2021 Subaru Forester BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Engine Cooling System: Radiator: Installation

  1. Install the radiator lower cushion.
    G13224738Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  2. Install the radiator to the vehicle.
    NOTE: Insert the pin on the lower side of the radiator into the radiator lower cushions.
  3. Remove the ropes or other items used to secure the condenser assembly to the vehicle.
    G13224737Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  4. Install the bolts at the upper side of the condenser assembly.

    Tightening torque: 

    7.5 N.m (0.8 kgf-m, 5.5 ft-lb)

    G13224736Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  5. Install the bolts at the lower side of the condenser assembly.

    Tightening torque: 

    7.5 N.m (0.8 kgf-m, 5.5 ft-lb)

    G13224735Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  6. Install the radiator upper bracket.

    Tightening torque: 

    12 N.m (1.2 kgf-m, 8.9 ft-lb)

    G13224734Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  7. Connect the radiator inlet hose.
    G13224733Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  8. Connect the connector (A) to the main fan motor assembly and the connector (B) to the sub fan motor assembly.
    G13224731Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    G13224732Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  9. Install the bracket hood stay.

    Tightening torque: 

    18 N.m (1.8 kgf-m, 13.3 ft-lb)

    G13224730Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  10. Install the bracket grille front.
    G13224729Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  11. Connect the radiator outlet hose.
    G13224727Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  12. Install the front exhaust pipe. Ref. to EXHAUST (H4DO)>FRONT EXHAUST PIPE>INSTALLATION .
  13. Install the reservoir tank. Ref. to COOLING (H4DO)>Reservoir Tank>INSTALLATION .
  14. Install the air intake duct. Ref. to INTAKE (INDUCTION) (H4DO)>AIR INTAKE DUCT>INSTALLATION .
  15. Install the collector cover. Ref. to INTAKE (INDUCTION) (H4DO)>COLLECTOR COVER>INSTALLATION .
  16. Connect the ground terminal to battery sensor. Ref. to GROUND TERMINAL REMOVAL OR INSTALLATION .
  17. Fill engine coolant. Ref. to COOLING (H4DO)>Engine Coolant>REPLACEMENT>FILLING OF ENGINE COOLANT .
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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.