2017 subaru forester owners manual

Welcome to the 2017 Subaru Forester Owners Manual, your comprehensive guide to understanding and maintaining your vehicle․ This 634-page manual provides detailed information on operation, maintenance, and safety features, ensuring you maximize performance and reliability․

1․1 Understanding the Importance of the Owners Manual

The 2017 Subaru Forester Owners Manual is a vital resource for drivers, providing essential information to ensure safe and optimal vehicle operation․ It covers key features, maintenance schedules, and safety guidelines, helping owners understand their vehicle’s capabilities and requirements․ By following the manual, drivers can prevent potential issues, maintain warranty validity, and troubleshoot common problems․ This comprehensive guide is designed to enhance driving confidence and prolong the vehicle’s lifespan, making it an indispensable tool for every Subaru Forester owner․

1․2 Overview of the 2017 Subaru Forester Model

The 2017 Subaru Forester is a versatile compact SUV designed for both urban and off-road adventures․ Available in six trim levels—2․5i, 2․5i Premium, 2․5i Limited, 2․5i Touring, 2․0XT Premium, and 2․0XT Touring—it offers a range of options to suit different needs․ With a tall wagon design, the Forester provides ample ground clearance and cargo space․ It features a 2․5-liter 170-horsepower engine or a 2․0-liter 250-horsepower turbocharged option, both paired with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive․ Known for its reliability and safety, the Forester includes advanced features like EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, making it a practical and secure choice for drivers․

Key Features of the 2017 Subaru Forester

The 2017 Subaru Forester offers Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, and a spacious interior; It features a range of trim levels with optional upgrades and advanced infotainment systems․

2․1 Standard Features Across Trim Levels

All 2017 Subaru Forester models come equipped with essential features, including Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a 6․2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and Bluetooth connectivity․ The base 2․5i trim includes cloth upholstery, cruise control, and a rearview camera․ Higher trims like the 2․5i Premium add features such as heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 7-inch touchscreen․ The 2․5i Limited and Touring trims offer upgraded materials, dual-zone climate control, and enhanced safety features like Blind Spot Detection․ These standard features ensure a comfortable and safe driving experience across all trim levels․

2․2 Optional Features and Upgrades

The 2017 Subaru Forester offers several optional features to enhance your driving experience․ The 2․5i Limited and Touring trims can be equipped with leather-trimmed upholstery, a power liftgate, and a premium audio system․ Additionally, the 2․0XT trims offer a more powerful turbocharged engine for improved performance․ Optional technology upgrades include the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which provides adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and sway warning․ These upgrades allow you to customize your Forester to meet your specific needs, whether for comfort, performance, or advanced safety․

Safety Features and Systems

The 2017 Subaru Forester prioritizes safety with advanced systems like EyeSight Driver Assist, adaptive cruise control, and seven airbags․ A rearview camera and robust Boxer engine enhance protection and stability․

3․1 Advanced Safety Systems Explained

The 2017 Subaru Forester features cutting-edge safety technologies designed to enhance driver confidence and protection․ Advanced systems include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and sway warning, which monitor the vehicle’s surroundings and alert the driver to potential hazards․ Pre-collision braking and throttle management are also integrated to mitigate collision risks․ These systems work seamlessly with the Subaru Boxer engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, ensuring stability and control․ By combining sensors, cameras, and intelligent software, the Forester offers a robust safety net for drivers and passengers alike, aligning with Subaru’s commitment to safety excellence․

3․2 EyeSight Driver Assist Technology

EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is a groundbreaking system in the 2017 Subaru Forester, enhancing safety through advanced cameras and sensors․ It includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and sway warning, helping drivers stay alert and in control․ Pre-collision braking and throttle management are also featured, reducing collision risks․ This technology integrates seamlessly with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, providing unparalleled protection and confidence on the road․ EyeSight is standard on higher trims, making it a standout feature for safe and assured driving experiences in various conditions․

3․3 Subaru Safety Sense Overview

Subaru Safety Sense is a suite of advanced safety technologies designed to enhance driver awareness and prevent accidents․ It includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking․ These systems work together to monitor the road and assist the driver in maintaining safety․ Subaru Safety Sense also integrates with EyeSight technology, offering a comprehensive safety net for various driving conditions․ This technology is designed to provide peace of mind while driving, ensuring a safer and more confident experience behind the wheel of your 2017 Subaru Forester․

Maintenance and Service Schedule

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of your 2017 Subaru Forester․ Follow the recommended service intervals to ensure optimal functionality and prevent potential issues․

4․1 Recommended Maintenance Intervals

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your 2017 Subaru Forester in optimal condition․ Follow the recommended intervals for routine services such as oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks․ The manual advises oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on driving conditions․ Brake pads and rotors should be inspected annually or every 12,000 miles․ Additionally, the vehicle’s air filter should be replaced every 15,000 to 30,000 miles․ Proper adherence to these schedules ensures reliability, performance, and extends the lifespan of your Subaru Forester․

4․2 DIY Maintenance Tips

Performing routine DIY maintenance can help keep your 2017 Subaru Forester running smoothly․ Start by checking and topping off essential fluids like engine oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid․ Replace the air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles to improve fuel efficiency and performance․ Check tire pressure monthly and before long trips, ensuring proper inflation for safety and optimal handling․ Additionally, inspect wiper blades for wear and replace them as needed․ Regularly cleaning the battery terminals can prevent corrosion and electrical issues․ Always refer to the manual for specific guidelines and precautions․ These simple tasks can save time and money while maintaining your vehicle’s health․

4․3 Common Issues to Watch For

Owners of the 2017 Subaru Forester should be aware of several common issues․ The CVT transmission may experience hesitation or slipping, especially in earlier models․ Oil consumption can increase over time, so regular monitoring is essential․ Some drivers have reported issues with the engine warning light illuminating due to faulty oxygen sensors․ Additionally, the air conditioning system may occasionally malfunction, requiring professional attention․ Brake light switches and wheel bearings have also been known to fail prematurely in some cases․ Staying proactive with inspections and addressing these issues early can help prevent costly repairs down the road․

Technical Specifications

The 2017 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV featuring standard all-wheel drive, 8․7 inches of ground clearance, and up to 74․7 cubic feet of cargo space․

5․1 Engine Options and Performance

The 2017 Subaru Forester offers two engine options: a 2․5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and a 2․0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivering 250 horsepower․ Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth acceleration․ The 2․5-liter model achieves an EPA-estimated 32 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged version provides enhanced power for towing and spirited driving․ Both configurations ensure balanced performance, efficiency, and Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive capability, making the Forester versatile for urban and off-road adventures․

5․2 Transmission and Drivetrain Details

The 2017 Subaru Forester features a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for both engine options, ensuring smooth and efficient power delivery․ The drivetrain includes Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which provides balanced power distribution to all four wheels for enhanced traction and control․ This setup is designed to optimize performance in various driving conditions, from city streets to off-road adventures․ The CVT offers a responsive driving experience, while the all-wheel-drive system enhances stability and grip, making the Forester versatile for diverse terrains and weather conditions․

5․3 Fuel Efficiency and Capacity

The 2017 Subaru Forester offers impressive fuel efficiency, with the 2․5L engine achieving an EPA-estimated 24 MPG city, 32 MPG highway, and 27 MPG combined․ The 2․0L turbocharged engine provides 23 MPG city, 28 MPG highway, and 25 MPG combined․ Both models feature a 15․9-gallon fuel tank, allowing for extended driving range․ These figures make the Forester an economical choice for both urban commutes and long-distance adventures, ensuring optimal performance without sacrificing efficiency․

Multimedia and Connectivity

The 2017 Subaru Forester features an advanced infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB ports for seamless smartphone integration and entertainment on the go․

6․1 Infotainment System Overview

The 2017 Subaru Forester features a user-friendly infotainment system designed to enhance your driving experience․ The StarLink multimedia system includes a high-resolution touchscreen display, offering seamless connectivity for smartphones via Bluetooth and USB ports․ Drivers can access a variety of apps, streaming services, and navigation features․ Voice command functionality allows for hands-free control of music, calls, and navigation; The system also supports rear camera display for improved visibility when reversing․ This integrated setup ensures convenient entertainment, communication, and navigation, making every journey more enjoyable and connected․

6․2 Bluetooth and Smartphone Integration

The 2017 Subaru Forester supports seamless Bluetooth and smartphone integration, enabling hands-free calls, music streaming, and app connectivity․ Pairing your device is straightforward, with voice command functionality allowing you to manage calls and music without distractions․ The StarLink infotainment system is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, offering intuitive control through the touchscreen interface․ This feature enhances safety and convenience, ensuring you stay connected while keeping your focus on the road․ The system also supports USB connectivity for charging and data transfer, making it a versatile solution for modern drivers․

6․3 Navigation and Voice Command Features

The 2017 Subaru Forester features an advanced navigation system integrated with voice command functionality, allowing for hands-free control of directions, calls, and audio settings․ The StarLink infotainment system supports voice-activated navigation, enabling drivers to input destinations or search for points of interest without taking their eyes off the road․ Voice commands also extend to phone calls, messaging, and media playback, enhancing safety and convenience․ This system ensures seamless integration with your smartphone, providing a user-friendly experience while driving․ The navigation system offers real-time updates and turn-by-turn directions, making it an essential tool for any journey․

Driving Tips and Best Practices

This section provides essential tips for optimizing your driving experience in the 2017 Subaru Forester, focusing on smooth acceleration, avoiding sudden maneuvers, and maintaining proper tire pressure for enhanced safety and efficiency․

7․1 Optimizing Fuel Efficiency

The 2017 Subaru Forester offers excellent fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of up to 32 MPG on the highway․ To maximize efficiency, maintain steady speeds, avoid aggressive acceleration, and use cruise control on long drives․ Ensure proper tire pressure, as underinflated tires can reduce fuel economy․ Regular maintenance, such as air filter checks and tune-ups, also plays a key role․ Additionally, the Forester’s boxer engine design contributes to better fuel performance․ By following these tips, you can enjoy a more economical and environmentally friendly driving experience․

7․2 Safe Driving Practices

Safe driving practices are essential for ensuring the well-being of both you and your passengers․ Always adhere to traffic laws, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and avoid distractions like using your phone while driving․ Be mindful of weather conditions and adjust your speed accordingly․ Keep your eyes on the road and stay alert to potential hazards․ Proper use of seat belts and child restraints is mandatory․ Familiarize yourself with the Subaru Forester’s advanced safety features, such as EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, to enhance your driving safety․ By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a secure driving experience․

7․3 Handling Adverse Weather Conditions

Handling adverse weather conditions requires careful attention and adjustment of your driving habits․ The Subaru Forester’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides excellent traction, but it’s important to reduce speed and increase following distance in rain, snow, or fog․ Use fog lights in low visibility and ensure windshield wipers are in good condition․ Avoid sudden maneuvers and keep tires properly maintained for optimal grip․ For snowy conditions, consider using winter tires for enhanced performance․ Always prioritize caution and slow down to match road conditions, ensuring a safer journey in challenging weather․

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Troubleshooting common issues in your 2017 Subaru Forester involves identifying warning lights, resolving electrical problems, and addressing mechanical concerns promptly․ Refer to the manual for detailed guidance․

8․1 Identifying Warning Lights

The 2017 Subaru Forester Owners Manual includes detailed explanations of warning lights to help you recognize and address potential issues promptly․ These lights, such as the check engine light or oil level indicator, alert you to system malfunctions․ Understanding each symbol is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s health and safety․ Refer to the manual for descriptions of dashboard indicators, their meanings, and recommended actions․ Ignoring these warnings can lead to more severe problems, so familiarize yourself with the guide to ensure proper responses and prevent unnecessary repairs․

8․2 Resolving Common Electrical Issues

The 2017 Subaru Forester Owners Manual provides guidance for resolving common electrical issues, such as faulty fuses, blown fuses, or malfunctioning sensors․ Use the fuse puller in the glovebox to inspect and replace fuses․ For complex issues, consult the manual’s electrical system diagrams․ Resetting systems like the battery or infotainment may require specific procedures․ If problems persist, contact a Subaru-certified technician to diagnose and repair issues, ensuring your vehicle’s electrical systems function properly and safely․ Always refer to the manual for detailed troubleshooting steps to avoid further complications․

8․3 Addressing Mechanical Concerns

The 2017 Subaru Forester Owners Manual outlines procedures for addressing mechanical concerns, such as unusual engine noises, transmission issues, or brake system warnings․ Regular maintenance, like belt replacements and fluid checks, is emphasized to prevent mechanical failures․ If issues arise, the manual provides diagnostic steps and repair procedures․ For complex problems, consulting a Subaru-certified technician is recommended to ensure proper fixes and maintain vehicle performance․ Always follow the manual’s guidelines to resolve mechanical concerns efficiently and safely, preventing further damage and ensuring longevity of your Subaru Forester․

Warranty and Support Information

The 2017 Subaru Forester Owners Manual details warranty coverage, including basic and powertrain warranties, and provides information on customer support, service centers, and extended warranty options․

9․1 Understanding Your Vehicle Warranty

The 2017 Subaru Forester Owners Manual outlines the vehicle warranty, including basic and powertrain coverage․ The basic warranty typically covers repairs for parts and labor for 3 years or 36,000 miles, while the powertrain warranty extends to 5 years or 60,000 miles․ These warranties protect against defects in materials and workmanship, ensuring your Forester remains reliable․ Additional coverage includes emission-related components․ The manual provides details on warranty duration, mileage limits, and specific inclusions, helping owners understand their coverage and maintain compliance with warranty terms․ Refer to the manual for full details and any exclusions․

9․2 Customer Support and Service Centers

Subaru offers comprehensive customer support for the 2017 Forester, including online resources, toll-free hotlines, and a network of authorized service centers․ The manual directs owners to Subaru’s official website and customer service contacts for inquiries and assistance․ Service centers are equipped to handle routine maintenance, repairs, and warranty-related work, ensuring your Forester receives expert care․ The manual emphasizes the importance of using genuine Subaru parts and authorized dealerships to maintain vehicle performance and warranty validity․ This support system ensures owners can easily access help whenever needed, keeping their Forester in optimal condition․

9․3 Extended Warranty Options

The 2017 Subaru Forester Owners Manual highlights extended warranty options for added protection beyond the standard warranty period․ These programs, offered through Subaru dealerships, provide coverage for repairs and replacements of parts and labor for a specified extended duration․ Owners can purchase these plans to safeguard against unexpected repair costs and ensure continued reliability․ The manual outlines the terms, coverage details, and benefits of extended warranties, encouraging owners to consult authorized dealers for tailored solutions․ This option offers peace of mind and financial protection for maintaining your Forester’s performance and longevity․

Environmental Considerations

This section covers eco-friendly features, fuel efficiency, and emissions, emphasizing Subaru’s commitment to reducing environmental impact through sustainable practices and responsible vehicle ownership․

10․1 Fuel Efficiency and Emissions

The 2017 Subaru Forester is designed to balance performance with environmental responsibility․ The 2․5L engine offers an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined, while the 2․0L turbocharged engine provides 27 MPG combined․ Both options feature Subaru’s signature all-wheel drive, ensuring efficiency without compromising capability․ Emissions are minimized through advanced catalytic converters and precise fuel injection systems․ Subaru’s commitment to reducing environmental impact is evident in the Forester’s eco-friendly design, making it a sustainable choice for drivers who value both performance and planet-conscious driving․

10․2 Eco-Friendly Features

The 2017 Subaru Forester incorporates several eco-friendly features to minimize its environmental footprint․ The Lineartronic CVT and boxer engine design optimize fuel efficiency while reducing emissions․ Subaru’s focus on lightweight materials and aerodynamic design enhances overall efficiency․ The Forester also features an eco-mode for improved fuel economy in city driving․ Additionally, the optional EyeSight Driver Assist Technology promotes safer, more efficient driving practices․ Subaru’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the Forester’s eco-conscious engineering, making it a greener choice for environmentally aware drivers without compromising performance or capability․

10․3 Proper Disposal of Vehicle Materials

Proper disposal of your Subaru Forester’s materials is crucial for environmental protection․ Always recycle vehicle components like batteries, tires, and fluids through authorized facilities․ Hazardous materials, such as batteries and oils, require special handling to prevent contamination․ Subaru encourages eco-friendly practices by supporting recycling programs․ When replacing parts, ensure they are disposed of responsibly․ Consult local regulations or Subaru dealers for guidance on proper disposal methods․ This helps minimize the vehicle’s environmental impact and promotes sustainable practices throughout its lifecycle․

11․1 Summarizing Key Points

The 2017 Subaru Forester Owners Manual is a comprehensive guide designed to help owners optimize their vehicle’s performance, safety, and longevity․ It covers essential topics such as maintenance schedules, advanced safety systems like EyeSight, multimedia features, and environmental considerations․ By following the manual’s recommendations, drivers can ensure their Forester operates efficiently and safely․ Key points include adhering to maintenance intervals, understanding safety technologies, and utilizing multimedia features effectively․ This manual serves as a vital resource for maximizing the Forester’s capabilities and maintaining its value over time․

11․2 Encouragement for Proper Vehicle Care

Proper care of your 2017 Subaru Forester is essential for ensuring its longevity, performance, and safety․ Regular maintenance, as outlined in the manual, helps prevent issues and keeps your vehicle running efficiently․ By following the recommended schedules and guidelines, you can maximize fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and maintain the overall integrity of your Forester․ Stay proactive with inspections, fluid checks, and software updates to ensure your Subaru continues to deliver its signature reliability and performance․ Remember, consistent care not only protects your investment but also ensures a safer and more enjoyable driving experience for years to come․

Additional Resources

Access the 2017 Subaru Forester manual online for free, along with FAQs, tutorials, and troubleshooting guides․ Visit authorized Subaru websites or forums for additional support and resources․

12․1 Downloading the Full PDF Manual

The 2017 Subaru Forester Owners Manual is available for free download as a PDF․ The 634-page document covers all aspects of your vehicle, from maintenance to advanced features; It is accessible in English and is compatible with both desktop and mobile devices․ To download, visit Subaru’s official website or trusted automotive forums․ Ensure you select the correct model year and trim level for accuracy․ This manual is essential for understanding your vehicle’s operation, safety systems, and optimal performance․ Downloading it ensures you have all the necessary information at your fingertips for easy reference․

12․2 Online Communities and Forums

Online communities and forums are valuable resources for 2017 Subaru Forester owners․ Websites like ManualsOnline․info and CarManualsOnline․info offer access to the owners manual and related discussions․ These platforms allow owners to share experiences, ask questions, and find solutions to common issues․ Forum members often provide tips on maintenance, troubleshooting, and upgrading․ Participating in these communities can enhance your understanding of your vehicle and connect you with other Forester enthusiasts․ They also serve as a space to discuss updates, modifications, and best practices for optimizing your Subaru’s performance and longevity․

12․3 Authorized Dealership Information

Authorized Subaru dealerships are your primary source for genuine parts, service, and expertise for your 2017 Subaru Forester․ Subaru of America, Inc․, located in Cherry Hill, NJ, oversees a network of dealers across the U․S․ Visit Subaru’s official website to locate your nearest dealership․ These centers offer maintenance, repairs, and genuine Subaru accessories․ Their knowledgeable staff is trained to provide accurate guidance and support tailored to your vehicle․ Dealerships also offer extended warranty options and access to official resources like the owners manual and service guides, ensuring your Forester remains in optimal condition․