Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2000 Subaru Forester L, AutomaticFACTORY 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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Forester & Impreza | |||
| With A/C Off | |||
| A/T | 600-800 | ||
| M/T | 550-750 | ||
| With A/C On | 800-900 | ||
| Legacy | |||
| With A/C Off | |||
| A/T | 600-800 | ||
| M/T | 550-750 | ||
| With A/C On | 750-950 | ||
IGNITION TIMING (1) (Degrees BTDC @ RPM)
| Application | Auto. Trans. | Man. Trans. | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forester & Impreza | 15 @ 700 | 10 @ 650 | ||
| Legacy | 10 @ 700 | 10 @ 650 | ||
|
||||
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
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.