Subaru Forester Quiz
Maintenance and service

Air cleaner element

In this manual: Maintenance and service
Foreword — 1Warranties — 5How to use this Owner’s Manual — 5Vehicle symbols — 1Safety precautions when driving — 14General information — 1Illustrated index — 7Function settings — 1Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags — 77Keys and doors — 169Climate control — 54Audio — 189Interior equipment — 38Starting and operating — 85Driving tips — 49In case of emergency — 21Appearance care — 17Maintenance and service — 103Specifications — 21Consumer information and Reporting safety defects — 31
~1min read
Do not operate the engine with the

Do not operate the engine with the air cleaner element removed. The air cleaner element not only filters intake air but also stops flames if the engine backfires. If the air cleaner element is not installed when the engine backfires, you could be burned.

When replacing the air cleaner element,

When replacing the air cleaner element, use a genuine SUBARU air cleaner element. If it is not used, there is the possibility of causing a negative effect to the engine.

The air cleaner element functions as a filter screen. When the element is perforated or removed, engine wear will be excessive and engine life shortened.

It is not necessary to clean or wash the element.

Test yourself

A quick Subaru Forester quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.