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TOKYO. JAPAN
January 2001 A
Issued: Printed in USA
A8050BE
FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Foreword
Congratulations on choosing a SUBARU vehicle. This Owner’s Manual has all the information necessary to keep your SUBARU in excellent condition and to properly maintain the emission control system for minimizing emission pollutants. We urge you to read this manual carefully so that you may understand your vehicle and its operation. For information not found in this Owner’s Manual, such as details concerning repairs or adjustments, please contact the dealer from whom you purchased your SUBARU or the nearest SUBARU dealer.
The information, specifications and illustrations found in this manu- al are those in effect at the time of printing. FUJI HEAVY INDUS- TRIES LTD. reserves the right to change specifications and designs at any time without prior notice and without incurring any obligation to make the same or similar changes on vehicles previously sold. This Owner’s Manual applies to all models and covers all equip- ment, including factory installed options. Some explanations, there- fore may be for equipment not installed in your vehicle.
Please leave this manual in the vehicle at the time of resale. The next owner will need the information found herein.
FUJI HEAVY INDUSTRIES LTD., TOKYO, JAPAN
copyright 2001 FUJI HEAVY INDUSTRIES LTD.
and
are registered trademarks of FUJI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Warranties
B Warranties for U.S.A. All SUBARU vehicles distributed by Subaru of America, Inc. and sold at retail by an authorized SUBARU dealer in the United States come with the following warranties:
D SUBARU Limited Warranty D Emission Control Systems Warranty D Emissions Performance Warranty
All warranty information, including details of coverage and exclusions, is in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”. Please read these war- ranties carefully.
B Warranties for Canada All SUBARU vehicles distributed by Subaru Canada, Inc. and sold at retail by an authorized SUBARU dealer in Canada come with the fol- lowing warranties:
D SUBARU Limited Warranty D Anti-Corrosion Warranty D Emission Control Warranty
All warranty information, including details of coverage and exclusions, is in the “Warranty and Service Booklet”. Please read these warranties carefully.
NOTE
This vehicle does not contain mercury devices or parts.
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How to use this owner’s manual
J Using your Owner’s manual Before you operate your vehicle, carefully read this manual. To protect yourself and extend the service life of your vehicle, follow the instructions in this manual. Failure to observe these instructions may result in serious injury and damage to your vehicle.
This manual is composed of thirteen chapters. Each chapter begins with a brief table of contents, so you can usually tell at a glance if that chap- ter contains the information you want.
Chapter 1: Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbag This chapter informs you how to use the seat and seatbelt and contains precautions for the SRS airbag. Chapter 2: Doors and Locks This chapter informs you how to operate the keys, locks and windows. Chapter 3: Instruments and controls This chapter informs you about the operation of instrument panel indica- tors and how to use the instruments and other switches. Chapter 4: Climate control This chapter informs you how to operate the climate control. Chapter 5: Audio This chapter informs you how to operate your audio system. Chapter 6: Interior equipment This chapter informs you how to operate interior equipment. Chapter 7: Starting and operating This chapter informs you how to start and operate your SUBARU. Chapter 8: Driving tips This chapter informs you how to drive your SUBARU in various condi- tions and explains some safety tips on driving. Chapter 9: In case of emergency This chapter informs you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or engine overheating. Chapter 10: Appearance care This chapter informs you how to keep your SUBARU looking good. Chapter 11: Maintenance and service
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This chapter informs you how to keep your SUBARU running properly. Chapter 12: Specifications This chapter informs you about dimension and capacities of your SUBARU. Chapter 13: Consumer information and Reporting safety defects This chapter informs you about Uniform tire quality grading standards and Reporting safety defects. Chapter 14: Index This is an alphabetical listing of all that’s in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.
J Safety warnings You will find a number of WARNINGs, CAUTIONs and NOTEs in this manual. These safety warnings alert you to potential hazards that could result in injury to you or others. Please read these safety warnings as well as all other portions of this manual carefully in order to gain a better understanding of how to use your SUBARU vehicle safely.
WARNING
A WARNING indicates a situation in which serious injury or death could result if the warning is ignored.
CAUTION
A CAUTION indicates a situation in which injury or damage to your vehicle, or both, could result if the caution is ignored.
NOTE A NOTE gives information or suggestions how to make better use of your vehicle.
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J Safety symbol
HS0008
You will find a circle with a slash through it in this manual. This symbol means “Do not”, “Do not do this”, or “Do not let this happen”, depending upon the context.
Safety precautions when driving
SEATBELT AND SRS AIRBAG
WARNING
D All persons in the vehicle should fasten their seatbelts BE- FORE the vehicle starts to move. Otherwise, the possibility of se- rious injury becomes greater in the event of a sudden stop or ac- cident. D To obtain maximum protection in the event of an accident, the driver and all passengers in the vehicle should always wear seat- belts when the vehicle is moving. The SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbag does not do away with the need to fas- ten seatbelts. In combination with the seatbelts, it offers the best combined protection in case of a serious accident. Not wearing a seatbelt increases the chance of severe injury or death in a crash even when the car has the SRS airbag. D The SRS airbags deploy with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are out of proper position when the SRS airbag
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deploys could suffer very serious injuries. Because the SRS air- bag needs enough space for deployment, the driver should al- ways sit upright and well back in the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full vehicle control and the front passenger should move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in the seat.
Carefully read the sections “Seatbelts” and “SRS airbag” in chapter 1 of this owner’s manual for instructions and precautions concerning the seatbelt system and SRS airbag system.
CHILD SAFETY
WARNING
D Never hold a child on your lap or in your arms while the ve- hicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from in- jury in a collision, because the child will be caught between the passenger and objects inside the vehicle. D While riding in the vehicle, infants and small children should always be placed in the REAR seat in an infant or child restraint system which is appropriate for the child’s age, height and weight. If a child is too big for a child restraint system, the child should sit in the REAR seat and be restrained using the seatbelts. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. Never allow a child to stand up or kneel on the seat. D Put children aged 12 and under in the REAR seat properly re- strained at all times in a child restraint device or in a seatbelt. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, especially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or improperly restrained. Be- cause children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk being injured from deployment is greater. D NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO
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THE SRS AIRBAG. D Always use the child safety locks whenever a child rides in the rear seat. Serious injury could result if a child accidentally opened the door and fell out. Refer to the “Door locks” section in chapter 2. D Always lock the passenger’s windows using the lock switch when children are riding in the vehicle. Failure to follow this pro- cedure could result in injury to a child operating the power win- dow. Refer to the “Power windows” section in chapter 2. D Never leave unattended children in the vehicle. They could ac- cidentally injure themselves or others through inadvertent opera- tion of the vehicle. Also, on hot or sunny days, temperature in a closed vehicle could quickly become high enough to cause se- vere or possibly fatal injuries to them.
Carefully read the sections “Child restraint systems”, “SRS airbag” and “Seatbelts” in chapter 1 of this owner’s manual for instructions and pre- cautions concerning the child restraint system, seatbelt system and SRS airbag system.
ENGINE EXHAUST GAS (CARBON MONOXIDE)
WARNING
D Never inhale engine exhaust gas. Engine exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas which is danger- ous, or even lethal, if inhaled. D Always properly maintain the engine exhaust system to pre- vent engine exhaust gas from entering the vehicle. D Never run the engine in a closed space, such as a garage, ex- cept for the brief time needed to drive the vehicle in or out of it. D Avoid remaining in a parked vehicle for a lengthy time while the engine is running. If that is unavoidable, then use the ventila- tion fan to force fresh air into the vehicle. D Always keep the front ventilator inlet grille free from snow, leaves or other obstructions to ensure that the ventilation system always works properly. D If at any time you suspect that exhaust fumes are entering the
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vehicle, have the problem checked and corrected as soon as pos- sible. If you must drive under these conditions, drive only with all windows fully open. D Keep the rear gate closed while driving to prevent exhaust gas from entering the vehicle.
DRINKING AND DRIVING
WARNING
Drinking and then driving is very dangerous. Alcohol in the bloodstream delays your reaction and impairs your perception, judgment and attentiveness. If you drive after drinking – even if you drink just a little – it will increase the risk of being involved in a serious or fatal accident, injuring or killing yourself, your pas- sengers and others. In addition, if you are injured in the accident, alcohol may increase the severity of that injury. Please don’t drink and drive.
Drunken driving is one of the most frequent causes of accidents. Since alcohol affects all people differently, you may have consumed too much alcohol to drive safely even if the level of alcohol in your blood is below the legal limit. The safest thing you can do is never drink and drive. How- ever if you have no choice but to drive, stop drinking and sober up com- pletely before getting behind the wheel.
DRUGS AND DRIVING
WARNING
There are some drugs (over the counter and prescription) that can delay your reaction time and impair your perception, judg- ment and attentiveness. If you drive after taking them, it may in- crease your, your passengers’ and other persons’ risk of being involved in a serious or fatal accident.
If you are taking any drugs, check with your doctor or pharmacist or read
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the literature that accompanies the medication to determine if the drug you are taking can impair your driving ability. Do not drive after taking any medications that can make you drowsy or otherwise affect your abil- ity to safely operate a motor vehicle. If you have a medical condition that requires you to take drugs, please consult with your doctor.
Never drive if you are under the influence of any illicit mind-altering drugs. For your own health and well-being, we urge you not to take ille- gal drugs in the first place and to seek treatment if you are addicted to those drugs.
DRIVING WHEN TIRED OR SLEEPY
WARNING
When you are tired or sleepy, your reaction will be delayed and your perception, judgment and attentiveness will be impaired. If you drive when tired or sleepy, your, your passengers’ and other persons’ chances of being involved in a serious accident may in- crease.
Please do not continue to drive but instead find a safe place to rest if you are tired or sleepy. On long trips, you should make periodic rest stops to refresh yourself before continuing on your journey. When possible, you should share the driving with others.
CAR PHONES AND DRIVING
CAUTION
A driver’s use of a car phone can be distracting and if special care is not taken, can lead to an accident. If you use a car phone while driving, make an extra effort to pay attention to the road and to traffic at all times. If you can safely do so, it is best to pull off to the side of the road before using your car phone.
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MODIFICATION OF YOUR VEHICLE
CAUTION
Your vehicle should not be modified. Modification could affect its performance, safety or durability, and may even violate govern- mental regulations. In addition, damage or performance problems resulting from modification may not be covered under warranties.
DRIVING WITH PETS Unrestrained pets can interfere with your driving and distract your atten- tion from driving. In a collision or sudden stop, unrestrained pets or cages can be thrown around inside the vehicle and hurt you or your pas- sengers. Besides, the pets can be hurt under these situations. It is also for their own safety that pets should be properly restrained in your vehicle. Restrain a pet with a special traveling harness which can be se- cured to the rear seat with a seatbelt or use a pet carrier which can be secured to the rear seat by routing a seatbelt through the carrier’s han- dle. Never restrain pets or pet carriers in the front passenger’s seat. For further information, consult your veterinarian, local animal protection so- ciety or pet shop.
TIRE PRESSURES
WARNING
Driving at high speeds with excessively low tire pressures can cause the tires to deform severely and to rapidly become hot. A sharp increase in temperature could cause tread separation, and destruction of the tires. The resulting loss of vehicle control could lead to an accident.
Check and, if necessary, adjust the pressure of each tire (including the spare) at least once a month and before any long journey.
Check the tire pressure when the tires are cold. Use a pressure gauge to adjust the tire pressures to the values shown on the tire placard.
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Refer to the “Tires and wheels” section in chapter 11 for detailed information.
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
WARNING
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Table of contents
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbag
Doors and locks
Instruments and controls
Climate control
Audio
Interior equipment
Starting and operating
Driving tips
In case of emergency
Appearance care
Maintenance and service
Specifications
Consumer information and Reporting safety defects
Index
10
11
12
13
14
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Illustrated index
J Exterior
HSF015EB
HSF014BC
1 Engine hood (page 11-6) 2 Windshield washer
(page 3-22)
3 Wiper switch (page 3-22) 4 Replacement of wiper blade
(page 11-34)
5 Lighting switch (page 3-16) 6 Replacement of light bulbs
(page 11-54)
7 Outside mirror (page 3-31) 8 Locking and unlocking of door
(page 2-3)
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9 Tire inflation pressure (page 11-42) Q Replacement of tire (page 11-47) W Tire chain (page 8-14) E Fog light switch (page 3-20) R Towing hook (page 9-12) T Rear window wiper and washer
(page 3-24)
Y Roof rail/Roof rack (page 8-18) U Child safety lock (page 2-19) I Fuel filler door (Page 7-4) O Fuel requirement (page 7-2) P Rear gate (page 2-23)
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J Interior
HSF009BB
1 Head rest (page 1-9) 2 Interior light (page 6-14) 3 Door lock (page 2-3) 4 Moonroof (page 2-24) 5 Center console (page 6-3) 6 Storage compartment (page 6-2) 7 Selector lever/Gearshift lever (page 7-15/7-11) 8 Front seat (page 1-2) 9 Parking brake lever (page 7-26) Q Seatbelt (combination lap/shoulder belt) (page 1-10) W Rear seat (page 1-8) E Rear center passenger’s seat seatbelt (page 1-18)
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J Luggage compartment
HSF010BB
HSF011BB
1 Jack handle (page 9-16) 2 Jack (page 9-16) 3 Spare tire (page 9-16) 4 Luggage cover (page 6-16) 5 Cargo anchorage eyelets (page 6-18) 6 Accessory power socket (page 6-8) 7 Luggage floor storage tray (page 6-19)
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J Instrument panel
1 Combination meter (page 3-6) 2 Hazard warning flasher switch
(page 3-5)
3 Rear window defogger switch
(page 3-26)/Outside mirror defogger switch (page 3-33)
4 Cup holder (page 6-6) 5 SRS airbag (page 1-31) 6 Glove compartment
(page 6-3)
HGF000CB
7 Heater or air conditioner
control (page 4-4) 8 Audio (page 5-1) 9 Cigarette lighter (page 6-11) Q Horn (page 3-28) W Tilt steering (page 3-27) E Hood lock release
(page 11-6)
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ER
65
HS0006
1 Parking light switch
(page 3-19)
2 Hazard warning flasher switch
(page 3-5)
8 Wiper control (page 3-20) 9 Light control (page 3-16) Q Illumination brightness control
(page 3-18)
3 Rear window defogger switch
W Headlight ON/OFF
(page 3-26)/Outside mirror defogger switch (page 3-33)
4 Rear window wiper and
washer switch (page 3-24)
5 Windshield washer
(page 3-22)
6 Mist (page 3-23) 7 Windshield wiper (page 3-22)
(page 3-16)
E Headlight flasher/High/low
beam change (page 3-17/3-17)
R Turn signal (for lane change)
(page 3-18)
T Turn signal (page 3-18)
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J Combination meter
HSF013BB
1 ABS warning light (page 3-13) 2 Seatbelt warning light
(page 3-10)
W CHECK ENGINE warning light/Malfunction indicator lamp (page 3-11)
3 Front-wheel drive warning light
E Temperature gauge
(page 3-15)
(page 3-9)
4 Turn signal indicator light
R Outside temperature indicater
(page3-15)
(page 3-7)
5 High beam indicator light
(page 3-15)
T Tachometer (page 3-7) Y Door opening warning light
6 SRS airbag warning light
(page 3-15)
(page 3-10)
U Security system indicater light
7 Brake system warning lights
(page 3-15)
(page 3-14)
8 AT oil temperature warning
light (page 3-13)
I Trip meter A/B selection and
trip meter reset knob (page 3-6)
9 Oil pressure warning light
O Odometer and trip meter
(page 3-12)
Q Charge warning light
(page 3-12)
(page 3-6)
P Speedometer (page 3-6) A Low fuel warning light
(page 3-8)
S Fuel gauge (page 3-8)
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B Warning and indicator light
Mark
Name
Page
Seatbelt warning light
AIRBAG
SRS airbag system warning light
CHECK ENGINE warning light/ Malfunction indicator lamp
Charge warning light
Oil pressure warning light
AT OIL temperature warning light (if equipped)
or
or
ABS warning light
Brake system warning light
Door open warning light
Front-wheel drive warning light (for AT vehicles)
Security system indicator light (if equipped)
Turn signal indicator lights
High beam indicator light
3-10
3-10
3-11
3-12
3-12
3-13
3-13
3-14
3-15
3-15
3-15
3-15
3-15
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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Front seats Seat heater (if equipped) Rear seats Seatbelts
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Seatbelt safety tips Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor (A/ELR) Seatbelt warning light and chime Fastening the seatbelt Seatbelt maintenance
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seatbelt extender Child restraint systems Top tether anchorages
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SRS airbag (Supplemental Restraint System airbag)
. . . . . . . .
Vehicle with driver’s and front passenger’s SRS airbags and
lap/shoulder restraints
SRS frontal airbag SRS side airbag (if equipped) SRS airbag system monitors SRS airbag system servicing Precautions against vehicle modification
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1-2
1-7
1-8
1-10
1-10
1-11
1-12
1-12
1-13
1-23
1-23
1-25
1-29
1-311-31
1-35
1-42
1-49
1-50
1-51FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Front seats
WARNING
D Never adjust the seat while driving to avoid the possibility of loss of vehicle control and of personal injury. D Never drive the vehicle with the head restraints removed be- cause they are designed to reduce the risk of serious neck injury in the event that the vehicle is struck from the rear. D Before adjusting the seat, make sure the hands and feet of rear seat passengers are clear of the adjusting mechanism. D Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. To reduce the risk of sliding un- der the seatbelt in a collision, the front seatbacks should be al- ways used in the upright position while the vehicle is running. If the front seatbacks are not used in the upright position in a colli- sion, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt slid- ing up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in se- rious internal injury or death. D Do not put cushions or any other materials between occupants and seatbacks or seat cushions. If you do so, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death. D The SRS airbags deploy with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are out of proper position when the SRS airbag deploys could suffer very serious injuries. Because the SRS airbag needs enough space for deployment, the driver should always sit upright and well back in the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full ve- hicle control and the front passenger should move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in the seat. D Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly re- strained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, especially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or im- properly restrained. Because children are lighter and weaker than
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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
adults, their risk of being injured from deployment is greater. For that reason, we strongly recommend that ALL children (includ- ing those in child seats and those that have outgrown child re- straint devices) sit in the REAR seat properly restrained at all times in a child restraint device or in a seatbelt, whichever is ap- propriate for the child’s age, height and weight. Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (including forward fac- ing child seat) in the REAR seats at all times. NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. For instructions and precautions concerning child re- straint systems, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chapter.
Adjust the seatback to upright position. Sit well back and upright.
Adjust the seatback to upright position. Sit well back and upright.
Move the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical.
HS0233
Move the seat as far back as possible.
HS0234
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Put children in the rear seat properly restrained at all times.
Do not recline the seatback while vehicle is moving.
HS0227
HS0247
B Fore and aft adjustment
HS0028
Pull the lever upward and slide the seat to the desired position. Then release the lever and move the seat back and forth to make sure that it is securely locked into place.
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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
B Reclining the seatback
HS0029
Pull the reclining lever up and adjust the seatback to the desired posi- tion. Then release the lever and make sure the seatback is securely locked into place. The seatback placed in a reclined position can spring back upward with force when released. When operating the reclining lever to return the seatback, hold it lightly so that it may be raised back gradually.
B Seat cushion angle and height adjustment (driver’s seat)
Raise
Lower
Lower
Raise
For rear edge
For front edge
HS0030
Turn either dial to adjust the angle and height of the seat cushion to the desired position.
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B Head restraint adjustment
HS0031
To raise the head restraint, pull it up. To lower it, push the head re- straint down while pressing the release button on the top of the seat- back. The head restraint should be adjusted so that the center of the head restraint is closest to the top of the occupant’s ears.
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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Seat heater (if equipped)
CAUTION
D Use of the seat heater for long period of time while the engine is not running can cause battery discharge. D Do not put anything on the seat which insulates against heat, such as a blanket, cushion, or similar items. This may cause the seat heater to overheat. D When cleaning the seat, do not use benzine, paint thinner, or any similar materials.
The seat heater operates when the ignition switch is either in the “ACC” or “ON” position.
HI LO
Indicator
HS0285
Heating element
HS0034
To turn on the seat heater, push the “LO” or “HI” position on the switch, as desired, depending on the temperature. LO: Normal heating HI: Rapid heating The indicator located on the switch comes on when the seat heater is in operation. When the vehicle’s interior is warmed enough or before you leave the vehicle, be sure to turn the switch off.
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Rear seats
WARNING
D Never drive the vehicle with the head rest removed because they are designed to reduce the risk of serious neck injury in the event that the vehicle is struck from the rear. D Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. Do not put cushions or any other materials between occupants and seatbacks or seat cush- ions. If you do so, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death. D Never allow passengers to ride on the folded rear seatback or in the cargo area. Doing so may result in serious injury or death. D Never stack luggage or other cargo higher than the top of the seatback because it could tumble forward and injure passengers in the event of a sudden stop or accident. D Secure skis and other lengthy items properly to prevent them from shooting forward and causing serious injury during a sud- den stop a sudden steering or a rapid acceleration.
Sit well back and upright.
HS0248
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
B Folding down the seatback
WARNING
Never permit anyone to ride in the cargo area.
HB1022BA
HB1023BA
Unlock the seatback by pulling the release knob and then fold the seatback down. To return the seatback to its original position, raise the seatback until it locks into place and make sure that it is securely locked.
B Head rest adjustment
HS1013BA
To raise the head rest, pull it up. To lower it, push the head rest down while depressing the release button on the top of the seatback.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Seatbelts
J Seatbelt safety tips
WARNING
D All persons in the vehicle should fasten their seatbelts BE- FORE the vehicle starts to move. Otherwise, the possibility of se- rious injury becomes greater in the event of a sudden stop or ac- cident. D All belts should fit snugly in order to provide full restraint. Loose fitting belts are not as effective in preventing or reducing injury. D Each seatbelt is designed to support only one person. Never use a single belt for two or more persons — even children. Other- wise, in an accident, serious injury or death could result. D Replace all seatbelt assemblies including retractors and at- taching hardware worn by occupants of a vehicle that has been in a serious accident. The entire assembly should be replaced even if damage is not obvious. D Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly re- strained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, especially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or im- properly restrained. Because children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deployment is greater. For that reason, we strongly recommend that ALL children (including those in child seats and those that have outgrown child restraint devices) sit in the REAR seat properly restrained at all times in a child restraint device or in a seatbelt, whichever is appropriate for the child’s height and weight. Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (including forward facing child seats) in the REAR seats at all times. NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. For instructions and precautions concerning the child restraint system, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chapter.
B Infants or small children Use a child restraint system that is suitable for your vehicle. See in- formation on “Child restraint systems” in this chapter.
B Children If a child is too big for a child restraint system, the child should sit in the rear seat and be restrained using the seatbelts. According to ac- cident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. Never allow a child to stand up or kneel on the seat.
If the shoulder portion of the belt crosses the face or neck, move the child closer to the belt buckle to help provide a good shoulder belt fit. Care must be taken to securely place the lap belt as low as possible on the hips and not on the child’s waist. If the shoulder portion of the belt cannot be properly positioned, a child restraint system should be used. Never place the shoulder belt under the child’s arm or behind the child’s back.
B Expectant mothers Expectant mothers also need to use the seatbelts. They should con- sult their doctor for specific recommendations. The lap belt should be worn securely and as low as possible over the hips, not over the waist.
J Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) The driver’s seatbelt has an Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR). The emergency locking retractor allows normal body movement but the retractor locks automatically during a sudden stop, impact or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
J Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor (A/ELR) Each passenger’s seatbelt has an Automatic/Emergency Locking Re- tractor (A/ELR). The Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor normally functions as an Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR). The A/ELR has an additional locking mode “Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode” in- tended to secure a child restraint system. When the seatbelt is once drawn out completely and is then retracted even slightly, the retractor locks the seatbelt in that position and the seatbelt cannot be extended. As the belt is rewinding, clicks will be heard which indicate the retractor functions as ALR. When the seatbelt is retracted fully, ALR mode is re- leased.
When securing a child restraint system on the passengers’ seats, the seatbelt must be changed over to the Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode.
When the child restraint system is removed, make sure that the retractor operates as an Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR). For instructions on how to convert the retractor to the ALR mode and re- store it to the ELR mode, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chapter.
J Seatbelt warning light and chime Your vehicle is equipped with a seatbelt warning device at the driver’s seat, as required by current safety standards. This device causes the seatbelt warning light on the instrument panel to light up for about six seconds when the ignition switch is turned to “ON” to remind the driver to wear the seatbelt. If the driver’s seatbelt is not fas- tened, a warning chime sounds at the same time.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
J Fastening the seatbelt
WARNING
D Never use a belt that is twisted or reversed. In an accident, this can increase the risk or severity of injury. D Never place the shoulder belt under the arm or behind the back. If an accident occurs, this can increase the risk or severity of injury. D Keep the lap belt as low as possible on your hips. In a colli- sion, this spreads the force of the lap belt over stronger hip bones instead of across the weaker abdomen. D Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. To reduce the risk of sliding un- der the seatbelt in a collision, the front seatbacks should be al- ways used in the upright position while the vehicle is running. If the front seatbacks are not used in the upright position in a colli- sion, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt slid- ing up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in se- rious internal injury or death. D Do not put cushions or any other materials between occupants and seatbacks or seat cushions. If you do so, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.
Always wear the seatbelts correctly.
Never place the shoulder belt under the arm or behind the back.
Adjust the seatback to upright position. Sit well back and upright.
HS0230
HS0231
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
CAUTION
Metallic parts of the seatbelt can become very hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sunny weather; they could burn an oc- cupant. Do not touch such hot parts until they cool.
B Front seatbelts
OM-H0043
OM-H0044
1. Adjust the seat position: Driver’s seat: Adjust the seatback to the upright position. Move the seatback as far from the steering wheel as practical while still main- taining full vehicle control. Front passenger’s seat: Adjust the seatback to the upright position. Move the seat as far back as possible. 2. Sit well back in the seat. 3. Pick up the tongue plate and pull the belt out slowly. Do not let it get twisted. If the belt stops before reaching the buckle, return the belt slightly and pull it out more slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked, let the belt retract slightly after giving it a strong pull, then pull it out slowly again. 4. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click. 5. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt. And place the lap belt as low as possible on your hips, not on your waist.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
n Adjusting the front seat shoulder belt anchor height
WARNING
When wearing the seatbelts, make sure the shoulder portion of the webbing does not pass over your neck. If it does, adjust the seatbelt anchor to a lower position. Placing the shoulder belt over the neck may result in neck injury during sudden braking or in a collision.
HB1029BB
The shoulder belt anchor height should be adjusted to the position best suited for you. To lower the anchor height, push the release but- ton and slide the anchor down. To raise the anchor height, slide the anchor up. Pull down on the anchor to make sure that it is locked in place. Always adjust the anchor height so that the shoulder belt passes over the middle of the shoulder without touching the neck.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
n Unfastening the seatbelt
Push
Push the button on the buckle.
HB0303
Before closing the door, make sure that the belts are retracted prop- erly to avoid catching the belt webbing in the door.
B Rear seatbelts (except rear center seatbelt)
OM-H0043
OM-H0044
1. Sit well back in the seat. 2. Pick up the tongue plate and pull the belt out slowly. Do not let it get twisted. If the belt stops before reaching the buckle, return the belt slightly and pull it out more slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked, let the belt retract slightly after giving a strong pull on it, then pull it out slowly again. 3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
4. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt. And place the lap belt as low as possible on your hips, not on your waist.
n Adjusting the rear seat shoulder belt anchor height
WARNING
When wearing the seatbelts, make sure the shoulder portion of the webbing does not pass over your neck. If it does, adjust the seatbelt anchor to a lower position. Placing the shoulder belt over the neck may result in neck injury during sudden braking or in a collision.
HS1020BB
The shoulder belt anchor height should be adjusted to the position best suited for you. To adjust the shoulder belt anchor height, push the release button and slide the anchor down or up. Pull down on the anchor to make sure that it is locked in place. Always adjust the anchor height so that the shoulder belt passes over the middle of the shoulder without touching the neck.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
n Unfastening the seatbelt
Push
Push the button on the buckle.
HB0303
Before closing the door, make sure that the belts are retracted prop- erly to avoid catching the belt webbing in the door.
B Rear center seatbelt
WARNING
D Before fastening the seatbelt, confirm that the seatbelt is routed through the seatbelt comfort guide. A seatbelt not routed through the guide can cause neck injuries during sudden braking or in a collision since it may slip up on your neck. D Fastening the seatbelt with the webbing twisted can increase the risk or severity of injury in an accident. When fastening the belt after it is pulled out from the retractor, especially when inserting the connector’s tongue plate into the mating buckle (on right-hand side), always check that the webbing is not twisted. D Be sure to fasten both tongue plates to the respective buckles. If the seatbelt is used only as a shoulder belt (with the connec- tor’s tongue plate not fastened to the connector’s buckle on the right-hand side), it cannot properly restrain the wearer in position in an accident, possibly resulting in serious injury or death.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
HB1030BA
HB1031BA
1. Center seatbelt tongue
plate
2. Connector (tongue) 3. Connector (buckle) 4. Center seatbelt buckle
HS1017BB
HB1032BA
HS1025BB
1. Pull out the seatbelt slowly from the overhead retractor, then pass the seatbelt through the seatbelt comfort guide located beside the
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
head rest.
HB1033CA
2. After confirming that the webbing is not twisted, insert the connec- tor (tongue) attached at the webbing end into the buckle on the right- hand side until a click is heard. If the belt stops before reaching the buckle, return the belt slightly and pull it out more slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked, let the belt retract slightly after giving it a strong pull, then pull it out slowly again.
HB1034BA
3. Insert the center seatbelt tongue plate in the center seatbelt buckle marked “CENTER” on the left-hand side until it clicks. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt. And place the lap belt as low as possible on your hips, not on your waist.
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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
HS1019BA
n Unfastening the seatbelt
Push
HS0317
Push the release button of the center seatbelt buckle (on the left-hand side) to unfasten the seatbelt.
NOTE When the seatback is folded down for greater luggage space, it is necessary to disconnect the connector.
CAUTION
D Do not allow the retractor to roll up the seatbelt too quickly. Otherwise, the metal tongue plates may hit against the trim, resulting in damaged trim.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
D Have the seatbelt fully rolled up so that the tongue plates are neatly stored. A hanging tongue plate can swing and hit against the trim during driving, causing damage to the trim.
HS1021BA
HS1022BA
1. Insert a key or other hard pointed object into the slot in the con- nector (buckle) on the right-hand side and push it in, and the connec- tor (tongue) plate will disconnect from the buckle.
HS1023BA
HS1024BA
2. Allow the retractor to roll up the belt. You should hold the webbing end and guide it back into the retractor while it is rolling up. Neatly store the tongue plates in the recess in the retractor and then insert the connector (tongue) plate into the slot located at the front of the recess.
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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
J Seatbelt maintenance
CAUTION
D Keep the belts free of polishes, oils, chemicals and particularly battery acid. D Never attempt to make modifications or changes that will pre- vent the seatbelt from operating properly.
To clean the seatbelts, use a mild soap and lukewarm water. Never bleach or dye the belts because this could seriously affect their strength.
Inspect the seatbelts and attachments including the webbing and all hardware periodically for cracks, cuts, gashes, tears, damage, loose bolts or worn areas. Replace the seatbelts even if only minor damage is found.
Seatbelt extender
If the front seatbelts are not long enough to permit the tongue plate to engage with the seatbelt buckle, an optional seatbelt extender is avail- able from your SUBARU dealer. When ordering an extender, only order one particularly designed for your vehicle. Several different types of extenders are available to match various varieties of front seatbelt designs. See your SUBARU dealer for assistance.
The extender adds approximately 8 inches (200 mm) of length and it can be used for either the driver or front passenger seating position.
WARNING
Be sure to observe the following when using the seatbelt extend- er. Failure to follow these instructions and warnings could reduce the effectiveness of the seatbelt and result in more serious injury in the event of a collision. D Never use the extender when the belt itself is long enough to permit it to be buckled properly. If removal of heavy clothing is all
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
that is needed to permit the seatbelt to be buckled properly, re- move the heavy clothing and do not use the extender. D Do not use the extender if the buckle of the extender rests over the abdomen. D Do not let someone else use the extender. Use of an extender when it is not needed could reduce the effectiveness of the seat- belt and result in more serious injury in the event of a collision. D Use the extender only for the front seatbelts and only for the model for which it was originally provided. Never use the extend- er for the rear seatbelts or for a different model.
NOTE When the seatbelt extender is used by a pregnant passenger, con- sult a doctor to get approval in advance.
HZS000BA
To connect the extender to the seatbelt, insert the tongue plate into the seatbelt buckle so that the “PRESS” signs on the buckle-release buttons of the extender and the seatbelt are both facing outward as shown in the diagram. You will hear a click when the tongue plate locks into the buckle.
When releasing the seatbelt, press on the buckle-release button on the extender, not on the seatbelt. This helps to prevent damage to the ve- hicle interior and extender itself.
For the safety of others, the extender should be removed after each use, especially if the next person using the seatbelt does not need one.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Child restraint systems
WARNING
D Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from injury in a collision, because the child will be caught between the passenger and objects inside the vehicle. Additionally, holding a child in your lap or arms in the front seat exposes that child to another serious danger. Since the SRS airbag deploys with con- siderable speed and force, the child could be injured or even killed. D Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly re- strained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, especially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or im- properly restrained. Because children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deployment is greater. For that reason, be sure to secure ALL types of child restraint devices (including forward facing child seats) in the REAR seats at all times. You should choose a restraint device which is appropriate for the child’s age, height and weight. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. D SINCE YOUR VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH A PASSENGER’S SRS AIRBAG, DO NOT INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER’S SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SE- RIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG. D Children should be properly restrained in the rear seat at all times. Never allow a child to stand up, or to kneel on the front passenger’s seat. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable force and can injure or even kill the child.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Never hold a child on your lap or in your arms in the front passenger’s seat or any other seat.
HS0229
HS1031BB
Never install rearward facing child seat in the front passenger’s seat.
Never allow a child to stand up, or to kneel on the front passenger’s seat or any other seat.
HS0042
HS0228
WARNING
D Child restraint systems and seatbelts can become hot in a ve- hicle that has been closed up in sunny weather; they could burn a small child. Check the child restraint system before you place a child in it. D Do not leave an unsecured child restraint system in your vehi- cle. Unsecured child restraint systems can be thrown around in- side of the vehicle in a sudden stop, turn or accident; it can strike and injure vehicle occupants as well as result in serious injuries or death to the child.
Infants and small children should always be placed in an infant or child restraint system in the rear seat while riding in the vehicle. You should use an infant or child restraint system that meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Standards or Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, is compatible with your vehicle and is appropriate for the child’s age and size. All child re- straint systems are designed to be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or the lap portion of a lap/shoulder belt.
Children could be endangered in an accident if their child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle. When installing the child restraint system, carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly re- strained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. These statistics also indicate that the safest position for a child restraint system is the center of the rear seat.
All U.S. states and Canadian provinces require that infants and small children be restrained in an approved child restraint system at all times while the vehicle is moving.
B Installing child restraint systems
NOTE When the child restraint system is no longer in use, remove it and restore the ELR function of the retractor. That function is restored by allowing the seatbelt to retract fully.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
HB1080BA
Make sure that the seatbelt is securely locked into place.
1. Set the child restraint system in the seating position. 2. Run the lap and shoulder belts through or around the child re- straint system following the instructions provided by its manufacturer. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it be- hind the child restraint system. 3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle. 4. Take up the slack in the lap belt. 5. Pull out the seatbelt fully from the retractor to change the retractor over from the Emergency Locking Retractor(ELR) to the Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) function. Then, allow the belt to rewind into the retractor. As the belt is rewinding, clicks will be heard which indi- cate the retractor functions as ALR. 6. Before having a child sit in the child restraint system, move it back and forth to check if it is firmly secured. Sometimes a child restraint can be more firmly secured by pushing it down into the seat cushion and then tightening the seatbelt. 7. Pull at the shoulder portion of the belt to confirm that it cannot be pulled out (ALR properly functioning).
If the child restraint system requires a top tether, first remove the head rest and then latch the hook onto the top tether anchor and tighten the top tether. See the “Top tether anchorages” for additional instructions.
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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
HS0045
8. To remove the child restraint system, press the release button on the seatbelt buckle and allow the belt to retract completely. The belt will return to the ELR mode.
If you have any question concerning this type of child restraint sys- tem, ask your SUBARU dealer.
J Top tether anchorages
B Anchorage location
Three anchorages, i.e., ones for the right, center and left positions, are already installed on the rear edge of the roof.
HS1030BB
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
B To hook the top tether
CAUTION
Always remove the head rest when mounting a child restraint system with a top tether. Otherwise, it may happen that the top tether cannot be fastened tightly.
HSS001BA
HS1029BA
1. Remove the head rest at the seat position where the child restraint has been installed with the seatbelt: lift up the head rest while press- ing the release button. Store the head rest in the cargo area. Avoid placing the head rest in the passenger compartment to prevent it from being thrown around in the passenger compartment in a sudden stop or a sharp turn. 2. Fasten the top tether hook of the child restraint to the appropriate anchorage. 3. Tighten the top tether securely.
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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
*SRS airbag (Supplemental Restraint System airbag)
*SRS: This stands for supplemental restraint system. This name is used because the airbag system supplements the vehicle’s seatbelts.
J Vehicle with driver’s and front passenger’s SRS air-
bags and lap/shoulder restraints
WARNING
D To obtain maximum protection in the event of an accident, the driver and all passengers in the vehicle should always wear seat- belts when the vehicle is moving. The SRS airbag is designed only as a supplement to the primary protection provided by the seatbelt. It does not do away with the need to fasten seatbelts. In combination with the seatbelts, it offers the best combined protection in case of a serious accident. Not wearing a seatbelt increases the chance of severe injury or death in a crash even when the car has the SRS airbag. For instructions and precautions concerning the seatbelt system, see the “Seatbelts” sections in this chapter. D Do not sit or lean unnecessarily close to the SRS airbag. Be- cause the SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed – faster than the blink of an eye – and force to protect in high speed colli- sions, the force of an airbag can injure an occupant whose body is too close to SRS airbag. It is also important to wear your seatbelt to help avoid injuries that can result when the SRS airbag contacts an occupant not in proper position such as one thrown forward during pre-accident braking. Even when properly positioned, there remains a possibility that an occupant may suffer minor injury such as abrasions and bruises to the face or arms because of the SRS airbag deployment force. D The SRS airbags deploy with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are out of proper position when the SRS airbag
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
deploys could suffer very serious injuries. Because the SRS air- bag needs enough space for deployment, the driver should al- ways sit upright and well back in the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full vehicle control and the front passenger should move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in the seat. D Do not place any objects over or near the SRS airbag cover or between you and the SRS airbag. If the SRS airbag deploys, those objects could interfere with its proper operation and could be propelled inside the car and cause injury. D Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly re- strained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, especially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or im- properly restrained. Because children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deployment is greater. For that reason, we strongly recommend that ALL children (in- cluding those in child seats and those that have outgrown child restraint devices) sit in the REAR seat properly restrained at all times in a child restraint device or in a seatbelt, whichever is ap- propriate for the child’s age, height and weight. Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (including forward facing child seats) in the REAR seats at all times. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. For instructions and precautions concerning the child restraint system, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chapter. D NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG. D Never allow a child to stand up, or to kneel on the front pas- senger’s seat, or never hold a child on your lap or in your arms. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable force and can injure or even kill the child.
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Put children in the REAR seat prop- erly restrained at all times.
HB0291
CAUTION
D When the SRS airbag deploys, some smoke will be released. This smoke could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. If you or your pas- sengers have breathing problems after SRS airbag deploys, get fresh air promptly. D A deploying SRS airbag releases hot gas. Occupants could get burnt if they come into direct contact with the hot gas.
The supplemental restraint system (SRS) consists of two airbags (driver’s and front passenger’s frontal airbags) or four airbags (driver’s and front passenger’s frontal airbags and driver’s and front passenger’s side air- bags). These SRS airbags are designed only as a supplement to the prima- ry protection provided by the seatbelt.
NOTE When you sell your vehicle, we urge you to explain to the buyer that it is equipped with SRS airbags by alerting him to the applicable section in this owner’s manual.
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B Components
1 Airbag control module
(including impact sensors)
2 Airbag module (driver’s side) 3 Airbag module
(passenger’s side) 4 Front sub sensor
(left hand side)
5 Front sub sensor (right hand side)
HS1027DB
6 Side airbag module
(driver’s side — if equipped)
7 Side airbag module
(passenger’s side — if equipped)
8 Side airbag sensor
(driver’s side)
9 Side airbag sensor (passenger’s side)
Q Airbag wiring (yellow)
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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
J SRS frontal airbag
WARNING
D NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG. D Never allow a child to stand up, or to kneel on the front pas- senger’s seat, or never hold a child on your lap or in your arms. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable force and can injure or even kill the child. D The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are out of proper position when the SRS airbag deploys could suffer very serious injuries. Because the SRS air- bag needs enough space for deployment, the driver should al- ways sit upright and well back in the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full vehicle control and the front passenger should move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in the seat. It is also important to wear your seatbelt to help avoid injuries that can result when the SRS airbag contacts an occupant not in proper position such as one thrown toward the front of the car during pre-accident braking.
Never install rearward facing child seat in the front passenger’s seat.
Never allow a child to stand up, or to kneel on the front passenger’s seat or any other seat.
HS0042
HS0228
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Never hold a child on your lap or in your arms in the front passenger’s seat or any other seat.
Adjust the seatback to upright position. Sit well back and upright.
HS0229
Move the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical.
HS0233
Adjust the seatback to upright position. Sit well back and upright.
Move the seat as far back as possible.
HS0234
WARNING
D Do not put any objects over the steering wheel pad and dash- board. If the SRS frontal airbag deploys, those objects could in- terfere with its proper operation and could be propelled inside the vehicle and cause injury. D Do not attach accessories to the windshield, or fit an extra- wide mirror over the rear view mirror. If the SRS airbag deploys, those objects could become projectiles that could seriously in- jure vehicle occupants.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Do not put any objects over the steering wheel pad and dashboard
Do not attach accessories to the windshield, or fit an extra-wide mir- ror over the rear view mirror.
HS0244
HS0245
The driver’s SRS frontal airbag is stowed in the center portion of the steering wheel. The passenger’s SRS frontal airbag is stowed near the top of the dashboard under an “SRS AIRBAG” mark.
In a moderate to severe frontal collision, the driver’s and front passen- ger’s SRS frontal airbags deploy and supplement the seatbelts by reduc- ing the impact on the driver’s and front passenger’s head and chest.
B Operation
CAUTION
Do not touch the SRS airbag system components around the steering wheel and dashboard with bare hands right after deploy- ment. Doing so can cause burns because the components can be very hot as a result of deployment.
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1-37
FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
HS2001BB
The SRS airbag can function only when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position. If the front sub sensors inside the both front fenders and the impact sensors in the airbag control module detect a certain predetermined amount of force during a frontal collision, the control module sends signals to the frontal airbag modules instructing them to inflate the SRS frontal airbags. Then both airbag modules produce gas, which instantly inflates driver’s and passenger’s SRS frontal airbags. After the deployment, the SRS airbags immediately start to deflate so that the driver’s vision is not obstructed. The time required from detecting impact to the deflating SRS airbag after deployment is shorter than the blink of an eye. The front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag deploys together with driv- er’s SRS frontal airbag even when no one occupies the front passen- ger’s seat. Although it is highly unlikely that the SRS airbag would activate in a non-accident situation, should it occur, the SRS airbag will deflate quickly, not obscuring vision and will not interfere with the driver’s ability to maintain control of the vehicle. When the SRS airbag deploys, a sudden, fairly loud inflation noise will
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
be heard and some smoke will be released. These occurrences are normal result of the deployment. This smoke does not indicate a fire in the vehicle. The SRS frontal airbag is designed to deploy in the event of an acci- dent involving a moderate to severe frontal collision. It is basically not designed to deploy in lesser frontal impacts because the necessary protection can be achieved by the seatbelt alone. Also, it is basically not designed to deploy in side or rear impacts or in roll-over acci- dents because deployment of the SRS frontal airbag would not help the occupant in those situations. The SRS airbag is designed to func- tion on a one-time-only basis. SRS airbag deployment depends on the level of force experienced in the passenger compartment during a collision. That level differs from one type of collision to another, and it may have no bearing on the visible damage done to the vehicle itself.
n Examples of accident in which the SRS frontal airbag will most
likely deploy.
A head-on collision against a thick concrete wall at a vehicle speed of 12 to 19 mph (20 to 30 km/h) activates the SRS frontal airbag. The SRS frontal airbag will also be activated when the vehicle is exposed to a frontal impact similar in fashion and magnitude to the above-men- tioned collision.
HS1016BA
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
n Examples of the types of accidents in which it is possible that
the SRS frontal airbag will deploy.
The SRS frontal airbag may be activated when the vehicle sustains a hard impact in the undercarriage area from the road surface (such as when the vehicle plunges into a deep ditch, is severely bumped or knocked hard against an obstacle on the road such as a curb).
HS1014BA
HS1015BA
n Examples of the types of accidents in which the SRS frontal
airbag is unlikely to deploy.
There are many types of collisions which might not necessarily require SRS frontal airbag deployment. If the vehicle strikes an object, such as a telephone pole or sign pole, or if it slides under a truck’s load bed, or if it sustains an oblique offset frontal impact, the SRS frontal airbag may not deploy depending on the level of accident forces in- volved.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
The vehicle strikes a tele- phone pole or similar ob- ject.
The vehicle slides under a truck’s load bed.
The vehicle sustains an oblique offset frontal im- pact.
HS0238
HS0239
HS0240
n Examples of the types of accidents in which the SRS frontal
airbag will basically not deploy.
The SRS frontal airbag is basically not designed to deploy if the vehicle is struck from side or from behind, or if it rolls onto its side or roof, or if it is involved in a low-speed frontal collision.
The vehicle is struck from behind.
The vehicle is struck from the side.
The vehicle rolls onto its side or roof.
HS0241
HS0242
HS0243
In an accident where the vehicle is impacted more than once, the SRS frontal airbag deploys only once. Example: In the case of a double collision, first with another vehicle, then against a concrete wall in immediate succession, the SRS frontal airbag is activated on the first impact but not on the second.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
HB1070BB
J SRS side airbag (if equipped)
WARNING
D The SRS side airbag is designed as only a supplement to the primary protection provided by the seatbelt. It does not do away with the need to fasten seatbelts. It is also important to wear your seatbelt to help avoid injuries that can result when an occupant is not seated in a proper upright position. D Do not sit or lean unnecessarily close to either front door. The SRS side airbag is stored in both front seat seatbacks next to the door, and it provides protection by deploying rapidly (faster than the blink of an eye) in the event of a side impact collision. Howev- er, the force of SRS side airbag deployment may cause injuries if your head or other body parts are too close to the SRS side air- bag. D Do not rest your arm on either front door or its internal trim. It could be injured in the event of SRS side airbag deployment. D Never allow a child to kneel on the front passenger’s seat fac- ing the side window or to wrap his/her arms around the front seat seatback. In the event of an accident, the force of SRS side airbag deployment could seriously injure or even kill the child because his/her head or arms or other body parts are close to the side air- bag. Since your vehicle is also equipped with a passenger’s SRS frontal airbag, children aged 12 and under should be placed in
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
the rear seat anyway and should be properly restrained at all times.
Do not sit or learn unnecessary close to the front door.
Do not rest your arm on either front door or its internal trim.
HS0349
HS0351
Never allow a child to kneel on the front passenger’s seat facing the side window.
Never allow a child to wrap his/her arms around the front seatback.
HB0354
HB0355
WARNING
D Do not attach accessories to the door trim or near either SRS side airbags and do not place objects near the SRS side airbags. In the event of the SRS side airbag deployment, they could be propelled dangerously toward the vehicle’s occupants and cause injuries. D Do not put any kind of cover or clothes or other objects over either front seatback and do not attach labels or stickers to the front seat surface on or near the SRS side airbag. They could pre- vent proper deployment of the SRS side airbag, reducing protec- tion available to the front seat’s occupant.
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1-43
FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Do not put any kind of cover over either seatback.
Do not attach accessories to the door trim or near either side airbag and do not place objects near either side air- bag.
HS0347
HS0353
The SRS side airbag is stored in the door side of each front seatback, which bears an “SRS AIRBAG” label. In a moderate to severe side impact collision, the SRS side airbag on the impacted side of the vehicle deploys between the occupant and the door panel and supplements the seatbelt by reducing the impact on the occupant’s chest.
B Operation
CAUTION
Do not touch the SRS side airbag system components around the front seatback with bare hands right after deployment. Doing so can cause burns because the components can be very hot as a result of deployment.
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FORESTER (NA) A8050BE–A (ENG.)
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
SRS side airbag deploys as soon as a collision occurs.
After deployment, SRS side airbag starts to deflate immedi- ately.
HB0359
The SRS side airbag can function only when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position. The driver’s and front passenger’s SRS side airbags deploy indepen-
