2003 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 241

Starting and operating half way down. 6. Confirm that all warning and indicator lights have gone out after the engine has started. The fuel injection system automatically lowers the idle speed as the engine warms up. While the engine is warming up, make sure that the selector lever is at the "P" or "N" position and that the parking brake is applied. ! Starting a flooded engine If the engine does not start, it may be flooded (excessive fuel in the engine). In case of a flooded engine, turn the starter motor for five seconds with the accelerator pedal fully depressed. Repeat this two or three times until the engine starts. Release the ignition switch and accelerator pedal as soon as the engine starts. If you restart the engine while the vehicle is moving, shift the selector lever into the "N" position. Do not attempt to place the selector lever of a moving vehicle into the "P" position. ! Starting the engine during cold weather below -4° F (-20° C) If the engine is difficult to start using the normal method (without depressing the accelerator pedal), turn the ignition switch to the "START" position while slightly depressing the accelerator pedal. 7-10