Davis Bellew If you are a Subaru Forester owner, you may have noticed that your vehicle does not come with the Starlink Navigation system. This may come as a surprise, as many other Subaru models include this feature. In this article, we will explain the reasons why Starlink Navigation is not available on the Subaru Forester.
Key Takeaways
- Starlink Navigation is not available on the Subaru Forester due to hardware limitations from the factory-installed head unit.
- Subaru did not design the Forester’s head unit to support the Starlink Navigation system.
- The Forester’s head unit lacks the necessary hardware to support Starlink Navigation, including GPS and satellite communication modules.
- The lack of Starlink Navigation does not affect the Forester’s other features, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Background on Starlink Navigation
Starlink Navigation is a feature developed by Subaru that provides drivers with real-time traffic updates, turn-by-turn directions, and other helpful navigation features. This system uses GPS and satellite communication technology to provide accurate navigation data to the driver.
Subaru introduced the Starlink Navigation system to its vehicle lineup in 2015, and many models have since been equipped with this feature. However, the Subaru Forester is one of the few models that does not have this feature.
The Reasons Why Starlink Navigation is Not Available on the Subaru Forester
Hardware Limitations
The primary reason why the Subaru Forester does not have Starlink Navigation is due to hardware limitations. The Forester’s factory-installed head unit was not designed to support the Starlink Navigation system.
The head unit on the Forester does not come with the necessary hardware to support Starlink Navigation. This includes GPS and satellite communication modules, which are required for the system to work properly.
Without these modules, the head unit is unable to receive real-time traffic updates or provide turn-by-turn directions. As a result, Subaru did not include the Starlink Navigation feature on the Forester.
Design Choices
Another reason why the Subaru Forester does not have Starlink Navigation is due to design choices made by Subaru. When the Forester was designed, the head unit was not intended to support the Starlink Navigation system.
Instead, Subaru focused on other features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other infotainment options. These features are still available on the Forester, even though the Starlink Navigation system is not.
The Impact of the Lack of Starlink Navigation on the Subaru Forester
While the lack of Starlink Navigation may be disappointing to some Forester owners, it does not affect the vehicle’s other features. The Forester still comes with a variety of useful features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allow drivers to access their smartphone’s navigation apps.
Furthermore, many drivers may choose to use third-party navigation apps like Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps instead of Subaru’s Starlink Navigation. While these apps may not be integrated with the Forester’s infotainment system, they still provide accurate and reliable navigation data.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Subaru Forester does not have the Starlink Navigation system due to hardware limitations from the factory-installed head unit. While this may be disappointing to some Forester owners, it does not affect the vehicle’s other features. Subaru made design choices focused on other features, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
If you are a Forester owner and are looking for navigation options, there are still many great third-party navigation apps available. While they may not be integrated with your vehicle’s infotainment system, they are still reliable and easy to use.
FAQ
Q: Can I add Starlink Navigation to my Subaru Forester?
A: No, you cannot add Starlink Navigation to your Forester. The Forester’s head unit does not have the necessary hardware to support this feature.
Q: Is the lack of Starlink Navigation a deal-breaker for the Subaru Forester?
A: No, the lack of Starlink Navigation does not affect the Forester’s other features. The Forester still comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other infotainment options.
Q: What are some third-party navigation apps I can use with my Forester?
A: Some popular third-party navigation apps include Google Maps, Waze, and Apple Maps. These apps provide accurate and reliable navigation data and can be used on your smartphone.
