2023 Subaru Forester Remote Engine Start
Subaru offers a remote engine start feature for the Forester, enabling users to start the vehicle’s engine remotely using either a key fob or a compatible smartphone app (if available). This function proves particularly convenient in extreme weather conditions, allowing the driver to warm up or cool down the car’s interior before entering.
2023 Subaru Forester Specs, Price, Features and Mileage
To initiate the remote engine Subaru Forester auto start-stop feature, the following steps are typically followed:
- Ensure that the vehicle is securely locked, and all doors, including the rear hatch, are closed.
- Use the remote engine auto-start Subaru with a key fob (if equipped) or access the Subaru smartphone app (if provided).
- The engine will start, and the vehicle’s climate control system will activate based on the settings used during the previous engine shutdown.
- The remote engine start will usually operate for a predetermined period (usually around 10-15 minutes) before automatically shutting off. This safety feature prevents the engine from running indefinitely.
The Subaru Forester is a popular compact SUV that has been available with a remote engine start system in previous model years. It is possible that the 2023 Forester will also be available with this feature. The base model of the Subaru Forester typically includes a number of standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, automatic climate control, and Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance system. However, the specific features included in the base model may vary depending on the model year and market. In summary, while information about the 2023 Subaru Forester is limited, it is possible that it will be available with a remote engine start system, and the features included on the base model may vary depending on the market and model year. We will have to wait for official announcements from Subaru for more details about the 2023 Forester.
Remote Engine Start System (2023 Subaru Forester remote start)
- There are some general precautions when starting the engine. Carefully read the precautions described in “General precautions when starting the engine”
- Do not remote start a vehicle in an enclosed environment (e.g. closed garage). The 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 the 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 the 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 2023 Subaru Forester remote 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 Subaru Forester safety features
For safety and security reasons, the remote start Subaru Forester 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 stopping 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.
NOTE
- If the alarm system is armed at the time of remote engine starter activation (the security indicator light on the combination meter is flashing), the alarm system will remain armed throughout the remote start run cycle.
- If the alarm system is disarmed at the time of remote engine starter activation (the security indicator light on the combination meter is not flashing), the alarm system will remain disarmed throughout the remote start run cycle.
Subaru remote start operation – fob confirmation
Your remote engine starter fob is a bidirectional transceiver that can confirm system operation with several different visual and audible indications. The fob’s LED-backlit button and the internal piezo buzzer will indicate the status of the system using the following flash and beep sequences, provided the fob is within the operational range of the system.
Alternate operation method for models with “keyless access with push-button start system”
Start subaru with key fob
- Lock button
An access start Subaru with key fob can be used as the remote engine start transmitter. Operate the lock button to start or stop the engine as follows.
Before starting the engine
Before using the remote engine start system to start the engine, confirm the following conditions.
- The select lever is in the “P” position. . All doors including the rear gate are closed.
- The engine hood is closed.
- The push-button ignition switch is in the “OFF” position.
When starting the engine
To start the engine with the remote engine start system, briefly press the lock button twice within 2 seconds, then press and hold the lock button for 3 seconds.
- Press the lock button briefly. The hazard warning flashers then flash once and the keyless buzzer chirps once.
- Within 2 seconds, press the lock button briefly again. The hazard warning flashers then flash once again, and the keyless buzzer chirps once again.
- After step 2, immediately press and hold the lock button. Some exterior lights then flash three times, and the horn will honk once.
- Approximately 3 seconds after step 3, release the lock button. The engine will then start successfully.
When stopping the engine
Press and hold the lock button to stop the engine with the remote engine start system.
Subaru remote start safety features
For detailed information, refer to “Subaru Forester remote start safety features”
Entering the vehicle while it is running via remote start (models without “keyless access with push-button start system”)
- Unlock the vehicle doors using the remote keyless entry system.
NOTE
If the vehicle’s doors are unlocked manually using the key, the vehicle’s alarm system will trigger (if the alarm system is armed prior to activating the remote engine start system) and the engine will turn off. Perform either of the following procedures to disarm the alarm system. Refer to “Alarm system”- P136.
Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to the “ON” position. - Press any button on the remote keyless entry transmitter.
- P136.
- Enter the vehicle. The engine will shut down when any door or rear gate is opened.
- Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to the “START” position to restart the engine.
- The system will flash the side marker lights, tail lights and parking lights and honk the horn three times, indicating that the system has entered the transmitter learn mode.
- Press and release the “ ” button on the transmitter that you want to program.
- The system will flash the side marker lights, tail lights, and parking lights and honk the horn one time, indicating that the system has learned the transmitter. Upon successful programming, the subaru remote start confirmation transmitter button will flash one time.
- Repeat step 5 for any additional transmitters (the system will accept up to eight transmitters).
- The system will exit the transmitter learn mode if the key is turned to the “LOCK”/“OFF” position, the door is closed, or after 2 minutes.
System Maintenance
NOTE
For remote engine starter transceiver: In the event that the vehicle’s battery is replaced, discharged, or disconnected, it will be necessary to start the vehicle a minimum of one time using the key prior to activating the remote engine start system. This is required to allow the vehicle’s electronic systems to re-synchronize.
Changing the Battery
- Do not let dust, oil, or water get on or in the remote engine start transmitter when replacing the battery.
- Be careful not to damage the printed circuit board in the remote engine start transmitter when replacing the battery.
- Be careful not to allow children to touch the battery and any re-moved parts; children could swallow them.
- There is a danger of explosion if an incorrect replacement battery is used. Replace only with the same or equivalent type of battery.
- Battery should not be exposed to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire, or the like.
For models with “keyless access with push-button start system”:
Perform the procedure described in “Re-placing battery of access key fob”
For remote engine starter transceivers: The 3-volt lithium battery (model CR-2450) supplied in your remote engine start transmitter should last approximately one year, depending on usage. When the battery begins to weaken, you will notice a decrease in range (distance from the vehicle that your remote control operates). Follow the instructions below to change the remote engine start transmitter battery.
- Remove the small Philips screw located on the back side lower left corner of the transmitter.
- Carefully pry the remote engine start transmitter halves apart using a small flat-head screwdriver.
- Remove the circuit board from the bottom half of the case and remove the battery and replace it with a new one. Be sure to observe the (+) sign on the old battery before removing it to ensure that the new battery is inserted properly (battery “+” should be pointed away from the transmitter circuit board on the battery).
- Carefully snap the case halves back together, reinstall the Phillis screw and test the remote engine start system.
Certification for Remote Engine Starter
U.S.-spec. models
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
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
FAQ
Why would you want a remote engine start system?
A remote engine start system can be useful for warming up or cooling down your vehicle before you get in, as well as for defrosting windows and melting snow and ice.
Does the Subaru Forester have a remote engine start system?
Previous model years of the Subaru Forester have been available with a remote engine start system, but we don’t know if the 2023 model year will have this feature.
What comes standard on the base model of the Subaru Forester?
The specific features included on the base model of the Subaru Forester may vary depending on the model year and market but typically include a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, automatic climate control, and Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance system.
Will the 2023 Subaru Forester have a remote engine start system on the base model?
It is unknown at this time whether the 2023 Subaru Forester will have a remote engine start system on the base model.
Can you retrofit a remote engine start system onto a vehicle that doesn’t have one?
In some cases, it may be possible to retrofit a remote engine start system onto a vehicle that doesn’t have one, but this will depend on the specific vehicle and the aftermarket parts available.
Are there any downsides to using a remote engine start system?
One potential downside is that using a remote engine start system can increase fuel consumption and emissions, as the engine is running without the vehicle being in use.
How far can you start your vehicle by using a remote engine start system?
The range of a remote engine start system will depend on the specific system and the environment in which it is being used but typically ranges from a few hundred feet to a few thousand feet.
Can you control other vehicle functions using a remote engine start system?
Some remote engine start systems allow you to control other vehicle functions, such as the heating and air conditioning system, while the engine is running.
Can you start a manual transmission vehicle using a remote engine start system?
In most cases, remote engine start systems are not compatible with manual transmission vehicles, as it is necessary to manually disengage the clutch before starting the engine.
Can a remote engine start system be installed on an electric vehicle?
Electric vehicles typically do not have traditional engines that can be started remotely, so a remote engine start system is not applicable.
Can a remote engine start system be installed on a hybrid vehicle?
In some cases, hybrid vehicles can be equipped with remote engine start systems, but the system will need to be compatible with the specific hybrid drivetrain.
How secure is a remote engine start system?
Remote engine start systems typically have security features to prevent unauthorized use, but it is still important to take precautions to protect your vehicle from theft.
How to start Subaru Forester?
Insert the key or push the start button while pressing the brake pedal to start a Subaru Forester with a keyless ignition system. For a key-based ignition, insert the key and turn it clockwise.
Can you start your vehicle remotely using a smartphone app?
Some remote engine start systems can be controlled using a smartphone app, which allows you to start your vehicle from anywhere with an internet connection.
Can a remote engine start system be installed on any vehicle?
In general, remote engine start systems can be installed on most vehicles, but compatibility and installation options will vary depending on the specific vehicle and the aftermarket parts available.
From how much distance Subaru Forester 2023 Remote engine start?
Typically, the range of a remote engine start system ranges from a few hundred feet to a few thousand feet. This means that you should be able to start the engine from a reasonable distance away from the vehicle, such as from inside your home or office. However, the actual range may vary depending on factors such as interference from other signals, obstructions like buildings or trees, and weather conditions.
It’s important to note that using a remote engine start system can increase fuel consumption and emissions, as the engine is running without the vehicle being in use. It’s best to use the system only when necessary and for short periods to minimize any negative impact on the environment and fuel economy.
How to remote start the Subaru Forester?
To remotely start a Subaru Forester, press the lock button three times on the key fob, then hold it down on the third press until the car starts.
Useful Link
View Full User Guide: Subaru Forester 2023 Base User Guide | Auto User Guide
Download Manuals: Vehicle Resources | Subaru