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.
2020 Subaru Forester BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Time Lag Test: Inspection
NOTE:
When the select lever is shifted while idling, there will be a certain time elapse or lag before shock is felt.
- Connect the Subaru Select Monitor.
- Turn the ignition switch to ON. (Engine OFF)
- Display [ATF Temp.].
- Warm up until [ATF Temp.] reaches to 60 - 80Β°C (140 - 176Β°F).
- Apply the parking brake.
- Turn off all systems causing an electrical load, such as headlights, A/C, seat heater and rear defogger.
- Shift the select lever from "N range" to "D range", and measure the time elapsed from shifting the lever until the shock is felt.NOTE:
- Make three measurements and take the average value.
- Be sure to allow one minute or more interval between tests.
Specification:Β
1.5 seconds or less
If time lag is longer than specified:
- Secondary pressure (line pressure) is too low.
- Forward clutch worn
- Forward clutch piston malfunction
- Control valve body malfunction
- Learning is incomplete
- Shift the select lever from "N range" to "R range", and measure the time elapsed from shifting the lever until the shock is felt.
Specification:Β
1.5 seconds or less
If time lag is longer than specified:
- Secondary pressure (line pressure) is too low.
- Reverse brake worn
- Reverse brake piston malfunction
- Control valve body malfunction
- Learning is incomplete
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
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.
