Subaru Owners Voice Concerns Over Distracting Ads
Subaru car owners are raising alarms with the federal government regarding full-screen advertisements that appear on their dashboard while driving. They argue these ads serve as a significant distraction and pose safety risks.
Just before Thanksgiving, a Reddit user posted a photo lamenting the intrusive ads, stating, “These ads shouldn’t happen while you’re driving.” The ad promoted a SiriusXM offer that read, “Enjoy SiriusXM for free until 12/1,” prompting users with options to either “Listen now” or close the notification. In the comments, several users expressed frustration, particularly with the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, which sports an 11.6-inch touchscreen in the center of the dashboard.
One driver shared that he had encountered the ad multiple times over the years but felt this was the “last straw” after almost having an accident due to it. He described an incident where he was trying to maintain a speed of 55 mph in winter conditions, veering off a bit and nearly slipping into a ditch because he was distracted by the ad.
This prompted him to call upon fellow Subaru owners to report the issue to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). “This is unacceptable,” he fumed. “That has to stop.”
Others chimed in with similar experiences, one user noting his frustration when an ad popped up while driving. “I was really angry when this happened to me,” he said. “Don’t put ads on your dashboard.” Another user recounted a particularly alarming moment when he saw an ad while driving 105 miles per hour, recalling, “It was insane, and it still is.”
Some owners reported their complaints to the NHTSA, with one detailing how a SiriusXM ad completely obscured essential controls—like air conditioning and navigation—forcing dangerous interactions with the touchscreen while driving.
Subaru of America responded, stating they would consider customer feedback. The company mentioned that this was their first awareness of the issue and noted that these ads are typically sent out twice a year to inform customers about channel availability.
Earlier in the year, another Subaru driver had shared an image of a similar screen takeover, and commenters offered a workaround — creating a login on the SiriusXM website to opt out of “In-Vehicle Messaging.”
In a video addressing the matter, a YouTuber remarked that it was unreasonable for drivers to have to create a SiriusXM account just to stop the ads, questioning whether such situations could warrant a return under lemon law provisions.
Simultaneously, Stellantis, the parent company for brands like Chrysler and Jeep, faced criticism for similar in-car advertising practices. However, the contention is that Subaru owners are receiving third-party ads, contrasting with Stellantis’ focus on promoting its own products.
As of September, new car prices have reached record highs, with many buyers financing over extended periods. Automakers are increasingly leveraging technology for additional revenue streams, with companies like Toyota offering subscription services for features such as remote start.
Volkswagen also ignited controversy by charging for performance upgrades, leaving many owners feeling frustrated over additional costs for features they feel should be included. Meanwhile, issues have emerged around electric vehicle maintenance, where owners find themselves unable to manage simple tasks without high-cost, professional resources.
