Obsolete
Time has shown us that automakers are willing to experiment with in-car features. Some of these features that have been adopted are now common across all cars, while others are victims of the constant evolution of technology.
Back in the day (meaning the previous decade), Subaru introduced a 3G connectivity system for its cars, which enabled owners to use certain features. Since 3G network connectivity has long been discontinued, these owners are stuck with unusable technology, which reportedly drains batteries.
Un-Future Proof
Car Complaints caught the class-action lawsuit. The report states that Subaru is being sued by owners who claim that not only did the automaker fail to make the data modules upgradable to 4G or 5G networks, but the old data communications module (DCM) is still actively trying to connect to 3G networks that no longer exist. This is causing a parasitic battery draw, which is draining the car's battery.
There are the cars reportedly included in the lawsuit:
- 2016-2019 Subaru Forester
- 2016-2019 Subaru Legacy
- 2016-2019 Subaru Outback
- 2016-2019 Subaru Impreza
- 2016-2019 Subaru Crosstrek
- 2016-2019 Subaru WRX
Going back first to the loss of 3G connectivity, the eight plaintiffs who filed the suit say that most of their telematics features were suddenly rendered useless, features like Automatic Collision Notification, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Emergency Assistance Button, Stolen Vehicle Locator, and Bluetooth Handsfree Calling have all ceased to operate since the loss of 3G.
However, the report does state that Subaru did offer an upgrade to the network connectivity system for cars with active STARLINK safety and security subscriptions. The lawsuit counters, though, by stating that the subscription was canceled if the owner failed to upgrade the system before the 3G network went out.
Subaru
Phantom Draining
According to the plaintiffs, the battery drain issue stems from the DCM, which, every few hours, even when the car is off, tries to connect to a 3G network, draining the battery and, in some instances, preventing the car from starting. Some owners have said that the only way to fix this is to remove the DCM fuse, but doing so will also disable the Bluetooth microphone, effectively canceling the hands-free calling system.
Interestingly, this isn't the first time Subaru has been sued for draining batteries. A similar issue has been raised against the brand, alleging that the battery and electrical management systems of some Subarus are faulty, causing the cars to either not start or, in some cases, stall even in traffic.
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