Unlock the secrets: how to get your subaru forester into neutral effortlessly

Learning how to get your Subaru Forester into neutral is a crucial skill for any driver, especially when towing or performing certain maintenance tasks. Neutral allows the vehicle to roll freely without the engine being engaged, providing greater control and safety in various situations. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the ins and outs of shifting your Subaru Forester into neutral, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Understanding Neutral

Neutral, denoted by the letter “N” on the gear selector, is a gear position where the transmission is not engaged with the engine or wheels. This allows the vehicle to roll freely without any power being transmitted to the drivetrain. Engaging neutral is often necessary when:

• Towing a vehicle
• Performing maintenance tasks
• Starting the engine in cold weather
• Troubleshooting transmission issues

Shift into Neutral with the Engine Running

1. Depress the Brake Pedal: Apply firm pressure to the brake pedal to bring the vehicle to a complete stop.

2. Move the Gear Selector: Using your right hand, move the gear selector from the current position (e.g., Drive or Park) to the neutral position (N).

3. Check the Instrument Panel: Ensure that the instrument panel displays “N” to confirm that the vehicle is in neutral.

Shift into Neutral with the Engine Off

1. Engage the Parking Brake: Apply the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

2. Insert the Key: Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to the “Accessory” position (one notch before “On”).

3. Depress the Brake Pedal: While holding down the brake pedal, move the gear selector to the neutral position (N).

4. Remove the Key: Once the gear selector is in neutral, remove the key from the ignition switch.

Troubleshooting Shifting into Neutral

• Gear Selector Stuck: If the gear selector is stuck and won’t move, try jiggling the steering wheel slightly while applying force to the gear selector.

• Brake Pedal Not Depressed: Ensure that you are firmly depressing the brake pedal before attempting to shift into neutral.

• Shifter Interlock Malfunction: If the gear selector is electronically controlled, a malfunction in the shifter interlock system could prevent shifting into neutral. Consult your owner’s manual or a professional mechanic for assistance.

Safety Precautions

• Always engage the parking brake before shifting into neutral with the engine off.
• Never shift into neutral while driving at high speeds.
• If you are unable to shift into neutral, do not attempt to force the gear selector. Consult a mechanic for professional assistance.

Summary: Mastering Neutral

Shifting your Subaru Forester into neutral is a simple but essential skill that can enhance your driving experience and ensure the safety of yourself and others. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently engage neutral whenever necessary, empowering you to handle various situations with ease.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I shift into neutral while driving?
A: No, it is not recommended to shift into neutral while driving. Neutral causes the engine to disengage from the wheels, resulting in a loss of control and potential safety hazards.

Q: What if I accidentally shift into neutral while driving?
A: If you accidentally shift into neutral while driving, immediately apply the brakes and pull over to a safe location. Restart the engine and shift back into the appropriate gear.

Q: Can I start my Subaru Forester in neutral?
A: Yes, you can start your Subaru Forester in neutral, especially in cold weather or when troubleshooting starting issues. However, ensure that the parking brake is engaged to prevent the vehicle from rolling.