Subaru Forester: Starting and operating / Preparing to drive
You should perform the following checks
and adjustments every day before you
start driving.
- Check that all windows, mirrors, and
lights are clean and unobstructed.
- Check the appearance and condition
of the tires. Also check tires for proper
inflation.
- Look under the vehicle for any sign of
leaks.
- Check that no small animals enter the
engine compartment.
- Check that the hood and rear gate are
fully closed.
- Check the adjustment of the seat.
- Check the adjustment of the inside and
outside mirrors.
- Fasten your seatbelt. Check that your
passengers have fastened their seatbelts.
- Check the operation of the warning
and indicator lights when the ignition
switch is turned to the “ON” position.
- Check the gauges, indicator and warning
lights after starting the engine.
CAUTION
Trapping small animals in the cooling
fan and belts of the engine may
result in a malfunction. Check that
no small animal enters the engine
compartment or under the vehicle
before starting the engine.
NOTE
- Engine oil, engine coolant, brake
fluid, washer fluid and other fluid levels
should be checked daily, weekly or at
fuel stops.
- When towing a trailer, refer to “Trailer
hitch (dealer option)”.
CAUTION
Do not operate the starter motor
continuously for more than 10 seconds.
If the engine fails to start after
operating the starter for 5 to 10
seconds, wait for 10 seconds or
more before trying again...
Other information:
Perform the following procedure to release
the shift lock.
Apply the parking brake and stop the
engine.
Wrap the tip of a flat-head screwdriver
with vinyl tape or a cloth and use it to
remove the shift lock cover. The shift lock
release button is located under the shift
lock cover...
Head restraint
Release button
To remove:
Press the release button, and pull out the
head restraint.
To install:
Push the head restraint into the holes on
the top of the seatback until it locks. Press
and hold the release button to lower the
head restraint...