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I have a 2021 Subaru that can only remote start via the App that requires a subscription to their "STARLINK Safety and Security" service. It comes with 3 free years, however its $99 a year after that.

Not as egregious as other companies as I can get a factory remote starter installed. It appears that dealers deliberately order vehicles without the remote starter in order to push subscriptions.

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With Subaru, you can also buy additional years for cheaper when purchasing the vehicle. I think I could do 10 years (7 additional) for 375. Personal preference now/later but that 375 goes on the loan anyways.

I wish that was an option for me. I bought it "used" with 1100 miles, last year.

That may have been an option, but I wasn't made aware of it. I had to sweet talk the Subaru support to get the free 3 years.

I was also under the impression it had remote start, which it does via the app, but not via the key fob without the remote module installed.

The remote module isn't stock on any trims, as it seems to be a bit pricey and it seems most people prefer the app remote start.

I think that you can have remote start (for fob) dealer installed after the fact though. Maybe check on that.

I doubt the dealer cares about subscriptions per see, they would be happy to install a factory remote starter for an additional fee.

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