2012 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual
2012 Subaru Forester Manual
2012 Subaru Forester manual content summary:
- 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 1
2012 Forester Quick Reference Guide - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 2
of equipment or features may vary from time to time and by geographic area. Certain accessories and equipment may not be available at the time of publication. This Quick Reference Guide applies to all Forester models. Therefore, some explanations may be for equipment not installed on your vehicle - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 3
Table of Contents Getting Started Instrument Panel Gauges Personalize Controls While Operating Safety/In Case of Emergency Additional Information 2-3 4-5 6-9 10 - 11 12 - 27 28 - 29 30 - 31 32 - 33 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 4
PGUIFEPPSTPSUIFSFBS gate are not fully closed, an electronic chirp will sound five times and the hazard lights will flash five times to alert you that the doors or the rear gate are not properly closed. t 5PBDUJWBUFUIFWFIJDMFýOEFS function, press three times (within five seconds - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 5
in the corresponding direction on to adjust the angle of the seatback. 3. Lumbar Support Press the front part of the switch to increase lumbar support; press the rear part of the switch witch to decrease lumbar support. Personalize P sonali Per lize Controls C tro Con t ls l Folding the Rear Seat - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 6
Instrument Panel pg. 12 pg. 10 pg. 28 pg. 12 pg. 26 pg. 6-9 pg. 27 4 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 7
1SFTTUIFi wCVUUPOUPBEWBODFUJNFPSUIF iowCVUUPOUPSFWFSTFUIFUJNF7FIJDMFTXJUIB navigation system please refer to the separate i0QFSBUJOH*OTUSVDUJPOTGPS/BWJHBUJPO4ZTUFNw pg. 14-19 pg. 20-25 5 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 8
Forester 2.5X Forester 2.5X Premium Forester 2.5X Limited Speedometer Seatbelt warning Brake system Front passenger seatbelt warning Hot coolant temperature / Cold coolant temperature SRS airbag system High beam indicator light Security indicator light AT OIL TEMP (Automatic Transmission - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 9
OFF Turn signals Front fog light indicator light (if equipped) While Whil Operating $)&$,&/(*/& Malfunction indicator Headlight indicator light Tire pressure warning light SPORT mode (Automatic Transmission) Cruise control indicator light Cruise control set indicator light Safety S fety - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 10
Seatbelt warning Brake system Front passenger seatbelt warning High beam indicator light SRS airbag system Automatic headlight beam leveler warning AT OIL TEMP (Automatic Transmission) Security indicator light Door open ABS warning Charge warning Low fuel Oil pressure warning All-Wheel - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 11
OFF Turn signals Front fog light indicator light (if equipped) While Whil Operating $)&$,&/(*/& Malfunction indicator Headlight indicator light Tire pressure warning light SPORT mode (Automatic Transmission) Cruise control indicator light Cruise control set indicator light Safety S fety - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 12
Personalize Tilt and Telescopic Steering Column Push the lever down firmly to adjust the height and lengthwise position of the column; firmly push the lever back up to lock the column in place. Do not adjust while driving. Power Exterior Mirrors 1VTIUIFNJSSPSTFMFDUJPOTXJUDIUPUIFi-w TJEFUP - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 13
Getting G Get ttin ti g Started Instrument I trument Ins Panel Gauges G ges Gau Personalize Personalize 1 Controls C tro Con t ls l 2 While Whil Operating Power Moonroof (if equipped) With the moonroof in the fully closed position, press the switch 1 to fully open the moonroof. Press the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 14
signal. Turns on headlights, instrument panel illumination, parking lights, taillights and license plate lights. Turns on fog lights (if equipped). Push down for left turn signal. Turns on instrument panel lights, tail lights, parking lights and license plate lights. While the light switch is on - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 15
high beam will be automatically turned on when the engine has started and the parking brake is GVMMZSFMFBTFEBOEUIFMJHIUTXJUDIJTJOUIFi0''wPSi w position. The brightness of the illumination of the high beam headlights is reduced by the daytime running light system. You must always - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 16
Controls 6 5 Manual Climate Control (if equipped) 1. Temperature Control Dial Rotate the temperature control dial from blue for cool, to red for warm. 2. Air Conditioning Button 1SFTTUIFi"$wCVUUPOUPBDUJWBUFUIF air conditioning. Press it again to turn off the air conditioning. 3. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 17
/ Defog To clear the windshield and front door windows of fog or frost, rotate the air flow control dial to the defrost position, automatically shut off after about 15 minutes. If the window clears before that time, you can press the button again to turn it off. 6. Air Flow Control Dial The air - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 18
automatic setting, the system determines the air flow location to achieve the desired temperature or you can manually choose the direction of air flow. Rotate the dial for the desired air flow position. Defrost / Defog To clear the windshield and front door windows of fog or frost, rotate the air - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 19
Press it again to turn off the air conditioning. 5. Recirculated / Outside Air Button In the automatic mode, the system will determine if recirculated air is needed to achieve a desired temperature. In manual mode, press the air inlet selection button to prevent outside air from being drawn into the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 20
Automatic On and Off This system automatically controls outlet air temperature, fan speed, air flow distribution, air inlet control, and air conditioner side. Operation in Manual Mode 3. Recirculated / Outside Air Button Press the air inlet selection button to prevent outside air from being drawn - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 21
conditioning. Press it again to turn off the air conditioning. 8. Defroster Button Press the button to defrost or dehumidify the windshield and front door windows. 9. Rear Window Defogger Button Press the button to turn on the defogger. It will automatically shut off f after about 15 minutes. If the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 22
heard. 7. Satellite Radio An optional satellite radio tuner and antenna can be connected to this audio unit. You can hear satellite radio programs CZQSFTTJOHUIFi4"5wCVUUPOBGUFS connecting optional equipment. To receive satellite radio service, it is necessary to enter into a separate contract - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 23
the slot. The CD will automatically be drawn in and will begin play at the first track. 9. Play CD hold the right arrow PGUIFi4&&,wCVUUPOGPSNPSF than one second to fast forward. formatted with MP3/ 8."T QSFTTUIFi5&95wCVUUPOUP change the display to show play time, folder name and file - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 24
heard. 7. Satellite Radio An optional satellite radio tuner and antenna can be connected to this audio unit. You can hear satellite radio programs CZQSFTTJOHUIFi4"5wCVUUPOBGUFS connecting optional equipment. To receive satellite radio service, it is necessary to enter into a separate contract - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 25
change to program type selection mode. The PTY group that you are currently listening to is displayed for 10 seconds. 14. Fast Forward / Fast Reverse Press and hold the right arrow PGUIFi4&&,wCVUUPOGPS slot. The CD will automatically be drawn in and will begin play at the first track. 10. Play - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 26
and press one of the preset buttons until a confirmation beep is heard. 7. Satellite Radio An optional satellite radio tuner and antenna can be connected to this audio unit. You can hear satellite radio programs CZQSFTTJOHUIFi4"5wCVUUPOBGUFS connecting optional equipment. To receive satellite - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 27
Instrument I trument Ins Panel Gauges G ges Gau CD Player Functions 10. Load Insert a disc into the slot. The CD will automatically be drawn in and will begin play at the first track. 11. Play CD 1SFTTUIFi$%"69wCVUUPOBOE playback will begin. 12. Repeat 1SFTTUIFi315wCVUUPOPODFUP repeat - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 28
Controls Steering Wheel Audio Controls (if equipped) t 1SFTTUIFi wCVUUPOUP increase the volume. 1SFTTUIFiwCVUUPOUP reduce the volume. t 1SFTTUIFCVUUPOUPTFMFDUUIF EFTJSFEBVEJPNPEFo'. AM, SAT, CD, AUX, MEDIA. t 8JUIBOZPGUIFSBEJPNPEFTTFMFDUFE QVTIUIFVQ button - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 29
BDUJWBUFUIFDSVJTFDPOUSPM QSFTTUIF i$36*4&wCVUUPO5IFi$36*4&wJOEJDBUPS light on the instrument panel will turn on. To deactivate cruise control, press push the brake pedal or press UIFi$"/$&-wCVUUPO*GZPVIBWF a manual transmission, you can push in the clutch pedal. t 1SFTTUIF - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 30
TUFFQMZTMPQJOHSPBEXJUIBTOPXZ gravel-covered, or otherwise slippery surface. t8IFOUIFWFIJDMFTXIFFMTBSFTUVDLJONVEPSEFFQTOPX Fuel Filler Lid Release The vehicle is equipped with a fuel filler lid release. To open the fuel filler lid, pull the fuel filler lever up and release. 28 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 31
sonali Per lize Automatic Transmission Shift Mode The 4-Speed automatic transmission gives you manual gate 1 GSPNi%w %SJWF position causes the transmission to change into Sport Mode. Manual Mode In Manual Mode, you select the desired gear position to obtain necessary acceleration and engine - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 32
In Case of Emergency Child Restraint System For maximum safety, first carefully read the LATCH system instructions from the device manufacturer, as well as the installation instructions in your Owner's Manual, to properly install the LATCH compatible restraint system. Use the appropriate seatbelts - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 33
vehicle. Coverage is automatic; there are no forms to complete. Subaru Roadside Assistance is available anytime during the 3-year/36,000-mile Subaru Limited Warranty, whichever comes first.* A Subaru Roadside Assistance decal has been affixed to the driver's door window. Subaru Roadside Assistance - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 34
your vehicle care and enjoy all the benefits of Subaru ownership. Log on to My.Subaru.com to access features such as: automated service history, e-mail maintenance reminders, online Owner's Manual, warranty information, maintenance schedules and much more...Access your site today @ My.Subaru.com 32 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 35
GVFMFEZPVSWFIJDMF UIF$IFDL Engine light on the instrument panel may stay on due to a missing or loose fuel filler cap (the cap should be tightened until a click is heard). Personalize P sonali Per lize Engine Oil Use only the following oils: t *-4"$('PS(' XIJDIDBOCFJEFOUJ - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 36
Notes 34 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 37
Notes 35 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 38
Notes 36 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 39
NAME Owner Resources & Warranty Present the Subaru Owner's Manual & Quick Reference Guide (detailed review in "Operation & Controls" section) Review 5/60 Powertrain Warranty / Explain Wear Items & Adjustments / PZEV (if applicable) / Review Rust Perforation Warranty / Tire Warranty Review Service & - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 40
Assist (if equipped) Explain Operation of Automatic Transmission & Review Manual Mode (if equipped) Show All Weather Package - Heated Front Seats, Windshield Wiper De-Icer & Heated Side Mirrors (if equipped) DRIVER CONTROLS & OPERATION Show Power Windows, Door Locks & Side-View Mirror Operation - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 41
Subaru of America, Inc., Subaru Plaza, P.O. Box 6000, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034-6000 MSA5B1204A Issued July 2011 Printed in USA 10/11 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 42
2012 Consumer Electronics/ Bluetooth & Audio Technology ® Quick Reference Guide - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 43
Navigation System Impreza 2.0i / WRX / WRX/STI / Forester 2.5X Legacy and Outback BlueConnect® Tribeca Bluetooth with Navigation System Impreza 2.0i / WRX / WRX/STI / Forester 2.5X Legacy and Outback Bluetooth with TomTom® Navigation Select Forester 2.5X Premium 2-3 4-7 8 - 11 12 - 13 14 - 17 18 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 44
Bluetooth Basics t5IF)BOETGSFFTZTUFNNBZOPUPQFSBUFQSPQFSMZVOEFSUIFGPMMPXJOHDPOEJUJPOT phone has run down. o The cell phone is behind the seat or in the glove box. o A metal material covers or touches the cell phone. t %FQFOEJOHPOUIFUZQFPGDFMMQIPOFUIBUJTVTFE UIFTDSFFOPOUIF - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 45
SJWJOHBUBIJHITQFFE P%SJWJOHXJUIBXJOEPXPQFO o When air from the ventilator blows directly towards the microphone. o When the QIPOFUIBUJT connected to the system or the circumstances of the Bluetooth network. t 8IFOBOPUIFS#MVFUPPUIEFWJDFJTTJNVMUBOFPVTMZDPOOFDUFE OPJTFNBZCF - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 46
Bluetooth for AM/FM Stereo and Single Disc CD Player (Impreza 2.0i/WRX/WRX STI, Forester 2.5X) Forester 2.5X/WRX/WRX STI Impreza 2.0i Phone off hook button Phone on hook button Talk button Phone off hook button Phone on hook button Talk button - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 47
® Navigation Nav. System Pass-key for pairing will be given audibly as well as be displayed on the radio display. ay. Put your phone into Bluetooth pairing mode and pair your phone to the system using ng the pass-key provided. When phone is successfully paired you will hear "The phone - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 48
Making a Call 1SFTTQIPOFPGGIPPLCVUUPO1SFTTUIFUBMLCVUUPOUIFOTBZi%JBMCZOVNCFSw Press the talk button again and say the number. 6 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 49
audio system is on, the audio system will mute and a voice prompt will inform you. Press the phone off hook button to accept the call. Bluetooth Bl Blu etooth h with wiith h Navigation System t*GZPVXBOUUPQVUUIFDBMMPOIPME QSFTTUIFQIPOFPOIPPLCVUUPO t *GZPVXBOUUPEFDMJOF - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 50
Bluetooth for AM/FM Stereo with Display Type Radio (Legacy and Outback) Phone off hook button Phone on hook button Talk button Pairing Your Cell Phone Press the phone off hook button. Rotate the tune knob, to select "Pair Phone". 8 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 51
Bl Blu eto t oth th Basics B sic Ba i s Bluetooth Bluetooth without m Navigation System without Bl eCo Blu C nnect® BlueConnect Bluetooth Bl Blu etooth h with wiith h Navigation System Bluetooth Bl etooth Blu h with wiith h TomTom® Navigation Follow the audible prompt, then select "Record - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 52
After "Car Multi-Media" is displayed, a pass key to pair phone will be displayed. *OQVUUIFEJTQMBZFEQBTTLFZJOUPUIFDFMMQIPOFXIJMFi1BTTLFZ wJTEJTQMBZFE "Phone paired successfully" will be displayed when pairing has been completed. Making a Call 1SFTTUIFUBMLCVUUPOUIFOTBZi%JBM - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 53
Bl Blu eto t oth th Basics B sic Ba i s Bluetooth Bluetooth without m Navigation System without Nav. System The system will audibly repeat the number. If correct, press the phone off hook button to dial, or press the talk button to change, cancel or delete the number. The phone will start dialing - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 54
BlueConnect® (Tribeca 3.6R Limited and Touring models) Controls Location BlueConnect controls for the Tribeca are located in the overhead console. Controls Function Phone button - activate and deactivate system. Volume - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 55
iDPOUJOVFw t4BZZPVSQFSTPOBMGPVSEJHJUQBJSJOHDPEF GPSFYBNQMF iw Bluetooth Bl Blu eto t oth th Basics B sic Ba i s Bl DPSSFDUTBZiZFTw t5IFTZTUFNXJMMUIFOEJBM ® BlueConnect BlueConnect® Bluetooth Bl Blu etooth h with wiith h Navigation System Receiving a Call t - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 56
Bluetooth for AM/FM Stereo with HD RadioTM, Single Disc CD Player and Navigation (Impreza 2.0i/WRX/WRX STI, Forester 2.5X) "6%*0CVUUPO Pairing Your Cell Phone 1SFTTUIF"6%*0CVUUPO UIFOUPVDIUIFi*OGPwTPGULFZPOUIFUPVDITDSFFO Then touch "Bluetooth." 14 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 57
BlueConnect A pass-key pairing number will appear on the screen. Put your phone into Bluetooth h pairing mode and pair your phone to the system using the pass-key provided. Bluetooth with Bluetooth with Navigation System m Navigation System When the phone is successfully paired the screen will - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 58
Making a Call 1SFTTUIF"6%*0CVUUPO UIFOUPVDIUIFi1IPOFwTPGULFZ"OVNFSJDLFZQBEXJMM be displayed. . Touch the numbers for the phone number you wish to call. When complete, touch the green phone soft key to make the call. 16 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 59
System Receiving a Call Bl eCo Blu C nnect® BlueConnect 5PVDIi%JTDPOOFDUwUP decline the incoming call. Bluetooth with Bluetooth with Navigation System m Navigation System When a call comes in the incoming call screen appears automatically. Touch the green phone soft key to answer the call - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 60
Bluetooth with Navigation System (Legacy and Outback) MENU button Phone off hook button Phone on hook button Talk button 18 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 61
t oth th Basics B sic Ba i s Bl eto Blu t oth th without wiitho th ut t Bluetooth Navigation System Bl eCo Blu C nnect® BlueConnect Bluetooth with Bluetooth with Navigation System m Navigation System Bluetooth Bl etooth Blu h with wiith h TomTom® Navigation 1SFTTUIF.&/6CVUUPO UIFOUPVDIUIF - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 62
Put your phone into Bluetooth pairing mode and pair your phone to the system using the pass-key provided. When the phone is successfully paired the screen will show the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 63
call. Speaker - Touch to switch ck the phone conversation back to your cell phone. Red phone symbol - Touch this to end a call. 1 - 5 - Touch 1 through 5 to change the volume of the call. Bluetooth Bl Blu eto t oth th Basics B sic Ba i s Bl eto Blu t oth th without wiitho th ut - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 64
TomTom® Navigation with Bluetooth (Optional on Forester 2.5X Premium models) Pairing Your Cell Phone t 5ap anywhere within the displayed navigation map t*GBQBTTXPSEJTBTLFECZZPVSQIPOF VTF t $IFDLZPVSQIPOFVTFSHVJEFGPSTQFDJýDJOGPSNBUJPOBCPVU#MVFUPPUITFUUJOHT 22 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 65
Blu eto t oth th Basics B sic Ba i s Bl eto Blu t oth th without wiitho th ut t Bluetooth Navigation System Bl eCo Blu C nnect t® BlueConnect Receiving a Call If someone calls when you are driving, a screen will automatically pop up, and you will have the option to Accept or Refuse the call. If you - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 66
Notes - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 67
All information contained within this Consumer Electronics/Bluetooth & Audio Technology Quick Reference Guide was accurate at the time of publication. We reserve the right to change features, operation and/or functionality of any vehicle specification at any time without incurring any obligation to - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 68
2012 Forester, Impreza, Impreza WRX, Impreza WRX STI Navigation System Quick Reference Guide - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 69
Table of Contents Safety Navigation Introduction Emergency Screen Finding an Address Finding a Point of Interest Setting HOME as a Favorite Notes 2 3 4-5 6-9 10 -11 12 - 13 14 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 70
road closures, etc.) change. Before you follow system instructions, make sure to check whether you can comply with the instructions legally and safely. the Navigation System, start the engine. The opening screen will appear, followed by the CAUTION screen. Read the instructions on the screen, if not - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 71
the system, be sure to read the entire Navigation System Owner's Manual Supplement so you have a complete understanding of the system. For your convenience, this Quick Reference Guide offers a quick guide for regularly used features. Your control panel is your access to the Navigation System. Some - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 72
Emergency Screen (Where Am I?) From the map screen, touch the WHERE AM I? . icon at upper right corner of screen, then touch This screen shows the latitude and latitude of your current position. Touch HELP NEARBY . Select between CAR REPAIR , POLICE , HEALTH or GAS STATION . 4 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 73
Information Use Use to display the previous suggestion. to display the next suggestion. Touch FILTER to help refine the search. A keyboard appears so you can input a specific in the black bar at the top of the screen and the entire route is displayed on the map. Touch MORE to change the route plan - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 74
Finding an Address Touch the Map Hard Button to display the Map screen, then touch 1 the navigation menu screen. MENU to access 2 On the navigation menu, touch FIND . 3 Touch FIND ADDRESS . 6 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 75
your current position are displayed. If necessary, touch COUNTRY OR STATE , a keyboard appears and then enter the first few letters of the country name. Eme E rgency Emergency Screen 5 Type United States. As you type, look to the bottom right of the screen and touch RESULTS . Finding Findingan - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 76
that are preceded by a direction such as North, South, etc., type the street name first. Touch HOUSE NUMBER . A keyboard appears. Then type the house number. 9 Touch DONE and the house number is automatically transferred to the address screen. Note: If the house number is not found, the center - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 77
give the address a name. Then touch DONE . Finding Findingan an Address Address Fin Fi di g a Po din P i t int Finding Point of Interest You are automatically returned to the map with the destination now set as a favorite. Touch NEXT , then touch GO! , map screen appears with route. Start driving - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 78
but can refer to a specific place, such as a gas station, restaurant, accommodation, etc. the Map Hard button to a specific location. 2 After entering the first few characters, touch RESULTS at the lower previously confirmed position. If you want to change the order in which entries are presented - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 79
the center. The name and address of the location are displayed in the black bar at the top of the screen. Note: touch to display the route is displayed on 5 After the map. The route is researched automatically. Touch MORE to change the route plan, or touch GO! to start navigation. Finding Point - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 80
as a Favorite 1 Follow steps 1 through 10 on pages 6-9 (Finding an Address) of this guide. a keyboard will appear. Enter the name HOME for the 2 Touch ADD TO FAVORITES DONE destination and then touch . You are automatically returned to the map with the destination set. Start driving following the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 81
Safety S Saf fety t & Nav N Navigation i tio iga ti n Information Choosing HOME from the destination list the Map screen is displayed, touch MENU , then touch FIND and then touch 1 IfFAVORITES . The destination list is displayed. Eme E rgency Emergency Screen Fin Fi di g an din Finding Address - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 82
Notes 14 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 83
into account factors such as weather, time zones, and occurrences over instructions from the change features, operation and/ or functionality of any vehicle specification at any time without incurring any obligation to make the same or similar changes to products previously sold. Your Subaru dealer - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 84
to make the same or similar changes on vehicles previously sold. This Owner 's Manual applies to all models and covers all equipment, including factory installed options. Some explanations, therefore may be for equipment not installed in your vehicle. Please leave this manual in the vehicle at the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 85
This manual describes the following vehicle types.* * The illustrated vehicle is one of the FORESTER series. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 86
- 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 87
or dispose of the HID headlights as hazardous waste. How to use this Owner 's Manual & Using your Owner 's Manual Before you operate your vehicle, carefully read this manual. To protect yourself and extend the service life of your vehicle, follow the instructions in this manual. Failure to observe - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 88
to take your SUBARU to the dealer for scheduled maintenance and informs you how to keep your SUBARU running properly. Chapter 12: Specifications This chapter informs you about dimensions and capacities of your SUBARU. Chapter 13: Consumer information and Reporting safety defects This chapter informs - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 89
- CONTINUED - Front fog lights TIN TPMS VDC Abbreviation LATCH LED LSD MIL MMT MT OBD RON SRS Meaning Lower anchors and tethers for children Light emitting diode Limited slip differential Malfunction indicator light Methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl Manual transmission On-board - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 90
plate light and instrument panel illumination Headlights Name Mark Name Rear window defogger/Outside mirror defogger Air recirculation Engine hood Seat heater Child restraint top tether anchorages Child restraint lower anchorages Horn Engine oil Turn signal Washer Illumination brightness Door - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 91
the chance of severe injury or death in a crash even when the vehicle has the SRS airbag. front passenger should move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in the seat. For instructions appropriate for the child ' s age, height and weight. If a child is too big for a child - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 92
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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 93
consumed too much alcohol to drive safely even if the level of alcohol in your blood is below the legal limit fatal accident. If you are taking any drugs, check with your doctor or pharmacist or read the literature urge you not to take illegal drugs in the first place and to seek treatment if you are - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 94
accessories. Other types of modifications could affect its performance, safety or durability, and may even violate governmental regulations. In addition, damage or performance problems resulting from modification may not be covered long journey. Check the tire pressure when the tires are cold. Use a - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 95
has a higher ground clearance and higher center of gravity, making it more likely to roll over than ordinary passenger cars. It also handles and maneuvers differently from other passenger cars. For this reason, please read carefully the following section and follow the instructions and precautions - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 96
---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 97
, seatbelt and SRS airbags Keys and doors Instruments and controls Climate control Audio Interior equipment Starting and operating Driving tips In case of emergency Appearance care Maintenance and service Specifications Consumer information and Reporting safety defects Index 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 98
10) 11) 12) 13) Engine hood (page 11-5) Headlight switch (page 3-30) Replacing bulbs (page 11-45) Wiper switch (page 3-34) Moonroof (page 2-24) Roof rail (page 8-14) Door locks (page 2-4) Tire pressure (page 11-31) Flat tires (page 9-6) Tire chains (page 8-11) Front fog light switch (page 3-32) Tie - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 99
13 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) Rear window defogger button (page 3-45) Fuel filler lid and cap (page 7-3) Child safety locks (page 2-19) Tie-down hook (page 9-14) Rear gate (page 2-23) Towing hook (page 9-14) - CONTINUED - - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 100
14 & Interior ! Passenger compartment area 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) Lower anchorages for child restraint system (page 1-29) Seatbelt (page 1-12) Parking brake lever (page 7-29) Front seat (page 1-2) Rear seat (page 1-7) - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 101
15 1) 2) 3) 4) Center console (page 6-5) Cup holder (page 6-8) Front power supply socket (page 6-9) Glove box (page 6-5) - CONTINUED - - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 102
16 & Instrument panel 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) 8) 9) 10) 11) 12) 13) 14) 15) 16) 17) 18) 19) 20) Door locks (page 2-4) Outside mirror switch (page 3-44) Illumination brightness control (page 3-32) Light control lever (page 3-29) Combination meter (page 3-6) Wiper control lever (page 3-33) Hazard warning - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 103
(page 3-36) 5) Wiper intermittent time control switch (page 3-35) 6) Wiper control lever (page 3-33) 7) Light control switch (page 3-29) 8) Fog light switch (page 3-32) 9) Headlight ON/OFF (page 3-30) 10) Headlight flasher High/Low beam change (page 3-30) 11) Turn signal (page 3-31) - CONTINUED - - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 104
) Trip meter and odometer (page 3-8) Select lever and gear position indicator (page 3-24) Speedometer (page 3-8) Information display switching knob (page 3-26) ECO gauge (page 3-12) Fuel gauge (page 3-10) Temperature gauge (page 3-11) Trip meter A/B selection and trip meter reset knob (page 3-6) - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 105
3-10) Speedometer (page 3-8) Fuel gauge (page 3-10) Trip meter A/B selection and trip meter reset knob (page 3-6) Odometer/Trip meter (page 3-8) Select lever and gear position indicator (AT models) (page 3-24) Coolant temperature low indicator light/ Coolant temperature high warning light (page 3-16 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 106
10) Speedometer (page 3-8) Fuel gauge (page 3-10) Trip meter A/B selection and trip meter reset knob (page 3-6) Odometer/Trip meter (page 3-8) Select lever and gear position indicator (AT models) (page 3-24) Coolant temperature low indicator light/ Coolant temperature high warning light (page 3-16) - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 107
21 Headlight indicator light Cruise control indicator light Cruise control set indicator light Low fuel warning light Low tire pressure warning light (U.S.-spec. models) SPORT mode indicator light (AT models) 3-25 Mark / Name ABS warning light Brake system warning light Page 3-19 Mark Name Front fog - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 108
start delay time (after closure of doors) Impact sensor operation (only models with shock sensors [dealer option]) Passive arming Dome light/map lights illumination Remote keyless entry system Key lock-in prevention Remote engine start system (dealer option) Hazard warning flasher Audible signal - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 109
Armrest ...1-8 Head restraint adjustment...1-8 Reclining the seatback (if equipped) ...1-10 Folding down the rear seatback ...1-11 Seatbelts ...Seatbelt safety tips...Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) ...Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor (A/ELR) ...Seatbelt warning light and chime ...Fastening - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 110
1-2 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags Front seats WARNING . Never adjust the seat while driving to avoid loss of vehicle control and personal injury. . Before adjusting the seat, make sure the hands and feet of rear seat passengers and cargo are clear of the adjusting mechanism. . After adjusting the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 111
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" F1-22. & Manual seat ! Forward and backward adjustment ! Reclining the seatback Pull the lever - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 112
1-4 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags ! Seat cushion height adjustment & Power seat (driver 's seat - if equipped) WARNING 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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 113
. Lumbar support control switch To increase lumbar support, push the front side of the switch. To decrease lumbar support, push the head restraint. To install: Install the head restraint into the holes that are located on the top of the seatback until the head restraint locks. 3) 4) 5) & Head - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 114
in the event of a crash. the center of the head restraint is closest to SUBARU dealer inspect the active head restraints. . The active head restraints may engine is not running can cause battery discharge. The front seats of your vehicle are equipped with active head restraints. They automatically - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 115
, as desired, depending on the temperature. Selecting the "HI" position will cause the seat to heat up quicker. To turn off the seat heater, lightly press the opposite side of the current position. The indicator next to the switch illuminates when the seat heater is in operation. When the vehicle - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 116
the driver, should sit in any seat of the vehicle 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. WARNING Never stack luggage or other cargo higher than the top of the seatback because it could tumble forward - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 117
the release button on the top of the seatback. To remove: While pressing the release button, pull out the head restraint. To install: Install the head restraint into the holes that are located on the top of the seatback until the head restraint locks. When the seats are not occupied, lower the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 118
not to pinch your hand between the head restraint and the cargo area cover when you recline the rear seat. . Move the front cover of the cargo area cover backward so that the cover is not damaged by the reclined seatback. Refer to "Cargo area cover (dealer option)" F6-14. WARNING To prevent the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 119
When you fold down the seatback, check that there are no passengers or break and bodily injury could occur. . Never allow passengers to ride on the folded rear seatback or in the cargo may move out from the cargo area, which could cause serious rear seatback may automatically and forcefully fold - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 120
Seatbelts & Seatbelt safety tips WARNING . All persons . Each seatbelt is designed to support only one person. Never use a weight. Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (including forward facing child seats) in the REAR seats at all times. NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 121
front seating positions. For instructions and precautions concerning the child restraint system, refer to "Child restraint systems" F1-22. Your vehicle is equipped with a crash ELR). The A/ ELR has an additional locking mode, " Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode", intended to secure a child - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 122
changed over to the ALR mode. For instructions on how to install the child restraint system using a seatbelt, refer to "Installing . & Seatbelt warning light and chime Refer to "Seatbelt warning light and chime" F3- weather; they could burn an occupant. Do not touch such hot parts until they cool. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 123
the belt still cannot be unlocked, let the belt retract slightly after giving it a strong pull, then pull it out slowly again. ! Adjusting the front seat shoulder belt anchor height WARNING When wearing the seatbelts, make sure the shoulder portion of the webbing does not pass over your neck. If - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 124
lap belt as low as possible on your hips, not on your waist. ! Unfastening the seatbelt Push the button on the buckle. Before closing the door, make sure that the belts are retracted properly to avoid catching the belt webbing in the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 125
door, make sure that the belts are retracted properly to avoid catching the belt webbing in the door into the mating buckle (on right-hand side), always check that the webbing is not twisted. WARNING . Be routed through the belt guide. A seatbelt not routed through the belt guide can cause neck inju- - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 126
after giving it a strong pull, then pull it out slowly again. 2. Pass the seatbelt through the belt guide. The rear center seatbelt is stowed in a recessed compartment located in the ceiling above the cargo area. 1. Remove the tongue plate from the slot in the recessed compartment and pull out the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 127
) to unfasten the seatbelt. NOTE When the seatback is folded down for greater cargo area, it is necessary to disconnect the connector. 5. To make the lap retractor to roll up the belt. You should hold the webbing end and guide it back into the retractor while it is rolling up. Neatly store the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 128
changes that will prevent the seatbelt from operating properly. Front front passenger 's seatbelts have a seatbelt pretensioner. The seatbelt pretensioners for the driver 's seat and front the curtain airbag. The front and side airbag sensors a rollover collision, the front seatbelt is quickly drawn - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 129
a seatbelt pretensioner is activated, an operating noise will be heard and a small amount see your nearest SUBARU dealer. . When discarding front seatbelt retractor assemblies or in a seatbelt pretensioner, the SRS airbag system warning light will illuminate. For details, refer to "SRS airbag - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 130
.) other than genuine SUBARU accessory parts to the front end. . Modification of the suspension system or front end structure. . Installation of a tire of different size and construction from the tires specified on the vehicle placard attached to the driver 's door pillar or specified for individual - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 131
1-23 properly secured in the vehicle. When installing the child restraint system, carefully follow the manufacturer 's instructions. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. All U.S. states and - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 132
a restraint device which is appropriate for the child's age, height and weight. Ac- WARNING SINCE YOUR VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH A PASSENGER'S SRS AIRBAG, NEVER INSTALL A R E A R WA R D F A C I N G C H I L D SAFETY SEAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 133
1-25 & Choosing a child restraint system & Installing child restraint systems with A/ELR seatbelt WARNING . Child restraint systems and seatbelts can become hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sunny weather; they could burn a small child. Check the child restraint system before you place - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 134
the seatbelt fully from the retractor to change the retractor over from the Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) to the Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) function. Then, to the ELR mode. WARNING NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 135
Installing forward facing child restraint 4. Take up the slack in the lap belt. 5. Pull out the seatbelt fully from the retractor to change the retractor over from the Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) to the Automatic following the instructions provided by right and left to check if it is firmly - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 136
top tether. For additional instructions, refer to "Top tether anchorages" F1-32. & Installing a booster seat WARNING . Child restraint systems and seatbelts can become hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sunny weather; they could burn a small child. Check the child restraint system before - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 137
child following the instructions provided by its Installation of child restraint systems by use of lower and tether anchorages (LATCH) WARNING . Child restraint systems and seatbelts can become hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sunny weather; they could burn a small child. Check - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 138
the danger of your child suffering personal injury in the event of an accident may be increased. Some types of child restraint systems can be installed on the rear seat of your vehicle without use of the seatbelts. Such child restraint systems are secured to the designated anchorages provided on the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 139
the position where you want to install the child restraint system. 1) Cover You will find marks " " on the cover at the bottom of the rear seat seatbacks. These marks indicate the positions of the lower anchorages (bars). 2. While following the instructions supplied by the child restraint system - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 140
installed in the rear seat. When installing a child restraint system using top tether, proceed as follows, while observing the instructions by the reverse procedures of installation. If you have any question concerning this type of child restraint system, ask your SUBARU dealer. 1) 2) 3) For - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 141
SUBARU dealer if you have any question regarding the installation of a child restraint system. CAUTION Always remove the head restraint cover for the appropriate upper anchorage. 1. Remove the head restraint at the window-side seating position where the child restraint system has been installed - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 142
increases the chance of severe injury or death in a crash even when the vehicle has the SRS airbag. For instructions and precautions concerning the seatbelt system, & Models with SRS airbags and lap/shoulder restraints for driver, front passenger, and window-side rear passengers Your vehicle is - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 143
seating positions. For instructions and precautions concerning the child restraint system, refer to "Child restraint systems" F1-22. . NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD'S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 144
1-36 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 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 explain to the buyer that it is equipped with SRS airbags by - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 145
buckle switch (front passenger 's side) Front passenger's seatbelt tension sensor Front passenger 's occupant detection system weight sensor Front passenger 's occupant detection control module Front passenger's frontal airbag ON and OFF indicator SRS airbag system warning light Satellite safing - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 146
frontal airbag system automatically determines the deployment front passenger 's sun visors beginning with the phrase "EVEN WITH ADVANCED AIR BAGS " and a tag attached to the glove box lid beginning with the phrase "Even with Advanced Air Bags". Make sure that you carefully read the instructions - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 147
an occupant not in proper position such as one thrown toward the front of the vehicle during preaccident braking. WARNING Never hold a child on your WARNING Do not put any objects over the steering wheel pad and dashboard. If the SRS frontal airbag deploys, those objects could interfere with its - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 148
. Do not install any accessory (such as an audio amplifier) other than a genuine SUBARU accessory under the front passenger 's seat. . Do not place anything (shoes, umbrella, etc.) under the front passenger 's seat. . The front passenger 's seat must not be used with the head restraint removed. . Do - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 149
than one child on the seat. . Do not install any accessory such as a table or TV onto the seatback. . 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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 150
relocate the child restraint system to the rear seat and immediately contact your SUBARU dealer for an inspection. NOTE When a child who has outgrown a child restraint system or a small adult is seated in the front passenger 's seat, the SUBARU advanced frontal airbag system may or may not activate - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 151
contact your SUBARU dealer for an inspection. ! Effect vehicle modifications made for persons with disabilities may have on SUBARU advanced frontal airbag system operation (U.S. only) Changing or moving any parts of the front seats, rear seat, seatbelts, front bumper, front side frame, radiator - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 152
1-44 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags you bought your vehicle. ! Operation A) B) 1) 2) Driver's side Passenger 's side SRS AIRBAGs deploy as soon as a collision occurs. After deployment, SRS AIRBAGs start to deflate immediately so that the driver's vision is not obstructed. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 153
front passenger 's modules) instructing the module(s) to inflate the SRS frontal airbag(s). The driver 's and front deploys, a sudden, fairly loud inflation noise will be heard and some smoke will be dashboard with bare hands right after deployment. Doing so can cause burns because the - CONTINUED - - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 154
hard against an obstacle on the road such as a curb). A head-on collision against a thick concrete wall at a vehicle speed of 12 to 19 mph (20 to 30 km/h) or higher activates only the driver 's SRS frontal airbag or both driver 's and front passenger 's SRS frontal airbags. The airbag(s) will also - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 155
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-47 ! Examples of the types of accidents in which deployment of the driver's/driver 's and front passenger 's SRS frontal airbag(s) is unlikely to occur. 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) The vehicle strikes an object, such as a telephone pole or sign pole. The vehicle slides under - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 156
SRS side airbag is stored in the door side of each front seat seatback, which bears an "SRS AIRBAG head. 1) 2) First impact Second impact In an accident where the vehicle is impacted more than once, the driver 's and/or front passenger 's SRS frontal airbag(s) will deploy only once on the first - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 157
side airbag. . Since your vehicle is equipped with SRS curtain airbags, do not sit or lean unnecessarily close to the front or rear door on either side. Also, do not put your head, arms or hands out of the window. The SRS curtain airbag on each side of the cabin is stored in - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 158
the child seriously because his/her head is close to the SRS curtain airbag. WARNING . Do not attach accessories to the door trim or near either SRS side injuries. . Do not attach a hands-free microphone or any other accessory to a front pillar, a center pillar, a rear pillar, the windshield, a side - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 159
microphone or other accessory in such a cover or 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 available to the front - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 160
SRS side airbag and SRS curtain airbags deploy, a sudden, fairly loud inflation noise will be heard and some smoke will be released. These occurrences are a airbag system (from the front pillar to the part of the roof side over the rear seat). Doing so can cause burns because the components can be - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 161
and SRS airbags 1-53 ! Examples of the types of accidents in which the SRS curtain airbag will most likely deploy. 1) 2) 3) A severe side impact near the front seat or the rear seat activates the SRS curtain airbag. The vehicle rolls onto its side or the roof. If the angle of vehicle - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 162
1-54 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1) 2) 3) Hitting a curb, edge of pavement or hard surface Falling into or jumping over a deep hole Landing hard or vehicle falling ! Examples of the types of accidents in - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 163
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-55 ! Examples of the types of accidents in which the SRS side airbag is unlikely to deploy. 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) The vehicle is involved in an oblique side-on impact. The vehicle is involved in a side-on impact in an area outside the vicinity of the passenger - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 164
1-56 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1) 2) 3) The vehicle is involved in an oblique side-on impact. The vehicle is involved in a side-on impact in an area outside the vicinity of the passenger compartment. The vehicle is involved in a side-on impact from a motorcycle. ! Examples of the types of - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 165
they will not be activated on the second. ! Example of the type of accident in which the SRS curtain airbag will basically not deploy. 1) 2) A) B) First impact Second impact SRS curtain airbag SRS side airbag The SRS curtain airbags are not basically designed to deploy if the vehicle pitches end - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 166
(front passenger 's side) . Front passenger 's seatbelt tension sensor . Front passenger 's occupant detection system weight sensor . Front passenger 's occupant detection control module . Front passenger 's frontal airbag ON and OFF indicator . All related wiring WARNING If the warning light - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 167
the ignition switch is first turned to the "ON" position . Continuous illumination of the warning light . Illumination of the warning light while driving CAUTION If you need service or repair in areas indicated in the following list, have the work performed by an authorized SUBARU dealer. The SRS - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 168
.) other than genuine SUBARU accessory parts to the front end. . Modification of the suspension system or front end structure. . Installation of a tire of different size and construction from the tires specified on the vehicle placard attached to the driver 's door pillar or specified for individual - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 169
...Valet mode ...Passive arming ...Tripped sensor identification ...Shock sensors (dealer option)... 2-14 2-14 2-15 2-15 2-15 2-17 2-17 2-17 2-18 2-19 Immobilizer ...Security indicator light ...Key replacement ... 2-3 2-3 2-3 2 Door locks ...Locking and unlocking from the outside ...Locking and - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 170
or repair of the engine control unit, integrated unit, or combination meter. 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) Master key (black) Submaster key (black) Valet key ( vehicle. . Ignition switch . Driver 's door . Glove box The valet key fits only the ignition switch and driver 's door lock. You can keep the 1) 2) Key - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 171
doors 2-3 Immobilizer 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. The immobilizer system is designed to prevent an unauthorized person from starting the engine SUBARU dealer. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 172
ignition switch to the "ON" position. For details about the alarm system, refer to "Alarm system" F2-14. To lock the driver 's door from the outside with the key, turn the key toward the rear. To unlock the door, turn the key toward the front. Pull the outside door handle to open an unlocked - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 173
are closed before starting to drive. & Battery drainage prevention function If a door or the rear gate is not completely closed, the interior lights will remain illuminated as a result. However, several lights are automatically turned off by the battery drainage prevention function to prevent the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 174
2-6 Keys and doors Item Map lights Dome light Ignition switch light Door step lights Cargo area light Switch position OFF*1 DOOR - - DOOR Automatically turning off Approximately 20 minutes later Approximately 20 minutes later Approximately 20 minutes later None*2 None*2 NOTE . The factory - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 175
the remote transmitter from being pressed. . FCC WARNING Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party - CONTINUED - & Key lock-in prevention function When the key is still in the ignition switch, even if the front side of the power door locking switch is pressed and then the driver - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 176
not fully closed, an electronic chirp will sound five times and the turn signal lights will flash five times to alert you that the doors or the rear gate are not properly closed. When you close the door, it will automatically lock and then an electronic chirp will sound once and the turn signal - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 177
" " button is pressed before 30 seconds have elapsed, these lights will turn off. The lights must be set to the DOOR position in order for this function to operate. A SUBARU dealer can change the illumi- NOTE If the interval between the first and second presses of the " " button (for unlocking of - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 178
doors & Sounding a panic alarm non-operational setting can be changed by your SUBARU dealer. Contact your SUBARU dealer for details. & Replacing the battery CAUTION . Do not let dust, oil . & Selecting turn signal lights operation When the remote keyless entry system is used, the turn signal - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 179
doors 2-11 To replace the battery: ity reasons. It is recommended that you have your dealer program all of your transmitters into your system. ! Programming the transmitters The keyless entry system is equipped with a special code learning feature ) making sure to install the new battery with - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 180
eight-digit number. Program the number into the system in accordance with the following procedure: 1. Firmly close the doors and the rear gate. 2. Open the driver 's door, sit on the driver 's seat, and close the door. 3. Perform the following steps within 45 seconds. (1) Open and close the driver - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 181
the procedure again beginning with part 3. 9. When you have finished entering the code a second time, an electronic tone will sound for 1 second and automatic door locking and unlocking operation will take - CONTINUED - NOTE . An electronic tone will sound. . If you push the unlock side of the lock - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 182
switch. 11. Test every registered transmitter to confirm correct operation. ! Deleting old transmitter codes The control unit of the keyless valuables from theft. The horn sounds and the turn signal lights flash if someone attempts to break into your vehicle. The system can be armed and disarmed - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 183
lights. . Dome light (illuminates only when the dome light switch is in the "DOOR" position) . Map lights (illuminate only when the door interlock switch is in the "DOOR" position) The notifications regarding the dome light and the map lights are deactivated as the factory setting. A SUBARU dealer - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 184
properly closed. When you close the door, the system will automatically arm and the doors will be automati- Type A 6. Push the front side ("LOCK" side) of the power door locking switch to set the door locks. 7. Close the door. An electronic chirp will sound once, the turn signal lights will flash - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 185
registered key. & Passive arming When passive arming mode has been programmed by the dealer, arming of the system is automatically accomplished without using the remote transmitter. Note that in this mode, DOORS MUST BE MANUALLY LOCKED. ! To enter the passive mode If you wish to program the passive - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 186
(only vehicles with shock sensors (dealer option)) . When a light impact was sensed: once (only vehicles with shock sensors (dealer option)) 4. Before closing the doors, lock all doors with the inside door lock levers. 5. Close the doors. The system will automatically arm after 1 minute. In the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 187
Keys and doors 2-19 & Shock sensors (dealer option) The shock sensors trigger the alarm system when they sense impacts applied to the vehicle and when any of their electric wires are cut. The alarm system causes the horn to sound and the turn signal lights to flash for a short time when the sensed - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 188
Lock switch For driver's window For front passenger 's window For rear left window For rear right window Automatically open/close Open/close All door windows can be controlled by the power window switch cluster at the driver side door. To open: Push the switch down lightly and hold it. The window - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 189
! Operating the driver 's window (type B) To close: Pull the switch up lightly and hold it. The window will close as long as the switch is held. ! Anti-entrapment function (type A) CAUTION . Never attempt to test this function using fingers, hands or other parts of your body. . The anti-entrapment - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 190
2-22 Keys and doors fer to "Initialization of power window (type A)" F2-23. While closing automatically, if the window senses a substantial enough object trapped between the window and the window frame, it automatically moves down slightly and stops. ! Operating the passengers' windows ! Locking - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 191
be locked and unlocked using any of the following systems. . Power door locking switch: Refer to "Power door locking switches" F2-6. . Remote keyless entry system: Refer to WARNING . To prevent dangerous exhaust gas from entering the vehicle, always keep the rear gate closed while driving. - CONTINUED - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 192
hit your head or face on the rear gate when opening or closing the rear gate and when loading or unloading cargo. NOTE If the rear gate cannot be unlocked due to a discharged vehicle battery, a malfunction in the door locking/unlocking system or other causes, you can unlock it by manually operating - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 193
doors 2-25 . Never try to check its glass and the vehicle's roof during closure, it automatically moves back by 6 in (15 cm) from that the moonroof if falling snow or extremely cold conditions have caused it to freeze shut. CAUTION Never attempt to test this function using fingers, hands or other - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 194
2-26 Keys and doors . If the moonroof cannot be closed through switch operation because of system failure, it can be closed manually using a hex-head wrench. For the procedure, refer to "Moonroof - if the moonroof cannot be closed" F9-19. & Sun shade The sun shade can be slid forward or - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 195
light (U.S.-spec. models) ...ABS warning light...Brake system warning light...Low fuel warning light ...Hill start assist warning light (MT models) ...Door open warning light ...All-Wheel Drive warning light (AT models) ...Automatic headlight beam leveler warning light (models with HID headlights - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 196
control...Front fog light switch (if equipped) ...Wiper and washer...Windshield wiper and washer switches ...Rear window wiper and washer switch ... 3-32 3-32 3-33 3-34 3-36 Light control switch ...Headlights...High/low beam change (dimmer)...Headlight flasher ...Daytime running light system - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 197
slightly to the right and left as you turn the key. ! Automatic transmission models The ignition switch has four positions: LOCK, Acc, ON and 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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 198
only when the select lever is in the "P" position. ! Manual transmission models The engine is started in this position. The starter cranks the engine to start it. When the key is released (after the engine has started), the key automatically returns to the "ON" position. . The key grip is touching - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 199
following conditions. . When the ignition switch is turned to the "ON" position . When the key is removed from the ignition switch . When the driver 's door is closed The light turns off immediately under the following conditions. . When the ignition switch is turned to the "ON" position . When all - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 200
illuminate. 2. Meters and gauges each show MAX position. 3. Meters and gauges each show MIN position. 4. Dials and indicators in meters and gauges light up. 5. Regular illumination (for driving) begins. Type B Type A It is possible to activate or deactivate the movement of the meter needles and - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 201
the driver 's door is opened, the illumination will be turned off. . Even while the illumination gradually turns off after the ignition switch is turned to the "LOCK" position, if the ignition switch is turned to the "ON" position, the combination meter illuminates as usual. To change the setting - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 202
sequence by pressing the trip knob. Type A 1) Trip knob *: " " or " ", and " " or " " cannot be displayed when the ignition switch is in the "ON" position. 3. To change the current setting, press the trip knob for at least 2 seconds. Type B 1) Trip knob - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 203
the "ON" position. If you press the trip knob when the ignition switch is in the "LOCK" or "Acc" position, the odometer/trip meter will light up. It is possible to switch the indications while the odometer/trip meter is lit up. If you do not press the trip knob within - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 204
shows the engine speed in thousands of revolutions per minute. CAUTION Do not operate the engine with the pointer fuel warning light & Fuel gauge The fuel gauge shows the approximate amount of fuel remaining in the tank. When the ignition switch is in the "LOCK" or "Acc" position, the fuel - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 205
put fuel in the tank whenever the low fuel warning light illuminates. Engine misfires as a result of an empty tank could cause damage to the engine. & Temperature gauge (models with type A combination meter) You will see the " " sign in the fuel gauge. This indicates that the fuel filler door (lid - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 206
fuel consumption since the trip meter was last reset and the current rate of fuel consumption. The ECO gauge indicates the current fuel efficiency as shown in the following chart. Displayed unit MPG l/100km Needle pointing "+" side Better Poorer "-" side Poorer Better : CHECK ENGINE warning light - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 207
and sounding a chime. Driver's warning light (type A) : Low fuel warning light : Hill start assist warning light (MT models) : Door open warning light : AWD warning light (AT models) : Automatic headlight beam leveler warning light (models with HID headlights) : Vehicle Dynamics Control warning - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 208
15 km/h) The warning light(s) for unfastened seatbelt(s) front passenger 's seat. 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 dealer for an inspec- NOTE . If the driver's and/or front - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 209
ON" position, if both the ON and OFF indicators remain illuminated or off simultaneously even after the system check period, the system is malfunctioning. Contact your SUBARU dealer immediately for an inspection. The front passenger 's frontal airbag ON and OFF indicators show you the status of the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 210
of cargo, if possible. The CHECK ENGINE warning light may stop blinking and illuminate steadily after ing light/Malfunction indicator light several driving trips. You should have your vehicle checked by an authorized SUBARU dealer immediately. & Coolant temperature If the CHECK ENGINE light - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 211
not turn off after the engine starts, stop the engine at the first safe opportunity and check the engine oil level. If the oil level is low, add oil immediately. If the engine oil is at the proper level but the light remains on, contact your nearest SUBARU dealer immediately. - CONTINUED - NOTE If - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 212
until the warning light turns off. ! Automatic transmission control system warning If this light flashes after the engine starts, it may indicate that the automatic transmission control system is not working properly. Contact your nearest SUBARU dealer for service immediately. When the ignition - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 213
, be sure to install the specified size for the front and rear tires. & ABS warning light CAUTION . If any of the following conditions occur, we recommend that you have the ABS system repaired at the first available opportunity by your SUBARU dealer. - The warning light does not illuminate when - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 214
stop the vehicle at the nearest safe place and check the brake fluid level. If the fluid level is dealer for repair. This light has the following functions. NOTE If the warning light behaves as follows, the ABS system may be considered normal. . The warning light illuminates right after the engine - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 215
3.3 Imp gal). & Door open warning light The door open warning light illuminates if any door or the rear gate is not fully closed. Always make sure this light is out before you start to drive. CAUTION Promptly put fuel in the tank whenever the low fuel warning light illuminates. Engine misfires as - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 216
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. This light illuminates when the automatic headlight beam leveler does not operate normally. If - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 217
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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 218
the position of the select lever. When the manual mode is selected, the gear position indicator (which shows the current gear selection) and the upshift/ downshift indicator light up. Refer to "Automatic transmission" F7-15. & Turn signal indicator lights Type A NOTE Even if the security indicator - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 219
and holding either button changes the displayed time continuously. & Cruise control set indicator light This light illuminates when vehicle cruising speed has been set. & Front fog light indicator light (if equipped) This indicator light is on while the front fog lights are on. - CONTINUED - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 220
switch in the "ON" position, each press of the information display switching knob toggles the display in the following sequence. For type B combination meter: The fuel consumption indicator is linked with the odometer/trip meter display on the combination meter, according to the following chart. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 221
Fuel consumption indicator Average fuel consumption corresponding to the A trip meter Average fuel consumption corresponding to the B trip meter U.S-spec. models: Not indicated Other models: Current fuel consumption in a traffic jam; when the engine is restarted immediately following a shutdown. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 222
the actual values and should thus be treated only as a guide. . When either trip meter indication is reset, the average fuel consumption corresponding to that trip meter indication is not shown until the vehicle has subsequently covered a distance of 1 mile (or 1 km). NOTE The outside temperature - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 223
and then to the " " or " " position. In this case, if the driver 's door is opened, the chirp sound will inform the driver that the lights are illuminated. 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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 224
the turn signal lever. first position Instrument panel illumination, tail lights, front side marker lights and license plate lights are on. second position Headlights, instrument panel illumination, tail lights, front side marker lights, and license plate lights are on. To change from low beam to - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 225
illumination of the high beam headlights is reduced by the daytime running light system. The light switch must always be turned to the " " position when it is dark outside. The high beam headlights will automatically illuminate at reduced brightness when the engine has started, under the following - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 226
control matic dimming function does not work at all. Front fog light switch (if equipped) The brightness of clock display, audio, air conditioner, information display and instrument panel illumination dims automatically when the light switch is in the " " or " " position. In addition, you - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 227
and cause the wiper motor to burn out. Before operating the wipers on a dry windshield or rear window, always use the windshield washer. Type B The indicator light located on the combination meter will illuminate when the front fog lights are on. . In freezing weather, be sure that the wiper - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 228
the ignition switch is in the "ON" or "Acc" position. . The front wiper motor is protected against overload by a circuit breaker. If the motor this procedure, replace the wiper blades with new ones. For replacement instructions, refer to "Replacement of wiper blades" F11-39. & Windshield wiper - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 229
Instruments and controls 3-35 ! Wiper intermittent time control ! Mist (for a single wipe) ! Washer When the wiper switch is in the " " position, turn the dial to adjust the operating interval of the wipers. The operating interval can be adjusted in nine steps. For a single wipe of the wipers, - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 230
the transmission into reverse, the rear wiper will automatically switch to continuous operation. When the transmission is spray, and 3 seconds later the rear wiper stops. Mirrors Always check that the inside and outside mirrors are properly adjusted before you headlights of vehicles behind you. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 231
if the transmission is shifted into automatic dimming function is on, the auto dimming indicator light (green) located on the left button will illuminate. . By pressing and releasing the right The mirror has a photosensor attached on both the front and back sides. If the glare from the headlights - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 232
electrical accessories (rear window defogger, heater/air conditioning system, spotlight, etc.) and ensure all doors are Automatic dimming on/off button Compass display button Compass display The auto-dimming mirror has an anti-glare feature which automatically reduces glare coming from headlights - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 233
, garage door openers, door locks, home lighting and security front and back sides. During nighttime driving, these sensors detect distracting glare from vehicle headlights behind you and automatically dim the mirror to eliminate glare and preserve your vision. For this reason, use care not to cover - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 234
210 of Industry Canada in Canada. Its operation Changes and modifications to this system by anyone other than an authorized service testing in the event of a problem. . It is recommended that you insert a new battery in the hand-held transmitter of a device to ensure correct programming. ! Garage door - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 235
door openers in Canada" F3-42. 5. Hold down both buttons until the HomeLink® indicator light flashes, first slowly then rapidly. When the indicator light button on the garage door opener motor head unit. The exact location and color of the button may vary by brand of garage door opener. If it is - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 236
HomeLink ® button is pressed. ! Programming for entrance gates and garage door openers in Canada 1) Training button 2. Press the training button on the garage door opener motor head unit (which activates the "training light" on the unit). Proceed to step 3 within 30 seconds. 3. Inside the vehicle - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 237
light flashes slowly and then rapidly after several seconds, release both buttons. 7. Plug the motor of the entrance gate/ garage door opener to the outlet. 8. Test your entrance gate/garage door light will flash, first slowly and then rapidly. 4. When the indicator light upon the sale of the vehicle - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 238
mirrors may stop during operation. Push the switch again. When the outside mirrors do not work by switch operation, move them several times by manually. This makes it possible to operate them by switch operation. . When you operate the power folding mirror switch continuously, it may not work. This - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 239
Instruments and controls 3-45 Defogger and deicer window defogger. For some models, the outside mirror defogger and/or windshield wiper deicer are/is also equipped. The defogger and deicer system is activated only when the ignition switch is in the "ON" position. Type B climate control system - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 240
simultaneously. The indicator light on the control automatic climate control system, it is possible to customize the defogger and deicer system operation mode by a SUBARU dealer. Contact your SUBARU dealer to the windshield. . If the windshield is covered with snow, remove the snow so that the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 241
loss of vehicle control and result in personal injury. Horn 1) 2) Tilt adjustment Telescopic adjustment (if equipped) 1. Adjust the seat position. Refer to "Front seats" F1-2. 2. Pull the tilt/telescopic lock lever down. 3. Move the steering wheel to the desired level. 4. Pull the lever up to - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 242
---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 243
in direct sunlight ...Lubrication oil circulation in the refrigerant circuit...Checking air conditioning system before summer season ...Cooling and dehumidifying in high humidity and low temperature weather conditions ...Air conditioner compressor shut-off when engine is heavily loaded...Refrigerant - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 244
control" F4-8. Type B and C panels are used for the automatic climate control systems. Refer to "Automatic climate control system (type B and C)" F4-6 for automatic operation. Refer to "Manual climate control" F4-8 for manual operation. Move the tab to adjust the flow direction. 1) 2) 3) Open - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 245
Airflow control dial (Refer to "Airflow mode selection" F4-8.) Control switch of the defogger and deicer system (Refer to "Defogger and deicer" F3-45.) Air conditioner button (Refer to "Air conditioner control" F4-9.) Air inlet selection button (Refer to "Air inlet selection" F4-9.) - CONTINUED - - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 246
control system (type B and C)" F4-6 and "Temperature control" F4-9.) 4) OFF button (Refer to "Automatic climate control system (type B and C)" F4-6.) 5) Air inlet selection button (Refer to "Air inlet selection" F4-9.) 6) Fan speed control button (Refer to "Fan speed control" F4-9.) 7) Airflow mode - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 247
F4-6 and "Fan speed control" F4-9.) Airflow control dial (Refer to "Automatic climate control system (type B and C)" F4-6, "Airflow mode selection" F4-8 deicer" F3-45.) Air inlet selection button (Refer to "Air inlet selection" F4-9.) Air conditioner button (Refer to "Air conditioner control" F4-9.) - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 248
a low speed when the engine coolant temperature is low. . The air conditioner may not operate in the following cases: - When the cabin temperature is low - When the ambient temperature decreases to close to 328F (08C) . For efficient defogging or dehumidifying in cold weather, press the "A/C" button - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 249
cover the sensors. The sensors are located as follows. - Solar sensor: beside the windshield defroster grille. - Interior air temperature sensor: next to the steering column. - Outside temperature sensor: behind the front grille automatically. Any function not set to AUTO mode can be manually - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 250
4-8 Climate control Manual climate control & outlets and the foot outlets both side windows to prevent fogging.) (Heat-def): Windshield defroster outlets, foot outlets and through windshield defroster outlets (A small amount of air flows to the windshield and (Defrost): Windshield defroster - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 251
air conditioner. When the air conditioner is on, the "A/C" indicator light illuminates. To turn off the air conditioner, press the button again. NOTE For efficient defogging or dehumidifying in cold weather, turn on the air , the system automatically adjusts the temperature of air supplied from the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 252
select the " " mode. Operating tips for heater and air conditioner & Cleaning ventilation grille NOTE . When the " " mode or " " mode is selected, the air conditioner compressor automatically operates to more quickly defog the windshield. (The air conditioner indicator light does not illuminate in - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 253
checked or replaced by your SUBARU dealer. For replacement, use only a genuine SUBARU air filter kit. Replacement schedule: Every 12 months or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) whichever comes first & Air conditioner compressor shut-off when engine is heavily loaded To improve acceleration and gas mileage - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 254
control mance if not properly maintained. & Replacing an air filter 1. Remove the glove box. (1) Open the glove box. (3) While pushing the stoppers on both sides of the glove box, swing the glove box down and remove it. 3. Replace the air filter element with a new one. CAUTION (2) Remove the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 255
Climate control 4-13 4. Reinstall the glove box, and connect the damper shaft. 5. Close the glove box. 6. LABEL installation (1) Fill out the information on the service label (small). 1) Service label (2) Attach the service label to the driver 's side door pillar. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 256
---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 257
Audio Antenna system ...Roof antenna (Rod type)...FM reception ... 5-3 5-3 5-3 Installation of accessories...Audio set ...Type Type Type Type A B C D (Digital AM and FM Radio) (type D audio)...Displaying radio PS (Program Service Name) and RT (Radio Text) ...Station preset ... 5-13 5-13 5-13 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 258
for the Hands-free system ...Certification for the Hands-free system...Safety precautions ...Using the Hands-free system ...Bluetooth® setting ... 5-42 5-42 5-43 5-44 5-45 5-53 Audio control buttons (if equipped)...MODE button ..." " and " " buttons ...Volume control buttons ...MUTE button (models - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 259
to a stronger station. 1) 2) Unscrew Remove The roof antenna is installed in the center at the rear part of the roof. The antenna rod can be folded down toward the front or rear of the vehicle. Raise the antenna rod when listening to the radio. The antenna rod can be removed by unscrewing it from - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 260
Installation of accessories Always consult your SUBARU dealer before installing a citizen band radio or other transmitting device in your vehicle. Such devices may cause the electronic control system to malfunction if they are incorrectly installed noise when the phone receives calls. This noise - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 261
Audio 5-5 & Type A audio set (if equipped) The audio set will operate only when the ignition switch is in the "Acc" or "ON" position. . Power and audio controls: refer to page 5-9 . Radio operation: refer to page 5-13 . Satellite radio operation (if equipped): refer to page 5-18 . CD (compact - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 262
5-6 Audio & Type B audio set (if equipped) The audio set will operate only when the ignition switch is in the "Acc" or "ON" position. . Power and audio controls: refer to page 5-9 . Radio operation: refer to page 5-13 . Satellite radio operation (if equipped): refer to page 5-18 . CD (compact - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 263
. CD (compact disc) player operation: refer to page 5-22 . Auxiliary input jack: refer to page 5-29 . USB storage device/iPod® operation: refer to page 5-32 . Bluetooth® audio device: refer to page 5-40 . Hands-free system: refer to page 5-42 - CONTINUED - - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 264
. CD (compact disc) player operation: refer to page 5-22 . Auxiliary input jack: refer to page 5-29 . USB storage device/iPod® operation: refer to page 5-32 . Bluetooth® audio device: refer to page 5-40 . Hands-free system: refer to page 5-42 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 265
driving noise increases. . For type B audio, SRS CS Auto is equipped. SRS CS Auto creates a 5.1ch equivalent surround field using 6 or 7 speakers that are installed in the vehicle. . For type D audio, SRS TruBass and FOCUS are equipped. . SRS Sound features: (1) Sound originating from door mount - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 266
. Type A and B audio Type C audio Type C audio Each brief press of the "TUNE/TRACK/ CH" dial changes the control modes in the following sequence. Each brief press of the "MENU" button changes the control modes in the following sequence. Type A audio: Choose the preferred level for each mode by - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 267
Audio 5-11 First menu Screen OFF Sound Second menu - Tone Third menu - Bass Mid Treble 3. Operate the "TUNE/TRACK/CH" dial to select the preferred setting for each - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 268
For less midrange sound For less treble sound Right channel attenuated Front attenuated OFF OFF OFF For less brightness For less contrast Normal more brightness For more contrast Wide OFF Cancel For less auto volume change For more auto volume change BEEP (Type A, B and C audio) OFF to ON Cancel - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 269
A and B audio & Tuning ! Manual tuning ! Seek tuning (SEEK) Type the reception mode. Each brief press of the "FM/AM" button changes the radio in the following sequence starting from the last radio band automatically search for a receivable station and stop at the first one it finds. - CONTINUED - - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 270
may not be available when radio signals are weak. When this happens, perform manual tuning to select and to stop at any displayed channel. Automatic tuning may not function properly if the station station or proximity to Press the indicated button to change to the PTY selection mode. At this time, - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 271
For the models of iPod® that support iTunes® tagging, refer to the fueling the digital radio revolution in the United States and around the world. The digital technology enables broadcasters to offer new and unique FM content via HD2 / HD3 channels, crystal-clear sound and data services - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 272
area due to the FCC output requirements), the radio reception automatically changes from the digital signal to the analog signal. When B and C audio If the PS (Program Service Name) and/or RT (Radio Text) are available, pressing the "TEXT" button changes the display among PS, RT and frequency. The - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 273
This noise does not indicate a radio malfunction. ! Selecting preset stations 1. Press the "FM/AM" button to select the preferred reception mode. NOTE . When the HD Radio function is turned on, Auto-store cannot be used while receiving the broadcasting station with SPS (Supplemental Program Service - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 274
dealer. tiered road or inside of a parking garage. To help reduce this condition, satellite radio providers have installed groundbased repeaters in heavily populated areas. However, you may still experience reception problems in some areas. ! Sirius XMTM satellite radio reception tips for antenna - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 275
forest . The signal can become weak in some areas that are not covered by the repeater station network. Please note that these may be other unforeseen circumstances when there are problems and receive satellite radio customer support. The satellite radio ID change the display to an indication mode - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 276
the "TUNE/TRACK/CH" dial counterclockwise to select the previous channel. ! Skip channel selection When in the SAT mode, perform the following procedures to change to the channel selection mode. Type A and B audio: Press and hold the following button. Channel up by 10 steps Channel down by 10 steps - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 277
, all channels stored in the preset buttons are cleared. If this occurs, it is necessary to reset the preset buttons. Press the "SCAN" button to change the radio to the SCAN mode. In this mode, under the selected category, the radio scans through the channel until a station is found. The radio - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 278
the player displays "CHECK DISC". Refer first track on the disc) and will automatically play back. . The player is designed to be able to play music CD-Rs and music CD-RWs, but it may not be able to play certain ones. . Mini CDs (i.e., 8 cm/3 inch CDs) are not supported change the display as follows. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 279
position will blink. The positions in the magazine the indicator of which steadily lights up are already loaded with discs. 2. Press the disc select button (from will turn off. The disc will then be automatically drawn in, and the player will begin to play the first track on the disc. . If you wish - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 280
(from to ) the disc number indicator of which steadily lights up. The player will then start playback of the selected CD, beginning with the first track. If a disc that the player cannot read has been loaded, the player will display the message "CHECK DISC". ! When CD is in the player (type C and - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 281
rewinding. Type D audio Each time you briefly press the button, the mode changes in the following sequences. Type A and C audio: NOTE . If the player will start playback beginning with the first track. . If you rewind to the beginning of the first track, rewinding will stop and the player will - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 282
. Press the "SCAN" button (type A, B and C audio). . Press the " LOAD " button when there is free space in the CD magazine (type B audio). Type A audio: Type B audio: & Random playback To play back a tracks at than the Each time you press the button, the mode changes in the following sequences. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 283
Type A and B audio The scan mode lets you listen to the first 10 seconds of each track in succession. Press the "SCAN" button to LOAD " button when there is free space in the CD magazine If you press the "TEXT" button during playback, the display will change as shown in the following sequence. For - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 284
" " side of the "FOLDER/PTY/CAT" button starts playback beginning with the first track. Press the following buttons briefly. Type A and B audio: To select turned to the "OFF" position, a disc protection function will operate, automatically reloading the disc. In this case, the disc is not played. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 285
supported, and if inserted, they will be immediately ejected and this message will be displayed. If the disc cannot be ejected or this message remains displayed, please contact your SUBARU dealer. ! When "CHECK this jack. The connection cable is available at electrical appliance or similar stores. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 286
Play back the portable audio player. Refer to the instruction manual for the portable audio player. NOTE . The AUX the volume becomes louder. However, when you change from one portable audio player to another one, and audio plug. . If the noise is not reduced, check for disconnection of the cord or - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 287
come out again, possibly causing the player to malfunction. . In cold and/or rainy weather, dew can form inside the CD player, preventing normal operation. has a non-standard shape (for example, a heart shape). Malfunctions or problems might result. . A disc is vulnerable to heat. Never keep it - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 288
5-32 Audio USB storage device / iPod® operations (type C and D audio) & Play file Refer to "Play file" F5-22. & Connectable USB storage device Mass storage class USB memory can be connected. USB storage devices that can be played back are accompanied by the following restrictions. . Maximum - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 289
by using an iPod® and iTunes. Copyright infringement is prohibited by law. . To check the firmware version of an iPod®, connect it to a computer and check the device manager. For further information, see the User 's Guide that comes with the iPod® . To update the firmware version of an iPod®, visit - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 290
. . If an iPod® does not activate after operation, disconnect the connection cable from the iPod® and reset it. For the resetting procedure, see the User 's Guide that comes with the iPod®. . If an iPod® and the connection cable are connected improperly, the iPod® cannot be powered on or will not be - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 291
refers - CONTINUED - To playback tracks at random, press the "RDM" button while a track is playing. Each time you press the button, the mode changes in the following sequence. When connecting USB storage device (type C audio): NOTE . The "ALL RPT" indication refers to the repeat playback of all - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 292
speed (only when the audiobook is playing) (type D audio) Each time you briefly press (the "RPT" button) while the audiobook is playing, the playing speed changes in the following sequence. To select the category, press the dial. To close the iPod® menu, press and hold the button. To return to the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 293
clear those messages, please contact your SUBARU dealer. ! When "CHECK DEVICE" is displayed This message is displayed transmission malfunction occurs . When an iPod® confirmation malfunction occurs . When a HUB class USB storage device is connected Disconnect the USB storage device/iPod® and check - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 294
is connected. Models with Hands-free system The "MODE" button is used to select the desired audio mode. Each time it is pressed, the mode changes to the next one in the following sequence: Type A and B audio: ! Models with Hands-free system Press and hold this button if you wish to - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 295
Audio 5-39 ! With radio mode selected Press the " " button or " " button briefly. The radio will seek the next preset station and stop on it. Press and hold the " " button or " " button. The radio will seek the next receivable station and stop on it. That station's frequency will be shown on the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 296
the "PAIR AUDIO" (type C audio)/"Pair Audio Player" (type D audio) menu. If a device is already registered, "MEMORY FULL" is displayed and the mode changes to the Bluetooth® audio setting mode. 2. After the passkey is shown on the display, input the passkey into the device. If you input the correct - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 297
setting mode. 2. Select the "CONFIRM" menu. "DELETED " is displayed and the mode changes to the Bluetooth® audio setting mode. NOTE After the ignition switch is turned to the "LOCK" position, the registered device is not automatically connected to the system even if the ignition switch is turned to - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 298
changes in the following sequence. Hands-free system (if equipped) NOTE . For models with the genuine SUBARU navigation system, refer to the Owner 's Manual in-vehicle equipment or take an incoming phone call. Since the Bluetooth® format is wireless, a connection between the in-vehicle equipment and - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 299
after making a call. Deactivate the automatic dial lock function of the cell phone Bluetooth network. . When another Bluetooth® device is simultaneously connected, noise tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 300
installed and used in accordance with the instructions. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation or relocate the receiving antenna. . Increase the separation dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. . Changes be sure to check if "other - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 301
switch . 2. Select "ENGLISH"/"FRANÇAIS" by NOTE When the ignition switch is turned to the "Acc" or "ON" position, the registered cell phone will be automatically connected to the system. ! Menu list of the Hands-free system Turn the "TUNE/TRACK/CH" dial to select a menu, and then press the dial - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 302
by voice Adding a new number by cell phone Adding a new number by inputting manually Adding a new number from the call history Showing the list of the names registered in the phonebook Changing a name registered in the phonebook Registering a speed dial Deleting phonebook data Deleting a registered - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 303
First menu SETUP Second menu SECURITY Third menu SET PIN PHBK LOCK*/ PHONE BOOK LOCK* PHBK UNLOCK*/ PHONE BOOK UNLOCK* GO BACK Setting a PIN code Locking the phonebook Details 5-53 5-53 Page Unlocking the phonebook 5-53 PHONE SETUP PAIR PHONE SELECT PHONE CHANGE not available. - CONTINUED - - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 304
5-48 Audio ! Voice command system The commands available for the voice command system are listed in the following chart. Command English 1 2 3 4 5 6 0 (zero, oh) 1 (one réglages 20 21 22 23 24 phone book add entry phone book change name ajouter l'entrée dans le registre modifier le nom dans le - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 305
to be registered. 6. Select the "CONFIRM" menu. Then "STORED" is displayed and the mode changes to the registering speed dial mode. Refer to "Registering speed dial" F5-50. ! Registering by inputting manually 1. Select the "MANUAL INPUT" menu by operating the "TUNE/TRACK/CH" dial. 2. Input the phone - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 306
Press the talk switch . 6. Say the name (voice tag) to be registered. 7. Select the "CONFIRM" menu. Then "STORED" is displayed and the mode changes to the registering speed dial mode. Refer to "Registering speed dial" F5-50. ! Registering from call back 1. Select the "CALL BACK" menu. 2. Select the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 307
talk switch . - Operate the "TUNE/TRACK/CH" dial. 3. After "SELECTED" is displayed, you can choose the following menus. . "DIAL" to make a phone call . "CHANGE NAME" to change the name (voice tag) . "SET SPD DIAL"/"SET SPEED DIAL" to set the speed dial . "DELETE ENTRY" to delete the name (voice tag - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 308
5-52 Audio ! Deleting the callback data 1. Select the "CALLBACK" menu. 2. Select the phone number by operating the "TUNE/TRACK/CH" dial. 3. Select the "DELETE" menu. 4. Select the "CONFIRM" menu. Then "DELETED" is displayed and the selected callback data is deleted. ! Making a phone call ! Making - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 309
call Press the ON hook switch ! Volume control & Bluetooth® setting . ! Security setting After selecting the "SECURITY 7 7 3 NOTE If the phonebook is not locked, "UNLOCK" is displayed and the mode changes to the security mode. 2. Input the PIN code by performing either of the following procedures. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 310
/CH" dial. - Press the talk switch . 4. After "SELECTED" is displayed, select the following menus. . "SELECT PHONE" to connect the selected cell phone . "CHANGE NAME" to change the voice tag . "DELETE" to delete the selected cell phone from the list . "GO BACK" to go back to the "PHONE SETUP" mode - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 311
data, perform the following procedure. 1. Select the "INITIALIZE" menu. 2. Select the "CONFIRM" menu. First "PLEASE WAIT", then "INITIALIZED" is displayed. The registered data is initialized and the mode changes to the last mode. ! Selecting language To select the language, perform the following - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 312
5-56 Audio - Pressing the power switch . Insert a CD (except reloading a CD) . Connect a USB storage device or an iPod® NOTE The screensaver is not displayed under the following conditions. . While the ignition switch is in the "LOCK" position . While the audio is OFF . While the screen is OFF . - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 313
Interior lights ...Dome light ...Cargo area light ...Map light... 6-2 6-2 6-3 6-3 Sun visors ...Vanity mirror ... 6-4 6-4 Ashtray (if equipped)...Floor mat ...Shopping bag hook ...Coat hook...Cargo area cover (dealer option)...Using the cover ...To remove the cover ...To install the cover ... 6-11 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 314
setting of the period for which the light remains on (OFF delay timer) can be changed by a SUBARU dealer. Contact your SUBARU dealer for details. ON: The light remains on continuously. OFF: The light remains off. DOOR: The dome light illuminates automatically in the following cases. . Any of the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 315
switch has the following positions. OFF: The map lights do not illuminate automatically in conjunction with a door opening. However, the lights can be turned on manually by pushing the map light switches (lenses). DOOR: The map lights illuminate automatically in the following cases. . Any of the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 316
. All doors and the rear gate are locked using the remote keyless entry transmitter. The setting of the period for which the lights remain on (OFF delay timer) can be changed by a SUBARU dealer. Contact your SUBARU dealer for details. Sun visors & Vanity mirror CAUTION Keep the vanity mirror cover - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 317
& Glove box To use as an armrest: 1) 2) Lock Unlock 1. Tip the console top forward from its vertical position. To open the glove box, and turn it counterclockwise. & Center console The center console box provides a storage space. In addition, the top of the console can be used as an armrest. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 318
storage space: 1) Pocket console The pocket console can be used to store small items. CAUTION Be careful not to trap your hand between the console top and console box when raising and tipping the console top. To open the console, push on the console lid lightly and the lid will automatically open - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 319
table (if equipped) cup holders. & Coin tray CAUTION To use the rear seat center table, pull the strap up. . Do not step or sit on the rear seat center table, and do not place heavy objects on it. The rear seat center table could break, and you could get hurt. . When pulling - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 320
Cup holders CAUTION Take care to avoid spills. Beverages, if hot, might burn you or your passengers. Spilled beverages may also damage upholstery, carpets or audio equipment. & Rear passenger's cup holder (if equipped) & Front passenger's cup holder CAUTION Do not pick up a cup from the cup - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 321
it is capped. Otherwise, the beverage could spill when opening/closing the door or while driving and, if the beverage is hot, it could scald you. trim can be used to hold beverage bottles and other items. Accessory power outlets Power outlet below the climate controls Power outlet in the center - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 322
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 dealer option) A cigarette lighter may be installed in place of an accessory power outlet. The cigarette lighter assembly is available from your SUBARU dealer - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 323
It will automatically spring up when receptacles or leave a lighted cigarette in an open, the fire on the cigarette tip may spread to another cigarette butt the ashtray. WARNING To avoid being burned, never grasp the lighter by the is ever used for a plug-in accessory such as a cell phone, that may - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 324
6-12 Interior equipment Floor mat The portable ashtray can be installed in each cup holder. For the locations residual smoke. CAUTION Retaining pins are located on the driver 's side floor. The driver 's floor mat should be properly secured using the built-in grommets, by placing the grommets - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 325
Interior equipment 6-13 . Do not use more than one floor mat. Shopping bag hook CAUTION Do not hang items on the shopping bag hook that weigh 6 lbs (3 kg) or more. Coat hook A coat hook is attached to each side of the cargo area. CAUTION . Never hang anything on the coat hook that might - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 326
, move the front cover backward so that the cover is not damaged. & Using the cover Install the front cover behind the rear seatback. & To remove the cover 1. Rewind the cover. WARNING Do not place anything on the extended cover. Putting excessive weight on the extended cover can break it and an - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 327
securely. Otherwise, there is a risk of being injured. 1. Remove the cover of the retainers by prying on the edge with a flat-head screwdriver. The cargo area is equipped with four tiedown hooks so that cargo can be secured with a cargo net or ropes. When using the tie-down hooks, turn them down - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 328
tie-down hooks are designed only for securing light cargo. Never try to secure cargo that exceeds the capacity of the hooks. The maximum load capacity is 44 lbs (20 kg) per hook. Under-floor storage compartment (if equipped) . Do not store spray cans, containers with flammable or corrosive liquids - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 329
automatically displays the rear view image behind the vehicle on the navigation monitor or the display of the type D audio (if equipped). the monitor is limited, you should always check view camera is used for a long time while the engine is not operated, the battery may become completely discharged - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 330
color of the objects. 2. Set the shift lever or select lever to "R". & Viewing range on the screen CAUTION The range that can be viewed with the rear view camera is limited. Always be sure to check an extremely hot or cold place. - An - Strong light shined directly camera automatically displays - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 331
Help line The help line (distance marker and vehicle width line) is a guide to help you realize the actual distance from the screen image. Range of area from the rear end of the bumper can be viewed. Areas at both ends of the bumper and areas just under the bumper cannot be viewed. 5) Image from - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 332
When there is a downward slope at the back CAUTION . When moving backward, always check the back with your eyes without relying on the help lines. . The actual lines. . Differences may occur due to number of passengers or loaded cargo. . When the vehicle is on a slope or when the vehicle is - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 333
Interior equipment 6-21 ! Feature of distance marker 1) 2) 3) 3 feet (1 m) line 6.5 feet (2 m) line 10 feet (3 m) line The distance marker shows the distance on the road. If there is a car or other object close behind, distance cannot be correctly displayed. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 334
---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 335
off the cruise control...To change the cruising speed ...Cruise control indicator light...Cruise control set indicator light ... 7-32 7-32 7-33 7-34 7-34 7-35 7-35 Automatic transmission...Select lever ...Shift lock function ...Selection of manual mode ...Driving tips ... 7-15 7-16 7-17 7-19 7-20 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 336
system performance may deteriorate and the CHECK ENGINE warning light/Malfunction indicator light may turn on. If this happens, contact an authorized SUBARU dealer for service. If it is determined that the condition is caused by the type of fuel used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 337
, try a different brand of gasoline before seeking service at your SUBARU dealer. . Fuel system damage or driveability problems which result from the use of improper fuel are not covered under the SUBARU Limited Warranty. surfaces of the vehicle. Because fuel may damage the paint, be sure to wipe - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 338
highly flammable. Before refueling, always stop the engine and 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. 3. Hook the cord that is attached - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 339
and a fire. . Immediately put fuel in the tank whenever the low fuel warning light illuminates. Engine misfires as a result of an empty tank could cause damage to the engine. NOTE . You will see the " " sign in the fuel gauge. This indicates that the fuel filler door (lid) is located on the right - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 340
programs to . A vehicle fails the OBDII inspection if the "CHECK ENGINE" warning light is not properly operating (light is illuminated or is not working due to a burned out bulb) or there is one or more diagnostic trouble codes stored in the vehicle's computer. . A state emission inspection - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 341
lights and accessories. 3. Depress the clutch pedal to the floor and shift the shift lever into neutral. Hold the clutch pedal to the floor while starting - CONTINUED - NOTE Engine oil, engine coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid and other fluid levels should be checked daily, weekly or at fuel - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 342
SUBARU dealer for assistance. 6. Confirm that all warning and indicator lights have turned off after the engine has started. The fuel injection system automatically lowers the idle speed as the engine warms up. & AT models 1. Apply the parking brake. 2. Turn off unnecessary lights and accessories - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 343
vehicle is stopped and the engine is idling. Remote engine start system (dealer option) WARNING . Do not servicing of the vehicle, temporarily place the remote engine start system in service mode to prevent the system from unexpectedly starting the engine. CAUTION If you need to restart the engine - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 344
vehicle while it is running via remote start 1. Unlock the vehicle doors using the keyless entry system. If the vehicle's doors are unlocked manually using the key, the vehicle's alarm system will trigger and the remote engine start system will turn off. Inserting the key into the ignition switch - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 345
to activate the remote start system while in service mode, the turn signal lights will flash and the horn will honk two times and will not & Remote transmitter programming and programmable feature option New transmitters can be programmed to the engine starter system in the event that remote - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 346
ignition switch and test operation of the remote transmitter(s) and horn confirmation feature. tery. . instructions below to change the remote control batteries. & System maintenance ! Changing the remote control batteries CAUTION . Do not let dust, oil or water get on or in the remote engine - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 347
manual transmission is a fully synchromeshed, 5-forward-speed and 1-reverse-speed transmission. The shift pattern is shown on the shift lever knob. When shifting from 5th gear to reverse gear, first return the shift lever to the neutral position then shift into reverse gear. To change - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 348
transmission could malfunction. & Shifting speeds ! Recommended shifting speeds The best compromise between fuel economy 55) 57 (92) Never exceed the posted speed limit. WARNING When shifting down a gear, ensure that the lead to excessive engine wear and poor fuel economy. & Driving tips Do not - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 349
Automatic transmission The automatic transmission is electronically controlled and provides 4 forward speeds and 1 reverse speed. Also, it has a manual transmission. . When parking the vehicle, first engine coolant temperature is still low, the automatic transmission will upshift at higher engine - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 350
gate for using "SPORT" mode or manual mode. ! 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 set the parking brake fully, then shift - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 351
to the floor and hold that position. The transmission will automatically downshift. When you release the pedal, the transmission will pedal, causing engine braking to work. Reacceleration for a short time will cause the transmission to upshift normally. NOTE . A 4th-to-3rd automatic downshift will - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 352
to "R" or "P": Within 60 seconds after placing the ignition a SUBARU dealer for an engine. 2. Remove the shift lock cover using a flat-head screwdriver. The shift lock release button is located under the shift lock cover. NOTE To prevent damage to the shift lock cover, wrap the tip of the flat-head - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 353
the manual mode. . If you attempt to shift down when the engine automatic transmission fluid becomes too high, the "AT OIL TEMP" warning light will illuminate and upshifts to 4th gear will not be possible. Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and let the engine idle until the warning light - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 354
(safely and easily) by first selecting the 2nd gear of the manual mode. . Always apply the foot or parking brake when the vehicle is stopped in the "D" or "R" position. . Always apply the parking brake when parking your vehicle. Do not hold the vehicle with only the transmission. . Do not keep the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 355
started and before it has warmed up, you may hear a noise coming from areas adjacent to the power steering pump which is located at the right-front area of the engine compartment. This is normal and does not indicate a power steering system problem. Type B When selected, the SPORT mode indicator - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 356
tips while lightly depressing the brake pedal to heat up the brakes. ! Use of engine braking Remember to make use of engine floor than usual and you will need to press it down much harder. And a much longer distance will be needed to stop the vehicle. ! Brake booster The brake booster uses engine - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 357
accident. & ABS system self-check Just after the vehicle is started, you may feel on the brake pedal a vibration similar to when the ABS operates, and you may also hear the sound of the ABS working from the engine compartment. This is caused by an automatic functional test of the ABS system being - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 358
system is operating, you may hear a chattering noise or feel a slight vibration in the brake pedal dealer and have the system inspected. 4. If both warning lights illuminate again and stay illuminated after the engine has been restarted, shut down the engine again, apply the parking brake, and check - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 359
properly. If the light remains on, have the brakes inspected by a SUBARU dealer immediately. . If at should be used when driving on snow-covered or icy roads; in addition, vehicle on the vehicle placard attached to the driver 's side door pillar. - Use only the specified temporary spare tire to - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 360
the Vehicle Dynamics Control operation indicator light. NOTE . The following conditions engine. . In the following circumstances, the vehicle may be more unstable than it feels to the driver. The Vehicle Dynamics Control System may therefore operate earlier than that expected. - On gravel-covered - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 361
situations. Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) (U.S.-spec. models) NOTE . The Vehicle Dynamics Control system will be activated automatically when the engine is started. . If the switch is held down for 10 seconds or longer, the indicator light turns off, the Vehicle Dynamics Control system - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 362
. Check the pressure for all four tires and adjust the pressure to the COLD tire pressure shown on the tire placard on the door pillar tire pressure sensors. If the light illuminates steadily after blinking for approximately 1 minute, promptly contact a SUBARU dealer to have the system inspected. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 363
make sure that the parking brake has been fully released. & Parking tips When parking your vehicle, always perform the following procedure. . Apply the while the engine is running, the brake system warning light illuminates. After starting the vehicle, be sure that the warning light has turned off - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 364
a nap in the vehicle. If engine exhaust gas enters the passenger compartment, occupants in the vehicle could die from carbon monoxide (CO) contained in the exhaust gas. alone to hold the vehicle. . If your vehicle has a front underspoiler and rear underspoiler (if equipped), pay attention to blocks - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 365
Starting and operating 7-31 Hill start assist system (MT models) CAUTION The Hill start assist system is a device only for helping the driver to START the vehicle on an uphill grade. To prevent accidents when the vehicle is parked on a slope, be sure to firmly set the parking brake. When setting - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 366
press the "CRUISE" main switch button while turning the ignition switch "ON", the cruise control function is deactivated and the cruise control indicator light flashes. To reactivate the cruise control function, turn the ignition switch back to the "Acc" or "LOCK" position, and then turn it again - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 367
A 3. Push the "SET/COAST" button and release it. Then release the accelerator pedal. Type B At this time, the cruise control set indicator light on the combination meter will illuminate. The vehicle will maintain the desired speed. Vehicle speed can be temporarily increased while driving with the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 368
or " LOCK" position (but only when the vehicle is completely stopped). & To change the cruising speed ! To increase the speed (by button) . Push the "CANCEL will return to the original cruising speed automatically and the cruise control set indicator light on the combination meter will illuminate. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 369
& Cruise control indicator light Refer to "Cruise control indicator light" F3-25. & Cruise control set indicator light Refer to "Cruise control set indicator light" F3-25. Push This occurs because the cruise control system unit regards this operation as that intended to decrease the vehicle speed. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 370
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break-in driving - the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) ...Fuel economy hints ...Engine exhaust gas (carbon monoxide)...Catalytic converter ...Periodic inspections ...Driving in foreign countries ...Driving tips for AWD models...On-road and off-road driving...Winter driving ...Operation during cold - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 372
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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 373
-up. If you feel the engine running rough (misfiring, 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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 374
tips 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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 375
train of your vehicle. All-Wheel Drive distributes the engine power to all four wheels. AWD models provide better traction when driving on slippery, wet or snow-covered roads and when moving out of mud, dirt and sand. By shifting power between the front and rear wheels, SUBARU AWD can also provide - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 376
door latch on the driver 's side. . Frequent driving of an AWD vehicle in hard driving conditions such as steep hills or dusty roads will necessitate more frequent replacement of engine oil, brake fluid and transmission oil . Utility vehicles feature a higher ground clearance which enables them - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 377
shallow streams, first check the depth of engine air intake or the exhaust ground from under your tires, resulting in possible loss of traction and even vehicle rollover. . Always check cargo more prone to tip over. . If transmission in 2nd than 1st. For AT models, refer to "Selection of manual - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 378
takes longer to start the engine in very cold weather conditions. Use an engine oil of a suitable grade and viscosity for cold weather. Heavy summer oil will cause harder starting. Keep the door locks from freezing by In order to prevent freezing of washer fluid, check the freezing temperatures in - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 379
the exhaust pipe and from around your vehicle if you park the vehicle in snow with the engine running. ! 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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 380
Driving tips If your SUBARU is not going to be used for an extended period, it is best to have the fuel tank filled to capacity. engine's intake system and may hinder the airflow, which could result in engine shutdown or even breakdown. ! Wiper operation when snowing Before driving in cold weather - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 381
Driving tips 8-11 and clearance between the body and tires. It also may be dangerous and lead to loss of vehicle control. . You must install account tire size and road conditions. Follow the device manufacturer 's instructions, especially regarding maximum vehicle speed. To help avoid damage to - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 382
MT and AT). If your vehicle is an AT model, for information about holding the transmission in the 2nd position, refer to "Selection of manual mode" F7-19. . . WARNING . Never stack luggage or other cargo higher than the top of the seatback because it could tumble forward and injure passengers in - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 383
items inside the vehicle. & GVWR and GAWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and Gross Axle Weight Rating) NOTE For better fuel economy, do not carry unneeded cargo. The load capacity of your vehicle is determined by weight, not by available cargo space. The maximum load you can carry in your vehicle - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 384
8-14 Driving tips 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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 385
the manufacturer 's instructions. When you carry cargo on the roof using the roof crossbar kit and a carrying attachment, never exceed the maximum load limit as explained below. You should also be careful that your vehicle does not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and front and rear - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 386
's instructions. traffic safety hazard. . Use only the ball mount supplied with this hitch. Use the hitch only as a weight carrying hitch. Do not use with any type of weight distributing hitch. . The standard bumper beam must be installed after you remove the trailer hitch. Consult a SUBARU dealer - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 387
in the chains taking tight turn situations into account; however, be careful not to let them drag on the ground. Hitch harness connector 8. Connect the hitch wire harness's black four-pin wire connector to the towing trailer 's wire harness 9. Confirm proper function of the hitch wire harness by - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 388
with a new vehicle or a vehicle with any new powertrain component (engine, transmission, differential, wheel bearings, etc.) for the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of driving. & Maximum load limits WARNING Never exceed the maximum load limits explained in the following. Exceeding the maximum load - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 389
the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is the combined total of the weight of the vehicle, driver, passengers, luggage, trailer hitch, trailer tongue load and any other optional equipment installed on your vehicle. Therefore, the GVW changes depending on the situation - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 390
label. To check both GVWR and GAWR and to confirm that the total weight and weight distribution are within safe driving limits, you should have your vehicle and trailer weighed at a commercial weighing station. Be sure that all cargo is firmly secured to prevent a change in weight distribution while - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 391
the left and right sides. Be sure that all cargo is firmly secured to prevent a change in weight distribution while driving. Never drill the frame or under-body of your vehicle to install a commercial trailer hitch. If you do, dangerous exhaust gas, water or mud may enter the passenger compartment - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 392
is recommended. A genuine SUBARU hitch is available from your SUBARU dealer. If use of a non-genuine hitch instructions for installation and use. Never use a hitch that mounts only to the rear bumper. The bumper is not designed to handle that type of load. For all types of hitches, regularly check - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 393
tips 8-23 ! Side mirrors Connection of trailer lights to your vehicle's electrical system requires modifications to the vehicle's lighting circuit to increase its capacity and accommodate wiring changes. To ensure the trailer lights are connected properly, please consult your SUBARU dealer. Check - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 394
. . Avoid abrupt starts and sudden accelerations. If your vehicle has a manual transmission, always start out in first gear and release the clutch at moderate engine revolution. . Avoid uneven steering, sharp turns and rapid lane changes. . Slow down before turning. Make a longer than normal turning - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 395
. . When driving uphill in hot weather, the air conditioner may turn off automatically to protect the engine from overheating. . When driving uphill in hot weather, pay attention to the following indicators because the engine and transmission are relatively prone to overheating. - Temperature - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 396
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for AWD models with automatic transmission ... Engine overheating ...9-2 9-2 9-3 If steam is coming from the engine compartment ...If no steam is coming from the engine compartment ... 9-13 9-13 9-13 Maintenance tools ...Tool bag...Under the cargo area... 9-4 9-4 9-5 Towing ...Towing and - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 398
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 on the road. It is best to safely pull off the road if a problem occurs. The hazard warning flasher can be activated regardless of the ignition switch - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 399
a 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. 2. Pull any one spare fuse out of the spare fuse holder at the back side of the main fuse box cover in the engine compartment. You may - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 400
cabin and confirm that the All-Wheel Drive warning light " " illuminates. The All-Wheel-Drive capability of the vehicle has now been deactivated. 1) 2) 3) 4) Screwdriver Wheel nut wrench Tool bag Wheel cover remover (only models with wheel covers) The screwdriver and wheel nut wrench are stored - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 401
storage compartment (if equipped) (Refer to "Under-floor storage compartment" F6-16) Jack handle Tool bucket Spare tire 1) 2) 3) 4) Wheel nut wrench Screwdriver Jack Towing hook (eye bolt) The jack handle is stored under the cargo floor. The jack and towing hook are stored in the tool bucket - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 402
safe place. & Changing a flat tire WARNING changing a tire. Never get under the vehicle while supporting the vehicle with this jack. . Always turn off the engine before raising the flat tire off the ground using the jack. Never swing or push the vehicle supported under the floor of the cargo area. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 403
spare tire " F 9-2 and strictly follow the instructions. 7. If your vehicle has wheel covers, insert a wheel cover remover into the notch on the opposite side of the valve hole and pry the wheel cover to remove it. 9. Place the jack under the side sill at the front or rear jack-up point closest to - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 404
jackscrew, and turn the handle until the tire clears the ground. Do not raise the vehicle higher than necessary. 11. by hand. WARNING Do not use oil or grease on the wheel studs or nuts when the spare tire is installed. This could cause the nuts checked at the nearest automotive service facility. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 405
(U.S.-spec. models) vides the driver with the warning message indicated by sending a signal from a sensor that is installed in Check the pressure for all four tires and adjust the pressure to the COLD tire pressure shown on the vehicle placard on the door pillar on the driver 's side. If this light - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 406
light illuminates steadily after blinking for approximately one minute, promptly contact a SUBARU dealer gas generated by a battery explodes if a flame or spark is brought near it. Do not smoke or light in suitable condition are available. . A running engine can be dangerous. Keep your fingers, - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 407
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. - CONTINUED - - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 408
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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 409
light remains illuminated (if equipped). Refer to "Coolant temperature low indicator light/Coolant temperature high warning light" F3-16. 4. After the engine has fully cooled down, check have to remove a hot radiator cap/ coolant filler tank cap, first wrap a thick cloth around the cap, then turn - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 410
SUBARU dealer or a commercial towing service. Observe nut wrench out of the cargo area. WARNING . Do either front or rear wheels off the ground. This front bumper and the towing hook, do not apply excessive lateral load to the towing hook. 2. Pry off the cover on the front bumper using a flat-head - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 411
is not possible to install the rear towing hook. To install the rear towing hook, the standard bumper beam must be installed on the vehicle at a SUBARU dealer. Consult a SUBARU dealer for details. Use a hitch ball and follow the instructions below when towing. . The weight of the object being towed - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 412
remove the towing hook from the vehicle and stow it in the tool bucket. Fit the towing hook cover on the bumper. The front tie-down hooks are located between each of the front tires and the front bumper. The rear tie-down hooks are located near each of the jack-up reinforcements. WARNING Use the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 413
CAUTION If your vehicle has a front underspoiler and rear underspoiler (if equipped), be careful engine while being towed using this method. Transmission damage could result if the vehicle is towed with the engine running. . For models with automatic transmission, the traveling speed must be limited - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 414
power door locking switches or the remote keyless entry system, you can open it from inside the cargo area. CAUTION Never operate the rear gate lock release lever with fingers because doing so may cause an injury. Always use a screwdriver or a similar tool. 1. Remove the access cover - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 415
you can close the moonroof manually. 2. Insert a hex-head wrench in the end of the motor shaft. To close the moonroof, turn the wrench counterclockwise. Have your vehicle checked and repaired by an authorized SUBARU dealer. 1. Remove the plug on the roof trim of the cargo area by inserting the end - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 416
---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 417
seat materials...Synthetic leather upholstery...Climate control panel, audio panel, instrument panel, console panel, and switches ...Monitor (if equipped)...Cargo tray (if equipped) ... 10-5 10-5 10-5 10-5 10-5 10-6 10-6 Corrosion protection...Most common causes of corrosion ...To help prevent - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 418
adjacent to it. If water enters the engine air intake, electrical parts or the power steering fluid reservoir, it will cause engine trouble or a malfunction of power steering. . Do not use organic solvents when washing the surface of the bulb assembly cover. If a detergent with organic solvents is - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 419
the engine bottom tone cannot be restored, lightly polish the surface with a dealer or an auto paint specialist. Otherwise, the cover them according to the manufacturer 's instructions. Wax or polish when the bulb assembly cover. If a polish or wax with organic solvents is mistakenly applied to - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 420
components, such as the exhaust system, fuel and brake lines, brake cables, suspension, steering system, floor pan, and fenders. If any of them are found to be rusted, they should be given an appropriate rust prevention treatment or should be replaced. Contact your SUBARU dealer to perform this kind - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 421
that the seats and headrests be covered, or the windows shaded, to or detergent and water, after first vacuuming or brushing away loose dirt not come out, try a commercially available fabric cleaner. Use the cleaner on a the cleaner according to its instructions. NOTE Strong cleaning agents - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 422
carpet completely before the cargo tray is installed. Upon installation after prolonged storage, you may notice that the tray does not completely lay flat. This is only temporary. To help return the tray to its original shape, place the tray on the floor of the vehicle with a weight on each corner - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 423
models) ...When checking or servicing in the engine compartment while the engine is running... 11-3 11-3 11-4 11-4 11-5 Automatic transmission fluid...Checking the fluid level...Recommended fluid ... 11-20 11-20 11-21 Front differential gear oil (AT models) ...Checking the oil level ...Recommended - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 424
of accessories ...Replacing bulbs ...Headlights (models with HID headlights)...Headlights (models without HID headlights)...Position light ...Front turn signal light ...Rear combination lights ...License plate light ...Dome light, map light, cargo area light and door step light ...Other lights on - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 425
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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 426
& When checking or servicing in the engine compartment (non-turbo models) CAUTION . Do not contact the belt cover while checking the components in the engine compartment. Doing so may cause your hand to slip off the belt cover and result in an unexpected injury. . Do not touch the oil filter until - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 427
position. & When checking or servicing in the engine compartment while the engine is running WARNING A running engine can be dangerous. other moving engine parts. Removing rings, watches and ties is advisable. 3. Release the secondary hood latch by moving the lever between the front grille and - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 428
11-6 Maintenance and service 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. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 429
11-24) Automatic transmission fluid level gauge (page 11-20) Brake fluid reservoir (page 11-23) Fuse box (page 11-44) Battery (page 11-43) Windshield washer tank (page 11-37) Engine oil filler cap (page 11-9) Engine coolant reservoir (page 11-14) Radiator cap (page 11-14) Engine oil filter (page 11 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 430
11-21) 3) Automatic transmission fluid level gauge (page 11-20) 4) Brake fluid reservoir (page 11-23) 5) Fuse box (page 11-44) 6) Battery (page 11-43) 7) Windshield washer tank (page 11-37) 8) Engine oil filler cap (page 11-9) 9) Engine coolant reservoir (page 11-14) 10) Engine oil level gauge (page - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 431
for more details. . If the oil consumption rate seems abnormally high after the break-in period, for example more than 1 quart per 1,200 miles (1 liter per 2,000 kilometers), contact your SUBARU dealer. & Checking the oil level Check the engine oil level at each fuel stop. 1. Park the vehicle on - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 432
and service Turbo models: Check the oil level on the gauge. If the oil level is below the low level mark, add oil so that the full level is reached. CAUTION . For non-turbo models, be careful not to touch the engine oil filter when removing the oil filler cap. Doing so may result in a burn - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 433
it onto the ground, into sewers, or into any body of water. Check with your local government office for the proper disposal options available to you. Change the oil and oil filter according to the maintenance schedule in the "Warranty and Maintenance Booklet". The engine oil and oil filter must be - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 434
back. Check the oil level again and if necessary, add more engine oil. CAUTION Be careful not to spill engine oil when adding it. If oil touches the exhaust pipe, it may cause a bad smell, smoke, and/or a fire. Turbo models 7. Remove the oil filter with an oil filter wrench. 8. Before installing - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 435
is under pressure, you may suffer serious burns from a spray of boiling hot coolant when the cap is removed. NOTE Engine oil viscosity (thickness) affects fuel economy. Oils of lower viscosity provide better fuel economy. However, in hot weather, oil of higher viscosity is required to properly - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 436
with tabs) on the coolant filler tank on top of the engine. & Cooling fan, hose and light/Coolant temperature high warning light" F3-16. Check the fuse and replace it if necessary. If the fuse is not blown, have the cooling system checked by your SUBARU dealer. & Engine coolant ! Checking - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 437
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 . Be careful not to spill engine coolant when adding it. If coolant touches the exhaust pipe, it may cause - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 438
been removed, insert the three projections on the rear air cleaner case into the slits on the front air cleaner case. 8. Install the removed parts in the reverse order of removal. 1. Use a screwdriver to undo the clips on the air intake duct, then remove the air intake duct. 1) 2) Connector Clip - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 439
dealer. The spark plugs should be replaced according to the maintenance schedule in the "Warranty and Maintenance Booklet". NOTE 6. If the rear air cleaner case has been removed, insert the three projections on the rear air cleaner case into the slits on the front air cleaner case. 7. Install - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 440
cracks, wear or unusual noise on the front side belt, contact your SUBARU dealer. Continuing to use the vehicle with the belt outside of the specification may cause the engine to malfunction and the above components to malfunction. To check the deflection of the front side belt, place a straightedge - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 441
different brands together. For details, refer to "Manual transmission, front differential and rear differential gear oil" F12-8. 1) 2) 1) Yellow handle Full level Low level Check the oil level monthly. 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and stop the engine. 2. Pull out the level gauge, wipe - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 442
3. First shift the select lever in each position. Then shift it in the "P" position, and run the engine at idling speed. 1) 2) 3) 4) HOT range COLD range Full level Low level fluid level on the gauge. If it is below the low level on the "HOT" range, add the recommended automatic transmission fluid - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 443
the automatic transmission fluid, be sure to use the specified type. 1) 2) Full level Low level 1) Yellow handle 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and stop the engine. 2. Pull out the level gauge, wipe it clean, and insert it again. 3. Pull out the level gauge again and check the oil - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 444
. For details, refer to "Manual transmission, front differential and rear differential gear oil" F12-8. Rear differential gear oil There is no rear differential gear oil level gauge. To check the rear differential gear oil level, consult your SUBARU dealer for inspection. Power steering fluid - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 445
Maintenance and service 11-23 WARNING Be careful not to burn yourself because the fluid may be hot. Brake fluid & Checking the fluid level CAUTION . When power steering fluid is being added, use only clean fluid, and be careful not to allow any dirt into the tank. Never use different brands of - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 446
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. & Recommended brake fluid Refer to "Fluids - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 447
from the air. Any absorbed moisture can cause improper clutch operation. . If the vehicle requires frequent refilling, there may be a leak. If you suspect a problem, have the vehicle checked at your SUBARU dealer. . When clutch fluid is added, be careful not to allow any dirt into the tank. . Never - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 448
11-26 Maintenance and service . You might feel that the brake pedal is applied by lighter force and generates a greater braking force. . You might hear the sound of ABS operating from the engine compartment. Brake pedal Check the brake pedal free play and reserve distance according to the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 449
the engine and transmission smoothly couple without any sign of slippage. 1) 0.16 - 0.43 in (4.0 - 11.0 mm) Lightly press the clutch pedal down with your finger until you feel resistance, and check the free play. If the free play is not within proper specification, contact your SUBARU dealer. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 450
break-in driving. brake pedal lightly. Repeat this . 5. Check the parking 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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 451
roads other than snow-covered and icy roads. & Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) (U.S.-spec. models) The tire cold outside air, the resulting drop in tire pressures may cause the low tire pressure warning light to illuminate. To avoid this problem checked and adjusted at your SUBARU dealer. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 452
size: P225/55R17 95H Standard tire pressures: Front: 32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2) Rear: 30 psi (210 kPa, 2.1 kgf/cm2) Garage temperature: 608F (15.68C) If the low tire pressure warning light illuminates when you drive the vehicle in cold outside air after adjusting the tire pressures in a warm - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 453
causes the tire to lose air rapidly. If you have a check the tires for abnormal wear. Contact your SUBARU dealer immediately if you find any problem. & Tire pressures and wear Maintaining the correct tire pressures helps to maximize the tires' service to drive over curbs, potholes or on other rough - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 454
service NOTE . The air pressure in a tire increases by approximately 4.3 psi (30 kPa, 0.3 kgf/cm2) when the tire becomes warm. . The tires are considered cold Rolling resistance is low, so fuel consumption is also lower. Check the tire pressures when the tires are cold. Use a pressure gauge to - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 455
Maintenance and service 11-33 . Abnormally low tire pressure (tread worn at shoulders) correctly balanced, have them checked and adjusted by your SUBARU dealer. Also have them adjusted after tire repairs and after tire rotation. Rolling resistance is high, so fuel consumption is also higher. Ride - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 456
limit and must be replaced immediately. With a tire in this condition, driving at high speeds in wet weather Example of tire rotation direction mark 1) Front If the tire has the rotation direction sidewall. When you install a tire that has the tire rotation direction mark, install the tire with the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 457
It also creates incorrect body-to-tire clearances and inappropriately changes the vehicle's ground clearance. All four tires must be the Models equipped with 4 non-unidirectional tires 1) Front After driving approximately 600 miles (1,000 km), check the wheel nuts again and retighten any nut that - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 458
service odometer calibration, and clearance between the body and tires. It also may be dangerous and lead to loss of vehicle control. . You must install available from SUBARU dealers. & Wheel covers (if equipped) ! Removing the wheel cover or to change a flat tire, always check the tightness - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 459
service 11-37 ! Installing the wheel cover Aluminum wheels Aluminum wheels can be scratched and damaged easily. Handle them carefully to maintain their appearance, performance, and safety. . When any of the wheels are removed and replaced for tire rotation or to change a flat tire, always check - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 460
service Washer fluid level gauge level gauge or the "FULL" mark on the tank. cold weather protection without damaging your vehicle's paint, wiper blades or washer system. . Never use engine coolant as washer fluid because it could cause paint damage. Remove the washer tank filler cap, then check - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 461
service water. carefully return the wiper arms on the windshield while supporting them with your hands. You should not return the wiper cover Pull down the wiper blade 2. Remove the wiper blade assembly by opening the cover and pulling it down in the direction shown in the illustration. 3. Install - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 462
Maintenance and service & Windshield wiper blade rubber grooves in the rubber and slide the blade rubber assembly into the support until it is locked. 1) 1) Support Metal spines 1. Grasp the locked end of the blade rubber assembly and pull it firmly to release the claws of the support from the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 463
Maintenance and service 11-41 & Rear window wiper blade assembly 1. Raise the wiper arm off the rear window. & Rear window wiper blade rubber 2. Turn the wiper blade assembly counterclockwise. 3. Pull the wiper blade assembly toward you to remove it from the wiper arm. 4. Install the wiper - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 464
11-42 Maintenance and service 2. Pull the blade rubber assembly out of the plastic support. support ends. If the rubber is not metal spines from the old blade rubber and install them in the new blade rubber. 4. Align the claws of the plastic support with the grooves in the blade rubber assembly, - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 465
service 11-43 Battery WARNING . Before beginning work on or near any battery, be sure to extinguish all cigarettes, matches, and lighters. Never expose a battery to an open flame or electric sparks. Batteries give off a gas related accessories unnecessary to periodically check the battery fluid - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 466
11-44 Fuses Maintenance and service CAUTION Never replace a fuse with one having a higher rating or cover on the driver 's seat side. To remove the cover, pull it out. The spare fuses are stored in the main fuse box cover in the engine compartment. 1) 2) Good Blown If any lights, accessories - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 467
at the back side of each fuse box cover and refer to "Fuses and circuits" F12-11. 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 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 468
Low beam light bulbs & Headlights (models without HID headlights) CAUTION Halogen headlight bulbs become very hot while in use. If you touch the bulb surface with bare hands or greasy gloves, fingerprints or grease on the bulb surface will develop into hot spots, causing the bulb to break. If there - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 469
to the headlight assembly, turn it clockwise until it clicks. 8. Reconnect the electrical connector. 9. Install the bulb cover. 10. Install the air intake duct with clips (right-hand side). 11. Set the washer tank to the original place and secure it by clip (left-hand side). ! High beam light bulbs - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 470
Reconnect the electrical connector. 6. Install the air intake duct with clips (right-hand side). & Front turn signal light It may be difficult to replace the bulbs. Have the bulbs replaced by your SUBARU dealer if necessary. & Position light & Rear combination lights 2. Disconnect the electrical - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 471
Maintenance and service 11-49 3. Remove the bulb socket from the rear combination light assembly by turning it counterclockwise. 4. Pull the bulb out of the bulb socket and replace it with a new one. 5. Set the bulb socket into the rear combination light assembly and turn it clockwise until it - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 472
11-50 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Maintenance and service Remove the cover and lens. Pull the bulb out of the socket. Install a new bulb. Reinstall the lens and cover. Tighten the mounting screws. & Dome light, map light, cargo area light and door step light CAUTION When the door or the rear gate is opened, - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 473
and service 11-51 Door step light 1. Remove the lens by prying the edge of the lens with a flat-head screwdriver. 2. Pull the bulb out of the socket. 3. Install a new bulb. 4. Reinstall the lens. & Other lights on the vehicle It may be difficult to replace the bulbs of other vehicle lights. Have - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 474
---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 475
Specifications Specifications ...Dimensions...Engine ...Electrical system...Fuel ...Engine oil ...Manual transmission, front differential and rear differential gear oil ...Fluids ...Engine coolant ... 12-2 12-2 12-3 12-3 12-4 12-5 12-8 12-9 12-9 Tires... 12-10 Fuses and circuits ...Fuse panel - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 476
Specifications These specifications are subject to change without notice. & Dimensions in (mm) Item Overall length Overall width Overall height without roof rail with roof rail Wheel base Tread Ground clearance*1 *1: Measured with vehicle empty Front Rear 8.7 (220) Non-turbo models 179 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 477
.5 6 79.0) 8.4 : 1 Horizontally opposed, liquid cooled 4 cylinder, 4-stroke gasoline engine & Electrical system Battery type and capacity (5HR) MT AT Alternator Spark plugs Non-turbo engine Turbo engine AT: Automatic transmission MT: Manual transmission 12V-48AH (55D23L) 12V-52AH (65D23L) 12V-110A - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 478
87 AKI (90 RON) or higher 91 AKI (95 RON) or higher*1 Fuel tank capacity 16.9 US gal (64 liters, 14.1 Imp gal) *1: If unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 AKI (95 RON) is not available, unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 AKI (90 RON) or higher may be temporarily - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 479
& Engine oil For the checking, adding and replacing procedure or other details, refer to "Engine oil" F11-9. NOTE The procedure for changing the engine oil and oil filter should be performed by a properly-trained expert. It is recommended that you have this service performed by your SUBARU dealer - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 480
-20 synthetic oil is the required oil 1.1 US qt (1.0 liter, 0.9 Imp qt) for optimum engine performance and - Changing the oil and oil filter: protection. Conventional oil may be 5.5 US qt (5.2 liters, 4.6 Imp qt) used if synthetic oil is unavailable. *: If 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available, 5W-30 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 481
liter, 0.9 Imp qt) optimum engine performance and pro- - Changing the oil and oil filter: tection. Conventional oil may be used if 4.4 US qt (4.2 liters, 3.7 Imp qt) synthetic oil is unavailable. *: If 5W-30 synthetic oil is not available, 5W-30 or 5W-40 conventional oil may be used if replenishment - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 482
temperature Oil capacity 3.7 US qt (3.5 liters, 3.1 Imp qt) API classification GL-5 1.3 US qt (1.2 liters, 1.1 Imp qt) Rear differential 0.8 US qt (0.8 liter, 0.7 Imp qt) For the checking procedure, or other details, refer to "Manual transmission oil" F11-19, "Front differential gear oil (AT - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 483
and other factors. Model Non-turbo Turbo Manual transmission Automatic transmission Coolant capacity 7.5 US qt (7.1 liters, 6.2 Imp qt) 7.4 US qt (7.0 liters, 6.2 Imp qt) 8.5 US qt (8.0 liters, 7.0 Imp qt) SUBARU Super Coolant Coolant type For the checking, adding and replacing procedure, or other - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 484
If you have tightened the wheel nuts by yourself, have the tightening torque checked at the nearest automotive service facility as soon as possible. *2: For the wheel nut tightening procedure, refer to "Changing a flat tire" F9-6. NOTE For the Latin American models, a conventional tire is equipped - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 485
Circuit Door locking Front wiper deicer relay Combination meter Remote control view mirrors Seat heater relay Combination meter Integrated unit Stop light Front wiper deicer Power supply (battery) Turn signal unit Clock Automatic transmission unit Engine control unit Integrated unit Accessory power - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 486
light Accessory power outlet (instrument panel) Starter relay Air conditioner Rear window defogger relay coil Rear wiper Rear window washer Audio unit Clock SRS airbag system Power window relay Radiator main fan relay Tail and illumination relay Blower fan Blower fan Fog light Front wiper Auto air - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 487
ABS unit Vehicle Dynamics Control unit Main fan (cooling fan) Secondary air combination valve (turbo models) Sub fan (cooling fan) Audio Headlight (low beam) Headlight (high beam) Back-up Horn Rear window defogger Mirror heater Fuel pump Automatic transmission control unit Engine control unit Turn - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 488
12-14 Fuse panel 18 19 Specifications Fuse rating 15A 15A . . Circuit Headlight (right hand) Headlight (left hand) - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 489
Specifications 12-15 Bulb chart Lights A and B are the LED (Light Emitting Diode) type. Consult your SUBARU dealer for replacement. - CONTINUED - - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 490
3) High beam headlight Position light Low beam headlight Models with HID light Models with halogen light 4) 5) 6) 7) 8) 9) 10) 11) 12) 13) 14) A) B) Front side marker light Map light Dome light Front fog light Front turn signal light Door step light Cargo area light Brake/tail light Rear turn signal - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 491
Specifications 12-17 CAUTION Replace any bulb only with a new bulb of the specified wattage. Using a bulb of different wattage could result in a fire. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 492
12-18 Specifications 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) 8) Vehicle identification number Emission control label Tire inflation pressure label Certification label Vehicle identification number plate Model number label Fuel label Air conditioner label Vehicle identification - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 493
tire terminology ...13-5 Tire care - maintenance and safety practices...13-9 Vehicle load limit - how to determine...13-10 Determining compatibility of tire and vehicle load capacities ...13-13 Uniform tire quality grading standards ...Treadwear ...Traction AA, A, B, C...Temperature A, B, C... 13 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 494
13-2 Consumer information and Reporting safety individual elements. ! P Metric (1) P = Certain tire type used on light duty vehicles such as passenger cars (2) Section Width in millimeters (3) Aspect provide two important facts about the tire. First, the number designation is its load index. Second - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 495
Consumer information and Reporting safety defects Date of Manufacture The first two figures identify the week, starting with "01" to represent the first full week of the a breakdown of its individual elements. The maximum cold inflation pressure to which this tire may be inflated. For example, "300 kPa - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 496
13-4 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects ! Maximum load rating The load rating at the maximum permissible weight load for this tire. For example, "MAX. size, recommended cold tire inflation pressure on each tire at maximum loaded vehicle weight, seating capacity and loading - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 497
air from a warm tire to reduce its pressure. The combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be replaced) of automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, radio, and heater, to the extent that these items are available as factory-installed - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 498
13-6 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects . Extra load tire ing on a vehicle. . Light truck (LT) tire . Curb weight (b) Accessory weight (c) Vehicle capacity weight (d) Production options weight The overall diameter of an inflated new tire. . Overall width The maximum cold - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 499
from the cord material in the sidewall. . Test rim The combined weight of those installed regular production options weighing over 5.1 lbs (2.3 kg) in excess of those standard items which they replace, not previously considered in curb weight or acces- A metal support for a tire or a tire and tube - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 500
the principal grooves designed to give a visual indication of the degrees of wear of the tread. . Vehicle capacity weight The fixture used to hold the wheel and tire assembly securely during testing. The rated cargo and luggage load plus 150 lbs (68 kg) times the vehicle's designated seating - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 501
Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-9 Table 1 - Occupant loading and distribution for vehicle normal load for various designated seating capacities Designated seating capacity, number of occupants 2 through 4 5 through 10 11 through 15 16 through 22 Vehicle normal load, number of - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 502
13-10 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects Replace any damaged or unevenly worn tires "Flat tires" F9-6. & Vehicle load limit - how to determine The load capacity of your vehicle is determined by weight, not by available cargo space. The load limit of your vehicle is shown on the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 503
Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-11 1. Calculate the total weight. Example 1B 2. Calculate the available load capacity. 2. Calculate the available load capacity by subtracting the total weight from the vehicle capacity weight of 900 lbs (408 kg). 3. The total weight now - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 504
is applied to the trailer tongue (i.e. Tongue load = 176 lbs (80 kg)). 1. Calculate the total weight. 2. Calculate the available load capacity. occupants to three), and a child restraint system weighing 11 lbs (5 kg) is installed in the vehicle for the child to use, the calculations are as follows - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 505
Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-13 3. The total weight now exceeds the capacity weight by 32 lbs (15 kg), so the cargo weight must be reduced by 32 lbs (15 kg) or more. & Determining compatibility of tire and vehicle load capacities The sum of four tires' maximum load - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 506
Consumer information and Reporting safety defects your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1,400 − 750 (5 6 150) = 650 lbs) 5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 507
. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law. WARNING Reporting safety defects (U.S.A.) If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 508
13-16 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects nue, SE, West Building, Washington, DC 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from http:// www.safercar.gov. - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 509
Index 14 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 510
32 Auto-dimming mirror/compass ...3-37, 3-38 Automatic climate control system...4-6 Automatic headlight beam leveler ...3-31 Warning light...3-22 Automatic transmission ...7-15 Fluid ...11-20, 12-9 MANUAL mode ...7-19 Oil temperature warning light (AT OIL TEMP) ...3-18 Select lever ...7-16 Shift - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 511
-28 Bulb Chart ...12-15 Replacing...11-45 C Cargo area Cover ...6-14 Light...6-3, 11-50 Tie-down hooks ...6-15 Cargo tray...10-6 Catalytic converter ...8-3 Center Console ...6-5 Changing Flat tire ...9-6 Oil and oil filter ...11-11 Charge warning light ...3-17 CHECK ENGINE warning light/Malfunction - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 512
system...Defogger...Deicer ...Differential gear oil Front ...11-21, Rear...11-22, Dimensions ...Disarming the alarm system ... Disc brake pad wear warning indicators ...7-23 Dome light ...6-2, 11-50 Door Locks...2-4 Open warning light...3-21 Step light...11-50 Drive belts ...11-18 Driving All-Wheel - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 513
tires ...9-6 Floor mat ...6-12 Fluid level Automatic transmission ...11-20 Brake ...11-23 Clutch...11-24 Power steering ...11-22 Fog light Indicator light...3-25 Switch ...3-32 Folding mirror switch ...3-44 Front Differential gear oil ...11-21, 12-8 Fog light ...3-32 Fog light indicator light...3-25 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 514
light (security indicator light) ...3-23 Indicator light Coolant temperature low ...3-16 Cruise control ...3-25 Cruise control set...3-25 Front fog light ...3-25 Headlight light...11-49 Light Cargo area ...6-3, 11-50 Control switch ...3-29 Dome...6-2, 11-50 Door step ...11-50 Front fog ...3-32 Front - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 515
light...6-3, 11-50 Maximum load limits...8-18 Meters and gauges ...3-6 Mirror defogger ...3-45 Mirrors ...3-36 Moonroof ...2-24, 9-19 N New vehicle break-in driving...8-2 O Odometer/Trip meter ...3-8 Oil filter ...11-11 Oil level Engine ...11-9 Front differential gear ...11-21 Manual transmission - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 516
15 Battery (remote engine start transmitter) ...7-12 Battery (remote keyless entry system)...2-10 Lost transmitters (remote keyless entry system) ...2-11 Replacing bulbs ...11-45 Cargo area light ...11-50 Dome light ...11-50 Door step light ...11-50 Front turn signal light ...11-48 Headlight...11-45 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 517
...1-20 Safety tips...1-12 Warning light and chime ...3-13 Security Alarm system ...2-14 Immobilizer...2-3 Indicator light...3-23 Shock SRS airbag system Monitors ...1-58 Servicing ...1-59 Warning light...3-15 Starting the engine ...7-7 State emission testing (U.S. only) ...7-6 Steering wheel - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 518
22 W Warning and indicator lights ...3-12 Warning chimes Seatbelt...3-13 Warning light ABS...3-19 All-Wheel Drive ...3-21 AT OIL TEMP...3-18 Automatic headlight beam leveler ...3-22 Brake system...3-20 Charge...3-17 CHECK ENGINE ...3-16 Coolant temperature high ...3-16 Door open ...3-21 Hill start - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 519
11 Warranties and maintenance ...8-18 Washing ...10-2 Waxing and polishing ...10-3 Wear indicators...11-34 Wheel Aluminum...11-37 Balance ...11-33 Covers...11-36 Nut tightening torque ...9-6, 12-10 Replacement ...11-36 Windows...2-20 Windshield Washer fluid ...11-37 Wiper and washer switches...3-34 - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 520
---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- - 2012 Subaru Forester | Owner's Manual - Page 521
& Fuel: GAS STATION REFERENCE & Fuel capacity: available, regular unleaded gasoline with octane rating of 87 AKI (90 RON) or higher may be temporarily used. For optimum engine of 91 AKI (95 RON) or higher. & Engine oil: Use only the following oils. . ILSAC GF-4 or GF-5, which can be identified
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 |
 |
2012
Forester
Quick Reference Guide