Subaru Forester: Maintenance and service / Air cleaner element
WARNING
Do not operate the engine with the
air cleaner element removed. The air
cleaner element not only filters intake
air but also stops flames if the
engine backfires. If the air cleaner
element is not installed when the
engine backfires, you could be
burned.
CAUTION
When replacing the air cleaner element,
use a genuine SUBARU air
cleaner element. If it is not used, it
will cause a negative effect to the
engine.
The air cleaner element functions as a filter
screen. When the element is perforated or
removed, engine wear will be excessive
and engine life shortened.
It is not necessary to clean or wash the air
cleaner element.
Replacing the air cleaner element
Replace the air cleaner element according
to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty
and Maintenance Booklet”. Under
extremely dusty conditions, replace it
more frequently. It is recommended that
you always use genuine SUBARU parts.

- Unsnap the two clips holding the air
cleaner case (rear).
- Open the air cleaner case and pull the
cover rearward while lifting it up.

- Remove the air cleaner element.
- Clean the inside of the air cleaner case
(both front and rear) with a damp cloth and
install a new air cleaner element.

- To install the air cleaner case (rear),
insert the three projections on the air
cleaner case (rear) into the slits on the air
cleaner case (front).
- Install in the reverse order of removal.
NOTE
Install the air cleaner element so that
the surface with “UPR” printed on it
faces upward.
It may be difficult to replace the spark
plugs. It is recommended that you have the
spark plugs replaced by your SUBARU
dealer.
The spark plugs should be replaced
according to the maintenance schedule
in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”...
Other information:
WARNING
If the warning light exhibits any of
the following conditions, there may
be a malfunction in the seatbelt
pretensioners and/or SRS airbag
system. Immediately take your vehicle
to your nearest SUBARU dealer
to have the system checked. Unless
checked and properly repaired, the
seatbelt pretensioners and/or SRS
airbag will not operate properly in
the event of a collision, which may
increase the risk of injury...
Assist grip
The assist grip is to be held to support the
body of the passengers when they are in
the seat and the vehicle is moving.
WARNING
Do not hold the assist grip when
getting up from the seat. Holding
and pulling the assist grip in the
wrong way could break the grip and
possibly cause injury...