2012 Subaru Forester X, Automatic TransFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Cooling System: Inspection

  1. To check the radiator for leakage, fill it with engine coolant, and attach the radiator cap tester to the filler neck, and apply pressure.

    Pressure: 

    Non-turbo model 

    157 kPa (1.6 kg/cm 2  , 23 psi) 

    Turbo model 

    122 kPa (1.2 kg/cm 2  , 18 psi) 

  2. Inspect the items below applying a pressure.
    • Leak from radiator
    • Hose joints and other connections for leakage
      CAUTION:
      • For turbo model, inspection must be carried out at the side of coolant filler tank, not at the side of radiator.
      • Be particularly careful not to deform the filler neck of radiator when installing and removing the tester and after testing.
      • When performing this check, be sure to keep the engine stationary and fill radiator with coolant.
      • Wipe off check points before applying pressure.
      • Be careful not to spill coolant when detaching tester from radiator.
      • Do not remove the radiator cap. (turbo model)
    • Non-turbo model
      Fig 1: Attaching Radiator Cap Tester To Filler Neck (Non-Turbo Model)
      G07664596Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    • Turbo model
      Fig 2: Attaching Radiator Cap Tester To Filler Neck (Turbo Model)
      G07664597Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  3. Check the radiator cap valve open pressure using radiator cap tester.

    Raise the pressure until the needle of gauge stops and see if the pressure can be retained for five to six seconds. The radiator cap is normal if a pressure above the limit value has been maintained for this period. If the valve opened at the service limit or less, replace the radiator cap.

    NOTE: Rust or dirt on the cap may prevent valve from functioning normally: be sure to clean the cap before testing.

    Non-turbo model radiator side and turbo model coolant filler tank side 

    Specification: 

    93 - 123 kPa (0.95 - 1.25 kg/cm 2  , 14 - 18 psi) 

    Service limit: 

    83 kPa (0.85 kg/cm 2  , 12 psi) 

    Radiator side on turbo models 

    Specification: 

    122 - 152 kPa (1.24 - 1.55 kg/cm 2  , 18 - 22 psi) 

    Service limit: 

    112 kPa (1.14 kg/cm 2  , 16 psi) 

    Fig 3: Checking Radiator Cap Valve Open Pressure Using Radiator Cap Tester
    G07664598Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
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:

  • • 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.

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