2020 Subaru Forester BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Auto Start Stop

  1. Connect the Subaru Select Monitor.
  2. Turn the ignition switch to ON. (Engine OFF)
  3. Display [ATF Temp.] and [Emphasized idle stop request].
  4. Warm up the engine until [ATF Temp.] reaches 60°C (140°F) or more.
    NOTE: Perform the Auto Start Stop inspection while [ATF Temp.] is within the range of 60 - 90°C (140 - 194°F).
  5. Check that [Emphasized idle stop request] is [Permit].
    NOTE: When [Emphasized idle stop request] is [Prohibit], switch to "Permit" according to the following procedure.
    1. Check that no DTCs are recorded in TCM, ECM and VDCCM.
    2. Check that ATF OIL TEMP or AWD light is not blinking or illuminating.
    3. Check the following items and conditions using Subaru Select Monitor.
      • Electric oil pump relay: ON 
      • Electric oil pump status: Normal 
      • Electric oil pump DUTY: 5 - 15% 
    4. Drive in D range at 20 - 30 km/h (12 - 19 MPH), and slowly decelerate the vehicle.
    5. Check that [Emphasized idle stop request] is [Permit].
      NOTE: When [Emphasized idle stop request] is [Prohibit], retry the procedure from step (1).
  6. Turn off all systems causing an electrical load, such as headlights, A/C, seat heater and rear defogger.
  7. Shift the select lever to "D range".
  8. Check if there is an excessive shock when the engine is restarted from the Auto Start Stop condition.
    1. Set the vehicle to Auto Start Stop condition, and keep the condition for 5 seconds or more.
    2. Release the brake pedal, and let the vehicle move forward for 2 seconds or more with the creep phenomenon.

      Check that no excessive shock occurs at this time.

    3. Stop the vehicle.
    4. Repeat the steps  1 -  3 four times.
    5. When a shock was felt, repeat the steps  1 -  4 5 times, and then check that no shock occurs during engine restarting.
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.