Maintenance Inspections for Subaru:

Windshield Wiper and Washer

Check the operation of the windshield wiper system and the condition of the windshield wiper blades. Winter weather has a way of reducing the effectiveness of the wiper blades. Check the operation and aim of the windshield washer jets and make sure the washer fluid reservoir contains an adequate quantity of windshield washer solvent. The windshield washer jets can be aimed by carefully inserting a needle into the nozzle, then adjusting the nozzle for the proper aim.

Doors

All door handles and door locks must operate properly. Lubricate the door hinges with a Subaru-approved spray lubricant.

Seat Belts

Check the seat belts for proper operation. The seat belt webbing must not be cut or frayed, as this will affect its ability to perform properly in an accident. Subaru vehicles feature ELR/ALR seat belts. These combination lap and shoulder belts, called three-point seat belts, feature an Emergency Locking Re-tractor (ELR).

This re-tractor allows for normal body movement, but locks automatically to protect you during a sudden stop or impact. In some models, this feature will engage if you quickly pull the belt out of the re-tractor.

Some people may not be familiar with the proper operation of the ELR/ALR seat belts. To secure a child restraint system using a three-point seat belt, switch to the Automatic Locking Re-tractor (ALR) mode:

• Place the child restraint system on the seat.

• Fasten the lap and shoulder belts to the child restraint system following the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Take up any slack in the lap portion of the belt.

• Put the shoulder portion of the belt between the rear seat-back and the child restraint system.

• Pull out the seat belt fully from the re-tractor to change from ELR to ALR. Then allow the belt to rewind into the re-tractor. You’ll hear clicks as the belt rewinds to indicate the re-tractor now functions as ALR.

• Before putting a child in the restraint system, move it back and forth to check if it’s firmly secured. If not, try pushing the child restraint system down into the seat cushion, then tightening the belt.

• Pull at the shoulder portion of the belt to make sure it can’t be pulled out (ALR functioning properly).

To convert from ALR to ELR mode, simply allow the belt to rewind fully into the retractor. Remember: Children under 12 should always ride in the rear seat, properly restrained at all times. Review the operation of ELR/ALR seat belts with your customers.