2021 Subaru Forester BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Diagnostics With Phenomenon: Inspection

Symptoms Faulty parts
Engine stalls when driving in "D" or "R" range, or selecting "N" - "D", "N" - "R".  
  • Control valve
  • Engine control system
While driving in "D" range, vibration occurs immediately before the stop or engine stalls.  
  • Control valve
  • Torque converter
Vehicle cannot shift while driving in "D" range.  
  • Control valve
  • TCM
  • Shift mechanism
  • Power supply system
Excessive shock when selecting "N" - "D", and "N" - "R".  
  • Control valve
  • TCM
  • F&R clutch pack
  • ATF deterioration or lack
Excessive shock at standing start in "D" range.  
  • Control valve
  • TCM
  • F&R clutch pack
  • ATF deterioration or lack
Engine speed increases abruptly during driving in "D" or "R" range.  
  • Control valve
  • Secondary pressure sensor
  • F&R clutch pack
  • ATF deterioration or lack
Vehicle can not start when depressing the accelerator pedal in "D" or "R" range, or acceleration is very poor. (Without abrupt engine increase)  
  • Control valve
  • F&R clutch pack
  • Shift mechanism
  • Parking mechanism
  • Engine control system
  • Power supply system
Shift indicator in combination meter displays the position which differs from select lever position.  
  • Inhibitor switch
  • Select cable related
  • Combination meter
Manual mode enters even though the select lever and paddle shift switch is not operated.  
  • Manual mode switch
  • Paddle shift switch
  • Select lever
  • TCM
Engine speed increases abruptly in "D" or "R" range, vehicle can not start.  
  • F&R clutch pack
  • Select cable related
Manual mode can not be set  
  • Select lever
  • TCM
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.