The 2015 Subaru Forester is known for its versatility, comfort, and ruggedness, making it a popular choice for both urban drivers and outdoor enthusiasts. A standout feature of this vehicle is its ability to connect to Bluetooth devices, allowing for hands-free calling and seamless music streaming. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of connecting Bluetooth in your 2015 Subaru Forester, along with tips and tricks to enhance your audio experience.
Understanding Bluetooth Connectivity
Before delving into the steps, it’s important to understand what Bluetooth is and how it functions in your Subaru Forester. Bluetooth is a short-range wireless technology that allows devices to communicate without the need for physical connections. In the context of your vehicle, this technology enables your smartphone or other audio devices to connect to the car’s audio system so you can enjoy hands-free calls and stream your favorite music.
Benefits of Bluetooth Connection
Connecting your smartphone or other devices to your Subaru Forester via Bluetooth offers numerous advantages:
- Hands-Free Calling: Safety first! With Bluetooth, you can make and receive calls without taking your hands off the wheel.
- Seamless Audio Streaming: Enjoy your playlists from apps like Spotify or Apple Music directly through your car’s speakers.
Preparing to Connect Bluetooth
Before attempting to connect Bluetooth, ensure that you have the following:
- A Bluetooth-enabled device: This could be a smartphone, tablet, or other audio devices.
- Vehicle ignition is on: Make sure your Subaru Forester is in either the “On” or “Run” position.
- User Manual: Having the user manual handy can be beneficial for reference.
Steps to Connect Bluetooth in Your 2015 Subaru Forester
Now that you are prepared, let’s explore the step-by-step process of connecting Bluetooth in your 2015 Subaru Forester.
Step 1: Activate Bluetooth on Your Device
The first step in connecting Bluetooth is to activate it on your smartphone or audio device:
- Navigate to the Settings menu on your device.
- Look for the Bluetooth option and toggle it to On.
- Allow your device to search for available Bluetooth connections.
Step 2: Access Your Subaru Forester’s Audio System
With your device ready, it’s time to access the Bluetooth settings on your car’s audio system:
- Start your Subaru Forester (ensure the ignition is in the “Run” position).
- Press the “Home” button on your audio display.
- Navigate to the “Settings” or “Bluetooth” option using the touchscreen.
Step 3: Pairing the Device
Once you’ve accessed the Bluetooth settings, proceed to pair your device:
- Select the “Add Device” or “Pair Device” option on the audio system.
- Your Subaru Forester will begin searching for available devices.
- Once your device appears in the list, select it.
- A confirmation code will likely be displayed on both your device and the car’s screen. Ensure these codes match to establish a secure connection.
- Confirm the pairing on both your smartphone and the car’s display.
Step 4: Complete the Connection
After confirming the pairing, you’ll see a message indicating that the connection was successful.
Testing the Connection
To ensure everything is working properly:
- Make a Phone Call: Dial a number and check if the call goes through the car’s speakers.
- Play Music: Open your preferred music app and play a song to confirm that audio is coming through the vehicle’s speakers.
Troubleshooting Bluetooth Connection Issues
If you encounter difficulties during the connection process, consider these troubleshooting tips:
Device Not Found
If your smartphone does not appear on the Subaru’s audio system:
- Ensure that Bluetooth is activated on your device.
- Restart your smartphone and try the pairing process again.
- Make sure your device is within range (typically within 30 feet).
Audio Quality Issues
If you experience poor audio quality during calls or streaming, consider the following:
- Check for any obstructions between your device and the car.
- Disconnect and reconnect your device to refresh the connection.
- Ensure your device’s software is up to date.
Additional Features of Bluetooth in Your Subaru Forester
Aside from standard Bluetooth calling and audio streaming, the 2015 Subaru Forester offers additional features:
Voice Recognition
The Bluetooth system allows for voice commands, enabling you to make calls, change music tracks, or adjust the volume by simply speaking – making it even safer to operate your vehicle.
Multiple Device Connectivity
Your Subaru’s Bluetooth system can connect to multiple devices, allowing you to switch between your smartphone and a passenger’s device with ease. To switch devices, simply disconnect the current device from the Bluetooth settings and follow the pairing process anew for the other device.
Maintaining Bluetooth Connectivity
To ensure smooth Bluetooth operation, consider regularly checking your device settings. Here are a few tips to maintain your Bluetooth connection:
Regular Software Updates
Keep your smartphone’s operating system and your car’s infotainment system updated to ensure compatibility and improve performance.
Remove Unused Devices
Over time, the Bluetooth memory in your Subaru Forester can fill up with devices you no longer use. To avoid confusion when connecting, regularly clear out old or unused devices from the pairing list.
How to Remove Devices: Step-by-Step
- Access the Bluetooth settings from the audio menu.
- Select the device you want to remove.
- Choose the “Delete” or “Forget” option to remove the device from your car’s memory.
Conclusion
Understanding how to connect Bluetooth in your 2015 Subaru Forester is a valuable skill that enhances your driving experience. Not only does it promote safe communication through hands-free calls, but it also allows you to enjoy your favorite music without distractions. By following the steps outlined in this guide and troubleshooting common issues, you are well on your way to enjoying a seamless Bluetooth experience in your vehicle.
The Subaru Forester continues to be a top choice for drivers who seek a blend of functionality and technology. Embrace the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity and make your driving experience more enjoyable and connected than ever before!
How do I put my 2015 Subaru Forester in pairing mode for Bluetooth?
To put your 2015 Subaru Forester in pairing mode, start by turning on your vehicle and the audio system. Next, press the “Home” button on the infotainment system’s display. From the main menu, select “Settings” and then navigate to “Bluetooth.” Make sure the Bluetooth function is turned on.
Once Bluetooth is activated, select “Add Device.” The system will begin searching for nearby Bluetooth devices, prompting your Forester to display a discoverable status. Ensure your smartphone or Bluetooth device is also set to discoverable mode, so they can find each other during the pairing process.
What devices are compatible with the Bluetooth system in the 2015 Subaru Forester?
The Bluetooth system in the 2015 Subaru Forester is compatible with a wide range of Bluetooth-enabled devices, including most smartphones, tablets, and music players. Popular brands such as Apple, Samsung, Google, and several others typically work seamlessly with the system.
Additionally, devices need to support the hands-free profile (HFP) and audio/video remote control profile (AVRCP) to ensure functionality for calls and media playback. It’s always a good practice to check the device’s specifications to confirm Bluetooth compatibility before attempting to connect.
Can I connect multiple devices to my 2015 Subaru Forester’s Bluetooth system?
Yes, the Bluetooth system in the 2015 Subaru Forester allows for multiple devices to be paired. However, only one device can be connected and active at a time for audio playback or phone calls. This means you can switch between connected devices, but the system will give priority to the last connected device.
To switch devices, you may need to manually disconnect the current device from the Bluetooth menu on the infotainment system and select the device you’d like to connect. Additionally, make sure to check both your device’s Bluetooth settings and the car’s system for an efficient transition.
Why can’t I hear any audio after connecting my Bluetooth device to the Forester?
If you cannot hear any audio after connecting your Bluetooth device, the first step is to check the volume levels on both your device and the car audio system. Sometimes, the device may be muted, or the volume might be turned down low, preventing playback from being heard through the car speakers.
Another potential issue could be the audio source selection in the Subaru system. Ensure that the audio source is set to Bluetooth and not another input option, such as AM/FM radio. If these adjustments do not resolve the issue, consider disconnecting and reconnecting your Bluetooth device.
How do I delete a paired Bluetooth device from my 2015 Subaru Forester?
To delete a paired Bluetooth device from your 2015 Subaru Forester, start by navigating to the “Settings” menu on your infotainment system. From there, select “Bluetooth” to view the list of paired devices. Find and select the device you want to remove.
Once you have selected the device, there should be an option to “Delete” or “Remove.” Confirm the deletion when prompted. This is a straightforward process and ensures that your vehicle only has active connections with the devices you choose.
What should I do if my Bluetooth connection keeps dropping?
If your Bluetooth connection keeps dropping, the first step is to ensure that both your smartphone and the Subaru’s infotainment system have the latest software updates. Sometimes, outdated software can cause compatibility issues that result in dropped connections. Check for updates on both the phone and the car.
Next, try removing the device from the Bluetooth settings on both the phone and the car, then reconnect them. Additionally, make sure that there are no other devices interfering with the Bluetooth signal, and check the distance between your device and the car to ensure that it is within the recommended range.
Can I use voice commands with the Bluetooth system in my 2015 Subaru Forester?
Yes, you can use voice commands with the Bluetooth system in your 2015 Subaru Forester. Once your device is connected, you can activate voice commands by pressing the voice command button located on the steering wheel. This feature allows you to make phone calls, send texts, and control music playback hands-free.
To get the best performance from voice commands, ensure that your device’s voice assistant is also enabled. The infotainment system should respond to your commands, making your drive safer and more convenient by allowing you to keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.