Subaru Outback Display Not Working !?

Miguel Rodriguez
Miguel Rodriguez
5 min read

Review by: Miguel Rodriguez
Maintenance Electrical

If your Subaru Outback's infotainment display screen is acting up, don't panic. This guide will walk you through common issues, potential causes, and step-by-step solutions to get your system back in top shape.

Introduction

The infotainment system is a vital component of modern vehicles, integrating navigation, entertainment, and connectivity features. However, like any complex electronic system, the display screen can sometimes malfunction. This article explores the prevalence of these issues in Subaru Outback models and provides a comprehensive overview of troubleshooting methods.

Understanding the Problem

Before delving into solutions, let's examine common display screen issues and their potential causes:

Common Issues:

IssueDescription
Freezing or GlitchingScreen freezes or flickers intermittently
Unresponsiveness or Blank ScreenScreen becomes unresponsive or remains blank
Intermittent or Persistent ProblemsIssues occur sporadically or consistently

Potential Causes:

CauseExplanation
Software Glitches or Compatibility IssuesOutdated or incompatible software versions
Hardware Failures or Loose ConnectionsPhysical component failures or loose wiring
Combination of Software and Hardware FactorsBoth software and hardware issues contribute

Troubleshooting Steps

Follow this systematic troubleshooting process to identify and resolve the issue effectively:

Soft Reset

A soft reset is often the first step for minor software glitches or freezes. It restarts the infotainment system without losing user data or settings. Here's how:

  • Locate the volume knob or power button.

  • Press and hold the button until the screen goes blank (typically 10-15 seconds).

  • Wait for the system to reboot and the display screen to turn back on.

Hard Reset

If a soft reset doesn't work, or if you're experiencing severe software problems, a hard or factory reset may be necessary. This process restores the system to its original settings, erasing all user data and preferences. To perform a hard reset:

  • Navigate to the "Settings" menu on the display screen.

  • Locate the "Factory Data Reset" or "Reset to Factory Defaults" option.

  • Follow the on-screen prompts to initiate the reset process.

  • Wait for the system to complete the reset and reboot.

Software Updates

Keeping your infotainment system software up-to-date is crucial for optimal performance and addressing potential compatibility issues or bugs. Here's how to check for and install updates:

  • Visit the Subaru website or contact your local dealership to inquire about the latest software version.

  • Follow the provided instructions to download and install the update.

  • After the update is complete, restart the infotainment system.

Connection Checks

Loose wiring or connections can cause display screen failures or intermittent issues. Performing a thorough inspection and reconnection may resolve the problem:

  • Consult your owner's manual or seek professional assistance to locate the display unit and associated wiring harnesses.

  • Inspect the connections for looseness, corrosion, or damage.

  • If necessary, disconnect and reconnect the relevant cables or connectors, ensuring they are securely fastened.

  • In some cases, disconnecting and reconnecting the vehicle's battery may also help reset the electrical connections.

Display Unit Replacement

If all troubleshooting steps fail, it may be necessary to consider replacing the display unit itself. This should be a last resort when:

  • All troubleshooting steps, including software updates and connection checks, have been exhausted.

  • There are clear signs of hardware failure, such as physical damage or permanent display malfunction.

The cost of replacing the display unit can vary depending on factors like model year, trim level, display specifications, labor costs, and warranty coverage. On average, it can range from $800 to $1,500 or more.

When considering a replacement, it's highly recommended to seek service from an authorized Subaru dealership or repair facility. These authorized centers have access to genuine Subaru parts and trained technicians who can ensure the repair is performed correctly and in accordance with manufacturer specifications.

Prevention and Maintenance

While display screen issues can sometimes be unavoidable, there are several preventive measures and maintenance practices that can help minimize the risk and prolong the lifespan of your infotainment system:

Preventive Measures:

MeasureDescription
Regular Software UpdatesAddress compatibility issues, bug fixes, and performance enhancements
Proper Usage and CareAvoid excessive heat, moisture, and physical impact
Routine InspectionsCheck for loose connections, wiring issues, and minor problems

By being proactive and addressing minor problems early on, you can potentially avoid more significant and costly repairs down the line.

Conclusion

Dealing with a malfunctioning display screen in your Subaru Outback's infotainment system can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting approach, you can often resolve the issue or identify the need for professional repair. Follow the steps outlined in this guide, from soft resets and software updates to connection checks and potential display unit replacement. Remember, patience and diligence are key when troubleshooting complex electronic systems. With proper maintenance and care, your Outback's infotainment system can continue to provide a seamless and enjoyable driving experience for years to come.

FAQs

What are the most common display screen issues in Subaru Outbacks?

The most common issues are freezing or glitching screens, unresponsiveness or blank screens, and intermittent or persistent problems.

What could be the potential causes of display screen malfunctions?

Potential causes include software glitches or compatibility issues, hardware failures or loose connections, or a combination of both software and hardware factors.

How do you perform a soft reset on the infotainment system?

Press and hold the volume knob or power button until the screen goes blank, then wait for the system to reboot.

When should you perform a hard or factory reset?

Perform a hard reset if a soft reset doesn't work or if you're experiencing severe software problems.

How do you check for and install software updates?

Visit the Subaru website or contact a dealership to inquire about the latest software version, then follow the provided instructions to download and install the update.

What should you do if the issue is caused by loose connections?

Inspect the display unit and associated wiring harnesses for looseness, corrosion, or damage, then reconnect any loose cables or connectors securely.

When is it necessary to replace the display unit?

Consider replacing the display unit if all troubleshooting steps fail and there are clear signs of hardware failure or permanent malfunction.

Where should you seek service for a display unit replacement?

It's highly recommended to seek service from an authorized Subaru dealership or repair facility for genuine parts and trained technicians.

What preventive measures can help minimize display screen issues?

Regular software updates, proper usage and care, and routine inspections can help prevent or minimize display screen issues.

How can proper maintenance prolong the lifespan of the infotainment system?

By being proactive, addressing minor problems early on, and following preventive measures, you can potentially avoid more significant and costly repairs down the line.

Miguel Rodriguez
Miguel Rodriguez

Miguel started tinkering with car radios as a teenager, fascinated by the intricate dance of wires and circuits. This passion led him to pursue a career as an automotive electrician. For the past 10 years, Miguel has tackled everything from flickering headlights to mysterious electrical gremlins. He thrives on troubleshooting electrical problems and enjoys sharing his knowledge to empower car owners to understand their vehicles better.

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