Connecting your Subaru rear window mirror to your Craftsman garage door opener might seem like a complex task, but it’s actually a simple process that can enhance the convenience of your daily routines. Imagine driving home, and instead of having to reach for your remote to open the garage door, you can just press a button on your rearview mirror to activate the opener. This is made possible with newer Subaru models and their built-in HomeLink technology, which allows you to connect your vehicle’s rear window mirror to devices like the Craftsman garage door opener.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to connect the Subaru rear window mirror to Craftsman garage door opener, step by step. We’ll also explain the benefits of this connection, troubleshooting tips, and offer advice on how to maintain the system for long-term use.
Read too: Craftsman Garage Door Opener Troubleshooting Won’t Close: Quick Fixes and Solutions
Why Connect Subaru Rear Window Mirror to Craftsman Garage Door Opener?
Before diving into the connection process, let’s take a look at why you might want to connect your Subaru rear window mirror to your Craftsman garage door opener.
1. Convenience at Your Fingertips
Having the ability to control your garage door from your rearview mirror while driving your Subaru is an excellent convenience. You no longer have to juggle your garage door opener, keys, or a remote control while navigating your driveway or parking. Simply press the button on your mirror, and the door opens as you approach.
2. Safety
Connecting the mirror to the garage door opener minimizes distractions when you are approaching your home. You won’t need to look around for your remote or fumble with your keys. The system is built to work automatically, helping you focus more on driving.
3. Aesthetics
Gone are the days of having bulky remotes cluttering your car. With the connection to your Craftsman garage door opener, everything is integrated into your car’s system, giving it a cleaner, more organized feel.
4. Integration with Other Home Devices
HomeLink, the technology built into Subaru rearview mirrors, doesn’t just work with garage doors. It’s compatible with gates, lights, and even security systems. If you ever want to integrate more smart home devices, the rearview mirror’s connection can be expanded.
Steps to Connect Subaru Rear Window Mirror to Craftsman Garage Door Opener
Now that we understand the benefits, let’s walk through the process of connecting your Subaru rear window mirror to your Craftsman garage door opener.
Step 1: Ensure Compatibility
Before starting, ensure that your Subaru rear window mirror is equipped with HomeLink technology, which allows it to be compatible with your Craftsman garage door opener. HomeLink is standard in most newer Subaru models, but if you’re unsure, check the owner’s manual or ask your dealer.
Similarly, verify that your Craftsman garage door opener is compatible with HomeLink. Most Craftsman openers from the past several years should work seamlessly with HomeLink, but it’s always a good idea to check.
Step 2: Clear Existing Codes
If this is not your first time programming a garage door opener to your Subaru’s rearview mirror, it’s important to clear any old codes before proceeding. This will prevent any conflicts and ensure the new connection is successful.
To clear the codes:
- Turn on your Subaru’s ignition (without starting the engine).
- Hold down the two outer buttons on the rearview mirror simultaneously for about 20 seconds until the indicator light begins flashing rapidly.
- Release the buttons, and the mirror is now cleared of any previous codes.
Step 3: Program the Rearview Mirror
Now that your Subaru’s mirror is ready, it’s time to program it to connect with the Craftsman garage door opener. Follow these steps carefully:
- Position the Remote Near the Mirror: Take your Craftsman garage door opener remote and keep it close to the rearview mirror of your Subaru.
- Press the Desired Button on Your Rearview Mirror: Select the button on your Subaru mirror that you want to assign to the garage door opener.
- Press and Hold the Remote Button: On your Craftsman remote, press and hold the button that you use to open the garage door. You should hold it for about 10-15 seconds until the light on the rearview mirror starts blinking and then remains on.
- Test the Connection: Press the programmed button on your Subaru rearview mirror. If the garage door opens or closes, the connection has been successfully made.
Step 4: Sync with the Garage Door Opener
If you don’t see the light flashing on your Subaru mirror or if the door doesn’t respond, you may need to sync it with your Craftsman garage door opener. To do so:
- Locate the “Learn” button on your Craftsman garage door opener motor. This button is often found near the antenna or on the back of the motor unit.
- Press and release the “Learn” button. You’ll see the indicator light on the opener blink, signaling that the opener is in programming mode.
- Press the button on your Subaru rearview mirror once more. The light on your opener should blink again, and you should hear a click, signaling that the connection is complete.
- Test the system again. If your garage door opens or closes with the press of the button on your mirror, you’re all set!
Troubleshooting Tips
While the process of connecting your Subaru rear window mirror to the Craftsman garage door opener is straightforward, issues may arise. Here are some common problems and solutions:
1. The Button Doesn’t Work
If your Subaru rearview mirror button is not controlling the opener:
- Ensure you’ve followed the programming steps correctly.
- Double-check that the “Learn” button on the Craftsman opener was pressed within 30 seconds of programming the mirror.
- Make sure your Craftsman garage door opener is functioning properly.
2. The Light on the Rearview Mirror Isn’t Flashing
If the light on your Subaru rearview mirror does not start flashing after pressing the button, it could be due to interference from other devices or a low battery in your car’s mirror. Check for any nearby devices that could cause interference, and try reprogramming with fresh batteries.
3. The Opener Doesn’t Respond to the Rearview Mirror
If the door doesn’t open even after the connection is made:
- Ensure that the Craftsman garage door opener has a working motor and is plugged in properly.
- Ensure there are no obstructions blocking the door’s movement or sensors.
- Repeat the process if necessary, ensuring you press the buttons correctly and follow the timing intervals.
Maintaining Your Connection
To ensure that your Subaru rear window mirror to Craftsman garage door opener connection continues to function smoothly, it’s important to maintain your garage door opener system. Here are some tips:
- Regular Battery Replacement: Replace the batteries in your rearview mirror and garage door opener remote when needed to avoid connectivity issues.
- Keep the Opener Clean: Clean your Craftsman garage door opener regularly to ensure smooth operation. Dust and dirt can interfere with the opener’s sensors and response.
- Reprogram If Needed: Occasionally, you may need to reprogram the connection if there are issues or after you’ve replaced the opener remote.
Conclusion
Connecting your Subaru rear window mirror to the Craftsman garage door opener is a simple yet valuable step that adds convenience, safety, and functionality to your driving experience. With HomeLink technology, it’s easier than ever to control your garage door with a press of a button on your mirror, ensuring smooth access to your home.
By following the steps in this guide, you can quickly set up the connection and enjoy the enhanced security and ease of access every time you drive up to your garage. If you encounter any issues, the troubleshooting tips provided should help resolve them quickly.