Subaru Forester: Instruments and controls / Defogger and deicer (if equipped)

1. Rear window defogger
2. Outside mirror defogger (if equipped)
3. Windshield wiper deicer (if equipped)

The vehicle is equipped with the defogger and the deicer (if equipped) system. The defogger and deicer system is activated only when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position.

Climate control panel type A

1. Models without outside mirror defogger
2. Models with outside mirror defogger

Climate control panel type B and C

To activate simultaneously the rear window defogger, outside mirror defogger (if equipped) and windshield wiper deicer (if equipped), press the control switch that is located on the climate control panel. The indicator light on the control switch illuminates while the defogger and deicer system is activated.

To turn them off, press the control switch again. They also turn off when the ignition switch is turned to the “ACC” or “LOCK”/ “OFF” position.

The defogger and deicer system will automatically shut off after approximately 15 minutes. If the rear window and the outside mirrors have been cleared and the windshield blade rubbers have been deiced completely before that time, press the control switch to turn them off.

It is possible for the defogger and deicer system to be set to continuous operation mode by a SUBARU dealer. Consult your SUBARU dealer for details. Also, for models with a combination meter display (color LCD), it is possible to set the defogger and deicer system for the continuous operation mode. For details, refer to “Vehicle Setting”.

CAUTION

• To prevent the battery from being discharged, do not operate the defogger and deicer system continuously for any longer than necessary.
• Do not use sharp instruments or window cleaner containing abrasives to clean the inner surface of the rear window. They may damage the conductors printed on the window.

NOTE

• Turn on the defogger and deicer system if the wipers are frozen to the windshield.
• If the windshield is covered with snow, remove the snow so that the windshield wiper deicer works effectively.
• While the defogger and deicer system is in the continuous operation mode:
  • If the vehicle speed remains at 9 mph (15 km/h) or lower for 15 minutes, the windshield wiper deicer system automatically stops operating. However, the rear window defogger system and outside mirror defogger system maintain continuous operation in this condition.
  • If the vehicle battery voltage drops below the permissible level, continuous operation of the defogger system and deicer system is canceled and the system stops operating.