NHTSA ID Number: 10145076
Manufacturer Communication Number: 15-211-17R
TSB/Document Date: 2018-10-01
Summary
The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head unit installation. It is VERY IMPORTANT to read and understand this information completely to understand all changes from prior releases before proceeding.
Bulletin Number: 15-211-17R; Revised 08/27/18
Page 10 of 17
“A” When using update files downloaded from Subarunet:
Click Here to Access the Downloads for Audio/Navigation Information on Subarunet
IMPORTANT: Files downloaded from Subarunet will be .zip files and must be unzipped before
they can be used.
Using the normal audio / navigation system file update download procedure: Go to Subarunet, select
Service Operations and Technical>>Forms/Downloads>>Downloads for Audio/Navi then click on
the applicable Hyperlink to download the file(s) to your SDS Notebook or PC:
“BASE-17-18 Impreza-18 Crosstrek-18-Legacy-Outback-18-BRZ-HARMAN AUDIO UPDATE-JULY 2018”
“MID-17-18 Impreza-18 Crosstrek-18-Legacy-Outback-18-BRZ-HARMAN AUDIO UPDATE-JULY 2018”
“HIGH-17-18 Impreza-18 Crosstrek-18-Legacy-Outback-18-BRZ-HARMAN AUDIO UPDATE-JULY 2018”
•
Go to Downloads.
•
CAUTION: After download is complete, NEVER change the file or folder names.
•
Once the files have been downloaded from Subarunet, click on the Downloads folder and then
sort by Date Modified to bring the most recent files to the top of the list.
•
Open / display the contents of File folder, for example (BASE-17-18 Impreza-18 Crosstrek18-Legacy-Outback-18-BRZ-HARMAN AUDIO UPDATE-JULY 2018).
•
Click on “Extract All Files”.
•
From the dialog box, browse to My Documents then click on “Extract”.
•
Double-click on the required file (for this example, select the file entitled “BASE-17-18
Impreza-18 Crosstrek-18-Legacy-Outback-18-BRZ-HARMAN AUDIO UPDATE-JULY
2018”).
•
Copy ONLY the “update” folder then paste (or click / drag) it to the “clean” USB flash drive
as listed (Removable Disk) in the directory.
•
To avoid confusion, label the flash drive with the file contents (e.g. BASE, MID or HIGH).
•
Go to Step 4.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-211-17R; Revised 08/27/18
Page 11 of 17
“B” When using update files sent directly from Nuspire:
•
Go to My Documents on the GUI screen to display the list of available update files shown
below.
•
CAUTION: After download is complete, NEVER change the file or folder names.
•
Sort by Date Modified to bring the most recent files to the top of the list. The folder is named:
_Harman Audio-Navi Update Files. It contains the six folders shown here.
•
Double-click on the required file (for this example, select the file entitled “BASE-17-18
Impreza-18 Crosstrek-18-Legacy-Outback-18-BRZ-HARMAN AUDIO UPDATE-JULY
2018”) and the update file will display as shown.
•
Select the update folder and either copy / paste or click / drag it to the USB flash drive.
NOTE: Do not copy the entire “BASE-17-18 …” File folder. Copy ONLY the File folder named
“update” to the flash drive
•
Once the folder named “update” is loaded onto the USB flash drive, right click on the drive
and select “Eject”.
•
Remove the USB flash drive after the prompt appears that says “Safe to Remove Hardware”.
•
Mark the USB to indicate the head unit it will update (BASE in this example).
•
Repeat the above steps to create the MID and HIGH USB flash drives as needed using a
separate USB drive for each update folder.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-211-17R; Revised 08/27/18
Page 12 of 17
STEP 4- IMPORTANT: Confirm the update folder on the USB flash drive is for the head unit being
reprogrammed ONLY. NEVER install multiple update folders onto the same flash drive at the same
time.
• After confirmation, move to the car and either start the engine or follow the procedure as
outlined in document GR8-1100 on STIS for use of the GR8’s Power Supply Mode.
BASE-17-18 Impreza-18 Crosstrek-18-Legacy-Outback-18-BRZ-HARMAN AUDIO UPDATE-JULY 2018
Copy ONLY the folder named “update” to the USB.
•
Never change the folder name from “update”.
•
Confirm there is only a folder named “update” on the flash drive.
CAUTION: Confirm one final time the head unit you are about to update matches the USB flash
drive you have selected. Attempting to install the incorrect update file will disable the head unit.
STEP 5- Update Installation:
IMPORTANT: Always record the customer’s radio station presets and navigation favorites (where
applicable) before proceeding further as they will most likely need to be reset once the update and
re-boot procedures are completed. In addition, some customizable system settings may need to be
reset as they may return to the default setting during the update.
•
With the engine idling (or GR8 connected), plug the flash drive into the USB Port.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If the head unit does not recognize the USB flash drive during the
reprogramming process, this may be due to an incompatible Controller IC in the USB flash drive
or it is otherwise incompatible with the head unit. If this occurs, delete all files from the flash drive
and re-format it to “FAT32”, instead of “NTFS” and reload the appropriate “update” folder to the
USB flash drive. If the USB flash drive is still not recognized, please discontinue the use of that
drive and instead use a USB flash drive from a different manufacturer.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-211-17R; Revised 08/27/18
Page 13 of 17
•
After the unit “authenticates” the USB flash drive, press “Next” and after the second screen is
displayed, press “Next” again.
NOTE: If an attempt is made to install the wrong “grade” file into the wrong grade head unit
(EXAMPLE: “Base” update file into a “Mid” or “High” head unit), the USB Authentication error
screen below will be displayed:
•
The current and available software version information will be displayed. The Available
Version I.D should be Rel.18.22.20.
NOTE: The displayed Available Version as shown below does not show the _U0 after the
Rel. This is normal.
•
After confirming the Available Version, press “Install Now” to start the reprogramming
process. The screen will go blank (black) for a brief period after installation begins.
•
Each of the updates (Base, Mid and High) should take less than 10 minutes to install.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-211-17R; Revised 08/27/18
Page 14 of 17
IMPORTANT NOTES:
•
Do not leave the vehicle once the update begins as ignoring pop-up requests may lead to
battery discharge.
•
Do not touch any of the buttons on the head unit while the updating process is taking place.
•
If during the updating an error screen is displayed asking “Do you want to Retry”, press
“Retry” to restart the update.
•
Once the updating process is complete, the head unit will perform a “soft” reboot.
(NOTE: several “hard” reboots are required to fully install the update. This procedure is
covered in Step 6 below.)
•
button to
CRITICAL STEP: After the reboot process completes, press the HOME
return to the HOME screen. (NOTE: If the “install message” is displayed asking if you
want to start the update process again, press “Cancel”, press the HOME button again and
return to the HOME screen.)
STEP 6- Turn the ignition OFF, open and close the driver’s door then remove the flash drive from
the USB port. If an error screen is displayed asking “Do you want to Retry”, press “Cancel”.
IMPORTANT: Wait AT LEAST 3 MINUTES before proceeding to Step 7.
STEP 7- Verify the newly-installed Software Version ID using the following steps:
•
Turn the ignition back ON. Confirm the “SUBARU
STARLINK” screen is displayed. If
“SUBARU
STARLINK” screen is NOT displayed on the first screen, system did not fully
enter “sleep mode” and reboot properly. Perform Step 6 again and wait AT LEAST 3
MINUTES before proceeding.
•
In some cases, the radio presets may not appear initially.
•
From the HOME screen, touch “Settings”.
•
From the Settings > General screen, scroll down to and then touch “System Information”.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-211-17R; Revised 08/27/18
Page 15 of 17
•
Confirm Software Version is now “Rel_U0.18.22.20”.
•
Press
(Home) to return to the Home screen and shut the engine OFF. Open and close the
driver’s door.
STEP 8- CRITICAL: Operation Check and Full Re-Boot Procedure:
1) Turn the ignition back ON (ACC) and confirm normal system operation.
2) Confirm the Home screen is displayed.
3) Turn the ignition OFF, open and close the driver’s door then WAIT AT LEAST 3
MINUTES to confirm the unit “times out” or “goes to sleep”.
4) Perform 1), 2) and 3) above again (a total of 5 cycles if completing WTN-74R OR only 2
cycles (1 additional cycle to Steps 1 & 2) if WTN was previously completed). If normal
to return to the Home screen and shut the ignition OFF to
operation is confirmed, press
complete the procedure.
IMPORTANT: If during this procedure, the screen goes blank (black) and the STARLINK
screen does not appear, the head unit must be replaced. THIS SHOULD BE A VERY RARE
OCCURRENCE. Contact SOA Techline should this condition occur.
STEP 9- If lost during the update process, reset the customer’s radio station presets, navigation
favorites (where applicable) and if necessary, reset the clock to complete the procedure.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-211-17R; Revised 08/27/18
Page 16 of 17
WARRANTY / CLAIM INFORMATION:
For vehicles within the Basic New Car Limited Warranty period or covered by an active Subaru![]()
Added Security Gold plan, this repair may be submitted using the following claim information:
Labor Description
Labor
Operation #
Labor
Time
Fail
Code
PRE-CUSTOMER DELIVERY HARMAN AUDIO/NAVI UNIT REPROGRAMMING*
A031-358
0.4
ZSG-48
*Use this claim coding whenever installing the most recent software update on a New,
Un-Registered, In-Stock vehicle without a customer complaint or reported concern prior to retail
delivery for Customer Satisfaction ONLY.
Labor Description
Labor
Operation #
Labor
Time
HARMAN AUDIO/NAVI VERSION ID & OPERATION CHECKS ONLY **
B031-150
0.4
HARMAN AUDIO / NAVI UNIT REPROGRAMMING
(INCLUDES VERSION ID CHECK AND OPERATIONAL CHECKS).**
B031-158
0.6
HARMAN AUDIO/NAVI QUESTIONNAIRE COMPLETION
C101-228
0.3
WTN-74R OPEN: HARMAN AUDIO / NAVI UNIT,
VERSION ID & OPERATION CHECKS ONLY
B103-110
0.4
WTN-74R OPEN: HARMAN AUDIO / NAVI UNIT REPROGRAMMING
(INCLUDES OPERATION CHECKS)
C103-118
0.2
Fail Code
Claim Type
ZRR-48
WC
WTN-74
RC
**Use this claim coding when installing the most recent software update with a customer complaint
or reported concern as documented on a signed Repair Order.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
•
Use Operation Number A031-150 or A031-158 for all TSB 15-211-17R -applicable Crosstrek,
Legacy, Outback and 2018MY Impreza models along with any 2017MY Impreza models which
have already had the WTN74 campaign completed.
•
Any remaining 2017MY Impreza models having an OPEN WTN-74 campaign must use the
campaign coding FIRST.
•
CRITICAL Claim Processing Update: When completing this TSB procedure OR a WTN-74R
campaign, the post-update software version number MUST be entered in the Miscellaneous
Detail field when submitting the claim.
•
A ONE-TIME charge of $50.00 can be claimed in sublet to cover the cost of the USB flash
drives.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
•
SOA strongly discourages the printing and/or local storage of service information as previously
released information and electronic publications may be updated at any time.
•
Always check for any open recalls or campaigns anytime a vehicle is in for servicing.
•
Always refer to STIS for the latest service information before performing any repairs.
Bulletin Number: 15-211-17R; Revised 08/27/18
Page 17 of 17
- Advanced VCI Box, Industry-leading J2534 Pass-Thru...
- High-Speed OEM-Level Diagnostics & Programming: Unlock true...
- Coverage for 17 Car Brands & Ultra Reliability: Works...
- User-Friendly RLink Platform & Expert Support: TOPDON’s...
- 6.6 ft USB-C Cable & Portable Storage Case: The RLink J...
Last update on 2026-06-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If the PDF is very large, it may not load in the preview below.
Some older TSBs had multiple PDFs — visit the NHTSA Website to view all PDFs.
If the TSB PDF does not show, download or view it on the NHTSA Website.
Click on the (+) Plus Sign
Then Click on Associated Document(s)
Search NHTSA Database for Recalls
Search NHTSA Database for Vehicle Investigations
View Latest Vehicle Investigations
Search NHTSA Database for Vehicle Complaints
View Latest Vehicle Complaints
TSB/Document ID: 15-211-17R
Replacement Service Bulletin Number:
MFR Communication Date: 2018-08-27
MFR Internal Campaign ID/Software Version:
Communication Type: Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
NHTSA Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
MFR Component System:
MFR Component Subsystem:
Previous TSB | Next TSB |
- [Notice] When you receive a used escaner automotriz device, it may be a customer return resold by Amazon without inspection. You can exchange it for a new one through Amazon. As this situation is unavoidable, we sincerely apologize. For any issues, contacting us via Amazon's "Messages" is the best way, and we’ll provide a solution within 24 hours. THINKSCAN 689BT Can Be Used Immediately After It is Turned On, Without Complicated Registration Process, Which is More Convenient & Quick.
- [Good News] THINKSCAN 689BT is the most competitive automotive scan tool to date, offering wireless updates with no subscription fees(valued 500Buc.ks) . With all the features of THINKTOOL PD8,PRO, built on Android 10 platform with 4-core CPU, 4GB RAM
and 64GB ROM, serving up to 5X faster than older MAX/MINI
/PLUS vehicle scanners escaner automotriz, no more slow and delayed feedbacks, it's time to update your garage tool. - [Big Money Saver] Premium THINKSCAN 689BT Wireless Diagnostic Scanner Escaner Automotriz, save up to 400USD per year, includes all useful features: Full bi-directional controls, ECU coding, 34+ services, OEM all system diagnostics, Worldwide vehicles coverage, CAN FD & DoIP, FCA
AutoAuth(The 689BT only provides a login and purchase portal, and users are required to register for an FCA
account and pay a membership fee in order to perform the relevant automotive diagnostics) - [3000+ Active Tests]Active testing is one of the most useful features in automotive maintenance and greatly improves mechanic efficiency. THINKCAR 689BT bidirectional scanner can send action commends to vehicle sub-systems or components for active test without using vehicle controls. It can perform various tests such as: EVAP Test, Fuel Trim Reset, Injector Buzz Test, Window/ Mirror/ Door Lock Test, Pump and Value Tests, etc. Get functions from "Diagnose>Car Model>System>Active Test".
- [Hot Advanced Features] 689BT bidirectional tool scanner for car newly adds ECU Coding, Power Balance, Flash Hidden Functions, Reset Adaptive Data, Match Replaced Components, Customize OE-Settings. Such as: 1. changing the color of interior lights 2. switching on/off the auto hold, 3. customizing dash kits 4. activating the auto side mirror folding function 5. disables auto start-stop. Note: Coding functions vary by model&year.
- 【15+ Advanced Reset & Calibration Functions】The Thinkdiag scanner provides 15+ professional maintenance functions, including:✔ Oil Reset | ✔ ABS Bleeding | ✔ Injector Coding | ✔ SAS Reset✔ TPMS Reset | ✔ BMS Reset | ✔ Transmission Adaptation | ✔ AFS Reset | ✔ Sunroof Calibration | ✔ Brake Reset | ✔ Suspension Relearn | ✔ Electronic Throttle Relearn | ✔ Seat Calibration | + More reset/relearn/calibrate/adaptive functions under automotive full systems diagnostic menu. Ideal professional OBDII scanner for mechanics and DIY enthusiasts, Thinkdiag delivers professional OE-level diagnostics with adaptive relearn capabilities for precise vehicle servicing.
- 【Full-System Diagnostics OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth】 Thinkdiag OBD2 Scanner supports all Systems diagnostic function, it can read/clear DTCs, read live data, read control module information, actuation tests and maintenance functions for ECM, BCM, SRS, TCM, BMS, TPMS, SAS, A/C system etc... It works with most car models after 1996, cover more than 120+ car brands. All car make and reset software come with 1 year update without any charge, much valuable and powerful than 1000 dollars level scanners in the market.
- 【Potential Feature Activation】 Thinkdiag diagnose obd2 scanner Bluetooth allows you to match the replaced components with ECU, activate potential functions for BMW
, for GM, for Benz etc. Adjust some annoying features, adapt vehicle's settings to improve performance. No matter you are private owner or professional technician, Thinkdiag is a powerful and handy scanner in your repair tool list. Potential features are not suitable for every car models, please check with us before purchase. This superior function required newest Android OS device, it performs better on Android cell phone. - 【Bidirectional Test/Active Test】 Thinkdiag car code reader actuates solenoids and actuators for active testing, send commands to systems/components to test their real-time working status, without using manual vehicle controls which saves much diagnostic time and effort to identify malfunction causes. You can check windows, doors, mirrors, sunroof, fans, fuel pump and other parts working status by actuation test function, thinkdiag supports 10000+ active tests. When you process Automotive full system diagnostic, you can do active test on every supported module.
- 【Intelligent Diagnostic Tool with Auto-VIN】Thinkdiag Bluetooth OBD2 scanner makes your smart phone device become a professional vehicle diagnostic tool, it compatible with Android and iOS system. Auto-VIN function supports the Thinkdiag identifies the most car models automatically, if autovin failed, you can choose car info manually. Full system Vehicle health report will be automatically created after diagnosis, report can be shared. Live Data Stream combined 4-in-1 Graphing+Data Record better for monitoring vehicle performance and analyze the abnormal parameter.
- 【Powerful Bidirectional Control -- Active Test】Good News! The THINKSCAN 662 obd2 scanner has bidirectional control function,which is the most popular feature among mechanics.This function is mainly used to test whether the executing components in the electronic control system can work normally,By requesting information from the vehicle's ECU or sending commands to the ECU module to execute commands and identify maintenance status,quickly locate the cause of the fault.Such as ABS,Fuel Injectors,Adjusting Throttle,Coolant Fans,Radiator Fans,Coolant Pumps,EV.AP Test, Fuel Trim Reset,Injector Buzz Test,Pump/ Value Test,etc. Effectively shorten diagnosis time and reduce diagnosis costs.
- 【Unlock Pro-Level Diagnostics With Half Costs】 THINKSCAN 662 obd2 scanner diagnostic tool Delivers Premium Scanning Power for Half the Price! The OBD2 scanner can handle common issues with ECM,TCM,ABS,SRS. It can easily read and clear fault codes, analyze data streams, and ensure quick identification of problems. THINKSCAN 662 bidirectional scan tool has 12 practical reset functions, including Airbag Reset,ABS Bleeding,BMS,Brake Reset, D.P.F,Throttle Adaptation,Injector Coding,OIL Reset,steering angle Reset,Gearbox,TPMS,and more. The car scanner diagnostic tool very suitable for DIY enthusiasts, car repair technicians, and small and medium-sized repair shops.
- 【Multi Functional Intelligent Car Scanner Diagnostic Tool】 Automatic VIN + Real-time Data + DTC Lookup + Historical Diagnostic Records: This OBD2 scanner features auto serch technology, allowing for car recognition without the need for manual input. The real-time data of the car ECU is read and displayed in the form of text or a 4-in-1 merged waveform chart. You can save, share, print or send the entire inspection report via email for analysis. Historical diagnostic reports help you quickly identify vehicle issues and understand the condition of the vehicle. The built-in 'feedback' module provides customized repair Operation recommendations from our certified professionals.
- 【Upgraded Hardware + Ergonomically Engineered】 THINKSCAN 662 OBD2 scanner has a friendly combination of touch screen and physical buttons with an ergonomic appearance for comfortable use.Experience 2x faster scans and 50% longer lifespan vs standard models.This scanner para autos boast a 4-core 1.8GHz CPU,6.2-inch HD touch screen,2GB RAM
+ 32GB ROM storage capacity,a long-lasting 4150mAh battery,Android 8 ensures lightning-fast bootup and processing.The scanner is robust with rubberized protection that you can store and use in the trunk or garage.Whether you are engaged in Home car maintenance or road rescue car repair,this car scanner can help you perfectly solve car problems. - 【Effortless Setup & Scanning - Intuitive for All Skill Levels】No More Complicated Scanners! The User Interface is as User-Friendly as THINKCAR 689BT! Truly Plug-and-Play,The downward sliding setup shortcut portal and drawer function shortcut portal make you use this scan tool as easy as using your own cell phone.The car scanner supports setup screenshot,screen recording,volume adjustment,this scan tool includes product e-manuals,instructional videos,and fault code libraries,users can check the usage guide,perfect for DIY car owners,Maintenance technician.If your father,husband,brother,boyfriend enjoys car repairs,THINKSCAN 662 is a great gift choice, and it has amazing family value.
Last update on 2026-06-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.




