Is it normal for a Subaru Forester to suddenly fail to start?
4 Answers
It is not normal for a Subaru Forester to suddenly fail to start. Reasons such as no fuel, a dead battery, or incorrect gear position can all cause the car to fail to start. No fuel: When you find that the car won't start, the first thing you should check is the fuel gauge to see if there is any fuel left. Running the tank too low before refueling can affect the engine's lifespan. Dead battery: Leaving the headlights on for an extended period can drain the battery, or the battery may have reached the end of its lifespan. Additionally, installing xenon headlights, high-power audio systems, or DVD players can also cause electrical faults in the vehicle. Incorrect gear position: For automatic transmission cars, the gear must be in the P (Park) or N (Neutral) position when starting. If the gear is left in R (Reverse) or D (Drive), the car will not start, and it can pose a safety hazard. If the car was not parked in the P position, the driver might overlook this issue when getting back in the car. Most modern vehicles will display a reminder on the dashboard, and some may also have a beeping sound as an alert, making this scenario highly unlikely.
Recently, my Forester occasionally fails to start, which worries me a bit. This is quite common—it might be a dead battery. I usually check if the battery terminals are loose or corroded first, then listen to the startup sound. If it clicks but doesn't crank, the starter might be faulty; if there's no sound at all, the battery is more likely the issue. It happens especially often in winter because cold temperatures reduce battery performance. I've also found that ignition system or fuel pump problems can cause this—for example, the pump won't work if there's insufficient fuel. The easiest solution is to ask a friend for a jump-start. If that doesn't work, it's best to tow it to a repair shop immediately. Avoid repeatedly trying to start it on the roadside to prevent damaging more expensive components. Subaru's electronic systems are complex, and their batteries tend to have a shorter lifespan, so I recommend getting them tested every two years and paying extra attention during regular maintenance.
As someone who enjoys tinkering with cars, I believe there are many reasons why a Forester might not start. The first step is to check the battery voltage—use a multimeter, and if it reads below 12V, it indicates a dead battery. Then, inspect the starter: unusual noises during startup suggest it's stuck. Next, examine the fuel system, as a clogged filter or a faulty pump can lead to no fuel supply. Additionally, check the ignition components, as old spark plugs or damaged coils can easily cause issues. I would quickly test the relevant fuses in the fuse box; occasionally, the Subaru anti-theft system malfunctions, so try starting with a spare key. For prevention, keep the fuel tank relatively full and avoid using low-quality fuel; regularly clean the wiring to prevent oxidation. If these simple checks don't resolve the issue, don't delay—promptly consult a professional technician to diagnose the engine control module with specialized tools.
Having driven a Subaru for years, it's not uncommon for the Forester to fail to start. The most frequent culprit is battery aging, especially after two or three years when performance declines; cold weather makes starting even harder—once my car wouldn't budge due to a temperature drop. Additionally, worn ignition switches or starter motor failures can trigger this issue. Trying to lightly press the accelerator while starting might help temporarily, but it's no permanent fix. Safety-wise, don't linger on the road—move the car to a parking spot immediately. For prevention: check battery health monthly and replace it promptly; during maintenance, ask technicians to test relevant components. Subaru's all-wheel-drive system heavily relies on electrical systems, so minor issues can escalate—head to a dealership for diagnosis at the first sign of trouble.
