2004 Subaru Forester XT, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Select Cable: Adjustment

  1. Set the vehicle on a lift.
  2. Set the select lever to "N" range.
  3. Lift-up the vehicle.
  4. Remove the rear exhaust pipe and muffler.
  5. Remove the heat shield cover. (If equipped)
  6. Loosen the adjusting nut on each side.
    Fig 1: Loosening Adjusting Nut
    G00937568Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  7. Turn the adjusting nut B until it lightly touches the connector.
    Fig 2: Turning Adjusting Nut B Until It Lightly Touches Connector
    G00937569Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  8. While preventing the adjusting nut B from moving with a wrench, tighten the adjusting nut A.
    1. Tightening torque: 7.5 N.m (0.76 kgf-m, 5.5 ft-lb)Β 
    Fig 3: Tightening Adjusting Nut A
    G00937570Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  9. After completion of fitting, make sure that the select lever operates smoothly all across the operating range.
  10. Install in the reverse order of removal.
Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

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

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

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