What Is Included in the Subaru Starlink Safety Plus Package? Core Services & Pricing Explained
When you purchase or lease a new Subaru, peace of mind comes standard. Central to that sense of confidence is Subaru Starlink Safety Plus, an advanced suite of connected services engineered to keep you safe, informed, and confident behind the wheel. Included as a complimentary 3-year trial subscription on most new Subaru models, Starlink Safety Plus combines built-in cellular technology, GPS location mapping, and round-the-clock emergency assistance into one seamless system.
At its core, Starlink Safety Plus is designed to take the guesswork out of unexpected roadside situations and routine vehicle maintenance. Rather than scrambling for a phone number or trying to decipher an obscure dashboard warning light, your vehicle communicates directly with trained emergency advisors and certified technical support specialists at the push of a button—or automatically in severe events.
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Core Service Feature
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Primary Function
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Availability & Pricing
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Automatic Collision Notification
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Instantly alerts advisors when airbags deploy; dispatches emergency responders.
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Included (3-Year Trial)
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SOS Emergency Assistance
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One-touch connection to 24/7 emergency support via overhead console button.
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Included (3-Year Trial)
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Enhanced Roadside Assistance
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Coordinates towing, flat tire repair, battery jump-starts, and fuel delivery with GPS data.
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Included (3-Year Trial)
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Monthly Vehicle Health Reports
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Comprehensive monthly email summary of key vehicle systems and fluid levels.
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Included (3-Year Trial)
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Diagnostic & Warning Alerts
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Provides real-time explanation of warning lights with direct service booking links.
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Included (3-Year Trial)
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Maintenance Notifications
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Automated reminders for factory-scheduled oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections.
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Included (3-Year Trial)
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Whether you are navigating daily highway traffic along I-55 or taking a weekend trip across Northern Illinois, the Safety Plus package acts as your virtual co-pilot. Below, our team at Hawk Subaru breaks down how each individual feature operates, how the telematics hardware functions behind the scenes, and how to maximize your 3-year trial period.
How Subaru Starlink Telematics Work Behind the Scenes in Your Vehicle
Hardware & Network Connectivity
Subaru Starlink relies on a sophisticated embedded telematics control unit (TCU) built directly into your vehicle's architecture. Unlike smartphone apps that depend on your personal cellular device, Starlink operates independently through its own dedicated 4G LTE transceiver and GPS module. This means that even if your personal cell phone battery dies or is misplaced during a crash, Starlink maintains full functionality. Located near the overhead map lights, two distinct buttons provide instant tactile access to live assistance: a red SOS button for life-safety emergencies and a blue i-Button (Information/Roadside) for non-emergency customer care and roadside support. Both controls connect directly to Subaru's 24/7/365 emergency response infrastructure.
Intelligent Data Routing & Advisor Support
When a Starlink request is triggered—whether manually via an overhead button or automatically via crash sensors—the system packages critical telemetry data into a secure signal. This data packet includes your vehicle's exact latitude and longitude, vehicle identification number (VIN), crash severity index (if applicable), and current system status. Within seconds, a certified Subaru Starlink advisor receives this data on their console while establishing a direct, crystal-clear voice connection through your vehicle's audio speakers and ceiling microphones. Advisors stay on the line until emergency services arrive or your roadside issue is completely resolved.
Automatic Collision Notification: Instant Emergency Response When Airbags Deploy
Perhaps the single most critical feature of the Starlink Safety Plus package is Automatic Collision Notification (ACN). In the unfortunate event of a major impact where airbags are deployed or severe chassis deceleration is detected, the Starlink system initiates an immediate high-priority emergency call without requiring any action from the driver.
The system instantly transmits your exact GPS position, direction of travel, and crash severity indicators to a specialized Starlink emergency operator. Simultaneously, an advisor speaks directly into the vehicle cabin over the hands-free speaker system to assess driver and passenger responsiveness.
If occupants are non-responsive or request urgent medical assistance, the advisor immediately contacts local 911 emergency dispatchers—providing exact location coordinates to ensure first responders arrive swiftly. Whether traveling along busy corridors like Route 59 in Plainfield or rural routes across Will County, this automated capability saves precious minutes when seconds matter most.
SOS Emergency Assistance & Enhanced Roadside Assistance Capabilities
Beyond automatic crash response, Starlink Safety Plus provides active, manual assistance for both medical emergencies and everyday mechanical mishaps. By placing direct control at your fingertips, you never have to feel isolated or unsafe on the road.
1. SOS Emergency Assistance (Red Overhead Button): Pressing the overhead SOS button connects you immediately to a live Starlink emergency response specialist. This service is ideal for non-collision emergencies—such as experiencing a sudden medical crisis while driving, witnessing a severe accident involving other vehicles, or encountering dangerous personal safety threats in a parking area. The advisor evaluates the situation and contacts police, fire, or medical personnel directly to your precise GPS location.
2. Enhanced Roadside Assistance (Blue Overhead i-Button): Standard roadside assistance can often be frustrating when trying to explain landmarks to a call center representative. Starlink's Enhanced Roadside Assistance solves this by sending your exact vehicle coordinates directly to the dispatch team. Services covered under this program include:
• Flat Tire Assistance: Dispatching professional help to change a flat or mount your spare tire. • Emergency Fuel Delivery: Delivering fuel directly to your location if you run out on the highway. • Battery Jump-Starts: Sending roadside service to boost a depleted battery during cold winter mornings. • Flatbed Towing Service: Coordinating flatbed transport directly to the nearest authorized Subaru dealership, such as Hawk Subaru, for certified repair.
Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Notifications, and Real-Time Diagnostic Alerts
Monthly Vehicle Health Reports
Every 30 days, Starlink automatically performs a comprehensive electronic scan of your vehicle's core operating systems. A detailed Monthly Vehicle Health Report is sent straight to your email inbox and stored in your MySubaru app portal. The report summarizes engine status, transmission performance, braking systems, tire pressure monitoring, and vehicle lighting status.
Real-Time Diagnostic Alerts
If a warning light illuminates on your instrument cluster, Starlink immediately analyzes the trouble code. You will receive an push notification on your smartphone explaining the precise issue—such as a loose gas cap or a tire pressure drop—along with recommended actions and an estimated urgency level so you can drive with complete confidence.
Proactive Maintenance Notifications
Never miss a critical service milestone again. Based on your vehicle's actual odometer mileage and operating history, Starlink sends timely maintenance reminders for oil changes, tire rotations, brake fluid flushes, and multi-point inspections. With one touch on your screen, you can schedule service directly with the team at Hawk Subaru.
Starlink Safety Plus vs. Safety & Security Plus: Feature Upgrades and Remote Engine Start
Many Subaru owners wonder about the difference between the standard Safety Plus tier and the optional upgraded Safety & Security Plus tier. While Safety Plus focuses primarily on collision response, emergency assistance, and vehicle health monitoring, Safety & Security Plus adds powerful remote convenient features and active theft deterrence.
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Feature / Capability
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Starlink Safety Plus (Standard 3-Yr Trial)
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Starlink Safety & Security Plus (Optional Upgrade)
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Automatic Collision Notification
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Included
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Included
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SOS Emergency & Roadside Assistance
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Included
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Included
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Vehicle Health Reports & Diagnostic Alerts
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Included
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Included
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Remote Engine Start with Climate Control
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Not Included
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Included (Push-Button Start models)
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Remote Door Lock / Unlock & Horn/Lights
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Not Included
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Included
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Stolen Vehicle Recovery & Immobilizer
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Not Included
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Included
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Boundary, Speed & Curfew Alerts
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Not Included
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Included
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Remote Vehicle Locator
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Not Included
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Included
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If you desire the ability to start your vehicle remotely from your smartphone to warm up the cabin during freezing Illinois winters—or if you want peace of mind through Stolen Vehicle Recovery—upgrading to the Safety & Security Plus package provides these remote control tools directly through your smartphone.
Subaru Starlink In-Vehicle Wi-Fi Hotspot: Cellular Provider, Speed, and Plan Pricing
High-Speed AT&T 4G LTE Connectivity
Subaru Starlink includes a built-in Wi-Fi Hotspot powered by AT&T's nation-wide 4G LTE network. This turns your Subaru into a rolling wireless hub, allowing passengers to stream movies, participate in video calls, play online games, or work on laptops while traveling. The system supports up to 8 simultaneous device connections, ensuring every passenger stays entertained whether commuting between Plainfield, Naperville, and Joliet or taking extended interstate family road trips.
New Subaru vehicles typically include a complimentary trial data plan (such as 3GB or 1 month, whichever comes first). Following the trial, owners can select from flexible standalone monthly data plans or add their vehicle directly to an existing AT&T unlimited mobile share plan.
How to Activate Your Free 3-Year Trial and Manage Your MySubaru Account
Activating your complimentary 3-year Starlink Safety Plus subscription is quick and straightforward during vehicle delivery at Hawk Subaru. Our technology specialists assist you step-by-step through the process to make sure your vehicle is fully connected before you leave the dealership.
Step 1: Download the MySubaru App: Available for both iOS and Android devices, download the official MySubaru application from your app store. Step 2: Create or Log In to Your Account: Set up your profile using your primary email address and preferred password. Step 3: Register Your VIN: Add your new vehicle's 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to link your car to your personal account. Step 4: Set Emergency Contacts: Input your primary phone number and designated emergency contact contacts so advisors know who to notify during an incident. Step 5: Confirm Activation: Once enrolled, verify that the overhead console status light turns solid green, confirming active system communication.
Practical Winter and Daily Commute Benefits for Chicagoland Suburban Drivers
Sub-Zero Freeze Safety
During extreme Northern Illinois winter cold snaps, battery failure or sudden tire pressure drops are common risks. Starlink Safety Plus immediately sends alert notifications to your phone before you even step outside, allowing you to address low tire pressure or battery concerns before hitting the road.
Severe Blizzard Support
If heavy snowfall or icy roads lead to slipping off the roadway along I-80 or local rural routes, one press of the blue i-Button dispatches Enhanced Roadside Assistance directly to your exact GPS coordinates, avoiding dangerous delays in frigid conditions.
Heavy Corridor Commutes
Daily suburban commuters along the DuPage River corridor and I-55 benefit from constant system monitoring. Instant collision notifications ensure rapid emergency response even during heavy peak-hour traffic jams where pinpointing your location manually can be difficult.
Troubleshooting Common Subaru Starlink Connection and Light Indicator Issues
Understanding Overhead LED Status Lights
The small LED lights next to the overhead SOS and i-Buttons indicate system connectivity: • Solid Green: System is normal, active, and fully connected to cellular and GPS networks. • Solid Red: System self-diagnostic detected a operational issue or temporary cellular signal interruption. If the red light stays illuminated for multiple driving cycles, contact our service team. • Flashing Green/Red: System is currently transmitting data or establishing an active call with an advisor. • Light Off: Subscription has expired, or power to the telematics unit is disconnected.
App Sync & Technical Support
If your MySubaru app shows delayed diagnostic information or fails to send maintenance reminders, try logging out of the application and logging back in, or checking for software updates in your phone's app store. For stubborn technical issues or hardware diagnostics, the certified technicians at Hawk Subaru can run specialized Starlink diagnostic scans to ensure software modules and back-up batteries are functioning properly. You can also contact our Parts Center for technical hardware questions.
Which Subaru Models and Trim Levels Include Starlink Safety Plus Standard?
Subaru Starlink Safety Plus comes standard with a 3-year complimentary subscription across virtually the entire new Subaru lineup starting at the Premium trim level and higher:
• Subaru Outback: Standard on Premium, Onyx Edition, Limited, Touring, and Wilderness trims. • Subaru Forester: Standard on Premium, Sport, Wilderness, Limited, and Touring trims. • Subaru Crosstrek: Standard on Premium, Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trims. • Subaru Ascent: Standard on Premium, Onyx Edition, Limited, and Touring trims. • Subaru Solterra EV: Standard on all trims with electric vehicle telematics enhancements. • Subaru Legacy & Impreza: Standard on Premium, Sport, and Limited/RS trims.
Whether choosing a brand-new model or exploring certified pre-owned options, you can Browse Used Inventory or check our new arrivals online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Subaru Starlink Safety and Security Services
What happens when the 3-year trial expires?
After your initial complimentary 3-year period ends, you can renew Starlink Safety Plus for an affordable annual subscription rate (typically around $99/year). You may also choose multi-year renewal packages at a discount through your MySubaru account portal.
Can subscription benefits transfer to pre-owned buyers?
Yes! If you purchase a Certified Pre-Owned Subaru that still has remaining time on its original 3-year trial, the balance transfers to you upon account registration. Certified Pre-Owned models may also qualify for special introductory trial offers.
Is my privacy protected when driving?
Subaru maintains strict data privacy protocols. GPS tracking is only engaged when an emergency event occurs (such as airbag deployment or SOS button press) or when you actively initiate a service request through your app.
Test Drive a Starlink-Equipped Subaru at Hawk Subaru in Plainfield, IL
Experience the confidence and connectivity of Subaru Starlink Safety Plus firsthand. Visit our showroom at Hawk Subaru in Plainfield, IL, where our knowledgeable team is ready to demonstrate Starlink in real time, help you test drive your favorite Subaru models, and explain our competitive financing options.
