Close 
Subaru Forester Dashboard Warning Lights Guide in Wesley Chapel, FL
At our Subaru of Wesley Chapel Service Department, we receive countless questions about dashboard warning lights. While these illuminated symbols can sometimes cause concern, understanding what they mean helps you respond appropriately and keep your Forester running smoothly. Here's our guide to the most common warning lights you might encounter on drives in Wesley Chapel, FL.
Check Engine Light
The check engine light is perhaps the most familiar dashboard indicator. When this amber engine symbol appears as you go past places like Pinedale Park, it signals that your Forester's onboard diagnostic system has detected an issue with the emissions or engine management system. This could range from a loose gas cap to a more serious problem with your catalytic converter or oxygen sensors. Don't ignore this light. While your vehicle may continue running normally, we recommend scheduling a diagnostic appointment so our technicians can read the trouble codes and identify the exact issue before it becomes more serious or costly.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
If you see a red oil can symbol illuminate on your dashboard when driving on Route 581, pull over safely as soon as possible. This critical warning indicates low oil pressure, which could mean your engine isn't receiving adequate lubrication. Continuing to drive with this light on risks severe engine damage. Check your oil level immediately, and if it's low, add oil before driving further. If the light remains on even with proper oil levels, have your Forester towed to our service center to avoid catastrophic engine failure.
Battery/Charging System Light
The battery-shaped warning light indicates a problem with your charging system. Contrary to popular belief, this doesn't necessarily mean your battery needs replacement. More often, it points to issues with the alternator, serpentine belt, or electrical connections. Your Forester may continue running on battery power alone for a short time, but you should head directly to our service center before the battery drains completely and leaves you stranded.
Brake System Warning Light
When the brake warning light appears, it typically indicates one of two things: your parking brake is engaged, or your brake fluid level is low. First, ensure your parking brake is fully released. If the light persists, check your brake fluid reservoir. Low brake fluid suggests worn brake pads or a potential leak in the system. Either way, your braking performance could be compromised, so schedule an immediate inspection with our service team.
All-Wheel Drive Warning Light
Subaru's renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive system is a key feature of your Forester. If the AWD warning light illuminates, it indicates a malfunction in the system. This might involve issues with the transfer clutch, wheel speed sensors, or related components. While you can typically continue driving in front-wheel drive mode, you'll lose the traction advantages that make your Subaru special. Bring your vehicle in for diagnosis to restore full AWD functionality.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Light
The TPMS light, which looks like a horseshoe with an exclamation point, alerts you to low tire pressure in one or more tires. Proper tire inflation affects fuel economy, tire wear, and vehicle handling. Check all four tires plus your spare, and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver's door jamb. If the light blinks before staying solid, it indicates a malfunction in the monitoring system itself.
When in Doubt, Visit Us
Dashboard warning lights serve as your Forester's way of communicating its needs as you make your way to Seven Oaks Nature Trail or other areas. While some issues require immediate attention and others can wait for your next scheduled service, our experienced technicians are always here to help diagnose and resolve any concerns. We encourage Forester owners to contact our service center whenever warning lights appear so we can ensure your vehicle receives the proper care it deserves.
Save Money on Your Next Subaru Forester Service Visit!
- Check out our Service Specials!
Dealership Information
Testimonials
“ We have had nothing but good experiences with Subaru of Wesley Chapel.... from the time we purchased the Forester to servicing it. The people are all friendly. We could ask anyone there a question and they would be willing to take time to answer it or show us how a feature works. They are very involved in the community. We've been there when they sponsor a pet adoption event as well as a complimentary food truck. ”
“ We had an absolutely wonderful experience with John as our salesman. It couldn’t have been smoother. Everyone was so nice! ”
“ Very impressed. The entire staff was great., friendly and cordial. I never considered a Subaru, but I am glad I made the move. Thank you to everyone. Buying a new car has always been difficult in the.past. Not at your dealership. Very happy. Thank you again. ”
“ Outstanding customer service and support! ”
“ Michael Adam is brand new to this dealership but he did an amazing job. I got a 2026 Crosstrek and I’m loving it!!!!! We also share the same name haha ”
“ My A/C went out Sunday while I was driving to Florida for work. I came in unannounced on Monday morning and Garrett in the service department went above and beyond to help get everything handled. He arranged to have the needed parts overnighted, coordinated with my corporate fleet management, and made sure I had a loaner vehicle so I could keep working while my car was being repaired. Because of Garrett’s help, I was able to stay on schedule and make sure my customers didn’t miss their repairs. That level of service meant a lot, especially since I was just passing through town for work. If they treat a stranger this well, I can only imagine how well they take care of their regular customers. Thanks again, Garrett! ”
“ White glove service!! ”
“ Gabriel serafini in sales is great awesome to work with. Very people orientated. And Garrett in service department is awesome as well ”
“ Since I bought my Outback from them, I bring it back for oil changes and service. The service people are always friendly and efficient. This last time it took 4 hours for a thorough 30k mile service- and they gave me a loaner Outback. I recommend WC Subaru for no pressure sales and good service. ”
“ The service here is excellent! Even though I live closer to another Subaru dealership, I always make sure to go to the Wesley Chapel location because the service is unbeatable ”
“ Great Customer service. ”
“ I can’t thank Jarvis enough for the incredible service. He truly went above and beyond to ensure I got exactly what I was looking for without any of the usual pressure or 'games.' It was the easiest vehicle purchase I’ve ever made. 5 stars all the way! ”
“ (Translated by Google) Excellent service and very friendly. (Original) Exelente servicios y muy cordiales ”
“ Great experience with the team at Subaru Wesley Chapel. From finding a car, finance and recent service/maintenance, the team is very helpful and provides updates during process. Highly recommend if looking for a Subaru or servicing your current car. Thanks!! ”
Love my new Outback.
“ Love my new Outback. The dealership Is an awesome experience! It was so easy with our sales associate Mr Santiago. He was so knowledgeable and very patient. I will always refer friends & family to Subaru of Wesley Chapel ”
I have driven my Outback since Dec and love it.
“ I have driven my Outback since Dec and love it. The sales associate Ed Santiago was patient with me and made it so easy to buy the car. I test drove other models and went to other dealerships but this dealership was by far the most accommodating. Got a nail in my tire the first month and was quickly taken care of. I will refer friends and family to Subaru of Wesley Chapel for great selection and great staff ”
“ Finding the right Automobile dealer with regards to servicing ones car is critical, not only from the financial aspect, but also from the quality and customer service aspect. Specifically when making a major move from one state to another. I recently had my Vehicle serviced at Subaru of Wesley Chapel. Customer service being vital to every organization. Assistant Service Manager Justin Heiser is a great example of outstanding customer service. Justin had gone that extra mile to assist me with a detail explanation what had to be done to the car and at the same time advising me what can wait till the next service. including explaining the details of each item specified on the bill for parts replaced and the time required to complete the full service for (a) replacing the Front brake pads,(B) replace the left and right front bushings, (C) Wheel Alignment.. His honesty and integrity was much appreciated. Justin is definitely an asset to the Subaru of Wesley Chapel Organization. It is through actions as stated above by employees such as Justin, that enables Subaru of Wesley Chapel to have an edge over its competitors. I would definitely recommend Subaru of Wesley Chapel to family and friends and anyone Looking to purchase or service their Subaru Vehicle based on my personal experience. ”
“ Clean place . Staff always helpful and polite ”
“ Good service, performed warranty work for me in a timely manner and the waiting area was very comfortable. ”
“ Good service nice guys ”
“ Subaru of Wesley Chapel always has great and very helpful staff working in the service department. They have always taken great care of me and I appreciate them very much. I recommend their service department for your car. Thank you guys! ”
“ Absolutely a fantastic team in the service department. Zach keeps your updated and makes sure you know what’s going on in service all the way through. Molly also helped me out and was amazing as well!! ”
“ I've had three very positive experiences since last summer; 2 x 2019 Outbacks (twin daughters) & my own 2020 Forester Touring just recently. All three times, the service department did an outstanding diagnostic service and didn't charge me because I choose not to execute any of their recommendations. These experiences have earned my deepest gratitude & trust for any future needs. The only potential deficiency was with your service departments of my 2020 Forester was their review of its current warranty status via Corporate Subaru & any application to their recommendations. I just recently confirmed that my current battery is under a Subaru warranty & they were recommending a replacement @ cost. Your service department should verify any part warranty status that coincides with recommended work?! Sincerely, COL(R) Pete Quinn Wesley Chapel, FL ”
“ Efficient, Thorough and very pleasant to work with. Thank You for Your Great Service. ”
“ I just recently purchased a 2024 Subaru outback the whole experience was excellent. I had a very straightforward sales person who I told what I was looking for and he provided exactly what I wanted price and all we had to wait for financing but that was OK. They had a great atmosphere always free coffee hot chocolate. It was cold that day and it was a great experience. I’m loving driving my 2024 Subaru outback ”
“ Great service, prompt and professional communication throughout. I have had three regular maintenance services and a last-minute tire replacement appointment and my expectations were exceeded each time. Garrett was a huge help in determining how best to solve my flat tire situation and made sure I took advantage of my warranties and complimentary rotation. Thank you for making a stressful situation much smoother and safer! ”
“ Great dealership and an easy process. John Demarco was a pleasure to deal with. ”
“ Outstanding process purchasing my wife’s new 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid. John and Chris were super helpful and financing process was seamless! Would t choose another location to buy our next Subaru. ”
“ Great experience. I like to avoid going into a car dealer and negotiating. FOR OBVIOUS REASONS I was able to get a quote emailed. I replied with an offer and they accepted. Deal was done before entering dealer. Some dealers refuse to give written quotes and always tell you to come to the showroom. Those dealers don't want sell cars to people like me. Thanks Wesley Chapel Subaru. ”
“ Hipolito was great! very helpful and knowledgeable. ”
“ Luke was a very nice man. No pushy sales tactics. He has a very nice demeanor and he reminds me of my wonderful son. ”
“ Had the car I wanted (called before-2025 Forrester Hybrid Touring-white to make sure it was still there) .Fair discount for a sought after car. No pressure. Me and wife took test drive on our own. After deal was concluded; had tech specialist go over all the function and set up our phones, profiles and seating positions and turn off or on all our individual preferences. The financing was as about as good as you can get. So I would rate them a solid A! ”
“ We take ALL of our family vehicles here for service- Ford, VW, Audi, Hyundai too. They always do a thorough job at a fair price and are honest and transparent about what we need or don’t really need. They send a video so we can see exactly what the technician sees. 100% recommend this service department. ”
“ Great service!! ”
“ The service department is outstanding. Thorough work. Excellent Customer communication. They worked with me to get the best coupon/Discount for my oil change. And they checked absolutely everything on the vehicle to make sure it was operating well. I love my Subaru … and now I love my Subaru dealership as well. ♥️ ”
“ Amazing experience. So nice, kind, and the best prices around! ”
“ Great service ; overall a great experience! Also very dog friendly! Thx@ ”
“ I was surprised by the quality of the whole experience, from setting up the appointment through driving away with the repair completed. I'm still looking for the socks you "knocked off!" ”
“ Their service department is always beyond honest! They have helped me with my car for 3 years and zack has always been there for! He listens to me whine and always just smiles an i know at times he wants to say shut up! Thanks for the best service experience! The lady with flat tires all the time lol! ”