Disconnecting your car battery can sometimes feel like a necessary evil. While it’s often required for certain maintenance tasks, it can lead to a frustrating loss of your radio presets, clock settings, and even impact your car’s performance as control modules reset their learned data. Many vehicles retain these settings through constant power, sometimes accessible via the accessory power outlet for a temporary power supply during battery changes. However, Subaru vehicles, including the 2013 Forester, operate differently, making the accessory outlet method ineffective. So, where can you find a reliable power source to prevent memory loss in your 2013 Subaru Forester when disconnecting the battery? The answer lies in your car’s OBD2 port.
For Subaru owners, the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) connector offers a practical solution for maintaining power during battery disconnection. Specifically, pin 16 of the OBD2 port is constantly powered, providing a direct connection to the vehicle’s electrical system. This constant power source allows you to use a 12V power supply to keep your car’s memory intact while the battery is disconnected.
Many automotive service centers utilize specialized adapters to connect an external 12V power source, such as a jump starter battery, through the OBD2 port. This connection, typically made via a 7.5 Amp fused circuit, effectively maintains power to the car’s essential electronic systems. By using this method, you can confidently disconnect your 2013 Subaru Forester’s battery without losing crucial settings and learned data.
An example of a typical OBD2 port location in a vehicle. The 2013 Subaru Forester OBD2 port location is similarly situated under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
However, it’s crucial to exercise caution when using the OBD2 port for this purpose. While the 7.5 Amp fuse is sufficient for maintaining the minimal power needed by the car’s modules, it’s not designed to handle significant electrical loads. A common mistake is inadvertently turning on accessories, such as interior lights by opening a door, while the battery is disconnected and external power is supplied through the OBD2 port. The sudden draw of current from these accessories can easily exceed the 7.5 Amp fuse limit.
If the current draw surpasses the fuse rating, the fuse will blow, effectively interrupting the power supply and resulting in the same memory loss you were trying to prevent. This often manifests as a reset clock and radio, and in some cases, a temporary rough idle as the engine control module (ECM) relearns its parameters.
This scenario is a common occurrence, even for experienced technicians. It’s possible that if you’ve recently had your Subaru’s battery replaced and noticed these resets, a blown fuse during a memory-saving attempt could be the culprit.
It’s important to note that a blown fuse in this context is unrelated to Check Engine Lights (CELs). A blown fuse will not trigger a CEL. However, it can prevent an OBD2 code reader from functioning correctly if the reader relies on the car’s power through the OBD2 port to operate. If you are experiencing issues with your OBD2 reader after a battery replacement, checking this fuse could be a simple first step in troubleshooting.
Key Takeaways for Using the 2013 Subaru Forester OBD2 Port for Memory Saving:
- Location: The OBD2 port in your 2013 Subaru Forester is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- Pin 16: Pin 16 of the OBD2 port provides a constant 12V power supply.
- Fuse Protection: Use a 7.5 Amp fused adapter to protect the circuit.
- Minimize Power Draw: Ensure all accessories are turned off and doors are closed to avoid blowing the fuse.
- Troubleshooting: If memory is lost after attempting this method, check the 7.5 Amp fuse associated with the OBD2 port power supply.
By understanding the 2013 Subaru Forester OBD2 port location and the proper procedure for utilizing it as a temporary power source, you can confidently perform battery disconnects without the hassle of resetting your car’s important memory settings. This knowledge empowers you to maintain your vehicle effectively, whether you are a seasoned DIYer or simply want to be informed about your car’s systems.
