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.
2002 Subaru Forester BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Power Assisted System: General Description: Caution
- This section includes Airbag related repair works. For those corresponding to the repair procedures, read carefully CAUTION items in AB section before working and be sure to follow the instructions.
- Wear working clothing, including a cap, protective goggles, and protective shoes during operation.
- Remove contamination including dirt and corrosion before removal, installation or disassembly.
- Keep the disassembled parts in order and protect them from dust or dirt.
- Before removal, installation or disassembly, be sure to clarify the failure. Avoid unnecessary removal, installation, disassembly and replacement.
- Be careful not to burn your hands, because each part on the vehicle is hot after running.
- Use SUBARU genuine steering fluid, grease etc. or the equivalent. Do not mix steering fluid, grease etc. with that of another grade or from other manufacturers.
- Be sure to tighten fasteners including bolts and nuts to the specified torque.
- Place shop jacks or safety stands at the specified points.
- Apply steering fluid onto sliding or revolution surfaces before installation.
- Before installing O-rings or snap rings, apply sufficient amount of steering fluid to avoid damage and deformation.
- Before securing a part on a vise, place cushioning material such as wood blocks, aluminum plate, or shop cloth between the part and the vise.
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.