Discover the Secret: How to Jump Start a Subaru Forester Like a Pro

The Subaru Forester, renowned for its ruggedness and off-road capabilities, can sometimes succumb to the dreaded dead battery. But fear not, fellow Forester owners! This guide will equip you with the knowledge and steps to jump start your Subaru Forester like a pro.

Understanding the Basics of Jump Starting

Before diving into the specifics of jump starting a Subaru Forester, let’s understand the fundamental principles involved. Jump starting essentially uses the battery of another vehicle (the “donor car”) to provide a temporary boost to the discharged battery of your Forester. This process involves connecting jumper cables to both vehicles’ batteries in a specific sequence, allowing the donor car’s battery to deliver power to your Forester’s battery, bringing it back to life.

Essential Tools for the Job

To successfully jump start your Subaru Forester, you’ll need the following essential tools:

• Jumper Cables: Ensure you have a good quality set of jumper cables with heavy-duty clamps.
• Donor Car: A vehicle with a fully charged battery.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from potential sparks.
• Gloves: Provide insulation and grip while handling the cables.

Step-by-Step Guide to Jump Starting Your Subaru Forester

Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of jump starting your Subaru Forester:

1. Safety First: Park your Forester and the donor car in a safe location, preferably on a level surface. Ensure both vehicles are in “Park” or “Neutral” gear and set the parking brakes.
2. Locate the Batteries: Open the hoods of both vehicles and locate the batteries. In most Subaru Foresters, the battery is situated on the right side of the engine compartment, near the firewall.
3. Connect the Positive Cables: Take one end of the red jumper cable and connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery in your Forester. Then, connect the other end of the red cable to the positive (+) terminal of the donor car’s battery.
4. Connect the Negative Cables: Take one end of the black jumper cable and connect it to the negative (-) terminal of the donor car‘s battery. Then, connect the other end of the black cable to a **grounded metal point** on your Forester’s chassis. **Do not connect the negative cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery.**
5. Start the Donor Car: Start the donor car and let it run for a few minutes to allow the battery to charge.
6. Start the Forester: Attempt to start your Subaru Forester. If it doesn’t start immediately, try again after a few seconds.
7. Disconnect the Cables: Once your Forester starts, let it run for a few minutes to allow the battery to charge. Then, carefully disconnect the jumper cables in reverse order, starting with the negative cables and ending with the positive cables.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

While jump starting is generally a straightforward process, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Connecting the Cables Incorrectly: Connecting the cables in the wrong order can damage both batteries and potentially cause a fire. Always follow the red to positive and black to negative rule.
• Connecting the Negative Cable to the Dead Battery: This can cause sparks and damage the battery. Always connect the negative cable to a grounded metal point on the Forester’s chassis.
• Leaving the Cables Connected for Too Long: Leaving the cables connected for an extended period can drain the donor car’s battery. Disconnect the cables once your Forester starts.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your Forester doesn‘t start after jump starting, here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Check the Battery Connections: Ensure all the cable connections are secure and free of corrosion.
• Inspect the Battery: Look for signs of damage or corrosion on the battery terminals.
• Check the Starter: A faulty starter can prevent the engine from turning over.
• Inspect the Electrical System: There could be other electrical issues that are preventing the engine from starting.

Beyond the Jump Start: Maintaining Your Battery

Jump starting provides a temporary solution. To prevent future battery issues, follow these maintenance tips:

• Regularly Check the Battery Terminals: Clean any corrosion or dirt buildup on the battery terminals.
• Avoid Excessive Battery Drain: Turn off accessories that drain the battery when the engine is off.
• Replace the Battery When Necessary: If your battery is more than 3-5 years old, it’s a good idea to replace it.

The Final Word: Steering Clear of Battery Troubles

Jump starting your Subaru Forester is a straightforward process that can get you back on the road quickly. However, remember to prioritize safety by following the correct procedures and avoiding common mistakes. By understanding the basics of jump starting and implementing battery maintenance practices, you can minimize the chances of encountering a dead battery in the future.

Questions You May Have

Q: How long should I let the Forester run after jump starting?

A: It’s recommended to let the Forester run for at least 15-20 minutes to ensure the battery has a chance to charge sufficiently.

Q: Can I jump start my Forester with a smaller car?

A: It’s generally not recommended to use a smaller car as the donor vehicle, as its battery may not have enough power to jump start a larger vehicle like the Forester.

Q: What are some signs that my battery needs to be replaced?

A: Signs that your battery needs replacement include slow engine cranking, dim headlights, clicking noises when trying to start the car, and a battery age of over 3-5 years.

Q: What should I do if my Forester’s battery is completely dead and won’t accept a jump start?

A: If your battery is completely dead and won’t accept a jump start, it’s likely that the battery is damaged and needs to be replaced. You can try charging the battery with a battery charger, but if it still doesn’t hold a charge, it’s time for a new battery.

Q: How often should I check my battery terminals?

A: It’s a good practice to check your battery terminals at least once a year or more often if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions.