Subaru Forester 2023 Base User Guide

The Subaru Forester 2023 Base is a small SUV that is the right mix of safety, versatility, and usefulness. The Forester Base has a rugged but stylish exterior that makes it ready for both city streets and off-road activities. When you step inside the cabin, you’ll find that it’s roomy and comfy, with enough room for five people and their luggage. The Forester Base comes with cloth upholstery and supportive seats to make sure that every trip is a nice one. With their advanced driver-assist system, EyeSight, Subaru shows how much they care about safety. EyeSight has features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. The Forester Base also has a big cargo area and 60/40-split folding rear seats that make it easy to carry a lot of things. In terms of technology, the Forester Base has a 6.5-inch tablet infotainment system that works with smartphones, Bluetooth, and a back-up camera. Under the hood is a strong 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that gives you a good mix of power and gas mileage. The Subaru Forester Base comes standard with symmetrical all-wheel drive, which gives it great traction and stability in all kinds of driving situations. The Subaru Forester 2023 Base is made to be reliable and comfortable to drive, whether you’re driving in a city or going off the beaten road. It can be used for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.

Subaru Forester 2023 Seat and Rear Seats Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Seat and Rear Seats Base Guidelines

Seat

Safety tips for seat

WARNING

• • Never adjust the seat while driving, as personal injury or loss of vehicle control may occur.. Before adjusting the seat, ensure nothing is blocking the adjusting mechanism.
  • After adjusting the seat, move it back and forth to ensure the seat is securely locked. If it is not, it may move suddenly or the seatbelt may not operate properly.
  • Do not put objects under the front seats. They may interfere with the front seat locking mechanism and cause an accident.
  • Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits back and upright in the seat. To reduce the risk of sliding under the seatbelt in a collision, the front seatbacks should always be used in the upright position while the vehicle is running. If the front seatbacks are not in the upright position and a collision occurs, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious injury or death.

• The SRS airbags deploy with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are not sitting back and upright when the SRS airbag deploys could suffer serious injury. Because the SRS airbag needs enough space for deployment, the driver should always sit upright and well back in the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full vehicle control, and the front passenger should move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in the seat.

Place children in the rear seat properly restrained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, especially if they are not restrained or improperly restrained. Because children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deployment is greater. For that reason, we strongly recommend that ALL children (including those in child seats and those that have outgrown child restraint devices) sit in the REAR seat properly restrained at all times in a child restraint system or in a seatbelt, whichever is appropriate for the child’s age, height and weight. Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (including forward-facing child restraint systems) in the REAR seats at all times.

NEVER INSTALL A CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM IN THE FRONT PASSENGER’S SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG.

According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. For instructions and precautions concerning child restraint systems, refer to “Child restraint systems” 􀀁P60.

To prevent the passenger from sliding under the seatbelt in the event of a collision, always put the seatback in the upright position while the vehicle is in motion. Also, do not place objects such as cushions between the passenger and the seat-back. If you do so, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious injury or death.

Do not press your feet onto the instrument panel. Doing so may prevent the occupant detection function of the SRS airbag system from functioning correctly, and may result in serious injury or death in the event of an accident.

Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. Do no put cushions or any other materials between occupants and seatbacks or seat cushions. If you do so, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.

• Never stack luggage or other cargo higher than the top of the seatback because it could tumble forward and injure passengers in the event of a sudden stop or accident. Safety tips for head restraint S01AQ0102
  WARNING
• Never drive the vehicle with the head restraints removed because they are designed to reduce the risk of serious neck injury in the event that the vehicle is struck from the rear. Also, never install the head restraints the opposite way round. Doing so will prevent the head restraints from functioning as intended. Therefore, when you remove the head restraints, you must reinstall all head restraints correctly to protect vehicle occupants.
• All occupants, including the driver, should not operate a vehicle or sit in a vehicle’s seat until the head restraints are placed in their proper positions in order to minimize the risk of neck injury in the event of a crash.

Manual seat (if equipped)

Forward and backward adjustment
Pull the lever upward and slide the seat to the desired position. Then release the lever and move the seat back and forth to make sure that it is securely locked into place.

Reclining the seatback

Pull the reclining lever up and adjust the seatback to the desired position. Then release the lever and move the seatback back and forth to confirm that it is securely fixed in place. The seatback placed in a reclined position can spring back upward with force when the lever is pulled. When operating the lever to return the seatback, hold the seatback lightly so that it may be raised back gradually.

Read all Instructions for Seat and Rear Seats Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Seat heater and Seatbelts Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Seat heater and Seatbelts Base Instructions

Seat heater (if equipped)

The seat heater is equipped in the front seats or rear seats (window side seating position).
The seat heater operates when the ignition switch is either in the “ACC” or “ON” position.

Safety precautions

CAUTION

• People with delicate skin may suffer slight burns even at low temperatures if they use the seat heater for a long period of time. When using the heater, always be sure to warn the persons concerned.
• Do not put anything on the seat which insulates against heat, such as a blanket, cushion, or similar items. This may cause the seat heater to overheat.
• When the seat is warmed enough or before you leave the vehicle, be sure to turn off the seat heater.

NOTE
The use of the seat heater for a long period of time, while the engine is not running, can cause battery discharge.

Front seat heater

Front seats

1. HI – Rapid heating
2. LO – Normal heating
3. Off
   • Left-hand side
   • Right-hand side

To turn on the seat heater, push the “LO” or “HI” position on the switch, as desired, depending on the temperature. Selecting the “HI” position will cause the seat to heat up more quicker. To turn off the seat heater, lightly press the opposite side of the current position. The indicator located on the switch illuminates when the seat heater is in operation.

Rear seat heater (if equipped)

CAUTION
Do not open and close the center console lid while operating the rear seat heater switch. There is the risk of fingers being caught in the lid. The seat heater operates when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position.

Rear seat heater switch

1. HIGH mode indicators
2. LOW mode indicators

• Left-hand side
• Right-hand side

Press the rear seat heater switch. Each time you press the switch, the mode will change as follows.

When the LOW mode is selected, the LOW mode indicator on the rear seat heater switch illuminates. When the HIGH mode is selected, both the LOW and HIGH mode indicators illuminate. When the OFF mode is selected, all the indicators turn off. Selecting “HIGH” mode will cause the seat to heat up more quicker.

NOTE
Only the front seat heater switches retain the previous switch position even if the vehicle has restarted. The rear seat heater switch will reset.

Seat Belts

Seatbelt safety tips

WARNING

• All persons in the vehicle should fasten their seatbelts BEFORE the vehicle starts to move. Otherwise, the possibility of serious injury becomes greater in the event of a sudden stop or accident.
• All belts should fit snugly in order to provide full restraint. Loose-fitting belts are not as effective in preventing or reducing injury.
• Each seatbelt is designed to support only one person. Never use a single belt for two or more persons – even children. Otherwise, in an accident, serious injury or death could result.
• Replace all seatbelt assemblies including retractors and attach hardware worn by occupants of a vehicle that has been in a serious accident. The entire assembly should be replaced even if the damage is not obvious.
• Never use a belt that is twisted or reversed. In an accident, this can increase the risk or severity of the injury.
• Keep the lap belt as low as possible on your hips. In a collision, this spreads the force of the lap belt over stronger hip bones instead of across the weaker abdomen.
• Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. To reduce the risk of sliding under the seatbelt in a collision, the front seatbacks should be always used in the upright position while the vehicle is running. If the front seatbacks are not used in the upright position in a collision, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.
• Do not put cushions or any other materials between occupants and seatbacks or seat cushions. If you do so, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.

WARNING
Never place the shoulder belt under the arm or behind the back. If an accident occurs, this can increase the risk or severity of injury.

Read all Instructions for Seat heater and Seatbelts Base User Guide

Subaru 2023 Top Accessories

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Subaru Forester 2023 Seatbelt pretensioners and Child restraint User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Seatbelt pretensioners and Child restraint

Seatbelt pretensioners

The following seatbelts have a seatbelt pretensioner.

• Driver’s seatbelt
• Front passenger’s seatbelt
• Rear passenger’s seatbelt (window- side)

The seatbelt pretensioners are designed to be activated in the event of an accident involving a moderate to severe frontal and side collision and rollover accident.

WARNING 

• To obtain maximum protection, the occupants should sit in an upright position with their seat-belts properly fastened. Refer to “Seatbelts”P48.
• Do not modify, remove or strike the seatbelt retractor assemblies equipped with seatbelt pretensioners or surrounding area. This could result in accidental activation of the seatbelt pretensioners or could make the system inoperative, possibly resulting in serious injury. Seatbelt pretensioners have no user-serviceable parts. For required servicing of seatbelt retractors equipped with seatbelt pretensioners, consult your SUBARU dealer.
• When discarding seatbelt retractor assemblies equipped with seatbelt pretensioners or scrap-ping the entire vehicle due to collision damage or for other reasons, consult your SUBARU dealer.

NOTE

• Seatbelt pretensioners are not de- signed to activate in minor impacts or in rear impacts.
• Pretensioners are designed to function on a one-time-only basis. In the event that a pretensioner is activated, both the driver’s and front passenger’s seatbelt retractor assemblies should be replaced only by an authorized SUBARU dealer. When replacing seatbelt retractor assemblies, use only genuine SUBARU parts.
• If a seatbelt that has a seatbelt pretensioner does not retract or cannot be pulled out due to a mal-function or activation of the pretensioner, contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.
• If the seatbelt retractor assembly or surrounding area has been damaged, contact your SUBARU deal-er as soon as possible.
• When you sell your vehicle, we urge you to inform the buyer that the vehicle is equipped with seatbelt pretensioners. Also, notify the buyer of the contents in this section.

Driver’s seatbelt

The driver’s seatbelt has a shoulder belt pretensioner.

Front seatbelt pretensioner

The pretensioner sensor also serves as follows.

• SRS frontal airbag sensor
• Side impact sensor
• Front door impact sensor
• Rollover sensor

If the sensor detects a certain predetermined amount of force during frontal or side collisions or rollover accidents, any seatbelt that has a seatbelt pre-tensioner is quickly drawn back in by the retractor to take up the slack so that the belt more effectively restrains the seat occupant. The driver’s seatbelt pre-tensioner includes a tension-reducing device that limits the peak forces exerted by the seatbelt on the occupant in the event of a collision.

When a seatbelt pre-tensioner is activated, an operating noise will be heard and a small amount of smoke will be released. These occurrences are normal and not harmful. This smoke does not indicate a fire in the vehicle. Once the seatbelt pre-tensioner has been activated, the seatbelt retractor remains locked. Consequently, the seatbelt cannot be pulled out and retracted and therefore must be replaced.

In cases of rollover accidents, frontal collisions or side collisions, the following components will operate simultaneously
For details, refer to “In cases of a rollover accident, frontal collisions or side collisions, the following components will operate simultaneously” 􀀁1-23.

 Front passenger’s seatbelt
The front passenger’s seatbelt has a shoulder belt and a lap belt pretensioner.

1. Seatbelt retractor assembly (shoulder belt pretensioner and adaptive force limiter)
2. Lap belt pretensioner

On the front passenger’s side, the shoulder belt pre-tensioner is supplemented by a lap belt pre-tensioner, which is and SRS airbags/Seatbelt pretensioners located at the base of the center pillar. Like the shoulder belt pretensioner, the lap belt pretensioner instantaneously pulls in the belt to eliminate slack if a certain level of frontal collision force is detected. As a result, the seatbelt restrains the front seat occupant more effectively.
The front passenger’s seatbelt pre tensioner includes a tension reducing device that limits the peak forces exerted by the seatbelt on the occupant in the event of a collision.
The adaptive force limiter will select a reducing load to the suit body size of occupant as detected by the occupant detection sensor.
When a seatbelt pretensioner is activated, an operating noise will be heard and a small amount of smoke will be released. These occurrences are normal and not harmful. This smoke does not indicate a fire in the vehicle.
Once the seatbelt pretensioner has been activated, the seatbelt retractor remains locked. Consequently, the seatbelt can not be pulled out and retracted and therefore must be replaced.

Seatbelt with shoulder belt and lap belt pretensioners

NOTE
This section is applicable to the front seatbelt.

1. Seatbelt retractor assembly (shoulder belt pre-tensioner and adaptive force limiter)
2. Lap belt pretensioner

The shoulder belt pre-tensioner is supplemented by a lap belt pre-tensioner, which is located at the base of the center pillar. Like the shoulder belt pre-tensioner, the lap belt pretensioner instantaneously pulls in the belt to eliminate slack if a certain level of frontal collision force is detected. As a result, the seatbelt restrains the front seat occupant more effectively.

The front seatbelt pre-tensioner includes a tension-reducing device that limits the peak forces exerted by the seatbelt on the occupant in the event of a collision.
The adaptive force limiter will select a reducing load to the suit body size of the occupant as detected by the occupant detection system sensors.
When a seatbelt pre-tensioner is activated, an operating noise will be heard and a small amount of smoke will be released. These occurrences are normal and not harmful. This smoke does not indicate a fire in the vehicle.

Once the seatbelt pre-tensioner has been activated, the seatbelt pre-tensioner remains locked. Consequently, the seatbelt cannot be pulled out and retracted and therefore must be replaced.

Read all Instructions for Seatbelt pretensioners and Child restraint User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 “SRS Airbag System” Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester SRS Airbag Guidelines

SRS airbag (Supplemental Restraint System airbag)

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) name is used because the airbag system supplements the vehicle’s seatbelts.
This vehicle is equipped with a supple-mental restraint system which consists of seven airbags.

The configurations are as follows.

• Driver’s and front passenger’s frontal airbags
• Driver’s and front passenger’s side airbags
• Curtain airbags (for driver, front passenger, and window-side rear passengers)
• Knee airbag for driver

These SRS airbags are designed only as a supplement to the primary protection provided by the seatbelt.
The system also controls seatbelt pretensioners. For operation instructions and precautions concerning the seatbelt pre-tensioner, refer to “Seatbelt pretensioners” P57.

General precautions regarding SRS airbag system

WARNING

• To obtain maximum protection in the event of an accident, the driver and all passengers must always wear seatbelts when in the vehicle. The SRS airbag is designed only to be a supplement to the primary protection provided by the seatbelt. It does not eliminate the need to fasten seatbelts. In combination with seatbelts, it offers the best protection in case of a serious accident. Not wearing a seatbelt increases the chance of severe injury or death in a crash even when the vehicle has the SRS system. For instructions and precautions concerning the seatbelt system, refer to “Seatbelts” P48.
• The SRS side airbags and SRS curtain airbags are designed only to be a supplement to the primary protection provided by the seat belt. They do not eliminate the need to fasten seatbelts. It is also important to wear a seatbelt to help avoid injuries that can result when an occupant is not seated in a proper upright position.

WARNING
The SRS airbags deploy with considerable speed and force. Occu-pants who are not seated in proper upright position when the SRS air-bag deploys could suffer serious injury. Because the SRS airbag needs enough space for deployment, the driver should always sit upright and back in the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full vehicle control, and the front passenger should move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in the seat.

WARNING

• Do not sit or lean close to either front door. The SRS side airbags are stored in both front seat seatbacks next to the door, and they provide protection by deploying rapidly in the event of a side impact collision. However, the force of SRS side airbag deployment can injure an occupant whose body is too close to an SRS airbag.
• Since your vehicle is equipped with SRS curtain airbags, do not sit or lean close to the front or rear door on either side. Do not put body parts out of the window. The SRS curtain airbags on both sides of the cabin are stored in the roof side (between the front pillar and a point behind the rear quarter glass), and they provide protection by deploying rapidly in the event of a side impact, rollover or an offset frontal collision. However, the force of its deployment can injure an occupant whose body is too close to an SRS airbag.
• Do not sit or lean unnecessarily close to the SRS airbag. Because the SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force to protect in high speed collisions, the force of an airbag can injure an occupant whose body is too close to SRS airbag.
  It is also important to wear seat-belts to help avoid injuries that can result when the SRS airbag contacts an occupant not in their proper position.
  Even when properly positioned, there remains a possibility that an occupant may suffer minor injury, such as abrasions and bruises to the face or arms, because of the SRS airbag deployment force.

WARNING

• Keep arms away from either front door or its internal trim. They could be injured in the event of SRS side airbag deployment.
• Do not place any objects over or near the SRS airbag cover or between you and the SRS airbag. If the SRS airbag deploys, these objects could interfere with its proper operation and could be propelled inside the vehicle, causing injury.

CAUTION

• When the SRS airbag deploys, some smoke will be released. This smoke could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. If you or your passengers have breathing problems after SRS airbag deploys, get fresh air promptly.
• A deploying SRS airbag releases hot gas. Occupants could get burned if they come into direct contact with the hot gas.

NOTE

• When you sell your vehicle, we urge you to inform the buyer that the vehicle is equipped with SRS air-bags. Also, notify the buyer of the applicable section in this Owner’s Manual.
• If the SRS airbag deploys, fuel supply will be cut off to reduce the risk of fire caused by leaking fuel. For details about restarting of the engine, refer to “If your vehicle is involved in an accident” P436.

 General precautions regarding SRS airbag system for accessories and any objects

WARNING

• Do not put any objects (including straps or cords) over the steering wheel pad, column cover, or dashboard.
  • These objects could be entangled with the steering wheel, preventing the SRS frontal airbag, etc. from operating properly.
  • If the SRS frontal airbag de-ploys, these objects could be propelled inside the vehicle, causing injury.
• Do not put any objects under the driver’s side of the instrument panel. If the SRS knee airbag deploys, those objects could interfere with its proper operation and could be propelled inside the vehicle, causing injury.
• The key must not be attached to heavy, sharp or hard accessories, or another key. If the SRS knee airbag deploys, those objects could interfere with its proper operation and could be propelled inside the vehicle and cause injury.

WARNING
Do not attach accessories to the windshield or fit an extra-wide mirror over the inside rear view mirror. If the SRS airbag deploys, those objects could become projectiles that could seriously injure vehicle occupants.

WARNING

• Do not attach accessories to the door trim or near either SRS side airbags and do not place objects near the SRS side airbags. In the event of SRS side airbag deployment, they could be propelled dangerously toward the vehicle’s occupants and cause injuries.
• Do not attach a hands-free micro-phone or any other accessory to a front pillar, a center pillar, a rear pillar, the windshield, a side window, an assist grip, or any other cabin surface that would be near a deploying SRS curtain airbag. A hands-free microphone or other accessory in such a location could be propelled through the cabin with great force by the curtain airbag, or it could prevent correct deployment of the curtain airbag. In either case, the result could be serious injuries.

WARNING

• Do not put any kind of clothes or other objects over either front seatback and do not attach labels or stickers to the front seat surface on or near the SRS side airbag. They could prevent proper deployment of the SRS side airbag, reducing protection avail-able to the front seat’s occupant.
• Do not install a seat cover unless it is a genuine SUBARU seat cover exclusively designed for use with the SRS airbag. Even when using a genuine SUBARU seat cover, the SRS side airbag system may not function normally if the seat cover is not installed correctly.

Read all Instructions for “SRS Airbag System” Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 SRS airbag system monitors Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester SRS airbag system monitors Guidelines

SRS airbag system monitors

SRS airbag system warning light

A diagnostic system continually monitors the readiness of the SRS airbag system (including front seatbelt pretensioners) with the ignition switch in the “ON” position. The SRS airbag system warning light will show normal system operation by illuminating for approximately 6 seconds when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position.

The following components are monitored by the indicator:

• Front impact sensor
  • Right-hand side
  • Left-hand side
• Airbag control module (including impact sensor and rollover sensor) Frontal airbag module
  • Driver’s side
• Front passenger’s side
• Knee airbag module (driver’s side)
• Side impact sensor
  • Center pillar right-hand side
  • Center pillar left-hand side
  • Front door right-hand side
  • Front door left-hand side
  • Rear wheel house right-hand side
  • Rear wheelhouse left-hand side
• Under the rear center seat
• Side airbag module
  • Driver’s side
  • Front passenger’s side
  • Curtain airbag module
  • Right-hand side
  • Left-hand side
  • Seatbelt pretensioner and adaptive force limiter
  • Driver’s side
  • Front passenger’s side
  • Lap belt pretensioner
  • Driver’s side
• Front passenger’s side
• Seatbelt buckle switch (front passenger’s side)
• Front passenger’s occupant detection system sensor
• Front passenger’s occupant detection control module
• Front passenger’s frontal airbag ON and OFF indicator
• All related wiring
• Driver’s seat position sensor
• Passenger’s seat position sensor
• Rear seatbelt pretensioner
  • Right-hand side
  • Left-hand side

WARNING

• If the warning light exhibits any of the following conditions, immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place, and consult a SUBARU dealer. Un-less a technician checks and repairs the system as needed, the seatbelt pretensioners and/or the SRS airbag will not operate properly in the event of a collision, which may result in injury.
• Flashing or flickering of the warn-. No illumination of the warning light when the ignition switch is first turned to the “ON” position. Continuous illumination of the warning light
• Illumination of the warning light while driving

SRS airbag system servicing

WARNING

• When discarding an airbag module or scrapping the entire vehicle damaged by a collision, consult your SUBARU dealer.
• The SRS airbag has no user serviceable parts. Do not use electrical test equipment on any circuit related to the SRS airbag system. For required servicing of the SRS airbag, consult your nearest SUBARU dealer. Tampering with or disconnecting the system’s wiring could result in accidental inflation of the SRS airbag or could make the system inoperative, which may result in serious injury.

CAUTION
If you need service or repair in areas indicated in the following list, have the work performed by an author-ized SUBARU dealer. The SRS air-bag control module, impact sensors and airbag modules are stored in these areas.

• Under the center of the instrument panel
• On both the right and left sides at the front of the vehicle
•  Steering wheel and column and nearby areas
•  Bottom of the steering column and nearby areas
•  Top of the dashboard on front passenger’s side and nearby areas. Each front seat and nearby area . Inside each center pillar
•  Inside each front door
•  In each roof side (from the front pillar to a point over the rear seat)
•  Between the rear seat cushion

Read all Instructions for SRS airbag system monitors Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Key and Keyless access with push-button start User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Key And Keyless Access | Features

NOTE
For models with “keyless access with push-button start system”, refer to “Keyless access with push-button start system” �P111.
The following keys are provided with the vehicle.

1. Master keys
2.  Valet key
3.  Key number plate

These keys can be used in the following locations.

• Ignition switch
• Driver’s door
• Glove box (except the valet key)

The valet key fits only the ignition switch and door locks. You can keep the glove box locked when you leave your vehicle and valet key at a parking facility.

NOTE
Locking/unlocking using the remote keyless entry system can also be controlled with the buttons on the key. For details, refer to “Remote keyless entry system” 􀀁P128.

CAUTION
Do not attach a large key holder or key case to either key. If it bangs against your knees while you are driving, it could turn the ignition switch from the “ON” position to the “ACC” or “LOCK” position, thereby stopping the engine.

 Key number plate

The key number is stamped on the key number plate attached to the key set. Write down the key number and keep it in another safe place, not in the vehicle. This number is needed to make a replacement key if you lose your key or lock it inside the vehicle. Refer to “Key replacement” P127.

Keyless access with a push-button start system (if equipped)

The following access key fobs are provided with the vehicle.

1. Access key fobs
2. Key number plate

The “keyless access with push-button start system” allows the following functions to be performed when the access key fob is being carried.

• Locking and unlocking of doors, rear gate and fuel filler lid (For details, refer to “Locking and unlocking by holding the access key fob” 􀀁P115.)
• Starting and stopping the engine (For details, refer to “Starting and stopping the engine (models with push-button start system)” 􀀁P308.)
• Arming and disarming the alarm system (For details, refer to “Alarm system” P136.)

NOTE

• Locking/unlocking using the remote keyless entry system can also be controlled with the buttons on the access key fob. For details, refer to “Remote keyless entry system” P128.
• Carefully store the key number plate supplied with the access key fob. It is necessary for vehicle repair and additional registration of access key fobs. For details, refer to “Key replacement” P127.

An emergency key is attached to each access key fob.

1. Release button
2. Emergency key

Press the release button of the access key fob to take out the emergency key. The emergency key is used for the following operations.

• Locking and unlocking the driver’s door. Locking and unlocking the glove box.

NOTE
The glove box can be kept locked when the vehicle and the access key fob (with the emergency key removed) are left at a parking facility.

Safety precautions

WARNING
If you wear an implanted pacemaker or an implanted defibrillator, stay at least 8.7 in (22 cm) away from the transmitting antennas installed on the vehicle.
The radio waves from the transmitting antennas on the vehicle could adversely affect the operation of implanted pacemakers and implanted defibrillators.

If you wear electronic medical equipment other than an implanted pacemaker or an implanted defibrillator, before using the keyless access with push-button start system, refer to “Radio waves used for the key-less access with push-button start system” mentioned later, and contact the electronic medical equipment manufacturer for more information. The radio waves from the transmitting antennas on the vehicle could adversely affect the operation of the electronic medical equipment. “Radio waves used for the keyless access with push-button start system”

• The keyless access with a pushbutton start system uses radio waves of the following frequency* in addition to the radio waves used for the remote keyless entry system. The radio waves are periodically output from the antennas installed on the vehicle as shown in the following illustrations.
  *: Radio frequency: 134 kHz

CAUTION

• Never leave or store the access key fob inside the vehicle or within 6.6 ft (2 m) around the vehicle (e.g., in the garage). The access key fob may be locked inside the vehicle, or the battery may discharge rapidly. Note that the push-button ignition switch may not turn on in some cases depending on the location of the access key fob.
• The access key fob contains electronic components. Observe the following precautions to pre-vent malfunctions.
  • It is recommended to have the access key battery replaced at an authorized SUBARU dealer to avoid the risk of damage.
  • Do not get the access key fob wet. If the access key fob gets wet, wipe it off immediately and let it dry completely.
  • Do not apply strong impacts to the access key fob.
  • Never leave the access key fob in direct sunlight or any-where that may become hot, such as on the dashboard. It may damage the battery or cause circuit malfunctions.
  • Do not wash the access key fob in an ultrasonic washer.
  • Do not leave the access key fob in humid or dusty locations. Doing so may cause malfunctions.
  • Keep the access key fob away from magnetic sources.
  • Do not leave the access key fob near a personal computer or home electrical appliance.
  • Do not leave the access key fob near a battery charger or any electrical accessories.
  • Do not apply metallic window tint or attach metallic objects to the windows.
  • Do not fit nongenuine accessories or parts.
• If the access key fob is dropped, the integrated emergency key in-side may become loose. Be careful not to lose the emergency key.
• When traveling in an airplane, do not press the button of the access key fob. If any button of the access key fob is pressed, radio waves are emitted and may affect the operation of the airplane. in a bag, take measures to prevent the buttons from being pressed accidentally.

Read all Instructions for Key and Keyless access with push-button start User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Immobilizer and Remote keyless entry User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Immobilizer and Remote keyless entry

Immobilizer

The immobilizer system is designed to prevent an unauthorized person from starting the engine. Only keys registered with your vehicle’s immobilizer system can be used to operate your vehicle. If engine start is attempted with an unregistered access key fob or key, the engine will not start. Even if the engine does start, it will stop after a few seconds. This system, however, is not a 100% anti-theft guarantee.

CAUTION

• Do not place the key under direct sunlight or anywhere it may become hot.
• Do not get the key wet. If the key gets wet, wipe it dry with a cloth immediately.
• Do not modify or remove the system. If modified or removed, the proper operation of the system cannot be guaranteed.

NOTE

• To protect your vehicle from theft, please pay close attention to the following security precautions:
  • Never leave your vehicle unattended with its keys inside.
  • Before leaving your vehicle, close all windows and the moon-roof, and lock the doors and rear gate.
  • Do not leave spare keys or any record of your key number in the vehicle.
• The vehicle has a maintenance-free type immobilizer system.

Security indicator light

Refer to “Security indicator light” 􀀁P185. & Key replacement Your key number plate will be required if you ever need a replacement key made. Any new key must be registered for use with your vehicle’s immobilizer system before it can be used. The maximum number of keys that can be registered for use with one vehicle is as follows.

• Four (models without “keyless access with push-button start system”)
• Seven (models with “keyless access with push-button start system”)

One key that has already been registered is required in order to register a new key.

NOTE
If you lose a key, the lost key’s ID code still remains in the memory of the vehicle’s immobilizer system. For security reasons, the lost key’s ID code should be erased from the memory. To erase the lost key’s ID code, all keys that will be used are required. For details about new key registration and erasing the lost key’s ID code, contact your SUBARU dealer.

Certification for immobilizer system

• For models with “keyless access with push-button start system”: Refer to “Certification for keyless access with push-button start system” P125.
• For models without “keyless access with push-button start system”:

CAUTION
FCC WARNING
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

NOTE
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Canada-spec. models

NOTE
This device complies with Industry Canada’s license-exempt RSS. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause interference; and
2. This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

CAUTION

• Do not expose the remote transmitter to severe shocks, such as those experienced as a result of dropping or throwing.
• Do not take the remote transmitter apart except when replacing the battery.
• Do not get the remote transmitter wet. If it gets wet, wipe it dry with a cloth immediately.
• When you carry the remote transmitter on an airplane, do not
  press the button of the remote transmitter while in the airplane.
  When any button of the remote transmitter is pressed, radio waves are sent and may affect the operation of the airplane.
  When you carry the remote transmitter in a bag on an airplane, take measures to prevent the buttons of the remote transmitter from being pressed.

Access key fob

1. Lock/arm button
2. Unlock/disarm button
3. Rear gate unlock button
4. PANIC button

Transmitter

1. Lock/arm button
2. Unlock/disarm button
3. Rear gate unlock button
4. PANIC button

The remote keyless entry system has the following functions.

• Locking and unlocking the doors, rear gate and fuel filler lid
• Unlocking the rear gate
• Sounding a panic alarm
•  Arming and disarming the alarm system. For details, refer to “Alarm system” P136.

The operable distance of the remote key-less entry system is approximately 30 feet (10 meters). However, this distance will vary depending on environmental conditions. The system’s operable distance will be shorter in areas near a facility or electronic equipment emitting strong radio waves such as a power plant, broadcast station, TV tower, or remote controller of home electronic appliances.

Read all Instructions for Immobilizer and Remote keyless entry User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Door locks and Alarm system User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Door locks and Alarm system Guidelines

Door locks

Locking and unlocking from the outside

NOTE
If you unlock the driver’s door with a key (including an emergency key) and open the door while the alarm system is armed, the alarm system is triggered and the vehicle’s horn sounds. In this case, perform any of the following operations:

• Models with “keyless access with push-button start system”:
  • Press any button on the access key fob (except when the access key fob battery is discharged).
  • Press the push-button ignition switch to “ACC”.
  • Carry the access key fob and perform either of the following procedures.
  • Grip the front door handle.
  • Press the rear gate opener button.
• Models without “keyless access with push-button start system”:
  •  Press any button on the remote transmitter (except when the transmitter battery is discharged).
  • Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn the ignition switch to “ON”.

For details about the alarm system, refer to “Alarm system” 􀀁P136.

How to lock and unlock the vehicle using the key

1. Rotate the key toward the front to lock
2. Rotate the key toward the rear to unlock.

In this case, only the driver’s side door is locked or unlocked.

NOTE
Models with “keyless access with push-button start system”:
The emergency key is directional. If the key cannot be inserted, change the direction that the grooved side is facing and insert it again.

How to lock the vehicle without using the key
To lock the door from outside without the key, the following methods are available.

Locking using lock lever

1. Rotate the lock lever forward.
2. Close the door.

In this way, only the door that was operated will be locked.

1. Press the lock side of the power door Nocking switch.*
2. Close the door.

For details about the power door locking switch, refer to “How to operate the power door locking switches” 􀀁P134.
In this case, all closed doors, the rear gate and fuel filler lid are locked at the same time.

NOTE
Make sure that you do not leave the key inside the vehicle when locking the doors from the outside without the key.

Locking using a power door locking switch

How to use the lock lever

1. Rotate the lock lever rearward to unlock
2. Rotate the lock lever forward to the lock.

Always make sure that all doors and the rear gate are closed before starting to drive. The red mark on the lock lever appears when the door is unlocked. Pull the inside door handle to open an unlocked door.

WARNING

• Keep all doors locked when you drive, especially when small children are in your vehicle.

Along with the proper use of seatbelts and child restraints, locking the doors reduces the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in an accident.
It also helps prevent passengers from falling out if a door is accidentally opened, and intruders from unexpectedly opening doors and entering your vehicle.

Read all Instructions for Door locks and Alarm system User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Child safety locks and Rear gate Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Child safety locks and Rear gate Guidelines

Child safety locks

Each rear door has a child safety lock. When the child safety lock lever is in the lock position, the door cannot be opened from the inside. The door can only be opened from the outside.

WARNING
Always turn the child safety locks to the “LOCK” position when children sit in the rear seat. Serious injury could result if a child accidentally opens the door and falls out.

WARNING
To avoid serious personal injury caused by entrapment, always conform to the following instructions without exception.

• When operating the power windows, be extremely careful to prevent anyone’s body parts or any other objects from being caught in the window.
• Always lock the passengers’ windows
  using the lock switch when children are riding in the vehicle.
• Always carry the key when you leave the vehicle for safety reasons and never allow an unattended child to remain in the vehicle. Failure to follow this procedure could result in injury to a child operating the power window.
  NOTE
• If the power window system detects resistance, an impact or abnormality, the window operation may be automatically stopped to prevent further jamming, entrapment or malfunction.
• The closing window slides down slightly and stops.
• The opening window stops sliding down.
• The power window system may detect resistance, an impact or an abnormality in the following cases.
• A substantial-sized object is caught between the window and the window frame.
• A foreign object is caught between the window and the window frame.
• The vehicle drives over a deep pothole.
• The window cannot be closed for a few seconds after the window is automatically stopped by the system.

Power window operation

Power window switches
Driver’s side power window switches:

1. For front left window (with one-touch auto up and down feature)
2. For front right window (with one-touch auto up and down feature (if equipped))
3. For rear left window
4. For rear right window
5. Lock switch

All door windows can be controlled by the power window switch cluster on the driver-side door. These switches illuminate when activated.

•  Passenger’s side power window switches:

Each passenger’s window can be controlled by the power window switch located on the door. These switches illuminate when activated.

Read all Instructions for Child safety locks and Rear gate Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Ignition switch, Meters and gauges User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Ignition switch, Meters and gauges Guidelines

Ignition switch (models without “keyless access with push-button start system”)

WARNING

• Never turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK” position while the vehicle is being driven or towed because that will lock the steering wheel, preventing steering control. And when the engine is turned off, it takes a much greater effort than usual to steer.
• Before leaving the vehicle, always remove the key from the ignition switch for safety and never allow an unattended child to remain in the vehicle. Failure to follow this procedure could result in injury to a child or others. Children could operate the power windows, the moonroof or other controls or even make the vehicle move.

CAUTION
Do not attach a large key holder or key case to either key. If it banged against your knees or hands while you are driving, it could turn the ignition switch from the “ON” position to the “ACC” or “LOCK” position, thereby stopping the engine. Also, if the key is attached to a key holder or to a large bunch of other keys, centrifugal force may act on it as the vehicle moves, resulting in unwanted turning of the ignition switch.

The ignition switch has four positions:
LOCK, ACC, ON and START

NOTE

• Keep the ignition switch in the “LOCK” position when the engine is not running.
• Using electrical accessories for a long time with the ignition switch in the “ON” or “ACC” position can cause the battery to go dead.
• If the ignition switch will not move from the “LOCK” position to the “ACC” position, turn the steering wheel slightly to the left and right as you turn the ignition switch.

 Key positions

Position	Description
LOCK	The key can only be inserted or removed in this position. The ignition switch will lock the steering wheel when you remove the key.
ACC	In this position the electrical accessories (audio, accessory power outlet, etc.) can be used.
ON	This is the normal operating position after starting the engine.
START	The engine is started in this position.

 

CAUTION
Do not turn the ignition switch to the “START” position while the engine is running.

NOTE

• To turn the key from the “ACC” to the “LOCK” position, the select lever must be in the “P” position and the key must be pushed in and turned.
• If your registered key fails to start the engine, pull out the key once (the security indicator light will blink), and then insert the key again and turn it to the “START” position again to restart the engine.
• The engine may not start in the following cases:

• The key grip is touching another key or a metallic key holder.
  
• The key is near another key that contains an immobilizer transponder.
• The key is near or touching another transmitter.

Key reminder chime
The reminder chime sounds when the driver’s door is opened and the ignition switch is in the “LOCK” or “ACC” position.
The chime stops under the following conditions.

• The ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position.
• The key is removed from the ignition switch.
• The driver’s door is closed.

 Ignition switch light
For easy access to the ignition switch in the dark, the ignition switch light illuminates when the driver’s door is opened or when the driver’s door is unlocked using the remote keyless entry transmitter. The light remains illuminated for several tens of seconds and then gradually turns off under the following conditions.

• The driver’s door is closed.
• The doors are unlocked using the remote keyless entry transmitter.

The light turns off immediately under the following conditions:

• The ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position.
• All doors and the rear gate are locked using the remote keyless entry transmitter.

Push-button ignition switch (models with “keyless access with push-button start system”)

Safety precautions

Refer to “Safety precautions” 􀀁P112.

 Operating range for push button start system

Read all Instructions for Ignition switch, Meters and gauges User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 llumination brightness, Warning and indicator User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester llumination brightness and indicator Guidelines

Illumination brightness control

The illumination brightness of the instrument panel illuminates under the following conditions.

• The light switch is in the or position when the ambient light is dark.
• The light control switch is in the “AUTO” position and the headlights illuminate automatically.

You can adjust the illumination brightness for better visibility. To brighten, turn the control dial upward. To darken, turn the control dial downward.

NOTE 

• When the control dial is turned fully upward, the illumination brightness becomes the maximum and the automatic dimming function does not work at all.
• The brightness setting is not canceled even when the ignition switch is turned to the “LOCK”/“OFF” position.

 Auto dimmer cancel function

When the ambient light is bright, the illumination brightness is set to the maximum regardless of the position of the control dial. In this case, you cannot adjust the illumination brightness by using the control dial. When the ambient light is dark, you can dim the illumination brightness as described above.
The operational/non-operational setting and sensitivity of the auto dimmer cancel function can be changed by your SUBARU dealer. Contact your SUBARU dealer for details.

Warning and indicator

Initial illumination for system check
Several of the warning and indicator lights illuminate when the ignition switch is initially turned to the “ON” position. This permits checking the operation of the bulbs. Apply the parking brake and turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position. For the system check, several of the following lights illuminate and then turn off after several seconds or after the engine has started.

• Seatbelt warning light (The seatbelt warning light turns off only when the driver fastens the seatbelt.)/Front passenger’s seatbelt warning light (The seatbelt warning light turns off only when the front seat passenger fastens the seatbelt.)
• Rear seatbelt warning light
• SRS airbag system warning light
• Front passenger’s frontal airbag ON indicator light
• Front passenger’s frontal airbag
• CHECK ENGINE warning light/Malfunction indicator light
• Coolant temperature low indicator light/Coolant temperature high warning light
• Charge warning light
• Oil pressure warning light: AT OIL TEMP warning light
• Low tire pressure warning light (U.S. spec. models)
• ABS warning light
• Brake system warning light
• Electronic parking brake light: Low fuel warning light
• AWD warning light
• Power steering warning light
• Vehicle Dynamics Control warning light/ Vehicle Dynamics Control operation indicator light
• Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF indicator light

If any lights fail to illuminate, it indicates a burned-out bulb or a malfunction of the corresponding system. Consult your authorized SUBARU dealer for repair.

Seatbelt warning light and chime

Your vehicle is equipped with a seatbelt warning device at the driver’s and passenger’s seats, as required by current safety standards.

Driver’s and front passenger’s seats
With the ignition switch turned to the “ON” position, this device reminds the driver and front passenger to fasten their seatbelts by illuminating the warning lights in the locations indicated in the following illustration and sounding a chime.

Driver’s seat

Front passenger’s seat

Operation
When the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position, the driver’s and/or front passenger’s warning light will illuminate, then it will blink for several seconds. If the seatbelt of the driver’s seat is not fastened, the warning chime may make a peep sound.

NOTE

• If the driver’s and/or front passenger’s seatbelt(s) are/are not fastened while driving, the seatbelt warning system operates as follows according to the vehicle’s speed.
  •  The warning light will illuminate when driving approximately 4 mph (6 km/h) or less.
  • The warning light will blink, and the warning chime will make a peep sound when driving between approximately 4 mph (6 km/h) and 13 mph (20 km/h). The warning chime will stop when the vehicle stops.
  • The warning light will blink, and the warning chime will sound loud when 15 seconds have elapsed while driving between approximately 4 mph (6 km/h) and 13 mph (20 km/h).
  • The warning light will blink, and the warning chime will sound loud when driving approximately more than 13 mph (20 km/h).
• The warning light will turn off and the warning chime will stop when the seatbelt is fastened.

If there is no passenger in the front passenger’s seat, the seatbelt warning system for the front passenger’s seat will be deactivated. The front passenger’s seatbelt warning system monitors whether or not there is a passenger in the front passenger’s seat.

CAUTION
Observe the following precautions. Failure to do so may prevent the device from functioning correctly or cause the device to fail.

• Do not install any accessory such as a table or TV onto the seat-back.
• Do not store a heavy load in the seatback pocket.
• Do not allow the rear seat occupant to place his/her hands or legs on the front passenger’s seatback, or allow him/her to pull the seatback.
• Do not use front seats with their backward-forward position and seatback not being locked into place securely. If any of them are not locked securely, adjust them again. For the adjusting procedure, refer to “Manual seat”P33.

If the seatbelt warning system for the front passenger’s seat does not function correctly (e.g., it is activated even when the front passenger’s seat is empty or it is deactivated even when the front passenger has not fastened his/her seatbelt), take the following actions.

• Ensure that no article is placed on the seat other than a child restraint system and its child occupant, although we strongly recommend that all children sit in the rear seat properly restrained.
• Ensure that there is no article left in the seatback pocket.
• Ensure that the backward-forward position and seatback of the front passenger’s seat are locked into place securely by moving the seat back and forth.

If still the seatbelt warning system for the front passenger’s seat does not function correctly after taking the relevant corrective actions described above, immediately contact your SUBARU dealer for an inspection.

Read all Instructions for llumination brightness, Warning and indicator User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Door open warning light and Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Door open and Base Guidelines

Door open warning light

The warning light illuminates if any door or the rear gate is not fully closed. This function is effective even if the ignition switch is in the “LOCK”/“OFF” or “ACC” position, or the key is removed from the ignition switch.

For some models, only the open doors are indicated by the warning lights. Always make sure this light is not illuminated before you start to drive.

Engine hood open warning light

The warning light illuminates if the engine hood is not fully closed. This function is effective even if the ignition switch is in the “LOCK”/“OFF” or “ACC” position, or the key is removed from the ignition switch. Always make sure this light is not illuminated before you start to drive.

All-Wheel Drive warning light
This light blinks if the vehicle is driven with tires of differing diameters fitted on the wheels or with excessively low air pressure in any of the tires.

WARNING
If the AWD warning light flashes, promptly park in a safe location then check whether all four tires are the same diameter and whether any of the tires have a puncture or have lost air pressure for some other reason. Continuing to drive with the AWD warning light flashing can lead to powertrain damage.

NOTE
If the temporary spare tire is used, the AWD warning light may flash. Use of the temporary spare tire should therefore be restricted to the minimum time necessary. Replace the temporary spare tire with a conventional tire as soon as possible.

Power steering warning light

While the engine is running, this warning light illuminates when a malfunction has been detected in the electric power steering system.

CAUTION
When the power steering warning light is illuminated, there may be more resistance when the steering wheel is operated. Drive carefully to the nearest SUBARU dealer and have the vehicle inspected immediately.

NOTE
If the steering wheel is operated in the following ways, the power steering control system may temporarily limit the power assist in order to prevent the system components, such as the control computer and drive motor, from overheating.

• The steering wheel is operated frequently and turned sharply while the vehicle is maneuvered at extremely low speeds, such as while frequently turning the steering wheel during parallel parking.
• The steering wheel remains in the fully turned position for a long period of time.
• At this time, there will be more resistance when steering. However this is not a malfunction. Normal steering force will be restored after the steering wheel is not operated for a while and the power steering control system has an opportunity to cool down. However, if the power steering is operated in a non-standard way which causes power assist limitation to occur too frequently, that may result in a malfunction of the power steering control system.

Vehicle Dynamics Control warning light/Vehicle Dynamics Control operation indicator

light Vehicle Dynamics Control warning light

CAUTION
The Vehicle Dynamics Control system provides its ABS control through the electrical circuit of the ABS. Accordingly, if the ABS is inoperative, the Vehicle Dynamics Control system becomes unable to provide ABS control. As a result, the Vehicle Dynamics Control system also becomes inoperative, causing the warning light to illuminate. Although both the Vehicle Dynamics Control system and ABS are inoperative in this case, the ordinary functions of the brake system are still available. You will be safe while driving with this condition, but drive carefully and have your vehicle checked at a SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.

NOTE

• If the electrical circuit of the Vehicle Dynamics Control system itself malfunctions, the warning light only
  illuminates. At this time, the ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) remains fully operational.
• The warning light illuminates when the electronic control system of the ABS/Vehicle Dynamics Control system malfunctions.
• The Vehicle Dynamics Control warning light, ABS warning light, and brake system warning light illuminate simultaneously if the EBD system malfunctions. For further details of the EBD system malfunction warning, refer to “Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) system warning” �P176.

The Vehicle Dynamics Control system is probably inoperative under any of the following conditions. Has your vehicle checked at a SUBARU dealer immediately?

• The warning light does not illuminate when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position.
• The warning light illuminates while the vehicle is running.

NOTE

• If the warning light behavior is as described in the following examples, the Vehicle Dynamics Control system may be considered normal.
• The warning light illuminates when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position and turns off approximately
  2 seconds after the engine has started.
• The warning light illuminates right after the engine is started but turns off immediately, remaining off.
• The warning light illuminates after the engine has started and turns off while the vehicle is subsequently being driven.
• The warning light illuminates during driving, but it turns off immediately and remains off.
• The warning light illuminates when the engine has stalled and continues to illuminate after the engine has been restarted However, it will turn off once the vehicle starts moving.

Vehicle Dynamics Control operation indicator light

The indicator light flashes during activation of the skid suppression function and during activation of the traction control function.

Vehicle Dynamics Control operation indicator light

The indicator light flashes during activation of the skid suppression function and during activation of the traction control function.

NOTE

•  The light may remain illuminated for a short period of time after the engine has been started, especially in cold weather. This does not indicate the existence of a problem. The light should turn off as soon as the engine has warmed up.
•  The indicator light illuminates when the engine has developed a problem and the CHECK ENGINE warning light/malfunction indicator light is on.

The Vehicle Dynamics Control system is probably malfunctioning under the following condition. Have your vehicle checked at a SUBARU dealer as soon as possible. The light does not turn off even after the lapse of several minutes (the engine has warmed up) after the engine has started.

Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF indicator light

The light illuminates when the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF switch is pressed or turned to deactivate the Vehicle Dynamics
Control system. The Vehicle Dynamics Control system is following conditions. Has your vehicle been checked at a SUBARU dealer immediately?

• The light does not illuminate when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position.
• The light does not turn off even once several seconds have elapsed after the ignition switch has been turned to the “ON” position probably malfunctioning under any of the on positions.

Warning chimes and warning indicator of the keyless access with push-button start system (if equipped)

Access key warning indicator

The keyless access with a push-button start system sounds a warning chime and flashes the access key warning indicator on the combination meter in order to minimize improper operations and help protect your vehicle from theft. When the warning chime sounds and/or the warning indicator flashes, take the appropriate action.

Read all Instructions for Door open warning light and Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Multi-function display Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Multi-function display Base System Guidelines

Multi-function display (color LCD) (if equipped)

NOTE

For models with multi-function display (color LCD), refer to “Multi-function display (color LCD)” �P202.

1. Outside temperature indicator
2. X-MODE indicator (if equipped)
3. Driving information display
4. Clock With the ignition switch in the “ACC” position, the clock appears on the display. With the ignition switch in the “ON” position, the outside temperature indicator, driving information display, and clock all appear on the display.

NOTE
The indicated values vary in accordance with changes in the vehicle’s running conditions. Also, the indicated
values may differ slightly from the actual values and should thus be treated only as a guide.

Driving information display

NOTE
You can set the units for both the multifunction display (black and white) and the combination meter at the same time. For details about setting the language and units, refer to “Menu screens” �P196.

 How to change the information display

INFO button

Pressing the INFO button on the steering wheel switches changes the display to the following sequence.

Driving range on remaining fuel

1. When setting the displayed unit as MPH
2. When setting the displayed unit as km/h
3. The driving range indicates the distance that can be driven taking into account the amount of fuel remaining in the tank and
   the average rate of fuel consumption.

1.  When setting the displayed unit as MPH

When setting the displayed unit as km/h If the driving range is shown as “ ”, there is only a tiny amount of fuel left in the tank.

NOTE
The driving range on the remaining fuel is only a guide. The indicated value may differ from the actual driving range on the remaining fuel, so you must immediately fill the tank when the low fuel warning light illuminates.

 Average fuel consumption

1. Displays the driving range per gallon of fuel
2. Displays the driving range per liter of fuel
3.  Displays the fuel consumption per 100 km This display shows the average rate of fuel consumption since the trip meter was last reset.

 TRIP RESET switch

Press the TRIP RESET switch to switch between the displays for the average fuel consumption that corresponds to the A trip meter mileage and the average fuel consumption that corresponds to the B trip meter mileage. When the trip meter display is reset, the corresponding average fuel consumption value is also reset.

NOTE
When the trip meter display is reset, the average fuel consumption corresponding to that trip meter display is not shown until the vehicle has subsequently covered a distance of 1 mile (or 1 km).

Current fuel consumption

1. Displays the driving range per gallon of fuel
2.  Displays the driving range per liter of fuel
3. Displays the fuel consumption per 100 km

This indication shows the rate of fuel consumption at the present moment.

1.  When units in miles is selected
2.  When units in km is selected

This display shows the average vehicle speed since the trip meter was last reset. Pressing the TRIP RESET switch toggles the display between the average vehicle speed corresponding to the A trip meter display and the average vehicle speed corresponding to the B trip meter display. When either of the trip meter displays is reset, the corresponding average vehicle speed value is also reset.

NOTE
When either trip meter display is reset, the average vehicle speed corresponding to that trip meter display is not quaintly covered a distance of 1 mile (or 1 km).Select the blank space in the menu to exit the driving information display selection.

NOTE

• The average fuel consumption and average vehicle speed are calculated even while the driving information display is not displayed.
• Even if you turn off the driving information display, the display will automatically turn on when the battery voltage is disconnected and then reconnected for battery replacement or fuse replacement. Turn off the display of driving information display shown until the vehicle has a subset.

Outside temperature indicator

1.  U.S.-spec. models
2.  Except for U.S.-spec. models

NOTE

•  The outside temperature indicator shows the temperature around the sensor. However, the temperature may not be indicated correctly or the update may be delayed in the following conditions.
•  While parking or driving at low speeds
• When the outside temperature changes suddenly (for example: when going in and out of an underground parking area or when passing through a tunnel)
•  When starting the engine after being parked for a certain period of time

1. The temperature unit cannot be changed.  Road surface freeze warning indication U.S.-spec. models.
2. Except for U.S.-spec. models
   When the outside temperature drops to a certain temperature or lower, the temperature indication flashes for 5 seconds to show that the road surface may be frozen. If the display is already indicating that the outside temperature is low when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position, the indication does not flash.

NOTE
The outside temperature indication may differ from the actual outside temperature. The road surface freeze warning indication should be treated only as a guide. Be sure to check the condition of the road surface before driving.

 X-MODE indicator (if equipped)
This indicator will be shown while X-MODE is activated. It will turn off when X-MODE is deactivated. Clock For details about clock setting, refer to “Clock” �P225.

Multi-function display (color LCD)

NOTE
For models with multi-function display (black and white), refer to “Multi-function display (black and white)” �P198.

WARNING
Always pay adequate attention to safe driving when operating the multi-function display (color LCD) while the vehicle is in motion. When the operation of the multi-function display (color LCD) is disturbing your awareness and ability to concentrate on driving, stop the vehicle in a safe place before performing operations on the screen. Also, do not concentrate on the display while driving. Doing so may cause you to look away from the road and could result in an accident.

Read all Instructions for Multi-function display Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 How to get source Light control switch code User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester source Light control switch code Guidelines

How to get the source code using the open source

Free/Open Source Software Information
This product contains Free/Open Source Software (FOSS).
The license information and/or the source code of such FOSS can be found at the following URL.
http://www.globaldenso.com/en/open-source/ivi/subaru/

Clock

For models with a SUBARU genuine navigation and/or audio system, the clock can be adjusted using either auto mode or manual mode.

• Auto mode: Automatic clock adjustment
• Manual mode: Manual clock adjustment

CAUTION
The clock in the multi-function dis-play (color LCD) cannot be adjusted, if the SUBARU genuine navigation and/or audio system is removed.

Setting the clock manually
Type A multi-function display (black and white)

1. Turn the ignition switch to “ON”.
   
2. Press the button.
3. Select “Settings”.
4. Select “Vehicle”.
5. Select “Time/Date” and then select “Manual”.
   
6. Press the “+” button or the “−” button beside the clock.

 Setting 12-hour or 24-hour display
The clock can be set to a 12-hour or 24-hour display. Perform the following procedure to switch the display format.

1. Turn the ignition switch in the “LOCK”/ “OFF” position.
2. Press and hold the “−” button located near the clock display for approximately 5 seconds. The clock display will then start to flash.
3. While the clock display is flashing, press and hold the “+” button for approximately 2 seconds. The clock format will then change.
4. The clock display will continue to flash for approximately 3 seconds to indicate that the clock display has been changed.

Type B multi-function display (color LCD)

1. Turn the ignition switch to “ON”.
   
2. Press the button.
3. Select “Settings”.
4. Select “Vehicle”.
5. Select “Time/Date” and then select “Manual”.
   
6. Set the each items plus and minus. Select to complete the clock setting.
7. Select “Back” to return to the previous screen without saving settings.

NOTE

• Adjust the time, then select 12h display or 24h display from the format.
• The Birthday/Anniversary and maintenance reminder system function are based on the time and date on the multi-function display (color LCD).

Setting the clock automatically

1. Turn the ignition switch to “ON”.
   
2. Press the button.
3. Select “Settings”.
4. Select “Vehicle”.
5. Select “Time/Date” and then select “Auto”.
6. Press the button again to complete the setting.

Models with navigation system
The clock will be set automatically where a GPS signal is available.

Models without navigation system
The clock will be set and adjusted automatically when a smartphone is connected via Bluetooth® for transferring phonebook data.

1. Register the smartphone to the audio system. For details, refer to “Bluetooth SETTINGS” in the supplemental Owner’s Manual for the audio/navigation system.
   Transfer phonebook data to the system. For details, refer to “Bluetooth SETTINGS” in the supplemental Owner’s Manual for the audio/navigation system. The clock will be adjusted automatically.

NOTE
Depending on the model of smartphone, the settings of the connected smartphone may need to be changed.(ex: For iOS or other models, notification settings may need to be activated.) For details, check the instructions on connecting smartphones.

Regulatory information

Bluetooth
The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

Light control switch

Precautions and tips
CAUTION

• Use of any lights for a long period of time, while the engine is not running, can cause the battery to discharge.
• Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the lights are turned off. If the vehicle is left unattended for a long time with the lights illuminated, the battery may be discharged.

NOTE

• Even if the key is removed from the ignition switch, the lights can be illuminated by operating the light control switch from the “ ” (off) position to the “ ” or “ ” position (models without “keyless access with the push-button system”).
• Even if the push-button ignition switch is turned off, the lights can be illuminated by operating the light control switch from the “ ” (off) position to the “ ” or “ ” position (models with “keyless access with push-button start system”).
• If the driver’s door is opened while the lights are illuminated and the key is removed from the ignition switch, the chirp sound will inform the driver that the lights are illuminated.

Read all Instructions for How to get source Light control switch code User Guide

Subaru Impreza 2023 Steering Responsive Headlight, Wiper And Washer User Guide

2023 Subaru Impreza Steering Headlight | Wiper And Washer Guidelines

Steering Responsive Headlight (SRH)

1. The target area of illumination when SRH is activated.
2.  The target area of illumination when SRH is not activated.
   SRH is a function that automatically moves the headlight beam to the left or right in accordance with the steering angle and vehicle speed. This function helps to improve visibility at night by illuminating the road ahead at corners and intersections.

You can turn the SRH function on or off by pressing the SRH OFF switch.

SRH OFF indicator light

The SRH OFF indicator light on the combination meter turns off when SRH is turned on.
The SRH OFF indicator light on the combination meter illuminates when SRH is turned off. If SRH is malfunctioning, the SRH OFF indicator light on the combination meter flashes when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position. It indicates that SRH has been deactivated. Contact a SUBARU dealer for an inspection.

NOTE

•  If you turn the ignition switch to the “OFF” position with SRH turned off and then start the engine again, SRH will automatically turn on.
• When you turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position, the SRH OFF indicator light will illuminate and turn off after several seconds.
•  SRH only activates when the vehicle is traveling forward at the speed of approximately 5 mph (8 km/h) or more.

Headlight beam leveler

LED headlights produce more light than conventional halogen headlights. When the vehicle is carrying a heavy load and the headlight beams are angled upwards, the driver of an oncoming vehicle may experience glare. To prevent this, the automatic headlight beam leveler adjusts the headlights to the optimum height automatically depending on the load the vehicle is carrying.

CAUTION
In certain circumstances, the headlights may become misaligned, and the headlight beam leveler will not reset them to the proper angle. This may occur after transporting your vehicle on a flatbed truck, or if the vehicle is parked and restarted on different angles. In such cases, have the headlight alignment checked by a SUBARU dealer.

Fog light switch (if equipped)

Except for Canadian models

1. Headlight switch
2. Fog light switch

For Canada models

1. Headlight switch
2. Fog light switch

• The front fog lights will turn on when the fog light switch is placed in the “ ” position while the headlights are in the following
  conditions.
• The headlight switch is in the “ ” position with the low beam mode selected.
• For models with the auto on/off headlights, while the headlight switch is in the “AUTO” position and the low beam headlights turn on automatically. To turn off the front fog lights, perform the following.
• Turn the switch to “ ” (except for Canada models).

Turn the switch to “OFF” (for Canada models).

The indicator light on the combination meter will illuminate when the front fog lights are illuminated.

Turn signal lever

1. Right turn
2. Lane change right signal
3. Lane change left signal
4. Left turn If the lever does not return after cornering, return the lever to the neutral position by hand.
   To signal a lane change, push the turn signal lever up or down slightly and hold it during the lane change. The lever will return automatically to the neutral position when you release it.

One-touch lane changer

To flash the turn signal and turn the signal indicator light three times, push the turn signal lever up or down slightly and immediately release it.

NOTE
The operational/non-operational setting of the one-touch lane changer can be changed by a SUBARU dealer. Contact the nearest SUBARU dealer for details. The setting can also be changed by operating the combination meter display (color LCD). For details, refer to “Vehicle Setting” �P196.

Wiper and washer

WARNING
In freezing weather, do not use the windshield washer until the windshield is sufficiently warmed by the defroster. Otherwise, the washer fluid can freeze on the windshield, blocking your view.

CAUTION

• Do not operate the washer continuously for more than 10 seconds, or when the washer fluid tank is empty. This may cause
  overheating of the washer motor. Check the washer fluid level frequently, such as at fuel stops.
• Do not operate the wipers when the windshield or rear window is dry. This may scratch the glass, damage the blade rubbers and might cause the wiper motor to fail. Before operating the wiper on a dry windshield or rear window, always use the windshield washer.
• In freezing weather, be sure that the blade rubbers are not frozen to the windshield or rear window before switching on the wipers. Attempting to operate the wiper with the blades frozen to the window glass could cause not only the blade rubbers to be damaged but also might cause the wiper motor to fail. If the blade rubbers are frozen to the window glass, be sure to operate the defroster, windshield wiper deicer (if equipped) or rear window defogger before turning on the wiper.
• If the wipers stop during operation because of ice or some other obstruction on the window, this might cause the wiper motor to fail even if the wiper switch is turned off. If this occurs, promptly stop the vehicle in a safe place, turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK”/“OFF” position and clean the window glass to allow proper wiper operation.
• Use clean water if windshield washer fluid is unavailable. In areas where water freezes in winter, use SUBARU Windshield Washer Fluid or the equivalent. Refer to “Windshield washer fluid” �P473.
• Do not clean the blade rubbers with gasoline or a solvent, such as paint thinner or benzene. This will cause deterioration of the blade rubbers.

Read all Instructions for Steering Responsive Headlight, Wiper And Washer User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Mirrors, Horn, Climate Controls and Audio User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Horn, Climate and Audio Guidelines

Mirrors

Always check that the inside and outside mirrors are properly adjusted before you start driving.

Inside mirror

1. Normal position
2. Anti-glare position

Push the tab on the mirror for normal use. To reduce glare from the headlights of the vehicle behind you, pull the tab to the antiglare position.

Auto-dimming mirror/compass with Home Link® (if equipped)

1. Compass
2. Home Link buttons
3. Switch

During nighttime driving, the auto-dimming feature senses distracting glare from vehicle headlights behind you and automatically
dims to eliminate the glare and preserve your vision.

To Operate the Auto-Dimming Feature
Press the “ ” switch to turn the auto-dimming feature on/off. The auto-dimming feature is enabled when the switch’s green LED indicator is on. The auto-dimming feature will default to on with each ignition cycle.

 To Operate the Compass Feature

1. To turn the compass feature on/off, press and hold the “ ” switch for more than 3 seconds or until the display turns on/off. The compass feature will default to on with each ignition cycle.
2. If the display reads “C”, slowly drive the vehicle in circles until the compass is calibrated.

Compass calibration zones

3. To adjust for compass zone variance:

1. Find your current location and zone number on the map.
2. Press and hold the “ ” switch for more than 6 seconds or until a zone number appears in the dis-play.
3. Once the zone number appears in the display, toggle the “ ” switch again until your current location zone number appears. After you stop pressing the switch, your new zone number will be saved. Within a few seconds, the display will show a compass direction.
4. If the vehicle’s magnetics have changed or if the compass appears inaccurate, recalibrate the compass. Press and hold the “ ” switch for more than 9 seconds or until a “C” appears in the display. Once a “C” appears in the display, slowly drive the vehicle in circles until the compass is calibrated.

Home Link® Wireless Control System

The Home Link® Wireless Control System provides a convenient way to replace up to three hand-held radio-frequency remotes used to activate devices such as gate operators, garage door openers, entry door locks, security systems, and even home lighting. The below steps are generic programming instructions; for Genie and Sommer garage door openers, please go directly to the Home Link website. Additional information and programming videos can be found at www.HomeLink.com and www.youtube.com/Home Link Gentex.

CAUTION

• Before programming Home Link to a garage door opener or gate operator, make sure that people and objects are out of the way of
  the device to prevent potential harm or damage.
• When programming a garage door opener, it is advised to park outside of the garage.
• Do not use Home Link with any garage door opener that lacks safety stop and reverse features, as required by U.S. federal safety standards (this includes any garage door opener model manufactured before April 1, 1982). A garage door that cannot detect an object signaling the door to stop and reverse does not meet current U.S. federal safety standards.
• It is also recommended that a new battery be placed in the handheld remote (garage door opener remote) of the device for quicker and more accurate training.
• some vehicles may require the ignition switch to be turned to the “ON” or “ACC” position for programming and/or operation of Home Link.
• Keep the hand-held remote (garage door opener remote) of the device you are programming for use in other vehicles as well as
  for future Home Link programming. It is also suggested that upon the sale of the vehicle, the programmed Home Link buttons
  be erased for security purposes. Refer to “Erasing Home Link Buttons” �P245.

Programming a New Home Link Button

1. Indicator Light
2. Home Link buttons
3. Press and release the Home Link button that you would like to program. The Home Link indicator light will flash
   orange slowly (if not, refer to “Erasing Home Link Buttons” �P245).

1. Garage door opener remote
2. Position the hand-held remote (garage door opener remote) 1 to 3 inches (2 to 8 cm) away from the Home Link button
   that you would like to program.
   NOTE
   Some hand-held remotes (garage door opener remotes) may actually train better at a distance of 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm). Keep this in mind if you have difficulty with the programming process.
   
3. While the Home Link indicator light is flashing orange, press and hold the hand-held remote button. Continue pressing the hand-held remote button until the Home Link indicator light changes from orange to green. You may now release the hand-held remote button.
   NOTE
   Some devices may require you to replace this “Programming a New Home Link Button” step 3 with procedures noted in the “Gate Operator/ Canadian Programming” section. Refer to “Gate Operator/Canadian Programming” �P245.
   
   Indicator light
4. Press the Home Link button that you would like to program and observe the indicator light.
   • If the indicator light remains constant green, your device should operate when the Home Link button is pressed. At this point, if your device operates, programming is complete.
   • If the indicator light rapidly flashes green, firmly press, hold for two seconds and release the Home Link button up to three times to complete the programming process. At this point if your device operates, programming is complete. If the device does not operate, continue with the next step of the programming instructions.
     
5. At the garage door opener motor, (security gate motor, etc.) locate the “Learn”, “Smart”, or “Program” buttons.
   This can usually be found where the hanging antenna wire is attached to the motor-head unit (see the device’s manual to identify this button). The name and color of the button may vary by manufacturer.
   A ladder and/or second person may simplify the following steps.
6. Firmly press and release the “Learn”, “Smart”, or “Program” buttons. You now have 30 seconds in which to complete
   step 7.
   
7. Return to the vehicle and firmly press, hold for two seconds and release the Home Link button up to three times. At this point programming is complete and your device should operate when the Home Link button is pressed and released.
   Status indicators
8. If status indicator arrows appear next to the indicator light, please refer to  “Garage Door Two-Way Communication” �P246.
   In the event that there are still programming difficulties or questions, additional Home Link information and programming
   videos can be found at www.HomeLink.com and www.youtube.com/HomeLinkGentex. For Genie and Sommer garage door openers please go directly to the Home Link website.

Gate Operator/Canadian Programming

Canadian radio-frequency laws require transmitter remote signals to “time-out” (or quit) after several seconds of transmission, which may not be long enough for Home Link to pick up the signal during programming. Similar to this Canadian law, some U.S. gate operators are de-signed to “time-out” in the same manner. The indicator LED on the hand-held remote will go off when the device times out, indicating that it has finished transmitting.
If you live in Canada or you are having difficulties programming a gate operator or garage door opener by using the programming procedures, replace “Programming a New Home Link Button” step 3 with the following:
While the Home Link indicator light is flashing orange, press and release (“cycle”) your device’s hand-held remote every two seconds until the Home Link indicator light changes from orange to green. You may now release the hand-held remote button.

NOTE
If programming a garage door opener or gate operator, it is advised to unplug the device during the “cycling” process to prevent possible overheating. Proceed with “Programming a New Home Link Button” step 4 to complete.

Using Home Link

To operate, simply press and release the programmed Home Link button. Activation will now occur for the trained device (i.e. garage door opener, gate operator, security system, entry door lock, home/office lighting, etc.). For convenience, the hand-held remote of the device may also be used at any time.

Erasing Home Link Buttons

To erase programming from the three buttons (individual buttons cannot be erased but can be “reprogrammed” as outlined below), follow the step noted:
Press and hold the two outer Home Link buttons for at least 10 seconds. The LED indicator will change from continuously lit to rapidly flashing. Release both buttons. Do not hold for longer than 20 seconds. Home Link is now ready to be programmed at any time beginning with “Programming a New Home Link Button” – step 1.

Read all Instructions for Mirrors, Horn, Climate Controls and Audio User Guide

Subaru Impreza 2023 Interior lights And Storage compartment Sedan User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Interior lights And Storage compartment Guidelines

Interior lights

CAUTION
When leaving your vehicle, make sure the lights are turned off to avoid battery discharge.

Map lights

1.  Door interlock switch To turn on the map light, push the switch. To turn it off, push the switch again.

Automatic illumination
When the door interlock switch is in the “DOOR” position, the map lights illuminate automatically in the following cases.

• Any of the doors other than the rear gate (if equipped) is opened.
• The doors are unlocked using the keyless access function (if equipped)
• Refer to “Locking and unlocking by holding the access key fob” �2-7.
• The doors are unlocked using the remote keyless entry system. Refer to “Remote keyless entry system” �2-19.
• The ignition switch is turned from the “ACC” position to the “LOCK”/“OFF” position.

 Dome light

1.  ON
2. DOOR
3. OFF

The dome light switch has the following positions.

ON: The light remains on continuously.

OFF: The light remains off.

DOOR: The dome light illuminates automatically in the following cases.

Any of the doors or the rear gate (5- door models) is opened.

• The doors or the rear gate (5-door models) are unlocked using the keyless access function (if equipped). Refer to
  “Locking and unlocking by holding the access key fob” �2-7.
• The doors or the rear gate (5-door models) are unlocked using the remote keyless entry transmitter. Refer to “Remote keyless entry system” �2-19.
• The ignition switch is turned from the “ACC” position to the “LOCK”/“OFF” position.

Cargo area light (5-door models)

1.  DOOR
2.  OFF
   DOOR: The light illuminates when the rear gate is opened. The light remains illuminated for several seconds and gradually turns off after the rear gate is closed.
   OFF: The light remains off.

OFF delay timer
The following lights have an automatic illumination function.

•  Dome light
•  Map light
•  Cargo area light (5-door models) When the interior light switch is set to the “DOOR” position, the light will automatically
  turn on and turn off depending on the locking and unlocking of the doors, the opening and closing of the doors including
  the rear gate, as well as the position of the ignition switch.

NOTE
The setting for the period of time in which the lights remain on (OFF delay timer) can be changed by a SUBARU dealer. Contact your SUBARU dealer for details. For models with the combination meter display (color LCD), the setting can also be changed by operating the combination meter display (color LCD). For details, refer to “Vehicle Setting” �3-39.

Sun visors

To block out glare, swing down the visors. To use the sun visor at a side window, swing it down and move it sideways.

Sun visor extension plate (if equipped)

With the sun visor positioned over the side window, you can use the sun visor extension plate to prevent glare through the gap between the sun visor and center pillar. To use the extension plate, pull it toward the rear of the vehicle. When you have finished using it, stow it by pushing it toward the front of the vehicle.

CAUTION
Do not pull out the extension plate with the sun visor positioned over the windshield. The extension plate would obstruct your view of the rearview mirror.

Vanity mirror

CAUTION
Keep the vanity mirror cover closed while the car is being driven to avoid being temporarily blinded by the glare of bright light.

To use the vanity mirror, swing down the sun visor and open the vanity mirror cover.

Vanity mirror with light (if equipped)

CAUTION
Keep the vanity mirror cover closed while the car is being driven to avoid being distracted by the light.

To use the vanity mirror, swing down the sun visor and open the vanity mirror cover. The light beside the vanity mirror illuminates when the mirror cover is opened.

Read all Instructions for Interior lights And Storage compartment Sedan User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Accessory Power And Cargo Area Cover User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Accessory Power And Cargo Area Guidelines

Accessory Power Outlets

CAUTION

• Do not place any foreign objects, especially metal ones, such as coins or aluminum foil, into the accessory power outlet. That could cause a short circuit. Always put the cap on the accessory power outlet when it is not in use.
• If the plug on your electric appliance is either too loose or too tight for the accessory power outlet, this can result in a poor contact or cause the plug to get stuck. Only use plugs that fit properly.
• Use of an electric appliance in the accessory power outlet for a long period of time, while the engine is not running, can cause battery discharge.
• Before driving your vehicle, make sure that the plug and the cord on your electrical appliance will not interfere with shifting gears and operating the accelerator and brake pedals. If they do, do not use the electrical appliance while driving.

Electrical power (12 V DC) is available at any of the accessory power outlets when the ignition switch is in either the “ACC” or “ON” position. Accessory power outlets are located in the following places.

Power outlet below the climate control panel

Power outlet in the center console

Power outlet in the cargo area

You can use an in-vehicle electrical appliance by connecting it to an outlet.
The maximum power rating of an appliance that can be connected is 120 W.

CAUTION

• Do not attempt to use a cigarette lighter in the accessory power outlets.
• Use only electrical appliances which are designed for 12 V DC.
  The maximum power rating of an appliance that can be connected is 120 W. Do not use an appliance which exceeds the indicated wattage for each outlet.
• When using appliances connected to two outlets simultaneously, the total power consumed by them must not exceed 120 W. Overloading the accessory power outlet can cause a short circuit. Do not use double adapters or more than one electrical appliance.

NOTE
When the lid of the center console is closed, an opening remains between the center console and the lid to allow the power outlet in the center console to be used. Pass the cord of the electrical appliance through this opening.

Use with the cigarette lighter (dealer option)

To use the accessory power outlet as a cigarette lighter socket, purchase the cigarette lighter plug, which is an optional accessory. A cigarette lighter plug is available from your SUBARU dealer. The cigarette lighter operates only when the ignition switch is in the “ON” or “ACC” position. To use the cigarette lighter, push in the knob and wait a few moments. It will automatically spring up when ready for use.

WARNING
To avoid being burned, never grasp the lighter by the end with the heating element.

CAUTION

• Doing so could result in injury and could also  because it will overheat.
• The electrical power socket is originally designed to use a genuine SUBARU cigarette lighter plug. Do not use a non-genuine cigarette lighter plug in the sock-et. Doing so may cause a short-circuit and overheating, resulting in a fire.
• If the socket is ever used for a plug-in accessory such as a cell phone, that may damage the portion of the socket’s internal mechanism that causes a cigarette lighter plug to “pop out” after its lighter element is heated. Therefore, do not place a cigarette lighter plug in a socket that has been used, even once, to power a plug-in accessory. Doing so may cause the plug to stick and overheat, creating a potential fire hazard.

USB power supply

CAUTION

• The specification of a USB terminal that can be used is the A-type. If a different specification of the terminal is connected, a power supply or charging may not be possible, or the device may malfunction.
• There is a risk that a connected device may malfunction or data may be damaged. The connection of a device shall be performed at your responsibility.
• To avoid an electric shock or a malfunction, observe the following precautions.
  • Do not connect a USB hub.
  • Do not insert any metal or other foreign objects into the USB terminal
  • Do not spill water or other liquid on the USB terminal.
• Be careful not to pull the connected cable. Doing so could break the USB terminal and the connected device.
• If a device is connected for a long time when the engine is not running, the battery may be discharged. Even when the engine is running, we recommend that you do not connect a device for an unnecessarily long time.
• Do not connect a malfunctioning device. Doing so may cause smoke and fire.

NOTE

• The rated voltage of each USB terminal is DC 5 V/2.1 A (total 4.2 A). Before connecting a device, be sure to read the instruction manual of the device and check whether or not this specification of the output is supported by the device. If a device that requires power exceeding the maximum rating is connected, power supply or charging may not be possible. Even if charging could be completed, the time required for charging may be longer than when the genuine charger for that device is used.
• Depending on the device, charging may be possible only when a special cable is used. In this case, be sure to connect the device using the special cable.
• When a device that communicates with a PC is connected, power supply or charging may not be possible.
• When connect a device for charging, disconnect the device promptly after charging is completed.

How to use the USB power supply

Read all Instructions for Accessory Power And Cargo Area Cover User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Cargo Tie-Down Hooks Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Cargo Tie-Down Hooks Base

Cargo Tie-Down Hooks

The cargo area is equipped with several tie-down hooks so that cargo can be secured with a cargo net or ropes. When using the tie-down hooks, turn them down out of the storing recesses.

CAUTION
The cargo tie-down hooks are de-signed only for securing light cargo. Never try to secure cargo that exceeds the capacity of the hooks. The maximum load capacity is 22 lbs (10 kg) per hook.

Cargo upper hooks

There are two hooks on the lining in the cargo area. Use them to hang or secure lightweight objects when the vehicle is stopped.

WARNING
Do not hang anything on the hooks that produces a flame. Flammable gas may fill the inside of the vehicle or cause a fire.

CAUTION
When using a hook, observe the following precautions.

• Do not drive with an object hanging on a hook. There is a risk that you will not be able to see behind you, or that an object may be propelled when braking or start-ing suddenly, which could lead to an accident or injury
• Do not hang heavy or large ob- jects on the hook.
  Maximum load capacity: 6 lbs (3 kg)
• Do not use the hooks to secure the child restraint system.
  . On hot, sunny days, do not leave. Do not use the hooks to secure the child restraint system.
• On hot, sunny days, do not leave objects hanging from the hooks for a long time. If the inside of the car becomes hot, the hook may be deformed, and the hanging objects may fall.

Under-floor storage compartment (if equipped)

NOTE
The shape of the storage compartment may be different depending on the model.

The storage compartment is located under the floor of the cargo area and can be used to store small items. Pull the strap to open the center part of the cargo floor lid, and then remove the lid.

CAUTION

• Always keep the lid of the storage compartment closed while driving to reduce the risk of injury in the event of sudden stop or an accident.
• Do not store spray cans, containers with flammable or corrosive liquids or any other dangerous items in the storage compartment.

Front View Monitor (if equipped)

The image from the camera mounted inside the front grille is displayed in the multi-function display (color LCD). This eliminates blind spots and allows the driver to check the forward direction of both sides.

WARNING

• Never rely on only the Front View Monitor when driving the vehicle. The image on the monitor screen may be different from the actual situation. If you drive the vehicle by viewing only the monitor image, a collision or an unexpected accident may occur. When driving the vehicle, always check the traffic around the vehicle directly with your eyes and the mirrors.
• Always operate the vehicle as you would without the Front View Monitor.
• Do not use the Front View Monitor in the following situations.
  • You are driving on a dirt road or a road covered in snow.
  • The camera malfunctions (e.g. the lens or bracket is broken).
• If the outside temperature is low, the monitor screen may become dark or the image may become dim. In particular, the image of a moving object may be distorted or disappear from the screen. You must always check the traffic around the vehicle directly with your eyes when driving it.

 How to access the Front View Monitor

 Front view monitor switch

To change over to the camera screen, perform either of the following operations when the ignition switch is in the “ACC” or “ON” position.

• Press the front view monitor switch.Shift the select lever from “R” to “D”.

How to cancel the Front View Monitor

Manual cancellation

• Press the front view monitor switch.
• Press the INFO button.

Automatic cancellation
If any of the following conditions are met, the Front View Monitor is canceled automatically.
After accessing the Front View Monitor by pressing the front view monitor switch:

• Approximately 3 minutes have passed since the last operation.
• The vehicle speed becomes 13 mph (20 km/h) or more*.
• The select lever is shifted to the “P” position.
• The parking brake is applied.

The Front View Monitor can be activated when pressing the front view monitor switch, regardless of the vehicle speed.
When the Front View Monitor is activated at speeds of more than 13 mph (20 km/h), to cancel the Front View Monitor, the vehicle speed needs to be decreased to less than 13 mph (20 km/h) and then increased to more than 13 mph (20 km/h).

Read all Instructions for Cargo Tie-Down Hooks Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Fuel Base User Guide

https://autouserguide.com/subaru/forester/subaru-forester-2023-fuel-base-user-guide/

Fuel

CAUTION

• Use of a fuel which is low in quality or use of an inappropriate fuel additive may cause damage to the engine and/or fuel system.
• Some gas stations, particularly those in high altitude areas, offer fuels posted as regular octane gasoline with an octane rating below 87 AKI (90 RON). Use of those fuels is not recommended.

Fuel requirements

The engine is designed to operate using unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 AKI (90 RON) or higher.

Fuel octane rating

Using a gasoline with a lower octane rating can cause persistent and heavy knocking, which can damage the engine. Do not be concerned if your vehicle sometimes knocks lightly when you drive up a hill or when you accelerate. Contact your SUBARU dealer if you use a fuel with the specified octane rating and your vehicle knocks heavily or persistently.

RON

This octane rating is the Research Octane Number.

AKI

This octane rating is the average of the Research Octane and Motor Octane numbers and is commonly referred to as the Anti Knock Index (AKI).

Unleaded gasoline

The neck of the fuel filler pipe is designed to accept only an unleaded gasoline filler nozzle. Under no circumstances should leaded gasoline be used because it will damage the emission control system and may impair drivability and fuel economy.

Reformulated gasoline

SUBARU supports the use of reformulated gasoline when available. Reformulated gasoline has been blended to burn more cleanly and reduce vehicle emissions.

MMT

Some gasoline contains an octane enhancing additive called MMT (Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl). If you use such fuels, your emission control system performance may deteriorate and the CHECK ENGINE warning light/Mal-function indicator light may turn on. If this happens, return to your authorized SUBARU dealer for service. If it is deter-mined that the condition is caused by the type of fuel used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty.

Gasoline for cleaner air

Your use of gasoline with detergent additives will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system. This helps keep your engine in tune and your emission control system working properly, and is a way of doing your part for cleaner air. If you continuously use a high-quality fuel with the proper detergent and other additives, you should never need to add any fuel system cleaning agents to your fuel tank. Many gasolines are now blended with materials called oxygenates.

Use of these fuels can also help keep the air cleaner. Oxygenated blend fuels, such as ethanol (ethyl or grain alcohol) may be used in your vehicle, but should contain no more than 10% ethanol for the proper operation of your SUBARU. Do not use any gasoline that contains more than 10% ethanol, including from any pump labeled, E15, E30, E50 or E85 (which are only some examples of fuel containing more than 10% ethanol). In addition, some gasoline suppliers are now producing reformulated gasolines, which are designed to reduce vehicle emissions. SUBARU approves the use of reformulated gasoline. If you are not sure what the fuel contains, you should ask your service station operators if their gasolines contain detergents and oxygenates and if they have been reformulated to reduce vehicle emissions. As additional guidance, only use fuels suited for your vehicle as explained in the following description.

• Fuel should be unleaded and have an octane rating no lower than that specified in this manual.
• Methanol (methyl or wood alcohol) is sometimes mixed with unleaded gasoline. Methanol can be used in your vehicle ONLY if it does not exceed 5% of the fuel mixture AND if it is accompanied by sufficient quantities of the proper solvents and corrosion inhibitors required to prevent damage to the fuel system. Do not use fuel containing methanol EXCEPT under these conditions.
•  If undesirable drive ability problems are experienced and you suspect they may be fuel related, try a different brand of gasoline before seeking service at your SUBARU dealer.
•  Fuel system damage or drive ability problems which result from the use of improper fuel are not covered under the SUBARU Limited Warranty.

CAUTION
Do not let fuel spill on the exterior surfaces of the vehicle. Because fuel may damage the paint, be sure to wipe off any spilled fuel quickly. Paint damage caused by spilled fuel is not covered under the SUBARU Limited Warranty.

Fuel filler lid and cap

 Locations of the fuel filler lid
Refueling
Only one person should be involved in refueling. Do not allow others to approach the area of the vehicle near the fuel filler pipe while refueling is in progress. Be sure to observe any other precautions that are posted at the service station.

1. Before refueling, stop the vehicle, then turn off the ignition switch to turn off all the electrical components. At this time, the fuel filler lid also unlocks.
   NOTE
   When you lock the door, the fuel filler lid also locks. To unlock the fuel filler lid, perform one of the operations below.
   •  Press the unlock button on the key fob.
   • Press the unlock side of the power door locking switch.2. Push the rear side of the fuel filler lid.
2. The fuel filler lid opens automatically.
3. Open it further by hand.
   WARNING
   Before opening the fuel filler cap, first touch the vehicle body or a metal portion of the fuel pump or similar object to discharge any static electricity that may be present on your body. If your body is carrying an electrostatic charge, there is a possibility that an electric spark could ignite the fuel, which could burn you. To avoid acquiring a new static electric charge, do not get back into the vehicle while refueling is in progress.

   

   1.  Open
   2. Close
4. Remove the fuel filler cap by turning it slowly counterclockwise.

WARNING

1. •  Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. Before refueling, always turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK”/“OFF” position first and then close all vehicle doors and windows. Make sure that there are no lighted cigarettes, open flames or electrical sparks in the adjacent area. Only handle fuel outdoors. Quickly wipe up any spilled fuel.
   •  When opening the cap, grasp it firmly and turn it slowly to the left. Do not remove the cap quickly. Fuel may be under pressure and spray out of the fuel filler neck, especially in hot weather. If you hear a hissing sound while you are removing the cap, wait for the sound to stop and then slowly open the cap to prevent fuel from spraying out and creating a fire hazard.
     
2. Set the fuel filler cap on the cap holder inside the fuel filler lid.
   WARNING
   • When refueling, insert the fuel nozzle securely into the fuel filler pipe. If the nozzle is lifted or not fully inserted, its automatic stopping mechanism may not function, causing fuel to overflow the tank and creating a fire hazard.
   • Stop refueling when the automatic stop mechanism on the fuel nozzle activates. If you continue to add fuel, temperature
     changes or other conditions may cause fuel to overflow from the tank and create a fire hazard.
3.  Stop filling the tank after the fuel filler pump automatically stops. Do not add any more fuel.
4. Put the cap back on and turn it clock-wise until you hear a clicking noise. Be certain not to catch the tether under the cap while tightening.
   CAUTION
   Make sure that the cap is tightened until it clicks to prevent fuel spillage in the event of an accident.
5. Close the fuel filler lid completely.

Read all Instructions for Fuel Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Remote engine start system Base User Guide

https://autouserguide.com/subaru/forester/subaru-forester-2023-remote-engine-start-system-base-user-guide/

Remote engine start system (dealer option

WARNING

• There are some general precautions when starting the engine. Carefully read the precautions described in “General precautions when starting engine” P306.
• Do not remote start a vehicle in an enclosed environment (e.g. closed garage). Prolonged operation of a motor vehicle in an enclosed environment can cause a harmful build-up of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is harmful to your health. Exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide can cause headaches, dizziness or in extreme cases unconsciousness and/or death.

The remote engine start system allows you to start the engine from outside the vehicle. In addition, the remote engine start system can activate the heater or air conditioner, providing you with a comfortable cabin upon entry. For more details, refer to the Owner’s Manual supplement for the remote engine start system.

NOTE

• The length of time for which it is acceptable to allow the engine to remain idling may be bound by local laws and regulations. Check the local rules when using the remote engine start system.
• When taking your vehicle in for service, it is recommended that you inform the service personnel that your vehicle is equipped with a remote engine start system.

Remote engine starter transceiver (fob)

Starting the engine

NOTE
All vehicle doors (including rear gate) and the engine hood must be closed prior to activating the remote engine start system. Any open entry point will prevent starting or cause the engine to stop.
The remote engine start system is activated by pressing the fob button on your remote engine starter transceiver (fob) twice within 3 seconds. If the fob is within operating range of the system and the start request is received, the following will occur.

•  The fob flashes and beeps once.
• The horn sounds once.
• The side marker lights, tail lights, and parking lights flash once.

If the fob is not within range (the user is too far away from the vehicle), the fob will indicate two long flashes without beeping.
The system will check certain safety preconditions before starting, and if all conditions are met, the engine will start within 5 seconds. After the engine starts, the following will occur.

• The fob flashes and beeps twice.
• The horn sounds once.
• The side marker lights, tail lights, and parking lights flash once.

While the engine is idling via the remote engine start system, the following will occur.

• The side marker lights, tail lights, and parking lights remain illuminated.
• The fob button flashes once every 3 seconds.
• The power windows are disabled.

If the engine turns over but does not start (or starts and stalls) the remote engine start system will power off and then attempt to start the engine 3 additional times. The system will not attempt to restart the engine if it determines a vehicle malfunction is preventing starting. If the engine does not start after 3 additional attempts, the remote engine start request will be aborted.

Stopping the engine
Press and hold the fob button for at least 2 seconds to stop the engine. The fob will flash and beep three times, indicating the engine has stopped. If the stop request is not received (for example, if the user is too far away from the vehicle), the fob will continue to flash once every 3 seconds. The system will automatically stop the engine after 15 minutes.

Remote start safety features
For safety and security reasons, the remote engine start system will prevent starting (or stop the engine if running) and sound the horn twice if any of the following conditions is detected. In addition, the fob will flash and beep 3 times.

• The total run time has exceeded 20 minutes.
• The brake pedal is depressed.
• A key is in the ignition switch.
• The engine hood is open.
• The engine idle speed exceeds 3,500 rpm.
• The security alarm is triggered.
• The select lever is not in the “P” position.

If the system detects any door (including the rear gate) open during operation, it will prevent starting or stop the engine, and sound the horn and flash side marker lights, tail lights, and parking lights 6 times.
In addition to the items above, if the vehicle’s engine management system determines there is a safety risk due to a vehicle-related problem, the vehicle will power down and the horn will sound 3 times.

Read all Instructions for Remote engine start system Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Continuously variable transmission Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester variable transmission Base Guidelines

Continuously variable transmission

WARNING
Do not shift from the “P” or “N” position into the “D” or “R” position while depressing the accelerator pedal. This may cause the vehicle to jump forward or backward.

CAUTION

•  Observe the following precautions. Otherwise, the transmission could be damaged.
• Shift into the “P” or “R” position only after the vehicle has completely stopped.
•  Do not shift from the “D” position into the “R” position or vice versa until the vehicle has completely stopped.
• Do not race the engine for more than 5 seconds in any position except the “N” or “P” position when the brake is applied or when chocks are used in the wheels. This may cause the transmission fluid to overheat.
• Never move the vehicle as follows. Doing so may result in an unexpected accident or malfunction.
•  Moving rearward by inertia with the select lever set in a forward driving position.
•  Moving forward by inertia with the select lever set in the “R” position.
• When parking the vehicle, first securely apply the parking brake and then place the select lever in the “P” position. Avoid parking for a long time with the select lever in any other position as doing so could result in a dead battery.

Continuously variable transmission features

The continuously variable transmission is electronically controlled and provides an infinite number of forward speeds and 1 reverse speed. It also has a manual mode or an “L” position.

NOTE

• When the engine coolant temperature is still low, the transmission will shift at higher engine speeds than when the coolant temperature is sufficiently high in order to shorten the warm-up time and improve driveability. The gearshift timing will automatically shift to the normal timing after the engine has warmed up.
•  Immediately after the transmission fluid is replaced, you may feel that the transmission operation is somewhat unusual. This results from invalidation of data which the onboard computer has collected and stored in memory to allow the transmission to shift at the most appropriate times for the current condition of your vehicle. Optimized shifting will be restored as the vehicle continues to be driven for a while.
• continuous heavy load conditions such as when towing a camper or climbing a long, steep hill, the engine speed or the vehicle speed may automatically be reduced. This is not a malfunction. This results from the engine control function maintaining the cooling performance of the vehicle. The engine and vehicle speed will return to a normal speed when the engine is able to maintain the optimum cooling performance after the heavy load decreases. Driving under a heavy load must be performed with extreme care. Do not try to pass a vehicle in front when driving on an uphill slope while towing.
• The continuously variable transmission is a chain type system that provides superior transmission efficiency for maximum fuel economy. At times, depending on varying driving conditions, a chain operating sound may be heard that is characteristic of this type of system.

Select lever

Type A

Select lever button

Type B

 Select lever button

1.  Models with “L” position
2.  Models with manual mode

With the brake pedal depressed, shift while pressing the select lever button in.

•  Shift while pressing the select lever button in.
• Shift without pressing the select lever button.

The select lever has four positions, “P”, “R”, “N”, “D” and it also has an “L” or “M” gate.

NOTE
For some models, to protect the engine while the select lever is in the “P” or “N” position, the engine is controlled so that the engine speed may not become too high even if the accelerator pedal is depressed hard.

P (Park)
This position is for parking the vehicle and starting the engine. In this position, the transmission is mechanically locked to prevent the vehicle from rolling freely. When you park the vehicle, first apply the parking brake firmly, then shift into the “P” position. Do not hold the vehicle with only the mechanical friction of the transmission. To shift the select lever from the “P” position to any other position, you should depress the brake pedal fully then move the select lever. This prevents the vehicle from lurching when it is started.

R (Reverse)
This position is for backing the vehicle. To shift from the “N” to “R” position, stop the vehicle completely then move the lever to the “R” position while pressing the select lever button in. When the ignition switch has been turned to the “ACC” position, the movement of the select lever from the “N” to “R” position is only possible by depressing the brake pedal. For details, refer to “Shift lock function” �P324.

N (Neutral)
This position is for restarting a stalled engine. In this position, the transmission is neutral, meaning that the wheels and transmission are not locked. Therefore, the vehicle will roll freely, even on the slightest incline unless the parking brake or foot brake is applied. Avoid coasting with the transmission in neutral. Engine braking has no effect in this condition.

Read all Instructions for Continuously variable transmission Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Electronic Brake Force Distribution Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Electronic Brake Force Distribution Base Guidelines

Electronic Brake Force Distribution

The EBD system maximizes the effective-ness of the brakes by allowing the rear brakes to supply a greater proportion of the braking force. It functions by adjusting the distribution of braking force to the rear wheels in accordance with the vehicle’s loading condition and speed. The EBD system is an integral part of the ABS and uses some of the ABS components to perform its function of optimizing the distribution of braking force. If any of the ABS components used by the EBD system malfunction, the EBD system also stops working. When the EBD system is operating, you may hear a chattering noise or feel a slight vibration in the brake pedal. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

If EBD system malfunctions

If a malfunction occurs in the EBD system, the system stops working and the following warning lights illuminate simultaneously. . Brake system warning light

•  ABS warning light
• Vehicle Dynamics Control warning light

If the both warning light remains on even though the parking brake is released, the brake fluid level may be low or there could be a problem with the EBD system. Park the vehicle in a safe place immediately and contact a Subaru dealer.

WARNING

• Driving with the brake system warning light illuminated is dangerous. This indicates your brake system may not be working properly. If the light remains illuminated, have the brakes inspected by a SUBARU dealer immediately.
• If at all in doubt about whether the brakes are operating properly, do not drive the vehicle. Have your vehicle towed to the nearest SUBARU dealer for repair.

Vehicle Dynamics Control system

Safety precautions

WARNING
Always use the utmost care in driving – overconfidence because you are driving a vehicle with the Vehicle Dynamics Control system could easily lead to a serious accident.

CAUTION

• Even if your vehicle is equipped with the Vehicle Dynamics Control system, winter tires should be used when driving on snow covered or icy roads; in addition, vehicle speed should be reduced considerably. Simply having a Vehicle Dynamics Control system does not guarantee that the vehicle will be able to avoid accidents in any situation.
• Activation of the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is an indication that the road on which the vehicle is traveling has a slippery surface; since having Vehicle Dynamics Control is no guarantee that full vehicle control will be maintained at all times and under all conditions, its activation should be seen as a sign that the speed of the vehicle should be reduced considerably.
• Whenever suspension components, steering components, or an axle are removed from a vehicle, have an inspection of that system performed by an authorized SUBARU dealer.
•  The following precautions should be observed in order to ensure that the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is operating properly:
  • All four wheels should be fitted with tires of the same size, type, and brand. Further-more, the amount of wear should be the same for all four tires.
  • Keep the tire pressure at the proper level as shown on the vehicle placard attached to the driver’s side door pillar.
  • Use only the specified temporary spare tire to replace a flat tire. With a temporary spare tire, the effectiveness of the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is reduced and this should be taken into account when driving the vehicle in such a condition.
•  If non-matching tires are used, . If non-matching tires are used,
• The Vehicle Dynamics Control system helps prevent unstable vehicle motion such as skidding using control of the brakes and engine power. Do not turn off the Vehicle Dynamics Control system unless it is absolutely necessary. If you must turn off the Vehicle Dynamics Control system, drive very carefully according to the road surface conditions.

System features
In the event of wheelspin and/or skidding on a slippery road surface and/or during cornering and/or an evasive maneuver, the Vehicle Dynamics Control system adjusts the engine’s output and the wheels’ respective braking forces to help maintain traction and directional control.

• Traction Control Function
  The traction control function is designed to prevent spinning of the driving wheels on slippery road surfaces, thereby helping to maintain traction and directional control. Activation of this function is shown by flashing the Vehicle Dynamics Control operation indicator light.
• Skid Suppression Function
  The skid suppression function is designed to help maintain directional stability by suppressing the wheels’ tendency to slide sideways during steering operations. Activation of this function is shown by flashing the Vehicle Dynamics Control operation indicator light.

NOTE

• • The Vehicle Dynamics Control system may be considered normal when the following conditions occur.
  • Slight twitching of the brake pedal is felt.
    The vehicle or steering wheel shakes to a small degree.
  • An operating sound from the engine compartment is heard briefly when starting the engine and when driving off after starting the engine.
• The brake pedal seems to jolt when driving off after starting the engine.
•  In the circumstances shown in the following list, the vehicle may be less stable than it feels to the driver. The Vehicle Dynamics Control system may therefore operate. Such operation does not indicate a system malfunction.
  • On gravel-covered or rutted roads
  • On unfinished roads
  • When the vehicle is towing a trailer
  • When the vehicle is fitted with snow tires or winter tires.
• Activation of the Vehicle Dynamics Control system will cause operation of the steering wheel to feel slightly different compared to that for nor-mal conditions.
• It is always important to reduce speed when approaching a corner, even if your vehicle is equipped with the Vehicle Dynamics Control system.
• Always turn off the engine before replacing a tire. Failure to do so may render the Vehicle Dynamics Control system unable to operate correctly.

Vehicle Dynamics Control system monitor

Refer to “Vehicle Dynamics Control warning light/Vehicle Dynamics Control operation indicator light” P179 and “Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF indicator light”  P180.

Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF switch

Read all Instructions for Electronic Brake Force Distribution Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Parking your vehicle Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Parking Base Guidelines

Parking your vehicle

Electronic parking brake

1. Parking brake switch
2. Indicator light
3. Release the electronic parking brake
4. Apply the electronic parking brake

WARNING

• Before exiting the vehicle, make sure that you turn off the engine. Otherwise, the parking brake may be released and an accident may occur.
• If the brake system warning light turns on, the electronic parking brake system may be malfunctioning. Immediately stop your
  vehicle in a safe location, use tire stops under the tires to prevent the vehicle from moving and contact your SUBARU dealer.
• If you operate the electronic parking brake when the brake is overheated or the vehicle is on a steep slope, the electronic parking brake indicator light may flash. In this case, the vehicle may start to move and it may lead to an accident. Always use the tire stops.

CAUTION

• When the electronic parking brake system has a malfunction and the parking brake cannot be applied, contact your SUBARU dealer immediately for an inspection. If you have to park your vehicle in such conditions, perform the following procedure.
• Stop your vehicle in a flat location.
• Shift the select lever in the “P” position. When the select lever cannot be shifted into the “P” position, you must release shift lock. Refer to “Shift lock function” �P324.
• Use tire stops under the tires to prevent the vehicle from moving.
• Never drive with the parking brake applied. Doing so will cause unnecessary brake pad wear. Before driving off, always make sure that the parking brake has been released and the brake system warning light has turned off.

Your vehicle is equipped with an electronic parking brake. You can apply/release the parking brake by operating the parking brake switch.
To apply: Depress the brake pedal and pull up the parking brake switch.

To release: Press the parking brake switch firmly while the ignition switch is in the “ON” position and the brake pedal is depressed. When the parking brake is applied while the ignition switch is in the “ON” position, the electronic parking brake indicator light and the indicator light on the parking brake switch illuminate. Refer to “Brake system warning light (red)” �P175.

NOTE

• If you press the parking brake switch under the following conditions, the parking brake will not be released.
  •  The ignition switch is in the “ACC” or “LOCK”/“OFF” position.
  •  You are not depressing the brake pedal.
• The electronic parking brake system uses motors to apply the parking brake. Therefore, operating sounds from the motors will be heard when applying or releasing the parking brake. Make sure that the motor sounds are heard when applying or releasing the parking brake.
• If you operate the parking brake switch under the following conditions, a chirp will sound and the electronic parking brake indicator light will flash.
• When the electronic parking brake system has a malfunction.
• When the electronic parking brake operation is prohibited temporarily.
• When you cannot release the parking brake due to, for example, a system malfunction, contact your SUBARU dealer and have your SUBARU dealer release the parking brake.
• If you stop operating the electronic parking brake switch midway or operate extremely slowly, the system may detect an error and turn on the brake system warning light. However, this does not indicate a malfunction if the brake system warning light turns off after operating the switch.
• When the electronic parking brake has not been used for a long period of time, the electronic parking brake may operate automatically after the ignition switch is turned to the “LOCK”/“OFF” position. This occurs due to checking the proper operation of the electronic parking brake and does not indicate a malfunction.
• If you cannot release the electronic parking brake due to the switch malfunction, refer to the instructions described in “Automatic release function by accelerator pedal” �P343. After activating the electronic parking brake, you may hear a short sound several minutes after the electronic parking brake indicator light illuminates as the system confirms proper engagement. This sound is different from the apply and release sound.

This can occur:

• If the brakes are extremely hot.
• If the electronic parking brake is applied after the ignition switch is turned OFF.
  This is a normal operating sound under any of these conditions.
• The Auto Start Stop system is deactivated while the electronic parking brake is applied.
• If you operate the electronic parking brake switch while the Auto Start Stop system is activated, the Auto Start Stop system will be deactivated. The electronic parking brake
  will activate after the engine is restarted. After the electronic parking brake indicator light is illuminated, release your foot from the brake pedal.
• When starting the engine or restarting the engine using the Auto Start Stop system, if you operate the electronic parking brake switch, the electronic parking brake indicator light may flash temporarily. How- ever, this is not a malfunction if the light turns off after the parking brake is deactivated.

 Automatic release function by accelerator pedaelectronic
The parking brake will be automatically released by depressing the accelerator pedal. However, the automatic release function does not operate under the following conditions.

•  Any door (other than the rear gate) is open.
• The driver’s seatbelt is not fastened.

If the parking brake is automatically released, the electronic parking brake indicator light and the indicator light on the parking brake switch turn off.! Auto Vehicle Hold function The Auto Vehicle Hold function will automatically keep the vehicle stopped even after releasing the brake pedal when the vehicle is at a complete stop, such as at traffic signals.

Read all Instructions for Parking your vehicle Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 BSD/RCTA (if equipped) Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Rear Cross Traffic And Alert Blind Base Guidelines

BSD/RCTA (if equipped)

The BSD/RCTA consists of rear corner radars with Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
These functions enable the system to detect objects or vehicles to the rear, drawing attention to the driver when changing a lane or when driving in reverse.

WARNING
The driver is responsible for driving safely. Always be sure to check the surroundings when changing lanes or reversing the vehicle.
The system is designed to assist the driver to change lanes or reverse safely by monitoring the rear and side areas of the vehicle. However, you cannot rely on this system alone in assuring the safety during a lane change or reversing. Overconfidence in this system could result in an accident and lead to serious injury or death. Since the system operation has various limitations, the flashing or illumination of the BSD/RCTA approach indicator light may be delayed or it may not operate at all even when a vehicle is present in a neighboring lane or approaching from either side.
The driver is responsible for paying attention to the rear and side areas of the vehicle.

System features
BSD/RCTA consists of the following functions.

• To detect a vehicle in a blind spot on an
  adjacent lane or a vehicle approaching at high speeds (Blind Spot Detection). . To detect a vehicle approaching from the right or left while reversing the vehicle (Rear Cross Traffic Alert).

The system uses radar sensors for the above functions.

NOTE
The BSD/RCTA radar sensor has been certified by the radio wave related laws of the U.S. and Canada. When driving in other countries, certification of the country where the vehicle is driven must be obtained. For certification in the U.S. and Canada, refer to “Certification for the BSD/RCTA” P362.

Blind Spot Detection (BSD)

Operating range

The system warns the driver of dangers as follows.

• If the system detects a vehicle in the blind spot, the BSD/RCTA approach indicator light(s) on the outside mirror (s) will illuminate.

BSD/RCTA approach indicator light

• If the driver operates the turn signal lever in the direction which the BSD/RCTA approach indicator light is illuminating, the corresponding BSD/RCTA approach indicator light will flash.

Lane Change Assist (LCA)

Operating range

The system warns the driver of dangers as follows.

• If the system detects a vehicle approaching at a high speed in the neighboring lanes, the BSD/RCTA approach indicator light(s) on the outside mirror(s) will illuminate.
• If the driver operates the turn signal lever in the direction which the BSD/RCTA approach indicator light is illuminating, the corresponding BSD/RCTA approach indicator light will flash.

Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

Operating range

The system notifies the driver of another vehicle approaching from either side when driving in reverse. This feature helps the driver check the rear and side areas of the vehicle when moving backward.
If the system detects a vehicle approaching from either side while moving backward, it warns the driver of dangers in the following way.

• The BSD/RCTA approach indicator light(s) on the outside mirror(s) flashes.
• A warning buzzer sounds.
• An icon appears on the rear view camera screen (audio/navigation monitor)

Limitations of the detectability of RCTA
Since the detectability of RCTA is limited, the RCTA may not operate properly in angled parking.

Example 1

1. The detection range of the radar sensors
2.  Area out of detection range of the radar sensors

•  Vehicle that may not be detected.
• Parked vehicle

WARNING
An approaching vehicle (A) may not be detected because the detection range is limited by the parked vehicle (B). Always be sure to check the surroundings when reversing the vehicle.

Read all Instructions for BSD/RCTA (if equipped) Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 New vehicle break-in driving – the first 1,000 miles User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester vehicle break-in driving Instructions

New vehicle break-in driving – the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km)

The performance and long life of your vehicle are dependent on how you handle and care for the vehicle while it is new. Follow these instructions during the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km):

• Do not race the engine. And do not allow engine speed to exceed 4,000 rpm except in an emergency.
• Do not drive at one constant engine or vehicle speed, either fast or slow.
• Avoid starting suddenly and rapid acceleration, except in an emergency.
• Avoid hard braking, except in an emergency.
• The same break-in procedures should be applied to an overhauled engine, newly mounted engine or when brake pads are replaced with new ones.

Fuel economy hints

The following suggestions will help to save fuel.

• Select the proper gear position for the speed and road conditions.
• Avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration. Always accelerate gently until you reach the desired speed. Then try to maintain that speed for as long as possible.
• Do not pump the accelerator and avoid racing the engine.
• Avoid unnecessary engine idling.
• Keep the engine properly tuned.
• Keep the tires inflated to the correct pressure shown on the tire inflation pressure label, which is located under the door latch on the driver’s side. Low pressure will increase tire wear and fuel consumption.
• Use the air conditioner only when necessary.
• Keep the front and rear wheels in proper alignment.
• Avoid carrying unnecessary luggage or cargo.

Engine exhaust gas (carbon monoxide)

• Never inhale engine exhaust gas.  Engine exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas which is dangerous, or even lethal, if inhaled.
• Always properly maintain the engine exhaust system to prevent engine exhaust gas from entering the vehicle.
• Never run the engine in a closed space, such as a garage, except for the brief time needed to drive the vehicle in or out of it.
• Avoid remaining in a parked vehicle for a lengthy time while the engine is running. If that is unavoidable, then use the ventilation fan to force fresh air into the vehicle.
• Always keep the front ventilator inlet grille free from snow, leaves or other obstructions to ensure that the ventilation system always works properly.
• If at any time you suspect that exhaust fumes are entering the vehicle, have the problem checked and corrected as soon
  as possible. If you must drive under these conditions, drive only with all windows fully open.
• Keep the rear gate closed while driving to prevent exhaust gas from entering the vehicle.

NOTE
Due to the expansion and contraction of the metals used in the manufacture of the exhaust system, you may hear a crackling sound coming from the exhaust system for a short time after the engine has been shut off. This sound is normal.

Catalytic converter

The catalytic converter is installed in the exhaust system. It serves as a catalyst to reduce HC, CO and NOx in exhaust gases, thus providing cleaner exhaust.
To avoid damage to the catalytic converter:

• Use only unleaded fuel. Even a small amount of leaded fuel will damage the catalytic converter.
• Never start the engine by pushing or pulling the vehicle.
• Avoid racing the engine.
• Never turn the ignition switch to the “OFF” position while the vehicle is moving.
• Keep your engine tuned-up. If you feel backfiring or incomplete combustion), have your vehicle checked and repaired by an authorized SUBARU dealer.
• Do not apply undercoating or rust-prevention treatment to the heat shield of catalytic converter and the exhaust system.
• Do not drive with an extremely low fuel level.

WARNING

• Avoid fire hazards. Do not drive or park the vehicle anywhere near flammable materials (e.g., grass, paper, rags or leaves),
  because the catalytic converter operates at very high temperatures.
• Keep everyone and flammable materials away from the exhaust pipe while the engine is running. The exhaust gas is very hot.

Periodic inspections

To keep your vehicle in the best condition at all times, always have the recommended maintenance services listed in the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet” performed at the specified time or mileage intervals.

Driving in foreign countries

When planning to use your vehicle in another country:

•  Confirm the availability of the correct fuel. Refer to “Fuel requirements” P299.
•  Comply with all regulations and requirements of each country

Driving tips for AWD models

WARNING

•  Always maintain a safe driving speed according to the road and weather conditions in order to avoid having an accident on a
  sharp turn, during sudden braking or under other similar conditions.
• Always use the utmost care in driving – overconfidence because you are driving an All- Wheel Drive vehicle could easily lead to a serious accident.
•  When replacing or installing tire(s), all four tires must be the same for following items.
•  Size
•  Speed symbol
•  Load index
•  Circumference
•  Construction
•  Manufacturer
• Brand (tread pattern)
•  Degrees of wear
• For the items (a) to (c), you must obey the specification that is printed on the tire inflation pressure label. The tire inflation pressure
  label is located on the driver’s door pillar. If all the four tires are not the same for items (a) to (h), serious mechanical damage could be caused to the drivetrain of the car, and affect the followings.
  • Ride
  • Handling
  •  Braking
  • Speedometer/Odometer calibration

Read all Instructions for New vehicle break-in driving – the first 1,000 miles User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Winter driving Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Winter driving Base Guidelines

Winter driving

Operation during cold weather

Maintenance
Carry some emergency equipment, such as a window scraper, a bag of sand, flares, a small shovel, and jumper cables.
Check the battery and cables. Cold temperatures reduce battery capacity. The battery must be in good condition to provide enough power for cold winter starts.
It normally takes longer to start the engine in very cold weather conditions. Use engine oil of a proper grade and viscosity for cold weather. Using heavy summer oil will make it harder to start the engine. Keep the door locks from freezing by squirting them with deicer or glycerin.
Forcing a frozen door open may damage or separate the rubber weather strips around the door. If the door is frozen, use hot water to melt the ice, and afterward thoroughly wipe the water away.

Use a windshield washer fluid that contains an antifreeze solution. Do not use engine antifreeze or other substitutes because they may damage the paint of the vehicle. If you fill the reservoir tank with a fluid with a different concentration from the one used previously, purge the old fluid from the piping between the reservoir tank and washer nozzles by operating the washer for a certain period of time. Otherwise, if the concentration of the fluid remaining in the piping is too low for the outside temperature, it may freeze and block the nozzles.

CAUTION
Adjust the washer fluid concentration appropriately for the outside temperature. If the concentration is inappropriate, sprayed washer fluid may freeze on the windshield and obstruct your view, and the fluid may freeze in the reservoir tank.. State or local regulations on volatile organic compounds may restrict the use of methanol, a common windshield washer anti-freeze additive. Washer fluids containing non-methanol anti-freeze agents should be used only if they provide cold weather protection without damaging your vehicle’s paint, wiper blades or washer system.

Before driving your vehicle

Before entering the vehicle, remove any snow or ice from your shoes because that could make the pedals slippery and driving dangerous. While warming up the vehicle before driving, check that the accelerator pedal, brake pedal, and all other controls operate smoothly. Clear away ice and snow that has accumulated under the fenders to avoid making steering difficult. During severe winter driving, stop when and where it is safe to do so and check under the fenders periodically.

Before entering the vehicle, remove any snow or ice from your shoes because that could make the pedals slippery and driving dangerous. While warming up the vehicle before driving, check that the accelerator pedal, brake pedal, and all other controls operate smoothly. Clear away ice and snow that has accumulated under the fenders to avoid making steering difficult. During severe winter driving, stop when and where it is safe to do so and check under the fenders periodically. Before entering the vehicle, remove any snow or ice from your shoes because that could make the pedals slippery and driving dangerous.

While warming up the vehicle before driving, check that the accelerator pedal, brake pedal, and all other controls operate smoothly. Clear away ice and snow that has accumulated under the fenders to avoid making steering difficult. During severe winter driving, stop when and where it is safe to do so and check under the fenders periodically.

Before entering the vehicle, remove any snow or ice from your shoes because that could make the pedals slippery and driving dangerous. While warming up the vehicle before driving, check that the accelerator pedal, brake pedal, and all other controls operate smoothly. Clear away ice and snow that has accumulated under the fenders to avoid making steering difficult. During severe winter driving, stop when and where it is safe to do so and check under the fenders periodically.

WARNING
Snow can trap dangerous exhaust gases under your vehicle. Keep snow clear of the exhaust pipe and from around your vehicle if you park the vehicle in snow with the engine running.

CAUTION

• Do not use the parking brake when parking for long periods in cold weather since it could freeze in that position.
• When the vehicle is parked in When the vehicle has been left snow or when it snows, raise the wiper blades off the glass to prevent damage to them. parked after use on roads heavily covered with snow, or has been left parked during a snowstorm, icing may develop on the brake system, which could cause poor braking action. Check for snow or ice buildup on the suspension, disc brakes and brake hoses underneath the vehicle. If there is caked snow or ice, remove it, being careful not to damage the disc brakes, brake hoses or ABS harness. When parking for long periods in cold weather, you should observe the following tips. When parking for long periods in cold weather, you should observe the following tips. When parking for long periods in cold weather, you should observe the following tips.

Refueling in cold weather
To help prevent moisture from forming in the fuel system and the risk of its freezing, use of an antifreeze additive in the fuel tank is recommended during cold weather. Use only additives that are specifically designed for this purpose. When an anti-freeze additive is used, its effect lasts longer if the tank is refilled whenever the fuel level reaches half empty.
If your SUBARU is not going to be used for an extended period, it is best to have the fuel tank filled to capacity .Opening rear gate (models with power rear gate)

CAUTION
Before operating the power rear gate, check that there is no frost or snow between the power rear gate and the vehicle body. If you notice frost or snow etc. on the power rear gate, remove it. If you forcibly operate the power rear gate with frost or snow, it may cause a malfunction.

Driving on snowy and icy roads

To help prevent moisture from forming in the fuel system and the risk of its freezing, use of an antifreeze additive in the fuel tank is recommended during cold weather. Use only additives that are specifically designed for this purpose. When an anti-freeze additive is used, its effect lasts longer if the tank is refilled whenever the fuel level reaches half empty. If your SUBARU is not going to be used for an extended period, it is best to have the fuel tank filled to capacity.

Opening rear gate (models with power rear gate)

CAUTION
Before operating the power rear gate, check that there is no frost or snow between the power rear gate and the vehicle body. If you notice frost or snow etc. on the power rear gate, remove it. If you forcibly operate the power rear gate with frost or snow, it may cause a malfunction.

Read all Instructions for Winter driving Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Loading your vehicle Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Loading your vehicle Base Guidelines

Loading your vehicle

WARNING

•  Never allow passengers to ride on a folded rear seatback in the cargo area. Doing so may result in serious injury.
•  Never stack luggage or other cargo higher than the top of the seatback because it could tumble forward and injure passengers in the event of a sudden stop or accident. Keep luggage or cargo low, as close to the floor as possible.
  

  

WARNING

• When you carry something inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can to prevent it from being thrown around inside the vehicle during sudden stops, sharp turns or in an accident.
• Do not pile heavy loads on the roof. These loads raise the vehicle’s center of gravity and make it more prone to tip over . If the wheels are stuck, cutting the.
• steering wheel at a sharp angle may cause the steering components to be deformed. If you hear any abnormal noise while driving or if you notice any abnormalities due to rough running, contact a SUBARU dealer for an inspection as soon as possible.
• Avoid driving over curbs. Tires, wheels, suspensions, and the mechanical components under the vehicle body may be unnoticeably damaged by the impact of striking a curb or driving on a rough road. If driving over a curb is unavoidable, ride over it slowly and at a right angle to the curb. When parking your vehicle, make sure that the tires are not pressed against the curb.
• Do not drive for a long time while the vehicle is tilted to the left or right.

CAUTION
Do not carry spray cans, containers with flammable or corrosive liquids or any other dangerous items inside the vehicle.

NOTE
For better fuel economy, do not carry unneeded cargo.

Vehicle capacity weight

Vehicle placard

The load capacity of your vehicle is determined by weight, not by available cargo space. The maximum load you can carry in your vehicle is shown on the vehicle placard attached to the driver’s side door pillar. It includes the total weight of the driver and all passengers and their belongings, any optional equipment such as a trailer hitch, roof rack or bike carrier, etc., and the tongue load of a trailer.

GVWR and GAWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and Gross Axle Weight Rating)

Certification label

The certification label attached to the bottom of driver’s side door pillar shows GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating). The GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) must never exceed the GVWR. GVW is the combined total of weight of the vehicle, fuel, driver, all passengers, luggage, any optional equipment and trailer tongue load. Therefore, the GVW changes de-pending on the situation. The GVWR equals Curb Weight (actual weight of your vehicle – including standard equipment, fluids, emergency tools and spare tire assembly) plus the vehicle capacity weight.
In addition, the total weight applied to each axle (GAW) must never exceed the GAWR. The front and rear GAWs can be adjusted by relocating luggage inside the vehicle. Even if the total weight of your luggage is lower than the vehicle capacity weight, either front or rear GAW may exceed the GAWR, depending on the distribution of the luggage.
When possible, the load should be evenly distributed throughout the vehicle. If you carry heavy loads in the vehicle, you should confirm that GVW and front and rear GAWs are within the GVWR and GAWR by putting your vehicle on a vehicle scale, found at a commercial weighing station.
Do not use replacement tires with a lower load range than the originals because they may lower the GVWR and GAWR limitations. Replacement tires with a higher load range than the originals do not increase the GVWR and GAWR limitations.

Roof rails (if equipped)

Cargo can be carried on the roof after securing the crossbars to the roof rails and installing an appropriate carrying attachment. When installing crossbars and a carrying attachment, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. The roof rail system is designed to carry loads (cargo, crossbars and carrying attachment) of no more than 176 l bs (80 kg). Be sure not to exceed your vehicle’s GVWR and GAWR.

CAUTION

•  When using a carrying attachment, make sure that the total carrying load of the cargo, cross-bars and carrying attachment does not exceed 176 l bs (80 kg). Overloading may cause damage to the vehicle. Read the manufacturer’s instructions and pay attention to not exceed the load limit of the parts..
• For cargo carrying purposes, the roof rails must be used together with the SUBARU recommended crossbars and any appropriate carrying attachment that may be needed. The roof rails must never be used alone to carry cargo. Otherwise, damage to the roof or paint, or a dangerous road hazard due to loss of cargo could result.

NOTE

Remember that the vehicle’s center of gravity is altered with the weight of the load on the roof, thus affecting driving characteristics.
Drive carefully. Avoid rapid starts, hard cornering and abrupt stops. Crosswind effects will be increased.

Roof tent (models with roof rails)

WARNING
Adding weight to the vehicle’s roof can adversely affect handling, braking, and rollover resistance. The vehicle must never be driven with a total roof rail load in excess of 176 l bs (80 kg).

Read all Instructions for Loading your vehicle Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Brake fluid and Trailer towing Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Trailer towing Instructions

Brake fluid

Checking the fluid level

• Never let brake fluid contact your eyes because brake fluid can be harmful to your eyes. If brake fluid gets in your eyes, immediately flush them thoroughly with clean water. For safety, when performing this work, wearing eye protection is advisable.
• Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air. Any absorbed moisture can cause a dangerous loss of braking performance.
• If the vehicle requires frequent refilling, there may be a leak. If you suspect a problem, have the vehicle checked at your SUBARU dealer.

CAUTION

• When adding brake fluid, be careful not to allow any dirt into the reservoir.
• Never splash the brake fluid over painted surfaces or rubber parts.
  Alcohol contained in the brake fluid may damage them.
• Be careful not to spill brake fluid when adding it. If brake fluid touches the exhaust pipe, it may cause a bad smell, smoke, and/or a fire. If brake fluid gets on the exhaust pipe, be sure to wipe it off.

1. “MAX” level line
2.  “MIN” level line

Check the fluid level monthly.
Check the fluid level on the outside of the reservoir. Be sure to check the fluid level for the brake system at the shaded area in the illustration. If the fluid level is below “MIN”, add the recommended brake fluid to “MAX”. Use only brake fluid from a sealed container.

Recommended brake fluid
Refer to “Fluids” 􀀁P497.

CAUTION
Never use different brands of brake fluid together. Also, avoid mixing DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluids even if they are the same brand.

Brake pedal

Check the brake pedal free play and reserve distance according to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”.

Replacement of brake pad

The disc brakes have audible wear indicators on the brake pads. If the brake pads wear close to their service limit, the wear indicator makes a very audible scraping noise when the brake pedal is applied. If you hear this scraping noise each time you apply the brake pedal, have the brake pads serviced by your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.

CAUTION
If you continue to drive despite the scraping noise from the audible brake pad wear indicator, it will result in the need for costly brake rotor repair or replacement.

Breaking-in of new brake pads
When replacing the brake pad, use only genuine SUBARU parts. After replacement, the new parts must be broken in. Contact your SUBARU dealer for details.

Trailer towing

 Towing

If towing is necessary, it is best done by your SUBARU dealer or a commercial towing service. Observe the following procedures for safety.

CAUTION
Keep metallic objects, magnetic sources, and signal transmitters away from the area between the access key fob and the push-button ignition switch. They may interfere with the communication between the access key fob and the pushbutton ignition switch. The following functions may be inoperable because of strong radio signals in the surrounding area or a low battery condition of the access key fob.

• Locking/unlocking doors (including the rear gate)
• Switching power status
• Starting engine

In such cases, perform the following procedure. When the battery of the access key fob is discharged, replace it with a new one. Refer to “Replacing battery of access key fob” 􀀁P490.

 Locking and unlocking

Read all Instructions for Brake fluid and Trailer towing Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Park Vehicle In Case Of An Emergency User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Park Vehicle Emergency Guidelines

If you Park Your Vehicle In Case Of An Emergency

The hazard warning flasher should be used in day or night to warn other drivers when you have to park your vehicle under emergency conditions.
Avoid stopping on the road. It is best to safely pull off the road if a problem occurs. The hazard warning flasher can be acti-vated regardless of the ignition switch position. Turn on the hazard warning by pushing the hazard warning flasher switch. Turn it off by pushing the switch again. When the hazard warning flasher are flashing, the corresponding turn signal indicator will also flash.

NOTE
When the hazard warning flasher is on, the turn signals do not work.

Maintenance tools

Your vehicle is equipped with the following maintenance tools.

• Jack
• Jack handle
• Screwdriver
• Towing hook (eye bolt)
• Wheel nut wrench

Under the rear floor
The maintenance tools are stored as shown in the following illustrations.

1. Under-floor storage compartment (if equipped). Refer to “Under-floor storage compartment” 􀀁P290.
2. Jack handle
3. Spare tire
4. Tool bucket

1. Wheel nut wrench
2. Screwdriver
3. Jack
4. Towing hook (eye bolt)

NOTE

• For how to use the jack, refer to “Flat tires” 􀀁P420.
• The following items may be different depending on the model.
  • The shape of the storage compartment
  • The locations of some maintenance tools

Temporary spare tire

WARNING

• Never tow a trailer when the temporary spare tire is used. The temporary spare tire is not designed to sustain the towing load. Use of the temporary spare tire when towing can result in failure of the spare tire and/or less stability of the vehicle and may lead to an accident.
• When a spare tire is mounted or a wheel rim is replaced without the original pressure sensor/transmitter being transferred, the low tire pressure warning light will illuminate steadily after blinking for approximately one minute. This indicates the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is unable to monitor all four road wheels. Contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible for tire and sensor replacement and/or system resetting.

CAUTION
Never use any temporary spare tire other than the original. Using other sizes may result in severe mechanical damage to the drivetrain of your vehicle.

The temporary spare tire is smaller and lighter than a conventional tire and is designed for emergency use only. Re-move the temporary spare tire and reinstall the conventional tire as soon as possible because the spare tire is designed only for temporary use. Check the inflation pressure of the temporary spare tire periodically to keep the tire ready for use. For the correct tire pressure, refer to “Temporary spare tires” P499.

When using the temporary spare tire, note the following.

• Drive with caution when the temporary spare tire is installed. Avoid hard acceleration and braking, or fast cornering, as control of the vehicle may be lost.
• Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).
• Do not put a tire chain on the temporary spare tire. Because of the smaller tire size, a tire chain will not fit properly.
• Do not use two or more temporary spare tires at the same time.
• Do not drive over obstacles. This tire has a smaller diameter, so road clearance is reduced.

1. Tread wear indicator bar
2. Indicator location mark

• When the wear indicator appears on the tread, replace the tire.
• The temporary spare tire must be used only on the rear wheel. If a front wheel tire gets punctured, replace the wheel with a rear wheel and install the temporary spare tire in place of the removed rear wheel.

Flat tires

If you have a flat tire while driving, never brake suddenly; keep driving straight ahead while gradually reducing speed. Then slowly pull off the road to a safe place.

Changing a flat tire

WARNING

• Use only the jack and the jack handle provided with your vehicle. The jack supplied with the vehicle is designed only for changing a tire. Never put any part of your body under the vehicle while the vehicle is being supported by the jack. Doing so could result in serious injury or death.
• Do not jack up the vehicle on an incline or a loose road surface. The jack can come out of the jacking point or sink into the ground and this can result in serious injury or death.
• Before jacking up the vehicle, be sure that there are no occupants or cargo on board.
• Do not jack up the vehicle with an object on or underneath the jack. The jack can be unstable and this can result in a severe accident.
• Always turn off the engine before raising the flat tire off the ground using the jack. Never swing or push the vehicle supported with the jack. The jack can come out of the jacking point due to a jolt and this can result in serious injury or death.
• All passengers must exit the vehicle before you raise it with the jack. Raising the vehicle with someone inside of it could result in serious injury or death.
• Do not start the vehicle while it is supported by the jack. Doing so could result in serious injury or death.

NOTE
Contact a SUBARU dealer when jacking up the vehicle using a garage jack.

Read all Instructions for Park Vehicle In Case Of An Emergency User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Jump starting Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Jump starting Base Guidelines

Jump starting

WARNING

• Battery fluid is SULFURIC ACID Do not let it come in contact with the eyes, skin, clothing or the vehicle.
  If battery fluid gets on you, thoroughly flush the exposed area with water immediately. Get medical help if the fluid has entered your eyes.
  If battery fluid is accidentally swallowed, immediately drink a large amount of milk or water, and obtain immediate medical help. Keep everyone including children away from the battery.
• The gas generated by a battery explodes if a flame or spark is brought near it. Do not smoke or light a match while jump-starting.
• Never attempt jump-starting if the discharged battery is frozen. It could cause the battery to burst or explode.. Whenever working on or around a battery, always wear suitable eye protectors, and remove metal objects such as rings, bands or other metal jewelry.
• Be sure the jumper cables and clamps on them do not have loose or missing insulation. Do not jump start unless cables in suitable condition are available.
• A running engine can be dangerous. Keep your fingers, hands, clothing, hair, and tools away from the cooling fan, belt, and any other moving engine parts. Removing rings, watches and ties are advisable.
• Jumpstarting is dangerous if it is done incorrectly. If you are unsure about the proper procedure for jump starting, consult a competent mechanic.

When your vehicle does not start due to a run-down (discharged) battery, the vehicle may be jump-started by connecting your battery to another battery (called the booster battery) with jumper cables.

1. Make sure the booster battery is 12 volts and the negative terminal is grounded.
2. If the booster battery is in another vehicle, do not let the two vehicles touch.
3. Turn off all unnecessary lights and accessories.
4. connect the jumper cables exactly in the sequence illustrated.

•  Booster battery
•  Strut mounting nut

1.  Connect one jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal on the discharged battery.
2.  Connect the other end of the jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal of the booster battery.
3.  Connect one end of the other cable to the negative (−) terminal of the booster battery.
4.  Connect the other end of the cable to the strut mounting nut of the vehicle with the discharged battery.

Make sure that the cables are not near any moving parts and that the cable clamps are not in contact with any other metal.
5. Start the engine of the vehicle with the booster battery and run it at moderate speed. Then start the engine of the vehicle that has the discharged battery.
6. When finished, carefully disconnect the cables in exactly the reverse order.

Engine overheating

WARNING
Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has been shut off and has fully cooled down. When the engine is hot, the coolant is under pressure. Removing the cap while the engine is still hot could release a spray of boiling hot coolant, which could burn you very seriously. If the engine overheats, safely pull off the road and stop the vehicle in a safe location.

If steam is coming from the engine compartment
If the engine overheats, safely pull off the road and stop the vehicle in a safe location.

If steam is coming from the engine compartment

• Turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK”/ “OFF” position and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down.
• Contact an authorized SUBARU dealer.

If no steam is coming from the engine compartment

1. Keep the engine running at idling speed.
2. Open the engine hood to ventilate the engine compartment. Refer to “Engine hood” �P453.
   Confirm that the cooling fan is turning. If the fan is not turning, immediately turn off the engine and contact an authorized SUBARU dealer for repair.
3. After the coolant temperature, the high warning light that has blinked or illuminated in RED turns off, turn off the engine. For details about the warning light, refer to “Coolant temperature low indicator light/Coolant temperature high warning light” �P171.
4. After the engine has fully cooled down, check the coolant level in the reserve tank. If the coolant level is below the “LOW” mark, add coolant up to the “FULL” mark.

NOTE
If there is no coolant in the reserve tank, add coolant to the reserve tank. Then remove the radiator cap and fill the radiator with coolant. If you remove the radiator cap from a hot radiator, first wrap a thick cloth around the radiator cap, then turn the cap counterclockwise slowly without pressing down For details about how to check the coolant level or how to add coolant, refer to “Engine coolant” 􀀁P459.until it stops. Release the pressure from the radiator. After the pressure has been fully released, remove the cap by pressing down and turning it.

Towing
If towing is necessary, it is best done by your SUBARU dealer or a commercial towing service. Observe the following procedures for safety.

WARNING
Never tow AWD models with the front wheels raised off the ground while the rear wheels are on the ground, or with the rear wheels raised off the ground while the front wheels are on the ground. This will cause the vehicle to spin away due to the operation or deterioration of the center differential.

Towing hooks and tie-down hooks/holes

CAUTION
Use only the specified towing hooks and tie-down hooks/holes. Never use suspension parts or other parts of the body for towing or tie-down purposes.

Front towing hook
Take the towing hook, screwdriver and jack handle out of the cargo area.

Read all Instructions for Jump starting Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Access key fob –If Does Not Operate Properly User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Access key fob | If Does Not Operate

Access key fob –If the Access key fob Does Not Operate Properly

CAUTION
Keep metallic objects, magnetic sources and signal transmitters away from the area between the access key fob and the push-button ignition switch. They may interfere with the communication between the access key fob and the push-button ignition switch.

The following functions may be inoperable because of strong radio signals in the surrounding area or a low battery condition of the access key fob.

• Locking/unlocking doors (including the rear gate)
• Switching power status
• Starting engine

In such cases, perform the following procedure. When the battery of the access key fob is discharged, replace it with a new one. Refer to “Replacing the battery of access key fob” P490.

Locking and unlocking

1. Release button
2. Emergency key

While pressing the release button of the access key fob, take out the emergency key. Lock or unlock the driver’s door with the emergency key in the procedure described in “Locking and unlocking from the outside” P132.

NOTE
After locking or unlocking, be sure to attach the emergency key back to the access key fob.

 Switching power status

1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Shift the select lever to the “P” (Park) position.
3. Depress the brake pedal.
   
4. Hold the access key fob with the buttons facing you, and touch the push-button ignition switch with it. When the communication between the access key fob and the vehicle is completed, a chime (ding) will sound. At the same time, the status of the push-button ignition switch changes to either of the following.
   • When the keyless access with the push-button start system is deactivated: “ACC”
   • Under other conditions: “ON”
5. When the keyless access with push-button start system is deactivated, press the push-button ignition switch with the brake pedal released. The status of the push-button ignition switch then changes to “ON”.

NOTE
If the power does not switch even though the above procedure was followed precisely, contact your SUBARU dealer.

 Starting engine

1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Shift the select lever to the “P” (Park) position.
3. Depress the brake pedal.
   
4. Hold the access key fob with the buttons facing you, and touch the push-button ignition switch with it. When the communication between the access key fob and the vehicle is completed, a chime (ding) will sound. At the same time, the push-button ignition switch turns to the “ACC” or “ON” position.
5.  After the push-button ignition switch turns to the “ACC” or “ON” position, while depressing the brake pedal, press the push-button ignition switch.

If the engine does not start even though the above procedure was followed precisely, contact your SUBARU dealer.

Rear gate – if the rear gate cannot be opened

In the event that you cannot open the rear gate by operating the rear gate opener button, you can open it from inside the cargo area.

1. Remove the access cover at the bottom center of the rear gate trim using a flat-head screwdriver wrapped with vinyl tape or cloth.
2.  Locate the rear gate open lever behind the rear gate trim.
   CAUTION
   Never operate the rear gate open lever with your fingers because doing so may cause an injury. Always use a flat-head screwdriver or a similar tool.
   Models without power rear gate
   Models with power rear gate
3. To open the rear gate, turn the lever to the right position.

Moonroof (if equipped) – if the moonroof does not close
If the moonroof does not close, we recommend that you have the system checked by a SUBARU dealer.

Read all Instructions for Access key fob –If Does Not Operate Properly User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Exterior care Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Exterior care Base Guidelines

Exterior care

CAUTION

• When washing the vehicle, the brakes may get wet. As a result, the brake stopping distance will be longer. To dry the brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe speed while lightly depressing the brake pedal to heat up the brakes.
• Do not wash the engine compartment and area adjacent to it. If water enters the engine air intake or electrical parts, it will cause engine trouble or a malfunction of electrical equipment.
• When washing inner fenders, underbody, bumpers and protruding objects such as exhaust pipes and exhaust finishers, be careful to prevent injuries from contacting sharp ends.
• Do not use any organic solvents when washing the surface of the bulb assembly cover. However, if a detergent with organic solvents is used to wash the cover surface, completely rinse off the detergent with water. Otherwise, the cover surface may be damaged.
• Since your vehicle is equipped with a rear wiper, automatic car-wash brushes could become tangled around it, damaging the wiper arm and other components. Ask the automatic car-wash operator not to let the brushes touch the wiper arm or to fix the wiper arm on the rear window glass with adhesive tape before operating the machine.

NOTE

• When having your vehicle washed in an automatic car wash, make sure beforehand that the car wash is of a suitable type
• The rearview camera lens has a hard coating to help prevent scratches. However, when washing the vehicle or cleaning the camera lens, be careful not to scratch the camera lens. Do not use a washing brush directly on the camera lens. The image quality of the rearview camera may deteriorate.

The best way to preserve your vehicle’s beauty is frequent washing. Wash the vehicle at least once a month to avoid contamination by road grime.
Wash dirt off with a wet sponge and plenty of lukewarm or cold water. Do not wash the vehicle with hot water and in direct sunlight.
Salt, chemicals, insects, tar, soot, tree sap, and bird droppings should be washed off using a light detergent, as required. If you use a light detergent, make certain that it is a neutral detergent. Do not use strong soap or chemical detergents. All cleaning agents should be promptly flushed from the surface and not allowed to dry there. Rinse the vehicle thoroughly with plenty of lukewarm water. Wipe the remaining water off with a chamois or soft cloth. Wear rubber gloves and use a hand brush when washing down the underbody, inner fenders, and suspension to effectively remove mud and dirt.

Washing the underbody
Chemicals, salts, and gravel used for deicing road surfaces are extremely corrosive, accelerating the corrosion of underbody components, such as the exhaust system, fuel, brake lines, brake cables, floor pan and fenders, and suspension. Thoroughly flush the underbody and inside of the fenders with lukewarm or cold water at frequent intervals to reduce the harmful effects of such agents. Mud and sand adhering to the underbody components may accelerate their corrosion.
After driving off-road or on muddy or sandy roads, wash the mud and sand off the underbody. Carefully flush the suspension and axle parts, as they are particularly prone to mud and sand buildup. Do not use a sharp-edged tool to remove caked mud.

CAUTION

• Be careful not to damage brake hoses, sensor harnesses, and other parts when washing suspension components.
• Be careful not to flush the engine bottom for a long time. It may cause damage of some electrical parts.

Using a warm water washer

• Keep a good distance of 12 in (30 cm)or more between the washer nozzle and the vehicle.
• Do not wash the same area continuously.
• If a stain will not come out easily, wash by hand. Some warm water washers are of the high temperature, high-pressure type, and they can damage or deform the resin parts such as moldings, or cause water to leak into the vehicle.

Waxing and polishing
Always wash and dry the vehicle before waxing and polishing. Use a good quality polish and wax and apply them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Wax or polish when the painted surface is cool.
Be sure to polish and wax the chrome trim, as well as the painted surfaces. Loss of wax on a painted surface leads to loss of the original luster and also quickens the deterioration of the surface. It is recommended that a coat of wax be applied at least once a month, or whenever the surface no longer repels water.
If the appearance of the paint has diminished to the point where the luster or tone cannot be restored, lightly polish the sur-face with a fine-grained compound.

Never polish just the affected area, but include the surrounding area as well. Always polish in only one direction. A No. 2000 grain compound is recommended. Never use a coarse-grained compound. Coarse-grained compounds have a smaller grain-size number and could damage the paint.
After polishing with a compound, coat with wax to restore the original luster. Frequent polishing with a compound or an incorrect polishing technique will result in removing the paint layer and exposing the undercoat. When in doubt, it is always best to contact your SUBARU dealer or an auto paint specialist.

CAUTION
Do not use any agents with organic solvents on the surface of the bulb assembly cover. However, if a polish or wax with organic solvents is applied to the cover surface, completely wipe off the polish or wax. Otherwise, the cover surface may be damaged.

NOTE

• Be careful not to block the windshield washer nozzles with wax when waxing the vehicle.
• Do not wipe the rearview camera with alcohol, benzene or paint thinner. Otherwise, discoloration may occur. To remove contamination, wipe the camera with a cloth moistened with diluted neutral detergent and then wipe it with a soft, dry cloth.
• When waxing the vehicle, be careful not to apply the wax to the rearview camera. If it comes in contact with the camera, moisten a clean cloth with diluted neutral detergent to remove the wax.
• For Subaru Forester Wilderness models, if wax gets onto the hood decal when you are waxing your vehicle, this could enhance the reflective appearance of the hood decal and impair the anti-reflective function.

Cleaning alloy wheels

Vehicles without matte-painted wheels

• Promptly wipe the alloy wheels clean of any kind of grime or agent. If dirt is left on too long, it may be difficult to clean off.
• Do not use soap-containing grit to clean any kind of grime or agent. If dirt is left on too long, it may be difficult to clean off.
• Do not use soap-containing grit to clean the wheels. Be sure to use a neutral cleaning agent, and later rinse thoroughly with water. Do not clean the wheels with a stiff brush or expose them to a high-speed washing device.
• the wheels. Be sure to use a neutral cleaning agent, and later rinse thoroughly with water. Do not clean the wheels with a stiff brush or expose them to a high-speed washing device. wheels) with water as soon as possible when it has been splashed with seawater, exposed to sea breezes, or driven on roads treated with salt or other agents.

Vehicles with matte-painted wheels

CAUTION
Be sure to observe the following precautions as matte-painted wheels can be damaged.

Read all Instructions for Exterior care Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Cleaning the interior Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Cleaning the interior Base Guidelines

Cleaning the interior

Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the climate control panel, audio equipment, instrument panel, center console, combination meter panel, and switches. (Do not use organic solvents.)

CAUTION
Do not use sharp instruments or window cleaners containing abrasives to clean the inner surface of the rear window. They may damage the conductors printed on the window.

Seat fabric
Remove loose dirt, dust or debris with a vacuum cleaner. If the dirt is caked on the fabric or hard to remove with a vacuum cleaner, use a soft brush then vacuum it. Wipe the fabric surface with a tightly wrung cloth and dry the seat fabric thoroughly. If the fabric is still dirty, wipe using a solution of mild soap and lukewarm water then dry thoroughly. If the stain does not come out, try a commercially-available fabric cleaner. Use the cleaner on a hidden place and interior make sure it does not affect the fabric adversely. Use the cleaner according to its instructions.

CAUTION
When cleaning the seat, do not use benzine, paint thinner, or any similar materials. Doing so could damage the surface and cause the color to deteriorate.

Leather seat materials
The leather used by SUBARU is a high quality natural product which will retain its distinctive appearance and feel for many years with proper care.
Allowing dust or road dirt to build up on the surface can cause the material to become brittle and to wear prematurely. Regular cleaning with a soft, moist, natural fiber cloth should be performed monthly, taking care not to soak the leather or allow water to penetrate the stitched seams.

A mild detergent suitable for cleaning woolen fabrics may be used to remove difficult dirt spots, rubbing with a soft, dry cloth afterwards to restore the luster. If your SUBARU is to be parked for a long time in bright sunlight, it is recommended that the seats and head restraints be covered, or the windows shaded, to pre-vent fading or shrinkage.

Minor surface blemishes or bald patches may be treated with a commercial leather spray lacquer. You will discover that each leather seat section will develop soft folds or wrinkles, which is characteristic of genuine leather.

Synthetic leather upholstery
The synthetic leather material used on the SUBARU may be cleaned using mild soap or detergent and water, after first vacuuming or brushing away loose dirt. Allow the soap to soak in for a few minutes and wipe off with a clean, damp cloth. Commercial foam-type cleaners suitable for synthetic leather materials may be used when necessary.

CAUTION
Strong cleaning agents such as solvents, paint thinners, window cleaner or fuel must never be used on leather or synthetic interior materials. Doing so could damage the surface and cause the color to deteriorate.

Water repellent seat material (if equipped)
The water repellency of the seat fabric will decrease over time. Do not apply additional water repellent coating.

 Seatbelt
For details about how to clean the seatbelt, refer to “Seatbelt maintenance” 􀀁P56.

 Climate control panel, audio panel, instrument panel, con-sole panel, and switches
Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the climate control panel, audio equipment, instrument panel, center console, combination meter panel, and switches.

CAUTION

• Do not use organic solvents such as paint thinners or fuel, or strong cleaning agents that contain those solvents. Doing so could damage the surface and cause the color to deteriorate.
• Do not use chemical solvents that contain silicone on the vehicle audio system, electrical components of the air-conditioner or any switches. If silicone adheres to these parts, it may cause damage to electrical components.

Monitor
To clean the audio/navigation/multi-function display monitor, wipe it with a silicone cloth or with a soft cloth. If the monitor is extremely dirty, clean it with a soft cloth moistened with neutral detergent then carefully wipe off any remaining detergent.

CAUTION

• Do not spray neutral detergent directly onto the monitor. Doing so could damage the monitor’s components.
• Do not wipe the monitor with a hard cloth. Doing so could scratch the monitor.
• Do not use cleaning fluid that contains thinner, fuel, or any other volatile substance. Such cleaning fluid could erase the lettering on the switches at the bottom of the monitor.

Read all Instructions for Cleaning the interior Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Maintenance schedule Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Maintenance Schedule Guidelines

Maintenance schedule

U.S. models
The scheduled maintenance items required to be serviced at regular intervals are shown in the “Warranty and Maintenance
Booklet”. For details, read the separate “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”.

Canada models
The scheduled maintenance items required to be serviced at regular intervals are shown in the “Warranty and Service Booklet”. For details, read the separate “Warranty and Service Booklet”.

Except for U.S. and Canadian models

Some items of your vehicle are required to be serviced at scheduled intervals. For details about your maintenance schedule, read the separate “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”.

NOTE
For models with a multi-function display (color LCD), you can set a reminder to be displayed when a scheduled maintenance item is almost due. For details, refer to “Maintenance settings” P223.

Maintenance precautions

When maintenance and service are required, it is recommended that all work be done by an authorized SUBARU dealer. If you perform maintenance and service by yourself, you should familiarize yourself with the information provided in this section on general maintenance and service for your SUBARU.

Incorrect or incomplete service could cause improper or unsafe vehicle operation. Any problems caused by improper maintenance and service performed by you are not eligible for warranty coverage.

WARNING

• Always select a safe area when performing maintenance on your vehicle.
• Always be very careful to avoid injury when working on the vehicle. Remember that some of the materials in the vehicle may be hazardous if improperly used or handled, for example, battery acid.
• Your vehicle should only be serviced by persons fully competent to do so. Serious personal injury may result to persons not experienced in servicing vehicles.
• Always use the proper tools and make certain that they are well-maintained.
• Never get under the vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use safety stands to support the vehicle.
• Never keep the engine running in a poorly ventilated area, such as a garage or other closed areas.
• Do not smoke or allow open flames around the fuel or battery. This will cause a fire.
• Because the fuel system is under pressure, replacement of the fuel filter should be performed only by your SUBARU dealer.
• Wear adequate eye protection to guard against getting oil or fluids in your eyes. If something does get in your eyes, thoroughly
  wash them out with clean water.
• Do not tamper with the wiring of the SRS airbag system or seatbelt pre-tensioner system, or at- tempt to take its connectors apart, as this may activate the system or render it inoperative. NEVER use a circuit tester for this wiring. If your SRS airbag or seatbelt pretensioner needs service, consult your nearest SUBARU dealer.
• Check the inside of the engine compartment to see if there are any clothes and tools left. If they are left inside, they may be a cause of malfunction and fire.

NOTE
SUBARU does not endorse the use of non-SUBARU-approved flushing systems and strongly advises against performing these services on a SUBARU vehicle. Non-SUBARU-approved flushing systems use chemicals and/or solvents that have not been tested or approved by SUBARU. SUBARU warranties do not cover any part of the vehicle which is damaged by adding or applying chemicals and/or solvents other than those approved or recommended by SUBARU.

Before checking or servicing in the engine compartment

• Always stop the engine and apply the parking brake firmly to prevent the vehicle from moving.
• Always let the engine cool down. Engine parts become very hot when the engine is running and remain hot for some time after the engine has stopped.
• Do not spill engine oil, engine coolant, brake fluid or any other fluid on hot engine components. This may cause a fire.
• When the ignition switch is in the “ON” position, the cooling fan may operate suddenly even when the engine is stopped. If your body or clothes come into contact with a rotating fan, that could result in serious injury. To avoid risk of injury, perform the following precautions.
  • Models with push-button start system: Always turn the push-button ignition switch to the “OFF” position and confirm that the operation indicator on the switch is turned off. Then take the access key fob out from the vehicle.
  • Models without push-button start system: Always remove the key from the ignition switch.
  • Before performing any servicing on a vehicle equipped with a remote engine start system (a dealer option), temporarily place the remote engine start system in service mode to prevent it from unexpectedly starting the engine. 450 Maintenance precautions

When checking or servicing the engine compartment

CAUTION

• Do not touch the engine cover while checking the components in the engine compartment. Doing so may cause your hand
  to slip off the cover and result in an unexpected injury.
• Do not touch the oil filter until the engine has cooled down completely. Doing so may result in a burn or other injury. Note that the oil filter becomes very hot when the engine is running and remains hot for some time after the engine has stopped.

Read all Instructions for Maintenance schedule Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Maintenance tips Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Maintenance tips Base | Features

Maintenance tips

Some clips and fender linings must be removed before replacing the air cleaner elements or specific bulbs.

Removing and reinstalling clips

Removing clips
There are several types of clips used for your vehicle.

Type A clips

1. Turn the clips counterclockwise using a flat-head screwdriver until the center portion of the clip is raised.
2.  Remove the clips with a flat-head screwdriver using leverage.
3.  Remove the entire clip by pulling it up.

Type B clips

1.  Pull out the center portion of the clip using a flat-head screwdriver as shown in the illustration.
2.  Pull the protruded center portion to remove the entire body of the clip.

Type C clips

1. Turn the clip counterclockwise using a Phillips screwdriver until the center portion of the clip is raised.
2. Remove the entire clip by pulling it up

Reinstalling clips

Engine hood

CAUTION

• Be extremely careful not to catch fingers or other objects when closing the engine hood.
• Do not push the hood forcibly to close it. It could deform the metal.
• Be extremely careful opening the engine hood when the wind is strong. The engine hood could close suddenly, possibly causing injuries from slamming.
• Do not install accessories other than genuine SUBARU parts to the engine hood. If the engine hood becomes too heavy, the
  stay may not be able to support holding it open.
• Check that the end of the hood stay is inserted into the slot. If it is not inserted properly, the hood may drop and cause injury

To open the hood:

1.  If the wiper blades are lifted off the windshield, return them to their original position.
   
2. Pull the hood release knob under the instrument panel.
   
3. Release the secondary hood release by moving the lever between the front grille and the hood toward the left.
   
4. Lift up the hood, release the hood prop from its retainer and put the end of the hood prop into the slot in the hood. Hold the grip for handling the hood prop.

To close the hood:

1. Lift the hood slightly and remove the hood prop from the slot in the hood and return the prop to its retainer.
2. Lower the hood to a height of approximately 7.8 to 11.8 in (20 to 30 cm) above its closed position and then let it drop.
3. After closing the hood, be sure the hood is securely locked.

If this does not close the hood, release it from a slightly higher position.

WARNING
Always check that the hood is properly locked before you start driving. If it is not, it might fly open while the vehicle is moving and block your view, which may cause an accident and serious bodily injury.

Engine compartment overview

1. Brake fluid reservoir (page 463)
2. Fuse box (page 481)
3. Battery (page 479)
4. Windshield washer tank (page 473)
5. Engine oil filler cap (page 456)
6. Engine coolant reservoir (page 459)
7. Radiator cap (page 459)
8. Engine oil filter (page 457)
9. Engine oil level gauge (page 456)
10. Air cleaner case (page 460)

Read all Instructions for Maintenance tips Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Cooling system Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Cooling system Base Guidelines

Cooling system

Safety precautions

WARNING
Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has been shut off and has cooled down completely. Since the coolant is under pressure, you may suffer serious burns from a spray of boiling hot coolant when the cap is removed.

CAUTION

• Vehicles are filled at the factory with SUBARU SUPER COOLANT which does not require the first change for 11 years/137,500 miles (11 years/220,000 km). This coolant should not be mixed with any other brand or type of cool-ant during this period. Mixing with a different coolant will re-duce the life of the coolant. When necessary to add the coolant for any reason, use only SUBARU SUPER COOLANT.
  If the SUBARU SUPER COOLANT is diluted with another brand or type, the maintenance interval is shortened to that of the mixing coolant.
• Do not splash the engine coolant over painted parts. The alcohol contained in the engine coolant may damage the paint surface.

Cooling fan, hose, and connections
Your vehicle employs an electric cooling fan which is thermostatically controlled to operate when the engine coolant reaches a specific temperature.
If the radiator cooling fan does not operate even when the coolant temperature high warning light blinks or illuminates in RED, the cooling fan circuit may be defective. Refer to “Coolant temperature low indicator light/Coolant temperature high warning light” P171.
Check the fuse and replace it if necessary. Refer to “Fuses” 􀀁P481. If the fuse is not blown, have the cooling system checked by your SUBARU dealer.
If the frequent addition of coolant is necessary between vehicle service visits, it is recommended that you have your vehicle inspected by an authorized SUBARU dealer to check for leaks, damage, or looseness.

Engine coolant
Checking the coolant level

WARNING
Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has been shut off and has cooled down completely. Since the coolant is under pressure, you may suffer serious burns from a spray of boiling hot coolant when the cap is removed.

1. “FULL” level mark
2. “LOW” level mark

Check the coolant level at each fuel stop.

1. Check the coolant level on the outside of the reservoir while the engine is cool.
2.  If the level is close to or lower than the “LOW” level mark, add coolant up to the “FULL” level mark. If the reserve tank is empty, remove the radiator cap and refill coolant up to just below the filler neck as shown in the following illustration.

1. Fill up to this level.|
   
2. After refilling the reserve tank and the radiator, reinstall the cap and check that the rubber gaskets inside the radiator cap are in the proper position.

CAUTION

• Be careful not to spill engine coolant when adding it. If coolant touches the exhaust pipe, it may cause a bad smell, smoke, and/or a fire. If engine coolant gets on the exhaust pipe, be sure to wipe it off.
• Do not splash the engine coolant over painted parts. The alcohol contained in the engine coolant may damage the paint surface.

Changing the coolant
It may be difficult to change the coolant.
Have the coolant changed by your SUBARU dealer if necessary?
The coolant should be changed according to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”

Air cleaner element

WARNING
Do not operate the engine with the air cleaner element removed. The air cleaner element not only filters intake air but also stops flames if the engine backfires. If the air cleaner element is not installed when the engine backfires, you could be burned.

CAUTION
When replacing the air cleaner element, use a genuine SUBARU air cleaner element. If it is not used, it will cause a negative effect to the engine.

The air cleaner element functions as a filter screen. When the element is perforated or removed, engine wear will be excessive and engine life shortened.
It is not necessary to clean or wash the air cleaner element.

Replacing the air cleaner element
Replace the air cleaner element according to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”. Under extremely dusty conditions, replace it more frequently. It is recommended that you always use genuine SUBARU parts.

1. Unsnap the two clips holding the air cleaner case (rear).
2. Open the air cleaner case and pull the cover rearward while lifting it up.
   
3. Remove the air cleaner element.
4. Clean the inside of the air cleaner case (both front and rear) with a damp cloth and install a new air cleaner element.
   
5. To install the air cleaner case (rear), insert the three projections on the air cleaner case (rear) into the slits on the air cleaner case (front).
6. Install in the reverse order of removal.

NOTE
Install the air cleaner element so that the surface with “UPR” printed on it faces upward.

Read all Instructions for Cooling system Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Brake fluid and Trailer towing Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Trailer towing Instructions

Brake fluid

Checking the fluid level

• Never let brake fluid contact your eyes because brake fluid can be harmful to your eyes. If brake fluid gets in your eyes, immediately flush them thoroughly with clean water. For safety, when performing this work, wearing eye protection is advisable.
• Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air. Any absorbed moisture can cause a dangerous loss of braking performance.
• If the vehicle requires frequent refilling, there may be a leak. If you suspect a problem, have the vehicle checked at your SUBARU dealer.

CAUTION

• When adding brake fluid, be careful not to allow any dirt into the reservoir.
• Never splash the brake fluid over painted surfaces or rubber parts.
  Alcohol contained in the brake fluid may damage them.
• Be careful not to spill brake fluid when adding it. If brake fluid touches the exhaust pipe, it may cause a bad smell, smoke, and/or a fire. If brake fluid gets on the exhaust pipe, be sure to wipe it off.

1. “MAX” level line
2.  “MIN” level line

Check the fluid level monthly.
Check the fluid level on the outside of the reservoir. Be sure to check the fluid level for the brake system at the shaded area in the illustration. If the fluid level is below “MIN”, add the recommended brake fluid to “MAX”. Use only brake fluid from a sealed container.

Recommended brake fluid
Refer to “Fluids” 􀀁P497.

CAUTION
Never use different brands of brake fluid together. Also, avoid mixing DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluids even if they are the same brand.

Brake pedal

Check the brake pedal free play and reserve distance according to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”.

Replacement of brake pad

The disc brakes have audible wear indicators on the brake pads. If the brake pads wear close to their service limit, the wear indicator makes a very audible scraping noise when the brake pedal is applied. If you hear this scraping noise each time you apply the brake pedal, have the brake pads serviced by your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.

CAUTION
If you continue to drive despite the scraping noise from the audible brake pad wear indicator, it will result in the need for costly brake rotor repair or replacement.

Breaking-in of new brake pads
When replacing the brake pad, use only genuine SUBARU parts. After replacement, the new parts must be broken in. Contact your SUBARU dealer for details.

Trailer towing

 Towing

If towing is necessary, it is best done by your SUBARU dealer or a commercial towing service. Observe the following procedures for safety.

CAUTION
Keep metallic objects, magnetic sources, and signal transmitters away from the area between the access key fob and the push-button ignition switch. They may interfere with the communication between the access key fob and the pushbutton ignition switch. The following functions may be inoperable because of strong radio signals in the surrounding area or a low battery condition of the access key fob.

• Locking/unlocking doors (including the rear gate)
• Switching power status
• Starting engine

In such cases, perform the following procedure. When the battery of the access key fob is discharged, replace it with a new one. Refer to “Replacing battery of access key fob” 􀀁P490.

 Locking and unlocking

WARNING
Never tow AWD models with the front wheels raised off the ground while the rear wheels are on the ground, or with the rear wheels raised off the ground while the front wheels are on the ground. This will cause the vehicle to spin away due to the operation or deterioration of the center differential.

Towing hooks and tie-down hooks/holes

The towing hooks should be used only in an emergency.

CAUTION
Use only the specified towing hooks and tie-down hooks/holes. Never use suspension parts or other parts of the body for towing or tie-down purposes.

Front towing hook

1. Take the towing hook, screwdriver and jack handle out of the cargo area.
   
2. Cover the tip of a flat-head screwdriver with vinyl tape or cloth so that it will not scratch the bumper. Insert the flat-head screwdriver into the cutout of the cover and pry open the cover.
   
3. Screw the towing hook into the thread hole until its thread can no longer be seen.
   
4. Tighten the towing hook securely using the jack handle.
   After towing, remove the towing hook from the vehicle and stow it in the tool bucket. Fit the towing hook cover on the bumper.

WARNING

• Do not use the towing hook except when towing your vehicle.
• Be sure to remove the towing hook after towing. Leaving the towing hook mounted on the vehicle could interfere with proper operation of the SRS airbag system in a frontal collision.

CAUTION
To prevent deformation to the bumper and the towing hook, do not apply an excessive load to the towing hook.

Read all Instructions for Brake fluid and Trailer towing Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Fuses and Specifications Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Fuses and Fuse Box | Specification

Fuses

CAUTION
Never replace a fuse with one having a higher rating or with material other than a fuse because serious damage or a fire could result.

NOTE
Fuse rating and using circuit are described on each behind the fuse box cover. The fuses are designed to melt during an overload to prevent damage to the wiring harness and electrical equipment. The fuses are located in two fuse boxes.

One is located under the instrument panel behind the fuse box cover on the driver’s seat side. To remove the cover, pull it out. One is located under the instrument panel behind the fuse box cover on the driver’s seat side. To remove the cover, pull it out.

Spare fuses

The other one (main fuse box) is housed in the engine compartment. Also, the spare fuses are stored in the fuse box cover.

The fuse puller is stored in the main fuse box in the engine compartment. Pinch the upper part of the fuse puller when removing it from the main fuse box.

1.  Good
2. Blown

If any lights, accessories or other electrical controls do not operate, inspect the corresponding fuse. If a fuse has blown, replace it.

1.  Turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK”/ “OFF” position and turn off all electrical accessories.
2.  Remove the cover.
3. Determine which fuse may be blown.
   Look at the back side of each fuse box cover.
   
4. Pull out the fuse with the fuse puller
5. Inspect the fuse. If it has blown, replace it with a spare fuse of the same rating.
6. If the same fuse blows again, this indicates that its system has a problem. Contact your SUBARU dealer for repairs.

Installation of accessories

Always consult your SUBARU dealer before installing fog lights or any other electrical equipment in your vehicle. Such accessories may cause the electronic system to malfunction if they are incorrectly installed or if they are not suited for the vehicle.

Replacing bulbs

WARNING
Bulbs may become very hot while illuminated. Before replacing bulbs, turn off the lights and wait until the bulbs cool down. Otherwise, there is a risk of sustaining a burn injury.

CAUTION
Replace any bulb only with a new bulb of the specified wattage. Using a bulb of different wattage could result in a fire. For the specified wattage of each bulb, refer to “Bulb chart” 􀀁12-9.

NOTE
For models with type B combination meter, if SRH is malfunctioning, the SRH OFF indicator light appears on the combination meter when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position. It indicates that SRH has been deactivated. Contact a SUBARU dealer for an inspection.

Specifications

These specifications are subject to change without notice.

 Dimensions

Item		Forester	Subaru Forester Wilderness
Overall length		182.7 (4,640)
Overall width		71.5 (1,815)	72.2 (1,835)
Overall height		68.1 (1,730)*2 67.5 (1,715)*3	68.9 (1,750)
Wheel base		105.1 (2,670)	104.9 (2,665)
Tread	Front	61.6 (1,565)	61.4 (1,560)
	Rear	61.8 (1,570)	61.4 (1,560)
Ground clearance*1		8.7 (220)	9.3 (235)

1.  Measured with vehicle empty
2.  Models with roof rails
3.  Models without roof rails

Read all Instructions for Fuses and Specifications Base User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Tire Information and Quality Grading User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Tire and Quality Grading Guidelines

Tire information

 Tire labeling

Many markings (e.g. Tire size, Tire Identification Number or TIN) are placed on the sidewall of a tire by tire manufacturers. These markings can provide you with useful information on the tire.

Tire size

Your vehicle comes equipped with a P-Metric tire size. It is important to understand the sizing system in selecting the proper tire for your vehicles. Here is a brief review of the tire sizing system with a breakdown of its individual elements.

 P Metric

With the P-Metric system, Section Width is measured in millimeters. To convert millimeters into inches, divide by 25.4. The Aspect Ratio (Section Height divided by Section Width) helps provide more dimensional information about the tire size.

Example:

1. Certain tire type used on light duty vehicles such as passenger cars
2. Section Width in millimeters
3. Aspect Ratio (= section height 7 section width).
4. R = Radial Construction
5. Rim diameter in inches
   Load and Speed Rating Descriptions
   The load and speed rating descriptions will appear following the size designation. They provide two important facts about the tire. First, the number designation is its load index. Second, the letter designation indicates the tire’s speed rating.
   Example
   
   
6. Load Index: A numerical code which specifies the maximum load a tire can carry at the indicated by its speed symbol, at maximum inflation pressure.
   For example, “90” means 1,323 l bs (600 kg), “89” means 1,278 l bs (580 kg).
   WARNING
   Load indices apply only to the tire, not to the vehicle. Putting a load rated tire on any vehicle does not mean the vehicle can be loaded up to the tire’s rated load.
7.  Speed Rating: An alphabetical system describing a tire’s cap-ability to travel at established and predetermined speeds. For example, “V” means 149 mph (240 km/h)

WARNING

• Speed ratings apply only to the tire, not to the vehicle. Putting a speed rated tire on any vehicle does not mean the vehicle can be operated at the tire’s rated speed.
• The speed rating is void if the tires are worn out, damaged, repaired, retreaded, or otherwise altered from their original condition. If tires are repaired, retreaded, or otherwise altered, they may not be suitable for original equipment tire designed loads and speeds.

Tire Identification Number (TIN)

Tire Identification Number (TIN) is marked on the intended outboard sidewall. Here is a brief review of the TIN with a breakdown of its individual elements.

1. DOT symbol
2. Manufacturer’s Identification Mark
3.  Tire Size Code
4. Tire Type Code
5. Date of Manufacture The first two figures identify the week, starting with “01” to represent the first full week of the calendar
   year; the second two figures represent the year. For example, 0101 means the 1st week of 2001.
6. The DOT symbol certifies that the tire conforms to applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

1. DOT symbol
2. Plant Code
3. Manufacturer’s Code
4. Date of Manufacture The first two figures identify the week, starting with “01” to represent the first full week of the calendar
   year; the second two figures represent the year. For example, 0101 means the 1st week of 2001.
5. The DOT symbol certifies that the tire conforms to applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Other markings

The following makings are also placed on the sidewall. Maximum permissible inflation pressure. The maximum cold inflation pressure to which this tire may be inflated. For example, “300 kPa (44 PSI) MAX. PRESS”

 Maximum load rating
The load rating at the maximum permissible weight load for this tire. For example, “MAX. LOAD 580 kg (1279 LBS) @ 300 kPa (44 PSI) MAX. PRESS.”

WARNING
Maximum load rating applies only to the tire, not to the vehicle. Putting a load-rated tire on any vehicle does not mean the vehicle can be loaded up to the tire’s rated load.

Construction type

Applicable construction of this tire. For example, “TUBELESS STEEL BELTED RADIAL”  Construction The generic name of each cord material used in the plies (both sidewall and tread area) of this tire. For example, “PLIES: TREAD 2 STEEL + 2 POLYESTER SIDEWALL 2 POLYESTER”

Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG)

For details, refer to “Uniform tire quality grading standards” �P520.

Recommended tire inflation pressure

For recommended cold tire inflation pressure for your vehicle’s tires, refer to “Tires” �P498. 510 Tire information

Vehicle placard

The vehicle placard is attached to the driver’s side door pillar.

Read all Instructions for Tire Information and Quality Grading User Guide

Subaru Forester 2023 Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards Base User Guide

2023 Subaru Forester Tire Quality Guidelines

Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG)

For details, refer to “Uniform tire quality grading standards” �P520.

Recommended tire inflation pressure

For recommended cold tire inflation pressure for your vehicle’s tires, refer to “Tires” �P498. 510 Tire information

Vehicle placard

The vehicle placard is attached to the driver’s side door pillar.

Example:

The vehicle placard shows original tire size, recommended cold tire inflation pressure on each tire at maximum loaded vehicle weight, seating capacity and loading information

Adverse safety consequences of underinflation

Driving at high speeds with excessively low tire pressures can cause the tires to flex severely and to rapidly become hot. A sharp in-crease in temperature could cause tread separation, and failure of the tire(s). Possible resulting loss of vehicle control could lead to an accident.

Measuring and adjusting air pressure to achieve proper inflation

Check and, if necessary, adjust the pressure of each tire (including the spare) at least once a month and before any long journey. Check the tire pressures when the tires are cold. Use a pressure gauge to adjust the tire pressures to the specific values. Driving even a short distance warms up the tires and increases the tire pressures. Also, the tire pressures are affected by the outside temperature. It is best to check tire pressure outdoors before driving the vehicle. When a tire becomes warm, the air inside it expands, causing the tire pressure to increase. Be careful not to mistakenly release air from a warm tire to reduce its pressure.

Glossary of tire terminology

Accessory weight
The combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be replaced) of automatic transmis-sion, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, radio, and heater, to the extent that these items are available as factory-in-stalled equipment (whether in-stalled or not).

Bead
The part of the tire that is made of512 Tire information steel wires, wrapped or reinforced by ply cords and that is shaped to fit the rim.

•  Bead separation A breakdown of the bond between components in the bead.
• Bias ply tire A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at alternate angles substantially less than 90 degrees to the center-line of the tread.
•  Carcass The tire structure, except tread and sidewall rubber which, when inflated, bears the load.
•  Chunking
  The breaking away of pieces of the tread or sidewall.
• Cold tire pressure
  The pressure in a tire that has been driven less than 1 mile or has been standing for three hours or more. . Cord
• The strands forming the plies in the tire.
•  Cord separation

The parting of cords from adjacent rubber compounds.

•  Cracking
  Any parting within the tread, side-wall, or inner liner of the tire extending to cord material.
• Curb weight
• The weight of a motor vehicle with standard equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil and coolant, and if so equipped, air conditioning and additional weight optional engine.
•  Extra load tire

A tire designed to operate at higher loads and higher inflation pressure than the corresponding standard tire. Groove

The space between two adjacent tread ribs.

•  Inner liner

The layer(s) forming the inside sur-face of a tubeless tire that contains the inflating medium within the tire.

• Inner liner separation

The parting of the inner liner from cord material in the carcass.

• Intended outboard sidewall
• The sidewall that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper than the same molding on the other sidewall of the tire, or
• The outward facing sidewall of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that must always face outward when mounting on a vehicle.
• Light truck (LT) tire

A tire designated by its manufacturer as primarily intended for use on lightweight trucks or multipurpose passenger vehicles.

• Load rating

The maximum load that a tire is rated to carry for a given inflation pressure.

• Maximum inflation pressure

The maximum cold inflation pressure to which a tire may be inflated.

• Maximum load rating

The load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire.

• Maximum loaded vehicle weight

The sum of

• Curb weight
• Accessory weight
• Vehicle capacity weight
• Production options weight
• Maximum permissible inflation pressure

Read all Instructions for Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards Base User Guide

Useful Links

Download Manuals: https://www.subaru.com/owners/vehicle-resources/manuals.html