Subaru Forester: Starting and operating / Preparing to drive
You should perform the following checks
and adjustments every day before you
start driving.
- Check that all windows, mirrors, and
lights are clean and unobstructed.
- Check the appearance and condition
of the tires. Also check tires for proper
inflation.
- Look under the vehicle for any sign of
leaks.
- Check that no small animals enter the
engine compartment.
- Check that the hood and rear gate are
fully closed.
- Check the adjustment of the seat.
- Check the adjustment of the inside and
outside mirrors.
- Fasten your seatbelt. Check that your
passengers have fastened their seatbelts.
- Check the operation of the warning
and indicator lights when the ignition
switch is turned to the “ON” position.
- Check the gauges, indicator and warning
lights after starting the engine.
CAUTION
Trapping small animals in the cooling
fan and belts of the engine may
result in a malfunction. Check that
no small animal enters the engine
compartment or under the vehicle
before starting the engine.
NOTE
- Engine oil, engine coolant, brake
fluid, washer fluid and other fluid levels
should be checked daily, weekly or at
fuel stops.
- When towing a trailer, refer to “Trailer
hitch (dealer option)”.
CAUTION
Do not operate the starter motor
continuously for more than 10 seconds.
If the engine fails to start after
operating the starter for 5 to 10
seconds, wait for 10 seconds or
more before trying again...
Other information:
Chemicals, salts and gravel used for
deicing road surfaces are extremely corrosive,
accelerating the corrosion of underbody
components, such as the exhaust
system, fuel and brake lines, brake cables,
floor pan and fenders, and suspension.
Thoroughly flush the underbody and inside
of the fenders with lukewarm or cold water
at frequent intervals to reduce the harmful
effects of such agents...
WARNING
The front seat head restraints are
designed to be installed into the
front seats only. The rear seat head
restraints are designed to be installed
into the rear seats only. Do
not attempt to install the front seat
head restraints into the rear seats, or
the rear seat head restraints into the
front seats...