2019 Subaru Forester Technical Service Bulletins

577 technical service bulletins (TSBs) are on record for the 2019 Subaru Forester. TSBs are notes manufacturers send to dealers about repair procedures for issues seen in the field. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault.

• 10168574Nov 15, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. This Service Information bulletin provides a procedure to use for addressing a customer concern of a delayed or slow response when using the soft keys on the touch screen of the audio / navigation head unit.
• 10168573Nov 15, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to use when diagnosing concerns of the Apple CarPlay and / or Android Auto feature not connecting or launching properly when a compatible device is connected to the head unit.
• 10168569Nov 15, 2019Electrical system, Equipment. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to follow when diagnosing customer concerns involving Bluetooth (BT) functionality. Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will help with diagnosis and will be required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting. While completing the questionnaire, follow the question flow based on…
• 10168566Nov 15, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. This Service Information Bulletin announces availability of a map update which includes new software to address a route searching error. A “Route Calculation Unsuccessful” message may be displayed when the selected route crosses state borders (e.g. Route 53 which crosses between Alabama and Tennessee).
• 10168563Nov 15, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. This bulletin provides troubleshooting steps to follow when diagnosing customer concerns regarding USB functionality. Please start by completing the Harman Investigation Guide Questionnaire as it gathers important details which will help with diagnosis and will be required should the condition not be resolved by this troubleshooting. While completing the questionnaire, follow the question flow based on the customer…
• 10168562Nov 15, 2019Electrical system, Equipment. This Service Information bulletin provides a procedure for customizing the maintenance period settings of the MFD. When accessing the Maintenance period information on the SSM4, the maintenance interval default values for mileage and number of months are different from those displayed on the MFD. This procedure describes how to synchronize the MFD and SSM4 values to insure proper customer notification.
• 10168623Nov 11, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. This Service Information Bulletin provides insight in response to both customer and retailer feedback resulting from the use of OBD-II port connected devices. These devices are often employed by insurance companies to monitor driver activity for premium calculations (premium discounts). Commonly referred to as discount tools, driver monitors or dongles, the use of these devices can interfere with normal STARLINK…
• 10168622Nov 11, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. This bulletin provides information on a new reprogramming procedure (FOTA) to optimize the Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units (H/U) utilized in the models as listed above.
• 10168610Nov 8, 2019Electrical system. "On December 14th, 2018, the first TomTom map update for Gen 3.1 Harman navigation equipped vehicles was made available. While the map update process is user-friendly, we ask that retailers assist customers with the map update procedure when requested as a courtesy, an opportunity to build retailer loyalty, enhance customer satisfaction and in keeping with the Love Promise.
• 10168600Nov 8, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head…
• 10166913Oct 18, 2019Electrical system. This Service Information Bulletin provides the answer to potential inquiries regarding the STARLINK app being unable to play music files stored on a customer’s Android® phone / device through the head units (H/U) used in the applicable models listed above. This information is applicable ONLY to Android devices operating with Operating System (OS) version 10. IOS (AppleTM) devices are not affected.
• 10166902Oct 11, 2019Transmission and drivetrain. This Service Information Bulletin outlines design changes made to the coolant hoses for the CVT fluid cooler and the spring-type clamps used to secure them.
• 10166886Oct 2, 2019Body and structure. This bulletin announces availability of a new hood lock release cable to address concerns of the front hood lock not releasing when the release lever is pulled. The new inner cable diameter has been increased and the shape of the cable end has been changed to improve engagement between the release cable end and the lock release mechanism. Latching of the hood is not affected by this change.
• 10166885Oct 2, 2019Electrical system. This Service Information Bulletin announces availability of a map update which includes new software to address a route searching error. A “Route Calculation Unsuccessful” message may be displayed when the selected route crosses state borders (e.g. Route 53 which crosses between Alabama and Tennessee).
• 10165548Sep 26, 2019Electrical system. This Service Information Bulletin provides additional diagnostics to follow when addressing a Telematics-related DTC B2A16. In most cases involving this DTC, the following scenario(s) occur: • When trying to use the remote engine starter (RES) feature through Telematics (STARLINK / My Subaru app) the request is unsuccessful and the red Telematics indicator lamp illuminates.
• 10165497Sep 26, 2019Transmission and drivetrain. This bulletin has been developed in response to a small number of customer concerns regarding fluid seepage found coming from the CVT assembly. Investigation has identified likely sources of the seepage to be the sealant used on the CVT’s oil pump chain cover and the input shaft oil seal. The repair involves chain cover removal, a thorough cleaning and inspection of the sealing surfaces followed by re-sealing the…
• 10165512Sep 20, 2019Engine cooling. The purpose of this Bulletin is to provide procedures for the diagnosis and repair of oil seepage which may be coming from the timing chain cover, front camshaft cap, camshaft carrier and / or upper oil pan. There are five areas that should be closely inspected if an oil leak is reported by the customer: 1. The 6mm tapped hole casting boss area in the left-hand camshaft cap 2. The sealing surfaces between either…
• 10165501Sep 11, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. This bulletin announces availability of new Harman audio unit amplifier units with revised internal logic designed to optimize efficiency while addressing the following customer concerns: Symptom 1: No audio output is heard but, the volume level displayed changes when turning the knob Symptom 2: Audio volume increases to maximum intermittently without turning the knob Symptom 3: A buzzing, screeching or…
• 10165504Sep 9, 2019Exterior lighting, Electrical system. This Service Information Bulletin provides a procedure to “reset” the headlight leveler system. After an affected vehicle is transported on a flatbed or other type of carrier, the headlight beam adjustment may become either too high or too low. During normal operation, system sensors measure inclination of the road surface in comparison to the vehicle and adjust the headlight beams accordingly.
• 10164446Aug 29, 2019Transmission and drivetrain. "This bulletin has been developed in response to a small number of customer concerns regarding fluid seepage found coming from the CVT assembly. Investigation has identified likely sources of the seepage to be the sealant used on the CVT’s oil pump chain cover and the input shaft oil seal. The repair involves chain cover removal, a thorough cleaning and inspection of the sealing surfaces followed by re-sealing…
• 10164415Aug 23, 2019Electrical system, Equipment. This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure. The exchange program policy can also be found in Sections 8.4.9 and 11.2.10 of your Claims Policies and Procedures Manual found in Subarunet.
• 10164389Aug 22, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. "This bulletin announces availability of new Harman audio unit amplifier units with revised internal logic designed to optimize efficiency while addressing the following customer concerns: Symptom 1: No audio output is heard but, the volume level displayed changes when turning the knob Symptom 2: Audio volume increases to maximum intermittently without turning the knob Symptom 3: A buzzing, screeching or…
• 10164194Aug 21, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head…
• 10164186Aug 8, 2019Electrical system. "This bulletin announces reprogramming files to optimize the DMS control module and address a small number of inquiries regarding DTCs B112C and/or B112E. In some cases, when multiple functions are processed by the DMS control module at the same time, a task error may occur and cause the system’s indicator lamp to illuminate yellow (as opposed to green during normal system operation)."
• 10163564Jul 30, 2019Fuel system, Electrical system. This bulletin announces availability of a new CVT electric oil pump developed to address DTC P173B: ELECTRIC FLUID PUMP (CVT) PERFORMANCE. The related customer concern describes the Auto Start Stop warning lamp flashing and the system becoming inoperative under certain circumstances. When Auto Start/Stop is inoperative, the vehicle operates like a traditional vehicle not equipped with this feature. The new pumps…
• 10163562Jul 29, 2019Forward collision avoidance. This bulletin announces 2 design changes to the EyeSight camera cover to prevent a rattling sound heard while driving. The changes involve the inside support ribbing near the front, center and a slight revision to the size of the bottom camera lens openings. Comparison images are provided below.
• 10163556Jul 23, 2019Body and structure, Suspension. This Service Information Bulletin announces a change made to the rear subframe retaining bolts used on the models listed above. The design changes provide the bolt with an increased durability against rust.
• 10163531Jul 15, 2019Electrical system, Equipment. This bulletin announces a design change made to the air conditioner’s pressure sensor to address customer concerns of the system blowing warm or not blowing cold air. In some cases, preliminary diagnosis may find codes B14A3, B14A4, B14EF or B14EE present. Review of actual system pressures using a manifold gauge set and comparing against values seen using the Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) may show the SSM readings…
• 10163525Jul 11, 2019Brakes. This Service Information bulletin announces instruction for application of additional lubrication between the brake caliper support and pad clips. This will prevent the pad from dragging due to corrosion buildup which may result in uneven or premature wear of the replacement brake pads. This additional instruction applies to all models with brake pads using the upper and lower pad clips and has been added to the…
• 10163522Jul 9, 2019Body and structure, Latches, locks and linkages, Electrical system. This bulletin announces a design change made to the PRG control module. This change is in response to a limited number of customer concerns regarding the rear gate not opening when operating the gate switch or dashboard switch on the vehicle or the button on the key fob. This condition is also accompanied by three short beeps. Logic changes have been incorporated into the new module to ensure proper operation of…
• 10163519Jul 8, 2019Electrical system. This service information bulletin provides a procedure for customizing the maintenance period settings of the MFD. When accessing the maintenance period information on the SSM4, the maintenance interval default values for mileage and number of months are different from those displayed on the MFD. This procedure describes how to synchronize the MFD and SSM4 values to insure proper customer notification.
• 10163017Jun 27, 2019Engine. This Service Information bulletin provides new inspection and repair procedures for AVCS (Active Valve Control System) -related DTCs on the FA and FB engine equipped models listed above. The applicable Service Manuals will be revised with this new information in the near future.
• 10163008Jun 17, 2019Equipment. The purpose of this bulletin is to provide a description of current changes to Service Manuals available via the Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) web site. The tables contained within this bulletin are to be used as guides for becoming aware of the latest changes.
• 10163005Jun 12, 2019Body and structure. This bulletin announces a design change made to the PRG control module. This change is in response to a limited number of customer concerns regarding the rear gate not opening when operating the gate switch or dashboard switch on the vehicle or the button on the key fob. This condition is also accompanied by three short beeps. Logic changes have been incorporated into the new module to ensure proper operation of…
• 10162999Jun 4, 2019Back-over prevention (rear camera). This Service Information bulletin provides helpful tips to use when removing or reinstalling the EyeSight camera cover. Improper removal / installation practices can damage the camera cover and also have a negative effect on the operation of the system, cause a rattling condition to develop, or both.
• 10161826May 22, 2019Electrical system, Equipment, Body and structure. This bulletin announces a change made to the PRG control module. This change is in response to a limited number of customer concerns regarding the PRG reversing direction before reaching the fully open position. The control module senses that an object is caught in the PRG and engages the system?s reverse (safety) function. The new PRG control modules contain improved operating logic to correct this condition.
• 10161825May 21, 2019Equipment. This Service Information bulletin has been developed for use as a quick reference tool to aid in diagnosing operational concerns of the Gen 2 Telematics system?s remote access features on all 2019 vehicles with Gen 2 Telematics.
• 10161824May 21, 2019Equipment. Subaru Service and Technical Support Line Newletter.
• 10161821May 13, 2019Body and structure. This bulletin provides a procedure to address a rattling -type sound heard coming from the front door(s). In some cases, the plastic sensor plate mounted to the inner door panel may rattle against the steel structure.
• 10161818May 8, 2019Equipment. This bulletin announces availability of new audio system amplifiers to address the following operating concerns with the Harman Kardon Gen 3 infotainment system: Symptom 1: No audio output is heard but, the volume level displayed changes when turning the knob Symptom 2: Audio volume increases to maximum intermittently without turning the knob Symptom 3: A buzzing, screeching or crackling-type sound is heard coming…
• 10161813May 6, 2019Equipment. To help reduce confusion and increase technician efficiency, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has developed the following cross reference list to help locate the appropriate Special Service Tool.
• 10160216Apr 25, 2019Electrical system. This bulletin announces reprogramming files to optimize the DMS control module and address a small number of inquiries regarding DTCs B112C and/or B112E. Insome cases, when multiple functions are processed by the DMS control module at the same time, a task error may occur and cause the system?s indicator lamp to illuminate yellow (as opposed to green during normal system is operation).
• 10160214Apr 23, 2019Electrical system, Engine. This bulletin announces part information for new Active Valve Control System (AVCS) oil control solenoid valves (OCV) which contain a redesigned internal oil seal. The new seal will eliminate potential oil seepage into the wire harness connector portion of the valve. If oil seeps into the connector, over time, the Check Engine lamp may illuminate and set various AVCS-related DTCs.
• 10160212Apr 18, 2019Body and structure. This bulletin provides a procedure to address a small number of customer concerns regarding a metallic rattle or chirping -type sound heard coming from the top of the front ?A? pillar area. The sound may originate from either side of the vehicle.
• 10160206Apr 10, 2019Air bags. This Service Information bulletin serves a quick reminder to always perform the Clear Memory function of the Airbag system using the Subaru Select Monitor 4 after replacement of any airbag system sensor. Failure to do so will most likely result in the sensor-related DTC(s) remaining in memory, Airbag warning light illumination and possible unnecessary component replacement.
• 10160203Apr 8, 2019Steering. Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain 2019 model year Forester and Crosstrek vehicles to inspect and, if necessary, replace the power steering gear box. A total of 10,417 U.S. vehicles will be affected by this recall.
• 10160507Mar 25, 2019Electrical system. Immediately discontinue the use of latest 2019 MY Gen 3.1 Harman Software update.
• 10160501Mar 25, 2019Equipment, Electrical system. The following information addresses reprogramming file availability and a software update installation procedure to provide optimization to the new Harman Gen 3.1 Audio and Navigation head units utilized in the models as listed above. The procedure will involve either downloading the software update files from Subarunet (or using those sent directly from Nuspire) and transferring them onto a flash drive for head…
• 10160488Mar 22, 2019Steering. Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain 2019 model year Forester and Crosstrek vehicles to inspect and, if necessary, replace the power steering gear box. A total of 10,417 U.S. vehicles will be affected by this recall.
• 10160497Mar 13, 2019Body and structure. This Service Information bulletin announces a design change to the cowl panel. The change was made to the shape of the part which will eliminate a gap between the cowl panel and the windshield in the lower corner area as shown in the photo below. The gap may develop during expansion and contraction of the plastic cowl panel material as a result of temperature changes.

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