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
Selector Position
SELECTOR POSITION SPECIFICATIONS
| P (Park) | Transmission in neutral, output member immovable, and engine start possible |
| R (Reverse) | Transmission in reverse for backing |
| N (Neutral) | Transmission in neutral and engine start possible |
| D (Drive) | Automatic gear change 1st <-- --> 2nd <-- --> 3rd <-- -->4th |
| 3 (3rd) | Automatic gear change 1st <-- --> 2nd <-- --> 3rd <-- --> 4th |
| 2 (2nd) | 2nd gear locked (Deceleration possible 2nd <-- 3rd <-- 4th) |
| 1 (1st) | 1st gear locked (Deceleration possible 1st <-- 2nd <-- 3rd <-- 4th) |
| Control method | Hydraulic remote control |
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.