Jumpstart your subaru forester in a snap: the ultimate step-by-step guide

When your Subaru Forester‘s battery fails, leaving you stranded, it’s essential to know how to jumpstart it effectively. This guide provides a step-by-step process and safety precautions to ensure a successful jumpstart.

Safety Precautions

• Park both vehicles in a well-lit and safe area.
• Engage the parking brakes on both vehicles.
• Turn off all electrical devices, including headlights and climate control.
• Avoid touching any metal parts on the vehicles while connecting the cables.

Equipment Required

• Jumper cables (with heavy-duty clamps)
• Another vehicle with a working battery

Step-by-Step Jumpstart Procedure

1. Identify the Battery Terminals: Locate the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on both batteries. They are typically marked with red and black caps or symbols.
2. Connect the Positive Cables: Connect one end of the red jumper cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery and the other end to the positive terminal of the working battery.
3. Connect the Negative Cables: Connect one end of the black jumper cable to the negative terminal of the working battery and the other end to an unpainted metal surface on the frame of the Subaru Forester, away from the battery.
4. Start the Working Vehicle: Start the engine of the working vehicle and let it run for a few minutes to charge the dead battery.
5. Attempt to Start the Subaru Forester: Try to start the Subaru Forester. If it starts, remove the jumper cables in reverse order: black cable first, then red cable.
6. Drive the Subaru Forester: Drive the Subaru Forester for at least 30 minutes to fully charge the battery.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• No Response: If the Subaru Forester does not start, check the connections to ensure they are secure and clean.
• Dim Headlights: If the headlights dim when the jumper cables are connected, the battery may be severely discharged or faulty.
• Sparks: If there are sparks when connecting or disconnecting the jumper cables, stop immediately and check for loose or damaged cables.

Battery Maintenance Tips

• Regularly Check Battery Connections: Ensure the battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion.
• Test Battery Health: Have your battery tested regularly at an automotive service center.
• Avoid Deep Discharges: Start your Subaru Forester regularly to prevent the battery from becoming deeply discharged.
• Use a Battery Charger: If you do not drive your Subaru Forester frequently, consider using a battery charger to maintain the battery’s charge.

Wrap-Up: Jumpstarting Success

By following these steps and precautions, you can effectively jumpstart your Subaru Forester and restore its battery power. Remember, regular battery maintenance is crucial to prevent future breakdowns.

What You Need to Learn

Q1: Can I jumpstart my Subaru Forester using another vehicle with a smaller battery?
A1: Yes, but it may take longer to charge the dead battery. Ensure the working battery is in good condition and the jumper cables are heavy-duty.

Q2: How long should I let the working vehicle run before attempting to start the Subaru Forester?
A2: Allow the working vehicle to run for at least 5-10 minutes to provide sufficient charge to the dead battery.

Q3: What should I do if the Subaru Forester still does not start after jumpstarting?
A3: Contact a mechanic for further assistance. The battery may be faulty or there may be an underlying electrical issue.