1999 Subaru Forester BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Idle Speed & Ignition Timing

Verify idle speed and ignition timing are set to specification. See IDLE SPEED SPECIFICATIONS  and IGNITION TIMING  tables. For adjustment procedures, see ON-VEHICLE ADJUSTMENTS article.

IDLE SPEED SPECIFICATIONS

Application RPM
All Models
With A/C Off 600-800
With A/C On 800-900
IGNITION TIMING (1) (Degrees BTDC @ RPM)

Application Auto. Trans. Man. Trans.
Forester 15 @ 700 15 @ 700
Impreza & Outback Sport
2.2L (California) 15 @ 700 15 @ 700
2.2L (Federal) 15 @ 700 10 @ 700
2.5L 15 @ 700 10 @ 700
Legacy
2.2L (California) 15 @ 700 15 @ 700
2.2L (Federal) 15 @ 700 10 @ 700
2.5L 15 @ 700 15 @ 700
(1) To improve stability, timing is controlled while engine is idling. Timing range is plus or minus 8 degrees (all vehicles).
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.