I read an article recently about how Subaru tracks location data and how long they store it. It also mentioned security issues that could let someone access this data easily.
After seeing this, I decided to completely disable Starlink, location tracking, and telematics. I wasn’t sure how hard it would be, but I figured there had to be a way. Here’s what I did.
I called three different Subaru dealerships. The first one said they didn’t have anyone who could do it, the second said Subaru wouldn’t allow them to disable telematics, and the third was open to trying it but wasn’t sure how.
Luckily, the service advisor I spoke with had a background in computer science and was interested in the challenge. A Subaru engineer happened to be there that day, and while he doubted it could be done, he was willing to try a few things.
First, they attempted to disable it through the DCM (Data Communication Module), but that also disabled the front speakers. After trying other options, they decided to remove the panel where the STARLINK and SOS buttons are located and disconnect the wiring.
Once the buttons were unplugged, the DCM started throwing error codes. More importantly, the car stopped reporting its location. They reset the DCM, took the car outside, and tried to locate it through Starlink—nothing. It couldn’t be tracked.
I asked if Subaru could fix this remotely with an update, and they said no. The Subaru engineer was surprised by the result and had to report it as a quality issue to Subaru.
Now, my Starlink and SOS buttons don’t work, and my car won’t report location or accident data. But at least I know it can’t be tracked.
EDIT:
Someone on a BRZ forum pointed out that you can also replace the DCM completely with this module:
Another concern—this module also collects driving data, which Subaru may sell to insurers. Both my method and the replacement module prevent that data from being sent.