Quick answer

A gasoline 2026 Forester lets the driver switch Auto Start-Stop off from the Center Information Display, but the system returns to on after shutdown.

Before you start

Check that your vehicle has it.

Availability

Verified in the 2026 Forester Getting Started Guide for gasoline models; this procedure is not assigned to Forester Hybrid powertrains.

Retail trim / version
2026 Forester Base, 2026 Forester Premium, 2026 Forester Sport, 2026 Forester Wilderness, 2026 Forester Limited, 2026 Forester Touring
Compatibility check

Does the documented scope match your car?

This check combines the verified year, any source-supported powertrain scope, source-named trim/package and required equipment. It does not read a VIN or factory build record.

Can you see the required control, menu or equipment on your vehicle?
Published availability and qualifications

Verified in the 2026 Forester Getting Started Guide for gasoline models; this procedure is not assigned to Forester Hybrid powertrains.

Visual orientation

Know what kind of control to look for.

This original category diagram is an orientation aid, not a picture of your exact trim. Use the written labels and your vehicle manual to identify the real control.

Driving & traction orientation diagram for Subaru Forester
Driving & traction orientationOriginal visual guide · controls vary by trim · not to scale
How to use it

Step by step.

  1. 01

    Start the gasoline Forester and display the Center Information Display home screen.

  2. 02

    Select the Auto Start-Stop button on the home screen.

  3. 03

    Confirm the solid yellow Auto Start-Stop OFF indicator illuminates in the combination meter.

  4. 04

    Select the same home-screen button again if you want to reactivate the system during the drive.

  5. 05

    After the vehicle is shut off and restarted, check the setting again because it defaults back to on.

!

Important limits

  • The off choice is not permanent and resets after the vehicle is shut down.
  • A white No Activity Detected indicator means operating conditions for an automatic stop are not met; it is different from the yellow OFF indicator.
  • System operation depends on vehicle and cabin conditions described in the owner's manual.
If it does not work

Quick checks.

  • ✓If the engine does not stop while the feature is on, look for the white No Activity Detected indicator and review current operating conditions.
  • ✓If the yellow OFF indicator is absent, return to the home screen and select the Auto Start-Stop control again.
  • ✓If a warning remains displayed, leave the system on and consult the owner documentation or a Subaru retailer.
Owner feedback

What happened on your vehicle?

Your response is stored on this device. If you separately allow analytics, a non-account-linked guide/result event may also be measured. No VIN or personal information is requested.

Primary evidence

2026 Subaru Forester and Forester Hybrid Getting Started Guide

Relevant section or page: Operating the Vehicle — Auto Start-Stop, pages 44–45. We use the written official source to determine the steps and applicability shown above.

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Editorial record

Reviewed with a visible trail.

Scope and steps were checked by Car Cheat Codes Editorial Review. A guide is narrowed or corrected when the source does not support a broader claim.

Published
Last modified
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Guide change history
  • Initial official-source publication.