Say Goodbye to Late Starts: How to Change Subaru Forester Clock and Stay on Track Daily

Ever found yourself staring at your Subaru Forester‘s dashboard, bewildered by the time? Maybe it’s flashing 12:00 AM, or perhaps it’s stubbornly stuck in a time zone you haven’t visited in years. Don’t fret! Knowing how to change your Subaru Forester’s clock is a simple fix that can save you a lot of confusion. This guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, no matter your Subaru Forester model year.

The Basics: Understanding Your Forester’s Clock

Before we dive into the specifics, let’s understand the fundamentals of your Subaru Forester’s clock. The clock is usually located in the center of your dashboard, within the infotainment system or instrument cluster. It’s likely a digital clock, but some older models might have an analog clock.

Model Year Matters: Navigating Different Forester Generations

Subaru Forester models across different years might have slightly different methods for adjusting the clock. This is why it’s essential to know your Forester’s model year. We’ll cover the most common methods for various generations, but if you’re unsure, consult your owner’s manual for the most accurate instructions.

Changing the Clock on Newer Subaru Foresters (2014 – Present)

Newer Subaru Foresters (2014 onwards) generally feature a touchscreen infotainment system. Here’s how to change the clock on these models:

1. Turn on Your Forester: Start your vehicle and ensure the infotainment system is powered on.
2. Navigate to the Clock: Locate the “Settings” or “System” menu on your touchscreen. You’ll likely find a “Clock” option within this menu.
3. Adjust the Time: Use the touchscreen controls to adjust the hours and minutes. You might also need to set the correct AM/PM or 12/24-hour format.
4. Confirm the Change: Save the changes you’ve made to the clock settings. The clock should now display the correct time.

Adjusting the Clock on Older Subaru Foresters (2009 – 2013)

Older Subaru Foresters (2009-2013) often have a separate clock within the instrument cluster. Here’s how to change the clock on these models:

1. Locate the Clock Buttons: Look for small buttons near the clock display on your instrument cluster. These buttons are typically labeled “SET” or “ADJ” and will be used to adjust the time.
2. Press the “SET” Button: Press and hold the “SET” button until the clock digits start flashing.
3. Adjust the Time: Use the “ADJ” button to increase or decrease the hours and minutes.
4. Confirm the Change: Once you’ve reached the correct time, release the “SET” button. The clock should now display the correct time.

Troubleshooting: When the Clock Won’t Cooperate

If you’re encountering issues with changing your Subaru Forester‘s clock, here are some common troubleshooting tips:

• Check the Battery: A weak battery can sometimes cause issues with the clock settings. Try starting the engine or connecting your Forester to a battery charger.
• Reset the Infotainment System: If you’re using the touchscreen, try resetting the infotainment system. This can often resolve minor glitches.
• Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Your owner’s manual will provide the most specific instructions for your Forester model year.
• Seek Professional Help: If all else fails, consider taking your Forester to a trusted mechanic or Subaru dealership. They can diagnose and resolve any underlying issues.

Time for a Time Check: Final Thoughts

Changing your Subaru Forester’s clock is a simple process that can be accomplished in just a few short steps. Remember to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions tailored to your Forester’s model year. By following these steps, you can ensure that your Forester’s clock is always accurate, keeping you on schedule and avoiding any time-related confusion.

Popular Questions

Q: Why is my Subaru Forester‘s clock flashing?

A: A flashing clock on your Subaru Forester usually indicates that the time needs to be adjusted. Follow the steps outlined above to set the correct time.

Q: My Subaru Forester‘s clock is stuck on 12:00 AM. What should I do?

A: This often happens when the battery has been disconnected or the car has been sitting for a long time. Try resetting the clock by following the steps above. If the issue persists, check the battery.

Q: How can I change the time zone on my Subaru Forester?

A: The ability to change the time zone depends on your Forester’s model year and infotainment system. Newer models with touchscreen systems might have a time zone setting, while older models may not. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions.

Q: My Subaru Forester‘s clock is always a few minutes off. Is this normal?

A: A slight discrepancy in time is normal, especially if you’re not driving frequently. However, if the clock is consistently off by a significant amount, it might indicate a problem with the clock itself or the battery. Consider taking your Forester to a mechanic for diagnosis.