Having a Subaru with HomeLink can make opening and closing your garage door much more convenient. Instead of using a separate remote, you can program the HomeLink system in your car to control your Genie garage door opener.
However, the process requires following the correct steps, especially if your Genie opener uses Intellicode (rolling code) technology. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to program HomeLink Subaru to Genie garage door opener, including troubleshooting tips for a smooth setup.
Understanding HomeLink and Genie Garage Door Opener Compatibility
Before programming your Subaru’s HomeLink to your Genie opener, you need to ensure that both systems are compatible.
What Is HomeLink?
HomeLink is a built-in, programmable garage door opener system found in many Subaru vehicles. It eliminates the need for a separate garage door remote by allowing you to control your Genie garage door opener from your car.
Does HomeLink Work With Genie Garage Door Openers?
Yes, HomeLink is compatible with most Genie garage door openers, including models that use:
✔ Intellicode (rolling code technology)
✔ Fixed code openers (older models with DIP switches)
✔ Genie models operating on 315 MHz and 390 MHz frequencies
If you’re unsure whether your Genie opener is compatible, check the manual or visit the HomeLink website for compatibility verification.
How To Program HomeLink Subaru To Genie Garage Door Opener
Once you confirm compatibility, follow these steps to program HomeLink in your Subaru to your Genie garage door opener.
Step 1: Clear Previous HomeLink Settings (If Needed)
If you’ve previously programmed HomeLink and need to reset it:
- Turn on your Subaru and make sure it’s in park mode.
- Press and hold the two outer HomeLink buttons (1st and 3rd) for about 10 seconds until the indicator light flashes rapidly.
- Release the buttons once the light flashes, indicating that HomeLink has been reset.
If your HomeLink is new and hasn’t been programmed before, you can skip this step.
Step 2: Put HomeLink in Programming Mode
- Locate the HomeLink buttons in your Subaru.
- They are usually on the rearview mirror, sun visor, or overhead console.
- Press and hold the HomeLink button you want to program.
- While holding the HomeLink button, hold your Genie remote 1-3 inches away from the buttons.
- Press and hold the button on the Genie remote until the HomeLink indicator light starts flashing rapidly.
- Release both buttons.
At this point, HomeLink has learned the Genie remote’s signal, but you may need to complete additional steps if your Genie opener uses rolling code technology.
Step 3: Sync HomeLink to the Genie Garage Door Opener (For Rolling Code Models)
If your Genie garage door opener uses rolling code (Intellicode) technology, follow these additional steps:
- Locate the “Learn” Button on the Genie Garage Door Opener
- The Learn button is usually on the garage door opener motor unit.
- It may be red, purple, green, or yellow, depending on the model.
- Press and Release the Learn Button
- After pressing the Learn button, you’ll have 30 seconds to complete the next step.
- Press the HomeLink Button in Your Subaru
- Within 30 seconds of pressing the Learn button, go to your Subaru.
- Press and hold the HomeLink button you just programmed for about 2-3 seconds.
- Release and repeat this step two more times until the garage door moves.
- Test the HomeLink System
- Press the HomeLink button again to confirm that it opens and closes your Genie garage door.
If the door does not move, repeat Step 3 to ensure the Learn button and HomeLink system are properly synced.
Troubleshooting: HomeLink Not Working With Genie Garage Door Opener
If HomeLink is not working after programming, try these solutions:
1. Check for Rolling Code Compatibility
- If your Genie garage door opener uses rolling code technology, make sure you followed Step 3 to sync it using the Learn button.
2. Reattempt the Programming Process
- Sometimes, the first attempt may not work. Reset HomeLink and repeat the programming steps from the beginning.
3. Replace the Remote Battery
- If your Genie remote has a weak battery, HomeLink may fail to learn the signal.
- Try replacing the remote battery and repeating the process.
4. Move the Remote Closer to the HomeLink Buttons
- When programming, hold the Genie remote closer (1-2 inches) from the HomeLink buttons.
5. Reset the Genie Garage Door Opener
- If HomeLink is still not responding, you can try resetting your Genie opener:
- Press and hold the Learn button for 10 seconds until the LED turns off.
- Reprogram HomeLink using Steps 1-3 again.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Program HomeLink to Multiple Garage Doors?
Yes! You can program up to three different garage doors using separate HomeLink buttons. Repeat the programming process for each additional opener.
2. Does HomeLink Work With Older Genie Garage Door Openers?
Yes, but older Genie openers (pre-1993 models) use DIP switch technology instead of rolling codes.
- If your Genie opener has DIP switches, match the settings manually in your HomeLink system.
3. How Do I Erase HomeLink From My Subaru If I Move to a New Home?
To reset HomeLink and remove all stored codes:
- Press and hold the two outer HomeLink buttons for 10 seconds until the indicator light flashes.
- Release the buttons, and HomeLink will be reset to factory settings.
4. What If My Genie Opener Has Intellicode 2 (Security+ 2.0)?
- If your Genie garage door opener uses Intellicode 2, you may need a HomeLink Repeater Kit for compatibility.
- Check your Genie manual or visit the HomeLink website for additional setup instructions.
Final Thoughts
Programming HomeLink in your Subaru to a Genie garage door opener is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to compatibility and programming steps. By following this guide, you can seamlessly connect your Subaru’s built-in HomeLink system to your Genie opener, making your daily routine even more convenient.
If you experience any difficulties, try resetting HomeLink, checking your opener’s rolling code settings, or replacing the remote battery. Once successfully programmed, you’ll never have to worry about carrying a garage door remote again!
