Subaru Eyesight Disabled⁚ Check Manual

The “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message on your Subaru is a common issue that can be caused by a variety of factors. While it can be alarming, it’s often a temporary problem. This article will explore the most likely causes, provide troubleshooting steps, and guide you through the Subaru Eyesight manual for further information.

Introduction

Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist system is a valuable safety feature, offering advanced technologies like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. However, encountering the dreaded “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message can be unsettling. This message indicates that the EyeSight system is not functioning properly and needs attention. While it can be frustrating, understanding the potential causes and troubleshooting steps can help you get back on the road safely.

The EyeSight system relies on multiple cameras and sensors to function correctly. When these components malfunction or experience interference, the system may disable itself as a precaution. It’s crucial to address the issue promptly to ensure optimal safety and restore the full functionality of your Subaru’s EyeSight system.

This guide will delve into the common causes behind the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message, provide practical troubleshooting steps, and direct you to relevant resources in your Subaru’s manual. By following these steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself or understand when professional assistance is necessary.

Common Causes of the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” Message

The “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message can stem from a variety of factors, ranging from temporary glitches to more serious sensor malfunctions. Understanding these potential causes is the first step in addressing the issue effectively. Here are some of the most common culprits⁚

• Sensor Malfunction⁚ The EyeSight system relies on cameras and sensors to detect obstacles and monitor lane position. If one of these sensors becomes faulty or obstructed, the system may disable itself to prevent inaccurate readings and potential safety hazards.
• System Calibration Issues⁚ The EyeSight system requires periodic calibration to ensure accurate operation. Factors like a recent steering wheel replacement, a bump, or even extreme temperature changes can disrupt the system’s alignment, triggering the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message.
• Environmental Factors⁚ Conditions like heavy rain, snow, fog, or even excessive sunlight can interfere with the EyeSight system’s sensors, leading to temporary disabling. The system may automatically reactivate once the environmental conditions improve.
• Temporary Issues⁚ Sometimes, the message can be a result of a temporary glitch in the system’s software or a minor electrical issue. In such cases, restarting the vehicle or resetting the EyeSight system can often resolve the problem.

By identifying the potential cause, you can narrow down your troubleshooting efforts and find the most appropriate solution.

Sensor Malfunction

The Subaru EyeSight system relies heavily on its cameras and sensors to function correctly. If any of these components malfunction, the system may be unable to operate safely and will display the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message. Here’s a breakdown of potential sensor malfunctions⁚

• Camera Obstruction⁚ Dirt, debris, snow, or even a layer of ice on the camera lenses can interfere with the EyeSight system’s ability to accurately detect objects and lane markings. Make sure the cameras are clean and unobstructed before ruling out this possibility.
• Sensor Failure⁚ While less common, individual sensors can experience internal failures that prevent them from functioning correctly. These failures may be caused by physical damage, electrical issues, or simply wear and tear over time. If you suspect a sensor failure, it’s essential to consult a Subaru dealership for diagnostics and potential replacement.
• Sensor Misalignment⁚ In some cases, the EyeSight sensors may become misaligned after a collision, a rough road encounter, or even a simple bump. Misalignment can affect the accuracy of the system’s readings and trigger the error message. A Subaru dealership can perform a calibration process to realign the sensors.

If you suspect a sensor malfunction, it’s crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified technician to determine the exact cause and implement the appropriate solution.

System Calibration Issues

The Subaru EyeSight system requires periodic calibration to ensure its accuracy and optimal performance. This calibration process helps the system accurately interpret data from the cameras and sensors, ensuring that the driver-assist features function as intended. Here’s why calibration issues can trigger the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message⁚

• Post-Maintenance Calibration⁚ Following certain types of maintenance, such as steering wheel replacement or suspension work, the EyeSight system may need to be recalibrated. This is because these procedures can potentially affect the alignment of the sensors, impacting the system’s accuracy. The Subaru manual clearly states that a recalibration is required after replacing the steering wheel.
• Environmental Factors⁚ Extreme temperature changes, particularly during seasonal transitions, can affect the performance of the EyeSight sensors. The system may require recalibration to compensate for these changes and maintain optimal accuracy.
• Unexpected Impacts⁚ Even minor collisions or bumps can disrupt the calibration of the EyeSight system, requiring a recalibration to restore its functionality. The system relies on precise sensor positioning, and even a slight shift can impact its performance.

If you suspect calibration issues, it’s essential to visit a Subaru dealership for a professional recalibration. They have the specialized tools and expertise to ensure the EyeSight system is properly aligned and functioning correctly.

Environmental Factors

The Subaru EyeSight system relies on cameras and sensors to function correctly. These components can be affected by various environmental conditions, leading to the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message. Here are some common environmental factors that can trigger this issue⁚

• Heavy Rain or Snow⁚ Severe weather conditions, like heavy rain or snowfall, can obscure the EyeSight sensors, making it difficult for the system to accurately perceive its surroundings. The sensors may struggle to detect lane markings, obstacles, or other vehicles, causing the system to disable itself as a safety precaution.
• Dirt or Debris⁚ Accumulated dirt, debris, or insects on the EyeSight sensors can hinder their ability to capture clear images. This obstruction can lead to inaccurate readings and trigger the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message. Regularly cleaning the sensors is essential for optimal performance.
• Extreme Temperatures⁚ Both extremely high and low temperatures can impact the performance of the EyeSight sensors. In extreme heat, the sensors may overheat, leading to temporary malfunctions. In freezing conditions, condensation or frost buildup on the sensors can obstruct their view, causing the system to disable itself.
• Direct Sunlight⁚ Intense sunlight can create glare on the EyeSight sensors, affecting their ability to accurately perceive the environment. The system may temporarily disable itself to avoid potential errors caused by glare.

In most cases, the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message related to environmental factors is temporary. Once the weather conditions improve or the sensors are cleaned, the system should automatically reset and resume normal operation. However, if the issue persists, it’s advisable to have the system checked by a Subaru dealership.

Temporary Issues

The “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message can sometimes be caused by temporary issues that resolve on their own. These issues are often related to software glitches, sensor calibration, or external factors that temporarily interfere with the EyeSight system’s operation. Here are some common temporary issues that can lead to this message⁚

• Software Glitch⁚ The EyeSight system’s software may experience a temporary glitch, causing it to malfunction. This glitch could be due to a minor error or a temporary interruption in the system’s communication. Restarting the vehicle or cycling the power to the EyeSight system can often resolve these software glitches.
• Sensor Calibration⁚ The EyeSight sensors need to be properly calibrated to function correctly. If the calibration is slightly off, the system may experience temporary errors. This could be due to factors like a recent repair, a change in tire size, or even a sudden impact. A simple recalibration of the sensors usually resolves this issue.
• External Interference⁚ External sources of electromagnetic interference, such as strong radio signals or electronic devices, can temporarily disrupt the EyeSight system’s operation. This interference can cause the sensors to misinterpret information, leading to the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message. Moving away from the source of interference or turning off the offending device can often resolve the issue.

If you encounter the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message and suspect a temporary issue, try restarting your vehicle or cycling the power to the EyeSight system. If the issue persists, consider having the sensors recalibrated by a Subaru dealership. In most cases, temporary issues with the EyeSight system are easily resolved.

Troubleshooting Steps

If you encounter the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message on your Subaru, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take before seeking professional assistance. These steps can help identify and resolve common issues that might be affecting the EyeSight system. Here are some basic troubleshooting steps⁚

• Check the Gas Cap⁚ Surprisingly, a loose or improperly sealed gas cap can trigger the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message. This is because a loose gas cap can affect the vehicle’s emissions system, which can in turn affect the EyeSight system’s operation. Make sure your gas cap is tightly secured. If it’s loose, tighten it and drive for a short distance to see if the message clears.
• Reset the Eyesight System⁚ The EyeSight system can be reset through the multi-control buttons and the LCD screen, which can help refresh the system and get it to work correctly. Consult your Subaru owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to reset the EyeSight system. This reset can often resolve temporary software glitches or calibration issues.
• Contact a Subaru Dealership⁚ If the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message persists despite troubleshooting steps, it’s best to contact a Subaru dealership for professional assistance. They have the diagnostic tools and expertise to identify and repair any underlying issues with the EyeSight system. A qualified technician can perform a thorough inspection, diagnose the problem, and recommend the appropriate course of action.

Remember, the EyeSight system is a critical safety feature, so it’s important to address any issues promptly. Following these troubleshooting steps can help you resolve the problem or determine if professional assistance is needed.

Check the Gas Cap

While it might seem counterintuitive, a loose or improperly sealed gas cap can be a culprit behind the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message. Subaru vehicles are known for their emphasis on safety and fuel efficiency, and a faulty gas cap can impact both. Here’s why this simple check is crucial⁚

• Emissions System Impact⁚ A loose gas cap allows fuel vapors to escape, affecting the vehicle’s emissions system. The EyeSight system relies on various sensors to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings, and a malfunctioning emissions system can disrupt its operation. The system might interpret the altered emissions as a potential safety hazard, leading to the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message.
• Fuel Efficiency⁚ A loose gas cap can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, as fuel vapors are lost into the atmosphere. This can trigger the EyeSight system to disable as part of a precautionary measure to prevent potential performance issues.

To troubleshoot a potential gas cap issue, simply remove the gas cap, ensure it’s free of debris, and tighten it securely. After driving for a short distance, check if the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message has cleared. If it hasn’t, there might be other underlying issues, and it’s recommended to proceed with further troubleshooting steps or contact a Subaru dealership for professional assistance.

Reset the Eyesight System

Sometimes, a simple reset can resolve minor glitches within the EyeSight system. This process involves restarting the system, allowing it to recalibrate and potentially clear any temporary errors. Here’s how to reset the EyeSight system⁚

1. Turn off the ignition and wait for a few minutes. This step allows the system to completely power down, clearing any residual data or temporary glitches.
2. Restart the vehicle. After the system has had a chance to reset, start the engine and observe the dashboard for the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message.
3. Check the EyeSight settings. Once the vehicle is running, access the EyeSight settings on the infotainment system. You might need to navigate through the menus to find the EyeSight settings section. Check if the system is properly enabled and configured.
4. If the message persists, try a more thorough reset. If the EyeSight Disabled message remains, a more comprehensive reset might be necessary. Consult your Subaru owner’s manual for specific instructions on performing a full system reset. This usually involves a combination of button presses and menu navigation.

If the EyeSight system remains disabled after attempting a reset, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance from a Subaru dealership or a certified mechanic. They can use diagnostic tools to identify any underlying issues and perform necessary repairs.

Contact a Subaru Dealership

If the “Eyesight Disabled Check Manual” message persists despite your troubleshooting efforts, it’s time to seek professional assistance. A Subaru dealership is equipped with the necessary tools and expertise to diagnose and resolve complex EyeSight issues. They can access specialized diagnostic software to identify the root cause of the problem and provide the appropriate solution.

Here’s why contacting a Subaru dealership is recommended⁚

• Expert Diagnosis⁚ Dealership technicians are trained to diagnose EyeSight system issues, including sensor malfunctions, calibration problems, and software errors.
• Specialized Tools⁚ Dealerships have access to advanced diagnostic tools and equipment specifically designed for Subaru vehicles, allowing them to accurately identify and troubleshoot EyeSight malfunctions.
• Genuine Parts⁚ When repairs are needed, dealerships use genuine Subaru parts, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance for your EyeSight system.
• Warranty Coverage⁚ If your vehicle is still under warranty, contacting a dealership can help ensure that any repairs are covered by the manufacturer.

Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at your nearest Subaru dealership if you’re unable to resolve the EyeSight Disabled message on your own. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and help restore your EyeSight system to proper functionality.