FOTA (Firmware Over-The-Air) Reprogramming for DENSO Gen 4.5 Audio Navigation Infotainment Systems via DCM – 2023 Subaru Outback & Legacy / Ascent

NHTSA ID Number: 10238458

Manufacturer Communication Number: 15-311-23

Summary

This bulletin provides instruction for use of a new reprogramming procedure to optimize the Denso Gen 4.5 Audio and Navigation system utilized in the models listed.

 


NUMBER: 15-311-23
DATE: 06/23/23

APPLICABILITY:2023MY Outback & Legacy
2023MY Ascent
SUBJECT:FOTA (Firmware Over-The-Air) Reprogramming for DENSO Gen 4.5 Audio Navigation Infotainment Systems via DCM

 

INTRODUCTION:

This bulletin provides instruction for use of a new reprogramming procedure to optimize the Denso Gen 4.5 Audio and Navigation system utilized in the models listed above. Firmware-over-the-air (FOTA) is a process where remote devices can receive updates to their operating firmware. This process has become second nature with smartphones, tablets and many other connected devices. FOTA for automotive infotainment systems was designed with an emphasis on customer convenience. FOTA updates provide regular enhancements along with software patches as needed to enhance the customer experience. The convenience factor comes not only with the supply of regular updates and the enhancements they provide, but through customer control of when these updates are downloaded and installed. The only requirement is a valid subscription to SUBARUeBay logo STARLINK Safety Plus, since the download of the software is performed via DCM.  FOTA operation is conducted in two steps: download (from the server to the vehicle via DCM) and installation (internal to CP1.5 system in the vehicle). This bulletin will focus on FOTA for Denso Gen 4.5 audio systems (MID) and audio-navigation systems (HIGH) which utilize the 11.6-inch touch-screen display. Models with 7-inch dual screen display (Base) are not FOTA update capable.

This bulletin outlines the procedure for performing FOTA updates successfully. These procedures involve:

  • Assisting customers with FOTA -related concerns if they have been unsuccessful in performing the FOTA by themselves. (Possible vehicle or system concern.) *
  • Performing the FOTA update for customers who are not comfortable or need assistance with performing it themselves but have requested the Retailer to install it*
  • Updating the firmware using a USB flash drive by following the steps outlined in TSB 15-305-22R “Reprogramming File Availability for Optimization of Gen 4.5 Denso CP1.5 Infotainment Systems” when FOTA cannot be performed due to the setup or eligibility constraints*.

* NOTE: If a customer is simply requesting help with how to perform FOTA, provide a copy of the appropriate customer instructions for FOTA available on Subarunet: Service Operations & Technical > Forms/Downloads page.

See Appendix A later in this bulletin for more information.

It is VERY IMPORTANT to read and understand this information completely before proceeding.

NOTES:

  • REMINDER: FOTA is available for MID and HIGH (Navi) systems with 11.6-inch display only.
  • The currently available FOTA firmware version is not the same version available to Retailers for USB updating use. However, a system updated using FOTA can be further updated by using the USB update procedure if additional updates are needed. For additional details clarifying the scope of FOTA updates, review the applicable Owner’s Manual Supplement’s additional information for the Center Information Display. The information is downloadable from: https://www.subarueBay logo.com/ owners/index.html. See Appendix C below for more information.
  • FOTA updates are for the system firmware ONLY. Map updates are a separate function which the customer may update on their own by using either USB download or Map Over the Air Update (MOTA). Go to: subaru-maps.com for more information.

Reference photos of each system faceplate are supplied below:

In PDF Bellow…

 

SERVICE PROCEDURE / INFORMATION:

REMINDER: Customer satisfaction and retention starts with performing quality repairs.

The FOTA update process involves a remote downloading and installation the update firmware therefore, time duration depends on signal strength and transfer rate performance. During installation, the infotainment system’s functionality will be restricted.

 

SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS AND CAUTIONS:

  • Move the vehicle to an outside location where the engine can be safely started and kept idling during the update process.
  • Never idle the vehicle in a closed space such as a garage, even if the garage door is kept open.
  • Once the vehicle is in a safe location, be sure the vehicle is in Park (CVT) or Neutral (MT) and the parking brake is fully engaged.
  • Open one or more windows to ensure fresh air is available.
  • Stay with the vehicle until the update is completed.
  • We suggest adjusting the climate controls to your desired settings in case they become unavailable during the update process.
  • Unplug any devices, chargers, cables or other USB drives from the vehicle’s USB and power ports.

VERY IMPORTANT: Before proceeding with the updating procedure, the currently installed version ID MUST be confirmed (Firmware Version Check) by following the steps below:

1) After starting the engine and system boot-up completes, from the HOME screen, touch the Settings button.

2) Press the General Use the down arrow to scroll to System Information then press to display the System Information / Version information.

The examples below identify the head unit model and the last 6 digits 9xxx-xxx) signify the software version number. Examples:

  • F61WHMxxx-xxx (High model software)
  • F61WMMxxx-xxx (Mid model software)

Continued in PDF Bellow…

 


Reprogramming File Availability for Optimization of Gen 4.5 Denso CP1.5 Infotainment Systems – 2023 Subaru Outback/Legacy & 2023 Ascent

 

Reprogramming File Availability for Optimization of Gen 4.5 Denso CP1.5 Infotainment Systems – 2023 Subaru Outback/Legacy & 2023 Ascent

 


3 Affected Products

Vehicles

MAKEMODELYEAR
SUBARUeBay logoASCENT2023
SUBARUeBay logoLEGACY2023
SUBARUeBay logoOUTBACK2023

 


1 Associated Document

Manufacturer Communications

NUMBER: 15-311-23
DATE: 06/23/23

https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=10238458

MC-10238458-0001.pdf 1969.015KB

 


 

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