Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Starter motor

2017 Subaru Forester starter motor — what it does and how to look after it

Technical sources confirm the 2017 Subaru Forester is fitted with a conventional 12‑volt starter motor. The Subaru Forester Service Manual for the SJ chassis (2015–2018) includes a dedicated Starter section within the Starting/Charging System, outlining diagnosis and removal/installation procedures for a Denso reduction‑type unit. The 2017 Forester Owner’s Manual also references starter operation and no‑start troubleshooting, and Subaru’s electronic parts catalog lists distinct starter assemblies for the 2.5‑litre petrol, 2.0‑litre turbo petrol, and 2.0‑litre diesel variants. So yes—this model absolutely uses a starter motor.

The starter motor’s job is simple but critical: it spins the boxer engine fast enough for fuel and spark to take over. Turn the key or press the button, the solenoid pushes the pinion into the flywheel ring gear, and the motor cranks the engine. On vehicles equipped with Auto Stop‑Start, the starter is designed to handle more frequent starts, so battery health and clean connections are extra important.

As part of regular servicing of a 2017 Forester, it’s smart to show the starter some love. While starters often last well past 150,000 km, the high cycle count from short‑trip driving or Stop‑Start use can wear solenoid contacts and brushes. Common warning signs include a single click with no crank, slow or laboured cranking, intermittent no‑start that’s fixed by jiggling the shifter (neutral safety switch involvement), or a grind at engagement.

• Keep the battery in top nick: test state of charge and load performance, low voltage is starter‑killer number one.
• Clean and tighten the battery terminals and main earths, check the heavy starter cable for corrosion or heat damage.
• Listen carefully: one click suggests solenoid/contact issues, rapid clicking points to low voltage, a whirr without crank can mean a slipping pinion.
• Check the starter fuse/relay and, on CVT models, the inhibitor switch if there’s no crank in Park but it starts in Neutral.
• When replacement’s due, disconnect the negative terminal, allow time for modules to sleep, and follow torque specs in the Subaru Service Manual. Access typically involves intake duct removal to reach the upper mounting fastener.
• If the vehicle has Stop‑Start, consider a high‑quality replacement unit and ensure the AGM/EFB battery meets spec to avoid premature wear.

A pro inspection can confirm whether the issue is the starter itself or upstream (battery, grounds, ignition switch, or relay). Getting that right saves time and coin, and keeps the Forester firing first twist under the bonnet.

Popular questions about 2017 Subaru Forester starter motors

How long should a starter motor last on a 2017 Forester?

Many last well beyond 150,000 km, and plenty push past 200,000 km. Driving patterns matter: frequent short trips and Stop‑Start increase cycle counts, which can wear contacts and brushes earlier. Keeping the battery healthy and connections clean helps extend service life.

What are the first checks if my Forester just clicks and won’t start?

Start with the battery: check voltage under load and inspect terminals for corrosion. Verify the main earth strap and starter cable are tight. Then check the starter fuse/relay and try starting in Neutral (CVT) in case the inhibitor switch is out of adjustment. If voltage is good at the starter but it still only clicks, the solenoid or internal contacts may be worn.

Can I replace the starter at home?

It’s doable for a confident DIYer with the right tools, but space is tight. Disconnect the negative terminal, remove intake ducting for access, and note wiring orientation. The unit is secured to the bellhousing with a couple of bolts. Always follow the Subaru Service Manual for torque specs and safety steps. If in doubt, a qualified tech can knock it over quickly.