Care Connect is Subaru's roadside information and customer support program

Care Connect is a service package offered by Subaru that combines roadside information, emergency support, and access to customer service resources. It is designed to help Subaru owners when they experience vehicle breakdowns, accidents, or other emergencies while driving. The program covers services like towing, lockout information, fuel delivery, and connections to medical or legal help depending on which version of Care Connect you have.

Subaru offers Care Connect as either a complimentary service for new vehicle owners or as a paid subscription for used vehicle owners or those who want extended coverage. The specifics of what is covered, how long coverage lasts, and what it costs depend on which plan you choose and when your vehicle was purchased.

Key Takeaways

  • New Subaru vehicles typically include Care Connect coverage at no extra cost for a set period, usually three years or 36,000 miles.
  • Used vehicle owners can purchase Care Connect as a paid subscription to get roadside information and emergency support services.
  • Care Connect covers towing, lockouts, fuel delivery, and battery service, with some plans including medical and legal referrals.
  • You can contact Care Connect through a dedicated phone number, mobile app, or website depending on your plan and the type of emergency you face.
  • Coverage details and costs vary by plan, so reviewing your specific agreement or contacting Subaru directly will tell you exactly what your plan includes.

What Care Connect covers

The roadside information portion of Care Connect typically includes towing to a repair facility, lockout service if you are locked out of your vehicle, fuel delivery if you run out of gas, battery jump-start service, and tire change information. These services are meant to get you back on the road or to a safe location when a mechanical or access problem occurs.

Some Care Connect plans also include non-emergency medical and legal referral services. This means if you need a doctor or lawyer referral while traveling, the program can connect you with local providers. The exact services included depend on which Care Connect plan you have, so checking your plan documents or calling Subaru customer service will show you what applies to your specific coverage.

How to contact Care Connect when you need help

When you need roadside information, you typically call a dedicated Care Connect phone number provided in your plan materials or vehicle documentation. This number connects you to a dispatcher who will take your location, vehicle information, and details about what you need. From there, they coordinate the appropriate service — whether that is a tow truck, locksmith, or fuel delivery.

Many Care Connect plans also offer a mobile app where you can request service, track the arrival of help, and view your coverage details. Some plans allow you to manage your account and view service history through a website portal as well. The exact methods available depend on your plan, so your plan documents will list all the ways you can reach support.

Care Connect for new vehicle owners

If you purchased a new Subaru, Care Connect roadside information is typically included at no additional cost. This coverage usually lasts for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. The coverage begins on the date your vehicle is registered and covers you for the duration of that period.

After your included coverage period ends, you can choose to renew Care Connect as a paid subscription if you want to keep the service. Subaru will usually contact you before your coverage expires to let you know about renewal options and pricing. If you do not renew and later want the service, you can purchase it at that time, though pricing may differ from renewal rates.

Care Connect for used vehicle owners

Used Subaru owners can purchase Care Connect as a standalone subscription. The cost and coverage terms depend on the plan you choose and the age and mileage of your vehicle. Subaru offers different plan options, so you can select the one that fits your needs and budget.

To purchase Care Connect as a used vehicle owner, you can contact a Subaru dealership, visit the Subaru website, or call Subaru customer service directly. They will walk you through the available plans, explain what each covers, and help you set up your subscription. You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) and current mileage to complete the purchase.

What happens if you need service outside your coverage area

Care Connect is designed to work nationwide, so you should have access to roadside information even if you are far from home. The program coordinates with service providers across the country to may support help is available wherever you break down. However, the specific providers and response times may vary depending on your location and the type of service you need.

If you are traveling internationally or in a remote area where Care Connect does not have service partners, coverage may be limited or unavailable. Checking your plan documents or calling Care Connect before a long trip can tell you whether your destination is covered and what to do if you need help in an area without service partners.

How to manage or update your Care Connect account

If you have an active Care Connect plan, you can usually manage your account through the Care Connect website or mobile app. This typically allows you to update your contact information, view your coverage details, check your service history, and see when your coverage expires. Some plans also let you add additional drivers or vehicles to your account.

If you need to make changes that are not available through the app or website, or if you have questions about your coverage, you can contact Subaru customer service or visit a Subaru dealership. They can help you update your account, answer questions about what is covered, and discuss renewal or upgrade options when your current coverage is about to end.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Care Connect cover maintenance or repairs?

No, Care Connect is roadside information and emergency support, not a maintenance or repair plan. It covers getting you to a repair facility or helping with when ready roadside problems like lockouts or dead batteries. Any repairs needed to your vehicle are separate and covered by your vehicle warranty or your own insurance.

What if I sell my Subaru — can I transfer Care Connect to the new owner?

Transfer rules depend on your specific plan and how much coverage time remains. Contact Subaru customer service or your dealership with your plan details and the new owner's information to find out whether transfer is possible and what steps are needed.

Is Care Connect the same as my vehicle's warranty?

No, they are separate. Your vehicle warranty covers defects in parts and manufacturing. Care Connect covers roadside emergencies and getting you to a repair facility. Both may be included with a new Subaru, but they serve different purposes.

Can I use Care Connect if my vehicle is not running?

Yes, Care Connect includes towing service specifically for situations where your vehicle cannot run or is unsafe to drive. The dispatcher will arrange for a tow truck to come to your location and take your vehicle to a repair facility of your choice.

What if I need Care Connect service but I do not have my plan documents?

You can contact Subaru customer service with your vehicle identification number (VIN) and they can look up your coverage details and help you request service. You can also check the Care Connect website or app if you have already registered your account there.