Subaru Forester: Maintenance and service / Engine hood

CAUTION

• Be extremely careful not to catch fingers or other objects when closing the engine hood.
• Do not push the hood forcibly to close it. It could deform the metal.
• Be extremely careful opening the engine hood when the wind is strong. The engine hood could close suddenly, possibly causing injuries from slamming.
• Do not install accessories other than genuine SUBARU parts to the engine hood. If the engine hood becomes too heavy, the stay may not be able to support holding it open.
• Check that the end of the hood stay is inserted into the slot. If it is not inserted properly, the hood may drop and cause injury.

To open the hood:

1. If the wiper blades are lifted off the windshield, return them to their original position.

   

2. Pull the hood release knob under the instrument panel.

   

3. Release the secondary hood release by moving the lever between the front grille and the hood toward the left.

   

   Grip

4. Lift up the hood, release the hood prop from its retainer and put the end of the hood prop into the slot in the hood. Hold the grip to handle the hood prop.

To close the hood:

1. Lift the hood slightly and remove the hood prop from the slot in the hood and return the prop to its retainer.
2. Lower the hood to a height of approximately 5.9 in (15 cm) above its closed position and then let it drop.
3.  After closing the hood, be sure the hood is securely locked.

If this does not close the hood, release it from a slightly higher position.

WARNING

Always check that the hood is properly locked before you start driving. If it is not, it might fly open while the vehicle is moving and block your view, which may cause an accident and serious bodily injury.