2021 Subaru Forester BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Inhibitor Switch: Inspection

  1. Disconnect the ground terminal from battery sensor. Ref. to GROUND TERMINAL REMOVAL OR INSTALLATION .
  2. Remove the clip from the air intake boot, and loosen the clamp.
    G13223823Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  3. Remove the air intake boot, and place it aside so that it does not interfere with the work.
    CAUTION: Be careful not to pull out the PCV hose.
    G13223824Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  4. Disconnect the transmission harness connector.
    G11255510Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  5. Disconnect the ground cord.
    G11255509Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  6. Remove the pitching stopper. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR580)>Transmission Mounting System>REMOVAL>PITCHING STOPPER .
  7. Remove the transmission case cover (front).
    G11255523Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  8. Move the lock lever in the arrow direction while pressing the lock button (A), and disconnect the connector.
    G11255622Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  9. Set the ST between the TCM and transmission harness, Ref. to TRANSMISSION (DIAGNOSTICS)>GENERAL DESCRIPTION>CAUTION .

    Special tool: 

    CHECK BOARD (18460AA040)

  10. Check the inhibitor switch signal circuit.
    1. Check the circuit of each range.
      NOTE: If faulty, check the transmission harness for open circuit or short circuit, or poor contact.
      G13225684Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
      Terminal No. Inspection conditions Standard
      38 - 42 P range Less than 1 Ω
      37 - 42 R range
      36 - 42 N range
      35 - 42 D range
    2. Check continuity when the lever is moved 1.5° in the front-rear direction from each range. If there is continuity in only one direction or in other points, adjust the inhibitor switch. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR580)>Inhibitor Switch>ADJUSTMENT .
      G13869236Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
      G13225684Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
      Terminal No. Inspection conditions Standard
      38 - 42 P range Less than 1 Ω
      37 - 42 R range
      36 - 42 N range
      35 - 42 D range
  11. Check the neutral switch signal circuit and back-up light circuit.
    G13225687Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    Terminal No. Range Standard
    1 - 5 P range and N range Less than 1 Ω
    22 - 26 Except for R range ∞Ω
    22 - 26 R range Less than 1 Ω
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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.