Subaru Solterra 2023-2026 Owner's Manual: Cleaning and protecting the vehicle interior

For the Subaru Solterra, interior cleaning should always be performed according to the specific material of each component in order to preserve durability, appearance, and long-term comfort.

Protecting the vehicle interior

• In the Subaru Solterra, begin cleaning by removing dust and debris using a vacuum cleaner, then gently wipe surfaces with a soft cloth slightly dampened with lukewarm water to avoid damaging delicate materials.
• If stains persist, use a soft cloth moistened with a mild neutral detergent diluted to approximately 1% for safe cleaning.

  After cleaning, always remove any detergent residue thoroughly by wiping with a clean, well-wrung cloth to maintain the premium interior finish of the Subaru Solterra.

■ Shampooing the carpets

For the Subaru Solterra interior carpets, foam-type carpet cleaners are recommended for deep cleaning without oversaturating the material.

Apply foam using a sponge or soft brush and work in gentle circular motions to lift dirt effectively.

Avoid using excessive water; instead, maintain a dry-clean approach where possible. After cleaning, allow the carpet to dry fully to preserve texture and appearance.

■ Handling the seat belts

Seat belts in the Subaru Solterra should be cleaned using mild soap and lukewarm water applied with a soft cloth or sponge.

Regularly inspect belts for signs of wear, fraying, or cuts to ensure continued safety performance.

■ Front side windows with IR protective coating

The Subaru Solterra is equipped with infrared (IR) protective coated front side windows designed to enhance comfort and UV protection.

• If contamination occurs, gently wipe the glass with a soft cloth dampened in clean or lukewarm water as soon as possible to prevent staining.
• Avoid repeatedly opening and closing the windows when heavily soiled, as this may affect the protective coating.

WARNING

■ Water in the vehicle

• Do not spill or splash liquids inside the Subaru Solterra cabin, as this may damage electrical systems or cause fire hazards.

  Moisture exposure can lead to malfunction of key electronic components.

• Keep all SRS components and wiring dry at all times.

  Water intrusion may prevent airbags from deploying correctly or may cause unintended activation, increasing injury risk.

• For Subaru Solterra models equipped with a wireless charger, avoid exposing the charging area to water, as this may result in overheating, burns, electric shock, or system failure.

■ Cleaning the interior (especially instrument panel)

Avoid using wax or polishing agents on the Subaru Solterra instrument panel, as reflective surfaces may create glare on the windshield and reduce driving visibility, increasing accident risk.

NOTICE

■ Cleaning detergents

• To protect the interior materials of the Subaru Solterra, avoid using the following substances, as they may cause discoloration, staining, or surface damage:
  • Non-upholstery areas: Benzene, gasoline, strong acids/alkalis, bleach, or synthetic dyes
  • Seats and soft surfaces: Thinner, alcohol-based solvents, benzene, or strong chemical cleaners
• Do not apply wax or polish products on interior surfaces of the Subaru Solterra, as they may damage protective coatings.

■ Water on the floor

Never wash the interior floor of the Subaru Solterra with water, as moisture can damage electronic modules and may cause corrosion over time.

■ When cleaning the inside of the windshield

Avoid allowing glass cleaner to contact camera or sensor lenses inside the Subaru Solterra, and do not touch these components directly to prevent malfunction.

■ Cleaning the inside of the rear window

• Do not use glass cleaners on the rear window of the Subaru Solterra, as this may damage defogger heater wires.

  Instead, use a soft cloth lightly dampened with lukewarm water and wipe gently along the direction of the heater lines.

• Avoid applying pressure that could scratch or break the defogger wires.

■ Cleaning the front side windows

Do not use abrasive cleaners, wax, or chemical compounds on IR-coated windows in the Subaru Solterra, as these may degrade the protective layer.

Cleaning the areas with satin-finish metal accents

• Clean gently using a soft cloth dampened with clean water or a synthetic chamois.
• Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth to maintain the refined appearance of Subaru Solterra interior accents.

■ Cleaning the areas with satin-finish metal accents

The Subaru Solterra uses genuine metal surface finishing in select interior areas, requiring regular maintenance to prevent buildup of dirt that may become difficult to remove over time.

Cleaning the leather areas

• Remove dust and debris using a vacuum cleaner to protect Subaru Solterra leather surfaces.
• Clean gently with a soft cloth dampened in a mild detergent solution.

Use approximately 5% neutral wool detergent diluted in water for safe cleaning.

• After cleaning, thoroughly remove any remaining detergent by wiping with a well-wrung cloth.
• Dry with a soft cloth and allow leather surfaces to air dry naturally in a shaded, ventilated environment.

■ Caring for leather areas

SUBARU recommends cleaning the interior of the Subaru Solterra at least twice per year to maintain premium material quality and long-term durability.

NOTICE

■ Preventing damage to leather surfaces

• Immediately remove dust or dirt from leather surfaces in the Subaru Solterra to prevent staining.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight; use shaded parking whenever possible, especially during summer.
• Do not place vinyl, plastic, or wax-coated items on leather surfaces, as heat may cause them to stick and damage the material.

Cleaning the synthetic leather areas

• Remove dust using a vacuum cleaner.
• Wipe gently with a cloth dampened in 1% neutral detergent solution.
• Ensure all moisture and detergent residue is fully removed after cleaning.

Cleaning fabric portions of the instrument panel

• Use a vacuum cleaner or adhesive tape to remove dust from fabric areas.

Carefully remove dust near passenger airbag zones by hand to avoid damage.

• Wipe gently with a damp cloth; avoid using detergents on fabric surfaces.
• For Subaru Solterra models with radiant heaters, avoid aggressive scrubbing on fabric-covered heating areas.