Subaru Solterra 2023-2026 Owner's Manual: RCD (Rear Camera Detection)

When reversing the Subaru Solterra, the rear camera detection system actively monitors the area behind the vehicle and is capable of identifying pedestrians within its coverage zone.

If a pedestrian is recognized, the Subaru Solterra immediately alerts the driver by sounding an audible warning and displaying a dedicated icon on the multimedia screen.

WARNING

■ Cautions regarding the use of the system

The Subaru Solterra RCD system has inherent limits in detection accuracy and response capability, and should never be considered a substitute for driver awareness.

The driver of the Subaru Solterra must remain fully attentive at all times, carefully observing the surroundings and taking full responsibility for safe maneuvering, especially while reversing.

■ To ensure the system can operate properly

Follow the guidelines below carefully, as improper use or maintenance may reduce the effectiveness of the Subaru Solterra rear camera detection system and increase the risk of an accident.

• Keep the rear camera lens clean at all times, ensuring it is free from dirt, snow, or debris while avoiding any damage during cleaning.
• Avoid installing aftermarket electrical accessories such as illuminated license plates or additional lighting near the camera area of the Subaru Solterra.
• Protect the camera zone from strong impacts. If any impact occurs, have the Subaru Solterra inspected by an authorized dealer.
• Do not disassemble, repaint, or modify the camera unit in any way.
• Do not apply stickers, films, or accessories directly onto the camera lens or housing.
• Refrain from installing aftermarket protective trims or accessories on the rear bumper that could obstruct the camera view.
• Ensure tire pressure is maintained at the recommended level to preserve correct vehicle posture and sensor calibration.
• Always confirm that the rear hatch of the Subaru Solterra is fully closed before operating the vehicle.

■ RCD function is turned off

Under the following conditions, the Subaru Solterra RCD system may automatically deactivate. In such cases, pedestrian detection may be compromised, increasing the likelihood of hazardous situations.

• If the above operational guidelines are not properly followed
• If non-genuine suspension components are installed on the Subaru Solterra

System component

Location of the rear camera on the Subaru Solterra

RCD display

1. Pedestrian detection icon

This icon is automatically shown on the Subaru Solterra display when a pedestrian is identified in the rear detection area.

Turning the RCD function on/off

The Subaru Solterra RCD system can be activated or deactivated through the vehicle’s customization settings. When switched off, the driving assist information indicator will illuminate, and a notification will appear on the multi-information display.

Each time the Subaru Solterra is powered off and then restarted, the RCD function is automatically reactivated to ensure consistent safety support.

When a pedestrian is detected

If a pedestrian is present behind the Subaru Solterra or is approaching from the rear, the system promptly issues a warning. This includes an audible buzzer and a visual alert on the multimedia display, helping the driver react quickly and safely while reversing.

The Subaru Solterra enhances awareness in tight parking areas or urban environments by combining visual and sound alerts, but it remains essential for the driver to physically check blind spots and mirrors for complete safety assurance.

1. If a pedestrian is detected in zone A behind the Subaru Solterra
   Buzzer: Repeats continuously to alert the driver
   Pedestrian detection icon: Flashes prominently on the display
2. If a pedestrian is detected in zone B near the Subaru Solterra
   Buzzer (vehicle stationary): Emits 3 warning tones
   Buzzer (while reversing or when a pedestrian approaches the rear of the Subaru Solterra): Sounds repeatedly
   Pedestrian detection icon: Blinks to draw immediate attention
3. If the Subaru Solterra determines a high probability of collision with a pedestrian in zone C
   Buzzer: Sounds continuously with urgency
   Pedestrian detection icon: Flashes rapidly to indicate critical risk

■ The rear camera detection function is operational when

• The Subaru Solterra power system is switched ON.
• The RCD (Rear Camera Detection) function is enabled.
• The gear selector is in reverse (R).
• The Advanced Park system is not currently active.

■ Setting the buzzer volume

The warning sound level for the Subaru Solterra parking assistance systems, including SUBARU Parking Assist, RCTA, and RCD, can be adjusted simultaneously via the vehicle customization menu.

■ Muting a buzzer temporarily

When the Subaru Solterra detects an object or pedestrian, a temporary mute control appears on the multimedia display. Selecting this option will silence the alert sounds for SUBARU Parking Assist, RCTA, and RCD systems at once.

The mute function is automatically canceled in the following situations:

• When the shift position is changed.
• When the Subaru Solterra exceeds a specific speed threshold.
• When a sensor malfunction occurs or the system becomes temporarily unavailable.
• When the driver manually disables the active function.
• When the Subaru Solterra power is turned off.

■ Situations in which the system may not operate properly

• Certain pedestrian conditions may prevent accurate detection by the Subaru Solterra rear camera system, including:
  • Pedestrians bending forward, crouching, or kneeling
  • Individuals lying on the ground
  • Pedestrians moving quickly, such as running
  • Persons suddenly emerging from behind obstacles like buildings or the vehicle itself
  • People using bicycles, scooters, skateboards, or similar moving devices
  • Pedestrians wearing loose or oversized clothing (raincoats, long skirts) that obscure body shape
  • Individuals partially hidden by objects such as carts, bags, or umbrellas
  • Pedestrians in low visibility environments such as nighttime or poorly lit areas
• Environmental and technical conditions may also reduce detection accuracy in the Subaru Solterra, including:
  • Reversing during adverse weather such as rain, snow, or fog
  • A dirty, scratched, or obstructed camera lens (mud, salt residue, etc.)
  • Direct exposure to strong light sources such as sunlight or headlights
  • Driving through areas with rapidly changing brightness, such as parking garage entrances or exits
  • Operating in dim environments like dusk or underground parking
  • Camera misalignment due to impact or improper installation
  • Installation of towing equipment or hooks near the camera
  • Water droplets flowing across the camera lens surface
  • Significant vehicle angle changes (front lifted or lowered)
  • Use of tire chains or emergency puncture repair kits
  • Non-standard suspension or tire configurations on the Subaru Solterra
  • Installation of aftermarket electronics near the camera (illuminated plates, auxiliary lights, etc.)
  • Rear bumper accessories such as protective trims interfering with camera view
  • Towing operations with the Subaru Solterra

The Subaru Solterra rear camera detection system significantly enhances reversing safety by identifying pedestrians and issuing timely warnings. However, combining system alerts with direct observation, mirror checks, and cautious driving remains essential for maximum safety in all real-world conditions.

■ Situations in which the system may operate unexpectedly

• Even when no pedestrians are present behind the Subaru Solterra, the rear camera detection system may interpret certain objects as potential hazards, which can trigger alerts. Examples include:
  • Three-dimensional objects such as poles, traffic cones, fences, or parked vehicles that resemble pedestrian shapes
  • Moving vehicles like cars or motorcycles passing behind the Subaru Solterra
  • Objects drifting toward the vehicle while reversing, including flags, water splashes, or airborne elements such as smoke, steam, rain, or snow
  • Uneven road surfaces such as cobblestones, gravel, tram tracks, repaired asphalt, road markings, crosswalks, or fallen leaves
  • Metal surfaces like drainage grates or covers that may interfere with sensor interpretation
  • Reflections in puddles or wet road surfaces that create misleading visual cues
  • Shadows cast across the roadway that can be misinterpreted by the Subaru Solterra detection system
• Under certain driving or environmental conditions, the Subaru Solterra rear camera detection may activate even without actual pedestrians in the monitored area. These scenarios include:
  • Reversing toward roadside curbs, bumps, or uneven surfaces
  • Backing up on slopes, inclines, or declines
  • Noticeable changes in vehicle posture, such as front-end lift or dip
  • Installation of aftermarket electronic accessories near the rear camera, including illuminated license plates or auxiliary lighting
  • Use of rear bumper accessories like protective trims that may partially obstruct the camera view
  • Alteration of camera alignment due to impact, improper installation, or component replacement
  • Attachment of towing equipment such as a towing eyelet to the rear of the Subaru Solterra
  • Presence of water droplets or streams flowing across the camera lens
  • A dirty or contaminated lens caused by mud, salt, or debris
  • Flashing light sources within the detection area, such as hazard lights from nearby vehicles
  • Use of tire chains or emergency tire repair kits
  • Towing operations performed with the Subaru Solterra
• Situations in which alerts from the Subaru Solterra rear camera detection system may be difficult to perceive:
  • The warning buzzer may be hard to hear in noisy environments or when the vehicle’s audio system volume is high
  • Extreme interior temperatures may affect the responsiveness or visibility of the multimedia display

The Subaru Solterra rear camera detection system is engineered to enhance awareness while reversing, but environmental factors and visual interference can influence its behavior. For this reason, drivers should always combine system alerts with careful observation and mirror checks to ensure maximum safety.