2020–2022 Subaru Outback: Infotainment screen freezing, rebooting or black screen
Likely causes, ranked
- Infotainment software bug (over-the-air or dealer update)$0–$0DIY
- Failed over-the-air update corrupting the unit (dealer recovery or unit replacement)Shop
- Rearview display shutting off after the August 2020 update (recall)$0–$0Shop
Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.
DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section
Parts to check
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- Infotainment software bug on Amazon
- Failed over-the-air update corrupting the unit on Amazon
- Rearview display shutting off after the August 2020 update on Amazon
These are search links; confirm fitment for your exact engine and trim. Affiliate disclosure
Symptom: The large center screen freezes, reboots while you drive, or goes black. That takes the on-screen climate controls with it, and the backup camera may not show.
Likely causes
- Software. Subaru releases updates over Wi-Fi and through dealers.
- A failed update. On Subaru Outback Forums, owners describe updates that froze the unit until a dealer recovered or replaced it.
- Camera recall 20V766, caused by a corrupted 2020 update.
Cost
Updates and the recall are free. Replacing the unit out of warranty varies, so get a quote.
DIY or shop?
- DIY: install updates over a strong Wi-Fi connection, then turn the car fully off and wait a few minutes before restarting.
- Dealer: failed updates and the recall.
Useful steps
- Check your software version in Settings > General and update it.
- Check your VIN for recall 20V766.
- If the screen stays black, go to a dealer instead of restarting the car over and over.
Vehicle focus: 2020–2022 Subaru Outback.
Safety / mechanic note
A backup camera that doesn't show an image is covered by a safety recall. Use your mirrors and get the recall done.
Recalls & service bulletins
Recalls
- 20V766000 The August 2020 over-the-air update could time out on some 2020 Outback/Legacy units, causing the rearview camera display to shut off intermittently. Details
NHTSA complaints: 122 keyword-matched complaints for Subaru Outback 2020–2022 (of 1,661 total complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-15).
Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Sources
What actually fixed it?
Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.