Subaru Vehicle Models Subaru Forester 2009-2013 Torque Specifications
Subaru Vehicle Models Subaru Forester 2009-2013

Subaru Vehicle Models Subaru Forester 2009-2013 Torque Specifications

Complete Subaru Vehicle Models Subaru Forester 2009-2013 torque specifications guide. Includes factory-specified torque values, torque sequences, and technical specifications for all components including body, brakes, drivetrain, electrical, emissions sensors, fuel, exhaust, HVAC, and suspension. Essential information for proper assembly and maintenance.

Updated

Important Information

Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application

Quick Reference Guide
ft-lbs → Nm
× 1.356
ft-lbs → kg-m
× 0.138
Nm → ft-lbs
× 0.738
in-lbs → ft-lbs
× 0.083

Common Torque Patterns

Star Pattern

Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns

Star Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Cross Pattern

Used for gaskets and cover plates

Cross Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Sequential Pattern

Used for head bolts and other critical components

Sequential Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-tightening

Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.

Prevention:

Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow specifications exactly.

Incorrect Torque Sequence

Tightening bolts in the wrong order can cause uneven pressure distribution and potential leaks or damage.

Prevention:

Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.

Dirty Threads

Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.

Prevention:

Clean and inspect all threads before assembly. Use new thread locker if specified.

Reusing TTY Bolts

Torque-to-yield bolts are designed to stretch and must not be reused.

Prevention:

Always replace TTY bolts with new ones. They are single-use only.

Dry vs. Lubricated

Not accounting for whether torque specs are for dry or lubricated fasteners can lead to incorrect tension.

Prevention:

Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)

Range: 2-25 ft-lbs
Small fasteners, delicate components

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
Most common automotive fasteners

Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)

Range: 30-250 ft-lbs
Large fasteners, wheels

Angle Gauge

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts

Torque Wrench Care

  • Calibrate annually or after 5,000 clicks
  • Store at lowest setting
  • Keep clean and lubricated

Search Specifications

Search by component name, bolt size, or description

Torque Calculator

Convert between different torque units

2.5l H4 Engine

Torque specifications for 2.5L-H4 Engine

Cylinder Head and Valvetrain

1

Cylinder Head Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
2

Valve Cover Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
3.6 ft-lbs (5 N·m)
3

Rocker Arms/Shafts Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)

Engine Block and Bearings

1

Main Bearing Bolts

M14 x 2.0
Torque Specification
59 ft-lbs (80 N·m)
2

Connecting Rod Nuts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
34 ft-lbs (46 N·m)

Crankshaft and Pulley

1

Flywheel Bolts

M14 x 2.0
Torque Specification
59 ft-lbs (80 N·m)
2

Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt

M16 x 2.0
Torque Specification
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)

Intake and Exhaust

1

Intake Manifold Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
6.6 ft-lbs (9 N·m)
2

Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)

Cooling System

1

Water Pump Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
9.6 ft-lbs (13 N·m)
2

Thermostat Housing Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
6.6 ft-lbs (9 N·m)

Engine Mounts and Accessories

1

Engine Mounting Bolts

M14 x 2.0
Torque Specification
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, consult service manual for correct torque value.
2

PCV Valve Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
12.5 ft-lbs (17 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, consult service manual for correct torque value.

5eat Transmission

Torque specifications for 5eat Transmission

Transmission Mounting

1

Transmission Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
59 ft-lbs (80 N·m)

Transmission Oil Pan

1

Transmission Oil Pan Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
5.75 ft-lbs (8 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for similar applications.
2

Transmission Pan Gasket Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
11 ft-lbs (15 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for similar applications.

Transmission Drain And Fill

1

Transmission Drain and Fill Plugs

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)

Valve Body And Solenoid Pack

1

Valve Body Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
16.5 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for similar applications.
2

Solenoid Pack Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
11 ft-lbs (15 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for similar applications.

Torque Converter

1

Torque Converter Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
37.5 ft-lbs (51 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for similar applications.

Body

Torque specifications for Body

Suspension and Steering

1

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
2

Control Arm Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
3

Ball Joint Nut

M16 x 1.5
Torque Specification
65 ft-lbs (88 N·m)
4

Tie Rod End Nut

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
5

Sway Bar Link Nut

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
28 ft-lbs (38 N·m)
6

Steering Gear/Rack Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Specification
116 ft-lbs (157 N·m)

Body and Frame

1

Body Mount Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's recommendations for accurate torque values.
2

Fender Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's recommendations for accurate torque values.
3

Hood Hinge Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
17 ft-lbs (23 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's recommendations for accurate torque values.
4

Door Hinge Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
17 ft-lbs (23 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's recommendations for accurate torque values.
5

Trunk Lid Hinge Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
17 ft-lbs (23 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's recommendations for accurate torque values.

Brakes

Torque specifications for Brakes

Brake Caliper

1

Brake Caliper Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
58 ft-lbs (78 N·m)
2

Brake Caliper Mounting Bracket Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Specification
101 ft-lbs (137 N·m)

Brake Disc Drum

1

Brake Disc/Drum Retaining Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)

Wheel Assembly

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
88 ft-lbs (120 N·m)

Brake Master Cylinder

1

Brake Master Cylinder Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
27 ft-lbs (37 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's instructions for the correct torque value.

Brake Booster

1

Brake Booster Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
27 ft-lbs (37 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's instructions for the correct torque value.

Abs Module

1

ABS Module Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
17 ft-lbs (23 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's instructions for the correct torque value.

Brake Lines

1

Brake Line Fittings

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's instructions for the correct torque value.

Drivetrain

Torque specifications for Drivetrain

Engine

1

Flywheel Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
59 ft-lbs (80 N·m)
2

Crankshaft Position Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1
Torque Specification
12.5 ft-lbs (17 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on general industry standards.
3

Camshaft Position Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1
Torque Specification
12.5 ft-lbs (17 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on general industry standards.

Transmission

1

Transmission Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
59 ft-lbs (80 N·m)
2

Transmission Pan Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
22.5 ft-lbs (30.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on general industry standards.

Drivetrain

1

Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
54 ft-lbs (73 N·m)
2

CV Joint/Axle Nut

M20 x 1.5
Torque Specification
137 ft-lbs (186 N·m)
3

Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
49 ft-lbs (66 N·m)

Differential

1

Differential Drain/Fill Plug

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
36 ft-lbs (49 N·m)
2

Differential Cover Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on general industry standards.

Transfer Case

1

Transfer Case Drain/Fill Plug

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)
2

Transfer Case Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on general industry standards.

Electrical

Torque specifications for Electrical

Alternator And Starter Motor

1

Alternator Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)
2

Starter Motor Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
32 ft-lbs (43 N·m)

Battery Terminals

1

Battery Terminal Nuts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
4.4 ft-lbs (6 N·m)

Ignition Coil And Fuel Pump

1

Ignition Coil Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
1. 10 ft-lbs (14 N·m) 2. 12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated torque values based on general industry guidelines.
2

Fuel Pump Electrical Connector Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
1. 5 ft-lbs (7 N·m) 2. 7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated torque values based on general industry guidelines.

A/C Compressor

1

A/C Compressor Electrical Connector Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
1. 5 ft-lbs (7 N·m) 2. 7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated torque values based on general industry guidelines.

Emissions Sensors

Torque specifications for Emissions_sensors

Oxygen Sensors

1

Oxygen Sensor Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
26 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, as the original specification was not provided.
2

Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
26 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, as the original specification was not provided.

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System

1

EGR Valve Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)

Fuel System

1

Fuel Injector Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
2

Fuel Rail Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)

Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) and Exhaust Gas Oxygen (EGO) Sensor

1

Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, as the original specification was not provided.
2

Exhaust Gas Oxygen (EGO) Sensor Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
26 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, as the original specification was not provided.

Exhaust

Torque specifications for Exhaust

Exhaust Manifold

1

Exhaust Manifold/Headers to Engine Block Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
2

Exhaust Manifold/Headers to Cylinder Head Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)

Exhaust Piping

1

Exhaust Pipe to Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
2

Catalytic Converter to Exhaust Pipe Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
3

Muffler to Exhaust Pipe Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)

Exhaust Accessories

1

Oxygen Sensor Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
17 ft-lbs (23 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's instructions for specific torque values.
2

Exhaust System Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's instructions for specific torque values.
3

Heat Shield Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's instructions for specific torque values.

Fuel

Torque specifications for Fuel

Fuel Rail and Injector System

1

Fuel Rail Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
2

Fuel Injector Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
3

Fuel Injector Rail Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)

Fuel Pump and Tank System

1

Fuel Pump Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
2

Fuel Tank Strap Bolts

M14 x 2.0
Torque Specification
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)
3

Fuel Filler Neck Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)

Fuel Filter and Pressure Regulator System

1

Fuel Filter Bolt/Nut

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
2

Fuel Pressure Regulator Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
1. 10 ft-lbs (14 N·m) 2. 12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated torque values based on general industry standards.

Fuel Line and Vent System

1

Fuel Line Fittings

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
1. 10 ft-lbs (14 N·m) 2. 12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated torque values based on general industry standards.
2

Fuel Tank Vent Valve Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
1. 5 ft-lbs (7 N·m) 2. 7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated torque values based on general industry standards.

Hvac

Torque specifications for Hvac

A/C Compressor Mounting

1

A/C Compressor Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
32 ft-lbs (43 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated bolt size. Consult manufacturer's recommendations for specific torque values.

A/C Line Fittings

1

A/C Line Fittings

N/A
Torque Specification
N/A
Important Notes
Hand-tighten only. Do not overtighten, as this could damage the lines or fittings.

A/C Condenser Mounting

1

A/C Condenser Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
17.5 ft-lbs (23.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated bolt size and torque value. Consult manufacturer's recommendations for specific torque values.

A/C Evaporator Mounting

1

A/C Evaporator Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
12.5 ft-lbs (17 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated bolt size and torque value. Consult manufacturer's recommendations for specific torque values.

A/C Refrigerant Line Bracket

1

A/C Refrigerant Line Bracket Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
12.5 ft-lbs (17 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated bolt size and torque value. Consult manufacturer's recommendations for specific torque values.

Heater Core Mounting

1

Heater Core Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
12.5 ft-lbs (17 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated bolt size and torque value. Consult manufacturer's recommendations for specific torque values.

Suspension

Torque specifications for Suspension

Front Suspension

1

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Secure the strut/shock absorber to the vehicle's frame.
2

Control Arm Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Attach the control arms to the vehicle's frame.
3

Ball Joint Nut

M16 x 1.5
Torque Specification
65 ft-lbs (88 N·m)
Important Notes
Secure the ball joint to the control arm.
4

Upper Control Arm Bushing Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Specification
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Secure the upper control arm bushings to the control arm.
5

Lower Control Arm Bushing Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Specification
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Secure the lower control arm bushings to the control arm.

Steering System

1

Tie Rod End Nut

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Secure the tie rod end to the steering rack.
2

Steering Gear/Rack Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Specification
116 ft-lbs (157 N·m)
Important Notes
Secure the steering gear/rack to the vehicle's frame.
3

Steering Knuckle Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Specification
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Secure the steering knuckle to the strut/shock absorber.

Sway Bar System

1

Sway Bar Link Nut

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
28 ft-lbs (38 N·m)
Important Notes
Secure the sway bar link to the control arm.
2

Stabilizer Bar Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Secure the stabilizer bar to the vehicle's frame.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines

Common Issues

Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns

Loose Components

Symptoms:
  • Rattling or vibration noises
  • Visible movement in components
  • Uneven panel gaps
Solutions:
  • Clean threads and mounting surfaces
  • Replace damaged fasteners
  • Apply proper torque in sequence
  • Use thread locker if specified

Stripped Fasteners

Symptoms:
  • Unable to achieve proper torque
  • Fastener spins freely
  • Visible thread damage
Solutions:
  • Use thread repair kit if appropriate
  • Install thread insert (HeliCoil)
  • Replace component if threaded hole is damaged
  • Upgrade to higher grade fastener if recommended

Overtightened Components

Symptoms:
  • Cracked or deformed parts
  • Broken fasteners
  • Compressed gaskets or seals
Solutions:
  • Replace damaged components
  • Use new fasteners
  • Follow proper torque sequence
  • Verify correct torque specifications

Diagnostic Steps

Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment

1

Visual Inspection

Inspect the affected area for any visible signs of damage or wear

  • Check for cracks or deformation
  • Look for signs of excessive wear
  • Verify proper fastener installation
2

Torque Verification

Verify the torque applied to the fasteners

  • Check the torque wrench calibration
  • Verify the torque specification
  • Compare the applied torque to the specification
3

Thread Assessment

Assess the condition of the threads

  • Check for signs of thread damage
  • Verify the thread type and size
  • Check for proper thread engagement

Prevention Guidelines

Best practices, maintenance tips, tool care

Best Practices

  • Always follow the recommended torque specification
  • Use the correct type and size of fasteners
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration regularly

Maintenance Tips

  • Regularly inspect the affected area for signs of wear or damage
  • Replace damaged or worn-out components promptly
  • Keep the work area clean and organized

Tool Care

  • Regularly clean and maintain the torque wrench
  • Store the torque wrench in a dry and secure location
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration before each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What IS the specified torque for the lug nuts on a 2009-2013 Subaru Forester?

100 ft-lbs (135 Nm) using a calibrated torque wrench.

Q2

IS it important to lubricate the bolts before applying torque?

Yes, applying a light coat of anti-seize lubricant to the threads of the bolts will help prevent seizing and allow for easier removal during future servicing.

Q3

What IS the recommended torque for the oil drain plug on a Subaru Forester?

29 ft-lbs (39 Nm). Overtightening the oil drain plug can damage the oil pan or strip the threads.

Q4

How can I ensure accurate torque readings when tightening bolts?

Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow the specified torque values for each component. Using an inaccurate torque wrench can lead to under or overtightening, which can compromise the integrity of the connection.

Q5

What IS the torque specification for the timing belt tensioner bolt on a 2010 Subaru Forester?

59 ft-lbs (80 Nm) for the 2.5L engine. Refer to the Subaru factory service manual for specific torque values for other engine configurations.

Q6

What are the potential consequences of overtightening bolts?

Overtightening bolts can stretch or damage the threads, weaken the bolt or the component it's securing, or even cause the bolt to break.

Environmental Considerations

Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications

Temperature Effects

Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling

Temperature can significantly impact torque values and fastener behavior

Cold Weather

Effects:
  • Increased material brittleness
  • Higher torque required due to thread contraction
  • Reduced thread lubricant effectiveness
Recommendations:
  • Allow components to warm to room temperature when possible
  • Consider using winter-grade thread lubricants
  • Check torque values more frequently during winter months

Hot Weather

Effects:
  • Thermal expansion of components
  • Decreased friction in threads
  • Accelerated lubricant breakdown
Recommendations:
  • Check torque when components are at normal operating temperature
  • Use temperature-resistant thread lockers
  • Consider re-torquing after heat cycles

Humidity and Corrosion

Covers: Rust Prevention, Salt Exposure, Moisture Control

Moisture and corrosion can affect fastener integrity and torque values

High Humidity

Effects:
  • Accelerated corrosion formation
  • Reduced friction coefficient
  • Potential thread seizing
Prevention:
  • Use corrosion-resistant fasteners
  • Apply appropriate anti-seize compounds
  • Maintain proper protective coatings

Salt Exposure

Effects:
  • Rapid corrosion development
  • Thread damage
  • Seized fasteners
Prevention:
  • Regular underbody washing
  • Use of sacrificial anodes where appropriate
  • Application of protective coatings

Seasonal Maintenance

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter maintenance schedules

Spring

  • Inspect for winter damage
  • Clean and protect exposed fasteners
  • Check torque on critical components

Summer

  • Monitor heat-affected components
  • Check expansion-related loosening
  • Inspect cooling system mounts

Fall

  • Prepare for winter conditions
  • Apply corrosion protection
  • Verify all fasteners are properly torqued

Winter

  • More frequent inspection of critical fasteners
  • Check for salt damage
  • Monitor suspension component torque

Related Resources

Tools, service procedures, and technical bulletins

Recommended Tools

Precise Torque Wrench (10-100 Nm)

Crucial for tightening bolts with exact torque, preventing damage and ensuring proper assembly. This range covers most requirements for the Forester.

  • High accuracy with traceable calibration
  • Click-type mechanism for precise torque application
  • Ergonomic design for comfort and ease of use
  • Reversible ratcheting head for efficient use
Learn more
Service Procedures

Bolt Tightening Procedure for 2009-2013 Subaru Forester

Comprehensive guide to proper bolt tightening techniques and torque specifications for the Forester.

  • Clean all bolts and threads to remove any dirt or debris.
  • Apply anti-seize compound to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth assembly and disassembly.
  • Use the specified torque wrench to tighten the bolts gradually to the recommended torque.
  • Double-check the tightness of the bolts after assembly to ensure they are properly secured.
  • Refer to the torque specifications provided below for specific bolt locations and torque requirements.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Service Bulletin: Updated Torque Specifications for 2010-2013 Subaru Forester Control Arm Bolts

2011-06-15

This bulletin provides revised torque specifications for the control arm bolts of 2010-2013 foresters. The updated torque values are intended to improve suspension performance and handling.

2010-2013 Forester

Resolution: Replace the existing control arm bolts with new bolts and tighten them to the updated torque specifications provided in the bulletin.

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About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

Facebook Contact
15+ Years
Experience
500+ Guides
Guides
50+ Makes
Vehicles
1000+ Solutions
Solutions

Diagnostic

Specialized in advanced diagnostic techniques using modern scan tools and oscilloscopes.

Repair

Expert in both traditional mechanical repairs and modern vehicle systems.

Additional Expertise

Documentation

Created over 500 detailed repair guides and technical documents.

Training

Conducted technical training sessions and contributed to repair databases.

Certifications & Research

Certifications

  • ASE Master Technician Certification
  • Advanced Diagnostic Specialist
  • Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Systems
  • Performance Tuning Expert

Research & Community

Actively researches emerging technologies and contributes to automotive forums.

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