2021 Subaru Forester Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage

Quick Answer

The 2021 Subaru Forester typically has three fuse box locations: one under the hood, one under the dashboard (driver's side kick panel), and one in the cargo area (rear right side).

Under-Hood Fuse Box

This fuse box is located in the engine compartment, usually on the driver's side, near the battery. It contains fuses and relays for major components like the engine control module (ECM), fuel pump, headlights, cooling fan, and ABS system. Always refer to the diagram on the fuse box lid for the most accurate information for your specific trim.

Relay Locations (Under-Hood):

• R1: Cooling Fan Relay 1
• R2: Cooling Fan Relay 2
• R3: Fuel Pump Relay
• R4: A/C Compressor Clutch Relay
• R5: Starter Relay
• R6: Main Relay (ECM/PCM)
• R7: Headlight Relay
• R8: Horn Relay

Passenger Compartment Fuse Box (Driver's Side Kick Panel)

This fuse box is located on the driver's side, behind a cover in the kick panel area. It typically houses fuses for interior electrical components such as the radio, infotainment system, power windows, sunroof, and dashboard lights. Due to potential trim variations, always consult your owner's manual or the diagram printed on the fuse box cover.

Cargo Area Fuse Box (Rear Right Side)

This fuse box is typically located in the cargo area, often behind a removable panel on the right side. It primarily houses fuses for components in the rear of the vehicle, such as the power liftgate, rear accessories, and sometimes specific trailer-related circuits. Again, check your vehicle's specific diagram.

How to Test a Fuse

Testing a fuse is a simple process that can save you a trip to the mechanic. Here's how:

1. Locate the Fuse Box: Identify the correct fuse box for the circuit you're troubleshooting.
2. Identify the Suspect Fuse: Refer to the fuse box diagram (either on the lid or in your owner's manual) to find the fuse for the component that isn't working.
3. Visually Inspect: Many fuses (especially mini and ATO blade fuses) have a small wire visible through the clear plastic body. If this wire is broken or melted, the fuse is blown. Remove the fuse using a fuse puller (usually included in the fuse box or tool kit).
4. Use a Multimeter (for more accurate testing):
   • Set your multimeter to the continuity or ohm setting.
   • Touch the multimeter probes to the two metal terminals on top of the fuse (or the metal blades if removed).
   • A good fuse will show a reading close to zero ohms or beep (if on continuity setting), indicating a closed circuit. A blown fuse will show an "OL" (open loop) or no reading, indicating an open circuit.
5. Replace with a New Fuse: If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the exact same amperage rating and type. Using a fuse with a higher amperage can cause serious electrical damage or fire.

Common Blown Fuses on This Vehicle

While any fuse can blow, some are more commonly encountered due to frequent use or typical accessory loads. If you experience an issue, here are some common circuits to check first for the 2021 Subaru Forester:

• Cigar Lighter / 12V Power Outlets (F6 in Passenger Compartment, F20 in Under-Hood, F1 in Cargo Area): These fuses are often blown by overloading the outlet with high-power accessories like phone chargers, portable air compressors, or even faulty devices. If your devices aren't charging, check these first.
• Headlights (F9-F12 in Under-Hood): While less common with modern LED systems, a high-beam or low-beam fuse can still blow. If one headlight is out and the bulb is confirmed good, check the corresponding fuse.
• Radio / Infotainment (F1-F2 in Passenger Compartment): Issues with the radio not turning on, or sound problems, can sometimes be traced to a blown fuse, though often these systems have deeper electronic issues. Still, it's a quick check.
• Blower Motor (F8 in Under-Hood): If your HVAC fan isn't working on any speed, particularly after heavy use, this fuse could be the culprit. A failing blower motor can draw excessive current and blow the fuse.
• Brake Lights (F17 in Under-Hood): If your brake lights aren't working (and the bulbs are good), this fuse is a common point of failure. It's a critical safety component, so check it immediately.

Always check the printed legend on the fuse box lid or in your owner's manual for the most accurate fuse locations and amperages for your specific vehicle's trim level.

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