subaru accessories for your Subaru!
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Thanks for watching!
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The approach lights are cute. I always carry my key with me, so when I walk past my Forester to take a drive in my husband’s Crosstrek, my car acts like an excited puppy and lights up “hihihi! U wanna goforadrive??!”
Grace...my Forester too! I walk past and its little lights come on....I have a Crosstrek too that doesn't have the approach lights. Sometimes ill walk back and take the Forester just because it seems like it wants to go.
😂🙌
Before watching video: "I bet it's the wireless charger. Gotta be. It's awful. Definitely the wireless charger."
Watching the video: "BINGO!" 🙂
A close second to me, though not an option, is that the weather widget requires a SiriusXM subscription. I hate that the widget cannot be removed ('22 OBW), so one has to keep the subscription or deal with the widget taking up space and not working.
If my ‘24 Impreza RS (same, perhaps slightly updated infotainment system) is on Apple CarPlay that widget will show weather icons through the phone iOS, otherwise you can just edit the widget selection to something else.
They used to come with weather band in the stock radios, back in the 90s. They should bring that back, no $ subscription needed. The satellite radio company is probably giving Subaru a kickback or something, to put some other companys proprietary name in the car like they do.
@@nschmalenbergerinto the early aughts. I think the last year was 08. I love having WB in my 03 OBW
same!
Thanks for telling me about this when we were buying our new Outback from you last year. Saved us the money and grief! Your honesty is always appreciated and valued!
I like using a 12 volt plug in charger plus charge cords for my phone. The cords do get in the way but they charge the phone reliably. I won't get a quick charge up but it is steady and reliable. The accessory that I like more than anything else is the auto vehicle hold. Ahhh, relief for my foot! The second most useful accessory for me is the blind spot detection. I do have a hitch installed in my car and a "1UpUSA" brand bicycle carrier. After seeing this video I want to get a plug for my hitch, it sounds like a great idea. I too got the hitch solely because I want the bicycle carrier capability.
I bought a 2021 Outback and then a 2024 Outback, both with the wireless charger and yes I agree with the comments that this charger does overheat your phone.
Hopefully future version of this are better
Apparently a lot of car wireless chargers receive the same complaint.
Yes, I regret my purchase to get the charger. It works sporadically…
I'm liking that cargo net, I will be looking into one. Thank you for showing it.
I am so glad you spoke so candidly about the phone charger. That was the one thing i was really disappointed that i didn't get (I bought off the lot) in my 2024 Outback. But I noticed that the space for the phone - even without the charger - was tight... so i thought "hmmm... maybe it's ok without it..." Now I know i'm not missing out much. Thank you! Your videos are great!
As a new Subaru owner I love your information.
Glad I watched this. I own a 2021 Outback Limited with the moonroof, audio package and HomeLink. I always thought the side mirrors might be dimming, but thought I might be crazy. Glad to know I'm not crazy. Honestly surprised this feature isn't more common, especially on cars.
Thank you so much for this review! I found your channel right after I purchased my 2022 Subaru Forester. I have regretted not having the charger pad until watching your video. I have a couple of aftermarket [leather] pockets that I’ve added on either side of the console. These are perfect for holding my phone when it’s plugged in and have a low profile.
Because of a challenging situation with my purchase my Dealer gifted me all weather floor mats, the cargo net, and a Subaru sunshade. ❤
Just bought a 2021 OB Premium. Ordered the cargo net for $38 from a local dealer in SoCal.(With Coupon) Worth every penny.
My 2023 Outback is awesome! I cannot believe the hauling capacity in the back. The safety features are the best!❤
Great video, Alex! Thanks! I have a 2023 Forester Wilderness, and I am also a mountain biker, and I called Subaru HQ to ask them to cover my hitch, parts and labor, and they did!! I have a 1-Up awesome bike rack. For my iPhone, I use the wireless dongle, and it works pretty well even though it sometimes takes a second try to get it connected.
I love the sidelights on each exterior mirror. So glad Subaru is still doing those and mine is a 2016 forester. I only wish I could get blind spot notification added……those are accurate and I like the indication of yellow they placed on the top of the mirrors
It took a while to get used to blind spot notification, but I really like it! I bought my 2020 Outback used and never would have bought it outright.
Thanks, as always. Very informative.
I’m glad to know that I’m not missing anything by not having the wireless charger. Thanks for the recommendation on the cargo net. I may have them install one at my next oil change.
As always, great video Alex!
Great insights on the trailer hitch and the cargo net(s)! Will definitely got with the dimming mirrors to reduce the distraction at night.
I just got the 2024 Forester Wilderness 2 months ago. Mine came with the mats and the net. I added the back seat mats. I also got the mirrors and the trailer hitch. Two other options I got were the rear bumper cover and the front hood protector. I love all of it.
How much were your back seat protectors? If I may ask
I bought a 2023 Crosstrek Limited last year fully loaded, love it. Only complaint is the Tom Tom navigation system sucks. Can’t believe Subaru couldn’t do better.
Thank you Alex.. I am in my 5th outback right now. Did not know a lot of then information you have shared... love my cars
I love my cargo net. I love that it's two in one, and I love how nice and neat they both stow away when not in use. Good call!
I got Tuxmats for my '23 Forester. Really nice floormats. High sides. Look great.
So, I just bought a 2023 loaded touring XT. Even though the wireless charger was on the window sticker for it at the time, I believe it was installed at the port or at the dealer. I say this, because the old parts that came out for the cubby, we're in storage in the back of the car. The dealer also mentioned because of the parts shortage at the time, it was common that the window sticker items got installed after the fact. Yes, the wireless charger is terrible, I thought it would be great. My phone never increments while I'm connected to Android Auto. The wireless charger just cannot keep up. For the record, I have a Google Pixel 8 pro. Since the phone is on the large side, it's almost impossible to wedge the phone in with the case on. It's easier when the car is in gear. Also, I heard if you take out the little rubber piece, that your phone won't get as hot. I didn't see much of a difference removing it as far as charging ability. It's a waste of money. Mine also came with both the rubber floor mats and rug ones which are still new in the package. I'm not a fan of the rubber ones that came with it, but Facebook marketplace has many people selling WeatherTech floor liners. I also like that the rear view mirror, when flipped up, turns on the camera that sits on the XM radio antenna. I think that's pretty cool. Sorry for the long message. LoL
Edit: One of the thing I forgot to mention, since I'm in Massachusetts, I am not eligible to get Subaru starlink. This is the case I think for all 2022 and newer. Kind of stupid that I lose out on the 3-year subscription because of my state.
One of the thing I forgot to mention, since I'm in Massachusetts, I am not eligible to get Subaru starlink. This is the case I think for all 2022 and newer. Kind of stupid that I lose out on the 3-year subscription because of my state.
Weather tech sucks don’t do it
@@Zanderthelab really? I have owned so many sets for other vehicles and they've all been pretty good. What's wrong with the ones from WeatherTech? Are the husky ones any better?
@@m3rdpwr I haven’t tried huskies. My weather tech moves around it never stays in place and it’s not grippy.
@@Zanderthelab The ones in all the vehicles I had, were well fitting, so I never ran into an issue. Yes, the WeatherTechs are very plasticky so that can be the case. They have their new performance models as well as some other vendors. Have a more rubbery texture. I just want more protection than the Subaru weather mats give me.
I have most of those accessories on my '22 OB, but I did it a bit opposite - I wanted the wireless charger, but the salesman advised against it for the same reasons you gave. OTOH, I didn't have the trailer hitch installed at purchase. I had the OEM one installed later, and so it cost me like $300 more. I guess I saved that on the wireless charger tho! BTW, the OEM hitch is the one that the tow capacities are certified on, as well as the crash rating. Most aftermarket ones just bolt onto the crash bar, and they will not hold the tongue weight for towing. Because that is a safety item, my advice to Subaru buyers is to bite the bullet and pay for the Subaru hitch, and have it installed either at the factory or by the dealer.
One accessory I stopped adding a couple of Foresters ago was the bodyside mouldings because they do absolutely ZERO to save on digs and dents. I always add side window deflectors, front bug deflector, hitch and auto dimming mirror with compass and homelink so I can see directions easily instead of switching to navigation to know where I am heading. I have transferred my Weathertech brand mats, which are still like new, that I got with my 2017 Limited, worked great in my 2020 Touring and seamlessly transferred into my 2023 Premium. Since I am a VIP and get the hitch at cost it’s basically a trade-in/resale hedge since many people like it. As always thanks Alex for a great and informative video!!! PS after the 2017 Limited, I ditched the fob Remote Start, which was obsolete as my 2020 Touring had Starlink, however, that was also a nice option before Subaru seriously updated its Tech!
Auto dimming mirror and compass quit in my 2010 Forester after a year or two and I read it’s because the heat build up outside during the day in a parking lot during our hellish Texas summers kill them. Keep your climate in mind when getting accessories.
Keep up the great work Alex!
In my '22 Outback, I actually put a sponge in the charger slot to fill the gap so I wouldn't lose things in the space. Also, my Samsung phone does not fit well as it is easier to put the car in gear before putting the phone in the charger. My "easy" alternative was to put my phone in the console slot by the passenger leg and have a USB cable plugged in (when needed).
ps. That cubby bin on the passenger side would be a great alternative for other models, like the Forester.
I'm in the market for a car. I've narrowed it down to Subaru or Toyota.
I'm an older widow, and im worried about making the wrong choice. Im trying to learn as much as possible, and i really enjoy these videos. Im still trying to make the right choice!!
SUBARU.
Subaru. It will keep you safe on the road.
@@bobross8569 Thank you!
@@SpicyEngineer Thank you!!
Honestly you can go wrong with either. Toyota and Subaru will carry you reliably as long as you keep up with the maintenance. Subarus are a bit cheaper. Best bet is to test drive a rav4 and then a forester (or if you want something a bit smaller corolla cross and a crosstrek)
Hi, congratulations on your new Subaru, nice video btw! Will you install a dash cam in your new Outback? If so, will you do a video on that? Thx!
Hey Alex. I heard from other RUclipsrs that the wireless charger is terrible. I rather spend the $$$ on a CD player as I have a bunch of CDs I can play 😂!!
Worst accessory in Outback : Wireless charger, waste of money. 😩
I disagree. My works very well
Good for you
I own a Mazda cx90. I charged my phone in the wireless charger once. I thought it was going to catch on fire after 10 minutes. Not worth it.
I'm scared of the same reason. Catching fire is the worst thing to happen🤒
Don’t forget to buy a tempered glass infotainment screen saver!
does that help the screen at all? I was debating getting one for my 24 outback but I wasn't sure if it was gonna be worth it
@@thezindyproject Yes, infotainment screens are hugely expensive to replace. The screen protector costs $20. Several things can permanently stain the actual screen such as sun screen and oils to name a few. The screen protector not only protects against permanent stains, but scratches as well. I had mine on within 15 minutes of picking my car up at the dealer. Once installed, you can't tell it's on, just like your screen protector for your cell phone.
Totally agree about the iPhone getting hot in the charging space. I use charging cord now. I have the 2021 Outback Unlimited. But my lease in up in 9 months. Maybe be getting Soltera. I'll have to check out your reviews on that. Great video's as always. Thanks.
Also, the Wilderness, they gave me the carpet mats in the packaging but the all weather mats were installed. I upgraded to the back cargo and seat all weather as well. They were hard to install but my dealership were happy to do that for me.
Oh how i wish I'd seen this video a few days earlier! I'm a first-time Subaru owner and really enjoy the content here. I just had the wireless charger installed two days ago and I already want it GONE. Luckily I didn't have to pay for it. I'm going to ask them to remove it when I take it in for the first oil change.
I had auto dimmer door mirrors on my Saab and wouldn't be without them. I added them to our Crosstrek. And to my sons Impreza. No more being blinded on the sides! The approach lights are a nice touch. Adding interior and exterior auto-dimming mirrors can be bought from Subaru online and are easy to install if you are a bit handy.
Absolutely agree with the wireless charger issues
Fully agree on charger; have seen many complaints of the heat issue on the forums. I did not pick that option thankfully for my 2023 Ascent Limited. Very happy with it. Subaru Outback driver from 1998 to 2023. Great cars. @nd and 2rd row seat backs was a great choice especially with my grandkids in the back. I did get the OEM trailer hitch. The cargo net takes up a lot of room in the back of the Ascent.
Thanks Alex. Just bought a brand new 2024 model Subaru Forester a few weeks ago and learning about accessories. Got a set of slim-line Pro Racks (cross racks) which I’ve gotta pick up from the Auto store. Other accessories I ordered with the car are window protection (top of windows), Tow hitch as I tow a small boat, plus carry the e-bikes, cargo rear mat like you have, unfortunately got the carpet mats but should change to all weather ones like you have, canvas seat covers for the front seats. (My car isn’t leather seats like yours unfortunately). Thanks for the tip on not getting the wireless car charger / apple car play option. Was thinking of getting that but won’t now 👍
I known you really can share other videos but I have a detailed part and removal / install video to replace the wireless charger to a 4" storage cubbie. Also, tuxmat is the best floor mats you can get with the outback. They cover 100% of ALL the carpet in the front. Even up the sides.
I would like to see that video
It's under my name which is the channel name.
Agree with the value of 2 accessories: 1. Floor mats. Yes we can buy after-market third-party brands, and some of them are very good, but OEM floor mats have a perfect fit not only in size but also shape. 2. The Homelink for garage door control. I know we can use a separate controller (or phone) but having a button right on the mirror is so convenient.
One other thing I would add, which is an option but not an accessory: Get the largest LCD panel they make. When I bought a Forester several years ago, there were 2 options, small and large (I forgot the sizes). I went with large, but large then is small now. If I got small then, it would be "ridiculously small" today after a few years.
Thanks for sharing! We have no need for a wireless charger, but your comments on the other accessories were helpful. My son had a hitch put on his used Prius that he bought from us, just for the purpose of toting bicycles. I'm sharing this video with him. Just in case they bring back the Baja, and he can buy one new...
We sold him our Prius, because my husband has a degenerative medical condition that forced him to stop driving. Now as the sole driver, I chose to get rid of our 2015 Prius and keep our 2010 Forester. I loved the Prius drive system and gas savings, but I hated not being able to see out of the car.
When we bought the Forester new, it seemed perfect for us. We drove it on long road trips, and around town with few issues. Probably the stupidest issue was needing the rear view mirror replaced when it suddenly detached from the windshield. The new rearview mirror caused complications with a later, unrelated windshield replacement. And of course the Takata airbag recalls, which don't count as a Subaru problem.
In July 2022, I took it in for routine service: oil change and replace the battery. Of course they found some other "issues," such as a leaky head gasket (problem with that model year, apparently). I didn't believe them at first, but later took it back for the expensive repair. I had also noticed an issue with one of the windshield wipers, which turned out to be the wiper motor (of course!). Since that time up to the present, parts replaced include: radiator; spark plugs; spark plug wires (as a separate job) and 1 coil; engine short block; oil pump; fuel injector; the other coil; "new" (factory overhauled) transmission (I expected that one); Oil Control Valve, which was faulty, and had to be re-replaced; replaced the July 2022 battery with a new one, because the car sat in the repair lot for months, and they didn't bother keeping the battery charged; wiring harness (had to open up the engine again); oil pump (had to open up the engine again)... They also replaced my service rep. and the service manager during that time. Each of these repairs was done separately. And the Check Engine light has come on yet again (March 2023). Over a dozen stays at the service department in a year and 8 months. My late blooming lemon!
Each time, they lent me a Subaru "courtesy car," so I have extensively test driven several 2023 or 2024 Foresters, Outbacks, and even a 7-seat Ascent. Each repair took at least a week or two, often months, while I was driving a new car, wondering when I was going to get my own car back. I keep wondering: "Haven't we replaced the entire car yet??" "Is this ever going to end?" "Are they just ripping me off, scamming me, playing games?" " Is there one big underlying issue that they're not getting?" "Are their mechanics just plain incompetent?"
My philosophy has been that repairing a used car is usually cheaper than buying a new one. When dumb things like window handles start breaking, or the upholstery and the headliner are falling down, it's emotionally better to replace the car. The thing with my Forester is this: Yes, it's old time wise, but it's only gone 84,000-87,000 miles as of the past year and a half. All those people saying they've had their Subaru last 200,000 miles? Um, 87K vs 200K? What the hell is going on here?
What's all this cost? At my dealer in southern California, they admit their prices are higher. But they have comped several of the major repairs. Nevertheless, the added up cost is enough to buy a pretty decent used car, and possibly even a cheap new car. If they'd made me pay for all of the repairs, it definitely would equal the cost of a new car. Had I known this when this whole thing started, I would have bailed. But how could I have known this would happen? Normally when I pay for an expensive repair, I want to drive the newly repaired car for awhile, to get a "return" on my "investment." With this car, I haven't been able to do that, because it just turns around and has another issue.
I'm done with this nonsense. I need to get another car. Whatever is going on, my Forester will never be happy, and if he's not happy, I'm not happy. I want a newer Forester. I don't want to get a Toyota or something else. But now I don't trust the Subaru brand. Even if I do get a Forester, I don't want to get it from that dealer. I don't think they've been scamming me, but maybe they are. Maybe they have some really elaborate scheme that makes it worth their while to store my car on their lot, and occasionally have a mechanic work on it when they're not slammed with other jobs.
Online research says that 2010 turned out to be a bad year for the Forester, in the long term. But how do I know whether 2023 or 2024 is a good year for the Forester? And why don't they offer a hybrid yet? I can't wait another year or two for them to offer a hybrid. So I'll do some more research, then maybe flip a coin.
I bought a wireless charge mat for $60 for my Forester and it has the same issues (doesn't charge as quickly and heats up). I still use it , but I would not be happy if I spent over $300 for it. The self dimming mirror is worth every penny and was part of a package that had other worthwhile items for my 2023 Sport. Great video as always!
I love my 2023 Outback Onyx but hate the wireless charging that came with the car. It overheats my iPhone also so I don't use it. On long trips, I will use the USB port and cable for Google Maps and Apple Car Play. My Subaru dealer just did the 30K miles service and I am pleased with my Outback and with the service my dealer here in CT does maintaining my Subaru. My wife also has a Subaru Legasy Ltd. I enjoy your videos Alex and thank you for your informative content.
Wireless charging system on my cross track wilderness is awesome. The on/off switch allows me to shut it off if I feel the phones heating up.
In addition the wireless CarPlay works perfectly. Really enjoy google maps in satellite view for my navigation system. On the 11.6 “ infotainment screen the resolution is perfect.
Good advice!
As a 2023 Outback Wilderness owner, I agree 100%, in fact I don't even use it wirelessly, I hop in and just plug it in, it's a bit less laggy 🤷
It is amazing what you can learn on the internet. We have had our Forester for almost 5 years now. Two payments to go. I had no idea there was a second net in the cargo net contraption. I wondered why they made it have such a significant base but never thought enough about it to unzipper the base thing.
Thank you.
You need a bit more of that curiosity trait. Do you have kids? This is the kind of thing that kids sometimes find out for their parents, because they have curiosity and act on it.
@@EXROBOWIDOW I can't argue with you. The Forester is my wife's car that I don't drive often. I have two of my own plus two for the kids. It is tough keeping up with the family fleet.
@@andrewnolan180My kid keeps telling me I must get one of those code reader things for my Forester. The poor car is unhappy all the time. I'm unhappy about taking it to be "fixed" all the time. Maybe my kid is right. No, probably he's right.
Love your Outback color Layout. I have a 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness with the charging pad. It’s much larger than yours but it’s pretty weak and your phone slides around so it comes off of charging. It came with the vehicle but it’s lame at best. Thanks for sharing all about the cargo net. Was not sure how it all worked! Love your videos.
y favourite option on my 21 Forester Ltd ,is the heated steering wheel, also have rhe dimming mirrors and approach lights with puddle lights on frt doors and cd player.
I had the dimming interior mirror, bumper cover and trailer hitch installed by the dealer on my 2023 forester wilderness. Only complaint is they would not install 7 pin electric hookup for the hitch so I had to upgrade the 4 pin to 7 through a local trailer dealer. And I also have the cargo net and seat back covers and I’m glad I got them.
I totally agree with you Alex - I regret that extra $$$ I spent on the wireless charger. I call it my phone toaster 🔥
I love the wireless apple carplay / charging feature on my Crosstrek. Yes it’s not perfect but it’s such a huge time saver. No fiddling with cables. I just throw my phone in the cubby and drive. Which makes it my favorite daily drive feature.
I agree with the charger concerns. We left that off my wife’s 23 Outback Touring. But my new Crosstrek limited has a surface charger that works great. Fast charging and doesn’t heat up my iPhone.
I just traded my 2019 Tesla 3 in for a preowned 2022 Forester Sport with only 6k miles. I bought dual wireless charging pads for the Tesla for about $50. Worked great. The ONLY thing I miss about the Tesla is the amazing tech and amazing acceleration. That’s it. So much happier with my Subie.
I only regretted not being able to have 2 features with my '22 OBW, the wireless charger and the seat extension for my knees. Now I know that I'm not missing at least one of them 👍🏽
Very useful. Have me thinking about that hitch. It will cost me to do after the fact, i believe we own the same Outback, same year, same trim, I have the Onyx XT. Thank you!🙃 Your stuff is educational and useful.
Thanks! Totally worth it in my opinion
Outback has the worst wireless charger, its pretty much useless especially if you have your phone in a case. The biggest issue I have with it is the space. It is an incredibly tight fit.
I bought a charging pad on Amazon for my ‘23 Forester. I also bought a Bluetooth dongle so I don’t have to plug my phone in. It’s been a year and I like both.
We own a 24 Touring XT and the charger is our biggest regret. I have a $10 wireless charger in my old minivan that is far superior to that $455 POS.... I
I love your honest reviews. We have the same car. My smaller Apple se phone fits easily in the charger spot. If it’s getting hot, I flip it over so it sits there without being charged.
For campers, the Exped Megamat duo (medium double) fits perfectly with the rear seats down. I also reverse the rear headrests when folding the rear seat down. Inno wedge roofbox is also perfect. Follow rei sales for 20% off. This is our families 7th Subaru.
Completely agree with the thoughts here. I wish i didnt get the wireless charger. I wish my sales guy pushed the auto dim side mirrors to go with my touring vs the wirless charger.
I had to install the side mirrors myself. Its not hard but takes a little bit of time and you have to be careful not to break the mirror.
I have the 22 outback premium, my favorite upgrade package included power tailgate, blind spot detection & push button start. I find the blind spot is a great safety feature when backing out of a parking spot.
The worst upgrade was the rubber mats, they don’t cover enough of the carpet plus they’re expensive. You’re far better off buying the weather tech mats.
I have a 2021 Outback with the wireless charging. I use a dongle to wirelessly use Carplay and it works well. When I use Apple Maps for navigation, which I like better than the Subaru navigation, and the iPhone is on charge, it takes the poor phone to extreme heat levels. So I agree with you about the charging.
It is handy to charge my wife’s phone as she runs hers down very low. She turns it off and uses the wireless charger and it doesn’t seem to get so hot.
Fortunately in Canada, Subaru doesn’t sell individual options with vehicles, they are part of a package. I don’t know how much this item costs but I love the other things the package offers.
The subaru all weather floor mats is the option I wish I didn't listen to the salesman and opted out of. Husky liners/weathertechs are far better mats than the subaru ones. Put the money towards husky/weather tech floor liners.
I have the '24 Crosstrek Sport that came with the wireless charger. I turned it off the day I bought it and have never used it due to my old phone not supporting wireless charging. My rep at Subaru showed me all the features in the car and specifically said he hates the charger for the very same reasons you mentioned (though my charging well is much bigger than in the OB), as well as some issues with connecting with wireless Apple CarPlay. So I just use the USB cable. No biggy.
Alex could you tell me what the towing capacity is for the 2020 Forester. I own a 1972 fiberglass Boler, less than 1000 lbs. love your videos! You are clear, concise and easily understood. Thank you!
Similar to the cargo net, I use a motorcycle net, hooked to the ceiling. Handy for high storage: headgear, paddles, anything for quick access.
I like the charger and it works fine on my phone. It charges fast and makes the phone a little warm just like any charging process. It is nice to have on a long road trip. It also allows you to charge a phone while charging other devices on the USB ports. I did not order it but it is supplied on the Legacy Touring XT.
I find other aftermarket mats better than the oem ones. I got husky liners. Nice high sides not floppy. Good luck raking those mats out with water amd not spilling any
that was very good Alex and your Outback is very nice 👍
Thank you!
Love your videos, they helped me buy my 24 crosstrek sport in Alpine Green, i love my charger, so far no excess heating and my phone likes to overheat. It is slow to charge but keeps my phone charged when im driving tonanother state. Hope youre having a lovely day, wish i had gotten the oem hitch, can you get that installed or is it just factory?
I agree with Alex the added cell phone charger heats up the battery in my cell phone to where I believe it’s being damaged. Therefore what I’ve done is I plugged the cord in in the backseat and bring it over the console and plug in my phone. Problem solvedand the cords out-of-the-way.
I have a 2023 Crosstrek Sport. I so wish it had wireless carplay! Instead, I get 2 USB-A and no USB-C. I'm not a fan of wireless charging though. I agree with you on the all weather liners. I made sure to get those.
Can you show a video on the best way to put a kayak on your subaru, and what set ups work best. Thanks! Since you're going to do a bike rack installment.
I also ordered my 22 touring...didnt get the wireless charging since my wife likes to plug in the charger and still be on the phone,,only acc I did get and like is the rain guards,mud flaps,and tow hitch.i also bought off Amazon the coin holder which replaces the fuse door...easy to install
Agreed! I have a larger iPhone, and yes the phone would get hot. Most importantly, when my Outback was in park, I was unable to remove my phone.
Thanks. On my 4th Subaru. The cargo net was good. Also it is always better to have a trailer hitch from the manufacturer. I wish Subaru would have a process to retrofit Apple Car Play like Hyundai does, for my 2018 Subaru Forester.
The factory all weather floor liners are pretty much useless for providing good coverage in snow country. That’s the same case with my 2013 Crosstrek. I bought Husky Weather Beater floor lines, which extend further up the carpet on the center hump, as well as further forward.
Thanks for the Info. I'm getting ready to order one and was not going to add any extra accessories. I didn't know that about the trailer hitch, I thought is was the actual hitch pice they were charging for 650 and thought that was outrageous. The wireless charger was the one thing that buged me also, as it takes up all that room and my phone wouldn't fit with the case on.
I agree. I got one with my car, I've barely ever used it. It doesn't even fit my S21+ with Otterbox on it, so now I just have a wireless Android Auto dongle sitting in it, which is one of my favorite accessories.
I wish I had bought the Rockford Fosgate system up front, the stock system is TERRIBLE so I ended up adding that later, and I'm much happier with it. I wish I had not gotten the wireless charger and gotten the Rockford Fosgate system up front.
The Subaru wireless charger is terrible! I have an Ascent so there is a more space for the phone but the phone still gets burning hot, especially if you are using wireless car play/android auto and have it on the charger. It charges so slow and creates so much heat. Subaru didn't think this one though. It needs a cooling fan built into it to try to dissipate the heat. I told the dealer about it last year right after I bought my car in November and they said they've never heard of the problem before. Glad you made this video.
@Alex Prestigiacomo
Thanks for your videos. I am learning a lot from you. I am newbie driver. My first car is Subaru crosstrek 2021 premium. i have question: what is Inteligent mode I and should i have it on? can you also tell me what functions have to have turned on a newbie drivers? thanks.
Glad i opt'd out of the wireless charger when i ordered mine. Seems i was right after reading a lot of the comments here. If i need to charge i can use a cable in one of the many ports that we are provided.
"How much for the cat sticker?"
Subaru accessory catalog: $35.95 (this will add $0.73 to your monthly loan amount,)
I keed! I keed!! LOL LOVE the content, thanks!!
I’m 56 years old. The first feature I have grown irritated with is the Eyesight feature. The 2nd feature is the that shuts the engine off while stopped at a light.
On some models, if you press the brake pedal lightly, the engine apparently doesn't shut off (2024 Outback Wilderness). If you press the pedal firmly, it will. I've owned a Prius, so was used to the engine shutting off. It saves gas at stoplights. You only need the engine running if the A/C has run the battery down a bit. I guess Subaru has this feature, because they need to do something to improve the gas mileage, until they come out with more hybrid and electric models. I live in California, and a lot of people here appreciate any gas saving feature they can get, because.... gas prices.
You may have an easier time getting used to this feature if you think about all the gas being saved. Also remember that the car was designed to do this, so you have to get used to the fact it IS a feature, and NOT a problem. However when my 2010 Forester started acting like that, I was concerned.
For me, the only really annoying thing about it is that these newer models shut off just after I pull into my driveway, and before I set the parking brake. The engine has to start up again to set the brake. At least they give you a few seconds after shutting off the engine so you can roll up the windows.
I don’t think it was available when I got my 2022. I thought about it for a short time after I had it for a year but glad I didn’t get it after reading reviews in the Subaru forums.
Thats a cool car but im glad I went with the Crosstrek 23 limited. Got a wireless charger for it works awesome and still good amount of space and the phone sits perfectly straight doesn't move fit the area perfect.
Wireless charging and wireless carplay both heat up your phone, so combo of them is a killer. It happens on other car models I've driven too (I've driven a lot of rentals).
Next time I'll order the hitch. I believe that with my 2020 I ordered the high-end audio and that included a CD-player in the console that I will never and have never used and would have preferred that it was not included with the audio package.
I'm always enjoyed all your comments on the new suburbs. I have a 2013 legacy limited 3.6. On the new cars , what's the trailer limit on the legacy and the outback. If the outback is higher , why. Does the outback suspension differ from the legacy? Thanks.
Hi Alex, I just purchased a Crosstrek. I haven't had a new care since 2010 so I am not use to the Starlink consul. I am just wondering how to turn off the radio? Would appreciate any help with that. Thank you. I did purchase the cargo net with my car and it does look like it will be very handy.
Our touring XT came with the Subi AW mats. Replaced them with Weathertech, superior in every way.
I did the same for my 2019 Impreza Sport Tech. Huge difference. Love, love my Subie.
I don't even have to watch the video to know which one it is... the built-in wireless phone charger. It SORT OF works. And if the gear selector is in "Park," it's a bit hard to get the phone in and out. The Crystal Black Silica Onyx XT I wanted already had it. So I took it. I consider it "vestigial." Even those who didn't get it complain that the "cubby hole" is virtually useless, as well. It's too small and too difficult to use with the car in "Park."
BUT! The rest of the car... I LOVE! I can live with this one small flaw.
OK... I guess I'll watch the video now! LOL!
Good advice. I'm very happy with my Subaru Outback. I am having an issue with the driver recognition feature. Is there a quick way to get my 22 Outback Touring to rescan the driver? Mine often doesn't recognize me and the only way I know to rescan is about 5 steps. Is there a quicker way?
Alex -- do you already have or are you planning a video that focuses on rooftop tents on Outbacks? I know the latest Wilderness is rated for and has an accessory option, but I think that's the *only* model/trim that is officially a yes. I have a '22 Onyx and Yakima says they have a customized rail conversion that can handle one of their RTTs... but the manual explicitly says no RTTs. Please help reconcile!
Have a Crosstrek limited on order. I too got the factory installed hitch. ( not wired) im in Canada and i only paid $400.00 for the two " but i noticed yours was over $600.00.
Is that because its a higher rated hitch?
Looking forward to your bike rack review... thinking of going with the Thule but wondering if I'll still be abke to open the rear hatch with the bike rack installed
I bought my all weather matts at Menards for $30:00 for all 4 and the all whether back matt separate also. Saved my carpets in case i want to sell it.
My 2024 Outback came with the charger. I immediately replaced it with the tray. I expected to pay for it. But the parts manager said no worries
Rear trailer hitches may decrease damage to your vehicle, but they can increase bodily injury due to increased crash pulse rigidity. In one study there is a 22% increase in bodily injuries.
In 2015 we were getting a new Forester and we got a few bells and whistles on it. But they had this decked out Legacy 3.6R in the showroom, boy that's a nice car. I don't drive much so I've only got 35K miles on it. I hope I'm driving that car for many years yet. No phone charger though, that wasn't an option in those days :)
Hey, like watching your videos, have picked up some good tips. I disagree with you on the hitch however. You state that add on takes away strength and hangs down too low. I watched installation video and it looks like, bolts on like, and replaces the whole bumper frame (plus a couple extra bolts to frame). Also you have to cut a notch out of the bumper cover to get it up, so I think they're pretty much identical to factory hitchs in height and strength (if not stronger).