Understanding your 2014 Subaru Forester’s fuse box is crucial for diagnosing and resolving electrical issues. Specifically, when it comes to using your OBD2 scanner, knowing the correct fuse location is essential. This guide will walk you through the fuse box locations in your 2014 Subaru Forester and pinpoint the fuses relevant to your OBD2 port and related systems.
Fuse Box Locations in Your 2014 Subaru Forester
Your 2014 Subaru Forester, part of the fourth-generation SJ series (2013-2018), has two main fuse box locations:
1. Passenger Compartment Fuse Box
The primary fuse box, easily accessible, is located inside the passenger compartment. You’ll find it to the left of the steering wheel, behind a protective cover.
Passenger Compartment Fuse Box Location in a Subaru Forester SJ (2013-2018)
This fuse box houses fuses that control many of the interior electrical functions of your Forester, including some systems related to the OBD2 port.
2. Engine Compartment Fuse Box
The second fuse box is situated in the engine compartment, typically on the driver’s side. This box protects circuits for components under the hood.
Engine Compartment Fuse Box Location in a Subaru Forester SJ (2013-2018)
This fuse box contains higher amperage fuses and relays for critical engine and vehicle systems.
Fuse Box Diagrams for 2014 Subaru Forester
Below are the fuse diagrams for both the Instrument Panel (passenger compartment) and Engine Compartment fuse boxes in your 2014 Subaru Forester. These diagrams are essential for identifying the correct fuse for a specific circuit.
Instrument Panel Fuse Box Diagram (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016)
This diagram applies to your 2014 Subaru Forester.
Instrument Panel Fuse Assignment (2014, 2015, 2016):
| № | Amp rating | Circuit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 20A | Trailer hitch connector |
| 2 | Empty | |
| 3 | 15A | Door locking |
| 4 | 10A | Front wiper deicer relay |
| 5 | 10A | Combination meter |
| 6 | 7.5A | Remote control rear view mirrors, Seat heater relay |
| 7 | 15A | Combination meter, Integrated unit |
| 8 | 15A | Stop light |
| 9 | 15A | Front wiper deicer |
| 10 | 7.5A | Power supply (battery) |
| 11 | 7.5A | Turn signal unit |
| 12 | 15A | Transmission control unit, Engine control unit, Integrated unit |
| 13 | 20A | Accessory power outlet (center console) |
| 14 | 15A | Parking light, Tail light, Rear combination light |
| 15 | 10A | Luggage light, Keyless unit |
| 16 | 7.5A | Illumination |
| 17 | 15A | Seat heaters |
| 18 | 10A | Backup light |
| 19 | 7.5A | Daytime running lights |
| 20 | 10A | Accessory power outlet (instrument panel) |
| 21 | 7.5A | Starter relay |
| 22 | 10A | Air conditioner, Rear window defogger relay coil |
| 23 | Empty | |
| 24 | 10A | Audio unit, Navigation system (if equipped) |
| 25 | 15A | SRS airbag system |
| 26 | 7.5A | Power window relay, Radiator main fan relay |
| 27 | 15A | Blower fan |
| 28 | 15A | Blower fan |
| 29 | 15A | Fog light |
| 30 | Empty | |
| 31 | 7.5A | Auto air conditioner unit, Integrated unit |
| 32 | 7.5A | Clutch switch, Steering lock control unit |
| 33 | 7.5A | Vehicle Dynamics Control unit |
Engine Compartment Fuse Box Diagram (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016)
This diagram is also relevant to your 2014 Subaru Forester.
Engine Compartment Fuse Assignment (2014, 2015, 2016):
| № | Amp rating | Circuit |
|---|---|---|
| A | Main fuse | |
| 1 | 30A | ABS unit, Vehicle Dynamics Control unit |
| 2 | 25A | Main fan (cooling fan) |
| 3 | 25A | Sub fan (cooling fan) |
| 4 | Empty | |
| 5 | 25A | Audio |
| 6 | 30A | Headlight (low beam) |
| 7 | 15A | Headlight (high beam) |
| 8 | 20A | Back-up |
| 9 | 15A | Horn |
| 10 | 25A | Rear window defogger, Mirror heater |
| 11 | 20A | Fuel pump |
| 12 | 20A | Continuously variable transmission control unit |
| 13 | 7.5 A | Engine control unit |
| 14 | 15A | Turn and hazard warning flasher |
| 15 | 15A | Tail and illumination relay |
| 16 | 7.5 A | Alternator |
| 17 | Empty | |
| 18 | Empty | |
| 19 | 15A | Headlight (low beam – right hand) |
| 20 | 15A | Headlight (low beam – left hand) |
Identifying the OBD2 Fuse Location in a 2014 Subaru Forester
While there isn’t a fuse explicitly labeled “OBD2” or “Diagnostic Port,” several fuses are crucial for the OBD2 system to function correctly. Here are the key fuses to check if you are experiencing issues with your OBD2 port or scanner in your 2014 Subaru Forester:
-
Fuse #12 (15A) in the Instrument Panel Fuse Box: This fuse is labeled “Transmission control unit, Engine control unit, Integrated unit.” The Engine Control Unit (ECU) is the brain of your engine management system and is essential for OBD2 diagnostics. A blown fuse #12 could directly impact your OBD2 port’s ability to communicate. This is a primary suspect for OBD2 related issues.
-
Fuse #10 (7.5A) in the Instrument Panel Fuse Box: Labeled “Power supply (battery),” this fuse is part of the general power supply system. While not directly labeled for OBD2, it’s important for overall system power and could indirectly affect the diagnostic port if it disrupts power to related modules.
-
Accessory Power Outlet Fuses (Fuse #13 & #20 in the Instrument Panel Fuse Box): If your OBD2 scanner is powered through the vehicle’s accessory power outlets (cigarette lighter ports), check these fuses:
- Fuse #13 (20A): “Accessory power outlet (center console)”
- Fuse #20 (10A): “Accessory power outlet (instrument panel)”
If your scanner is not powering on, and you are using one of these outlets, a blown fuse here could be the problem, preventing your scanner from working.
Troubleshooting Steps for OBD2 Fuse Issues:
- Locate the Fuse Boxes: Use the location descriptions and images provided earlier to find both fuse boxes in your 2014 Subaru Forester.
- Identify Potential Fuses: Refer to the fuse diagrams and the fuse numbers mentioned above (Fuse #12, #10, #13, #20 in the Instrument Panel Fuse Box).
- Inspect the Fuses: Visually inspect each fuse. A blown fuse typically has a broken wire inside or a dark/melted appearance. You can also use a fuse tester for more certainty.
- Replace Blown Fuses: If you find a blown fuse, replace it with a new fuse of the exact same amperage rating. Using a fuse with a higher amperage rating can damage your vehicle’s electrical system.
- Test Your OBD2 Port: After replacing any blown fuses, try your OBD2 scanner again to see if it is now functioning correctly.
Important Notes:
- Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Always refer to your 2014 Subaru Forester owner’s manual for the most accurate fuse diagrams and fuse locations specific to your vehicle. Fuse layouts can sometimes vary slightly based on trim level and options.
- Why Fuses Blow: Fuses blow to protect electrical circuits from overloads. If a fuse blows repeatedly, it indicates a problem in the circuit that needs further diagnosis, not just fuse replacement.
- Professional Help: If you are unsure about working with fuses or continue to experience OBD2 issues after checking the fuses, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic.
By understanding the fuse box locations and relevant fuse assignments, you can effectively troubleshoot potential fuse-related issues with your 2014 Subaru Forester’s OBD2 system and ensure your diagnostic tools are functioning as expected.
