How to Change the Clock in Subaru Forester

Have you ever glanced at your Subaru Forester’s dashboard and noticed the clock is off by a few minutes—or even an hour? It happens more often than you’d think. Maybe daylight saving time just passed, your battery was recently replaced, or you drove through a time zone and forgot to adjust. Whatever the reason, knowing how to change the clock in your Subaru Forester is a small but important skill every owner should have.

Unlike some vehicles where the clock resets automatically or syncs with your phone, many Subaru Forester models—especially older ones—require a manual adjustment. And while it might seem straightforward, the process isn’t always intuitive. From button combinations on the steering wheel to hidden menus on the touchscreen, the method varies depending on your Forester’s year and trim level. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to walk you through every possible scenario, so you’ll never be left guessing again.

Why the Clock Matters in Your Subaru Forester

At first glance, the clock might seem like a minor feature—just a number on the dashboard. But in reality, it plays a bigger role in your driving experience than you might realize. For starters, it helps you keep track of time during long trips, coordinate with meeting schedules, or simply know when it’s time to pick up the kids. Plus, many Forester owners use the clock to time parking meters, track fuel stops, or sync with their daily routines.

Beyond convenience, an accurate clock can also affect other vehicle functions. For example, some Subaru models use the clock to time maintenance reminders or log trip data. If the time is off, these features might not work correctly. And let’s be honest—there’s something satisfying about having everything in your car perfectly aligned, from the radio presets to the clock. It’s a small touch that adds to the overall sense of control and comfort behind the wheel.

Understanding Your Subaru Forester’s Clock System

Before diving into the actual steps, it’s important to understand how the clock system works in different Subaru Forester models. Over the years, Subaru has evolved its dashboard and infotainment technology, which means the way you adjust the time has changed too. Let’s break it down by generation.

Older Models (2008–2013): Analog and Basic Digital Displays

Foresters from this era typically feature a simple digital clock embedded in the instrument cluster or center console. These clocks are controlled using physical buttons—often labeled “SET,” “H,” and “M”—located near the speedometer or climate controls. The process is straightforward: press and hold the “SET” button to enter edit mode, then use the hour and minute buttons to adjust the time. Once done, release the “SET” button to save.

For example, in a 2010 Subaru Forester, you’ll find a small cluster of buttons below the radio. One of them is marked “CLOCK.” Pressing and holding this button activates the time-setting mode. Then, use the “H” button to increase the hour and the “M” button to increase the minutes. It’s a bit old-school, but reliable and easy once you know where the buttons are.

Mid-Generation Models (2014–2018): Transition to Touchscreen

Starting around 2014, Subaru began integrating more advanced infotainment systems into the Forester, including touchscreen displays. These systems still allow manual clock adjustments, but the process shifted from physical buttons to on-screen menus. You’ll typically access the clock settings through the “Settings” or “System” menu on the touchscreen.

In a 2016 Forester, for instance, you’d tap the “Home” button on the screen, then select “Settings,” followed by “Clock” or “Time.” From there, you can manually input the correct time or choose to sync with GPS if available. Some models also allow you to toggle between 12-hour and 24-hour formats, which is handy if you prefer military time.

Newer Models (2019–2024): Advanced Infotainment and GPS Sync

The latest Subaru Forester models come equipped with the STARLINK infotainment system, which offers more automation and connectivity. One of the biggest improvements is the ability to sync the clock with GPS time, which automatically adjusts for time zones and daylight saving changes. This feature is especially useful for frequent travelers or those who drive across state lines.

However, if you prefer manual control or your GPS signal is weak, you can still adjust the time manually. In a 2022 Forester, for example, you’d go to the home screen, tap “Settings,” then “Clock,” and choose “Manual” instead of “Auto.” From there, you can set the hour and minute using on-screen controls. Some trims even allow you to adjust the clock using voice commands via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change the Clock in Your Subaru Forester

Now that you understand the different systems, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide for changing the clock in your Subaru Forester, broken down by model year and system type. Follow the instructions that match your vehicle to ensure a smooth and successful adjustment.

For 2008–2013 Subaru Forester Models

If you drive an older Forester, here’s how to set the clock using the physical buttons:

Turn on the ignition. You don’t need to start the engine, but the key should be in the “ON” or “ACC” position so the dashboard lights up.
Locate the clock buttons. Look for a cluster of small buttons near the instrument panel or below the radio. One should be labeled “CLOCK,” “SET,” or have a clock icon.
Press and hold the “CLOCK” or “SET” button. Hold it for about 3–5 seconds until the hour digits start blinking.
Adjust the hour. Use the “H” (hour) button to increase the hour. Keep pressing until the correct hour appears.
Press the “SET” or “CLOCK” button again. This will move the cursor to the minutes.
Adjust the minutes. Use the “M” (minute) button to set the correct minutes.
Press “SET” or “CLOCK” one more time to save. The clock will stop blinking and display the new time.

Pro Tip: If your Forester has a “RESET” button instead of “SET,” the process is similar—just hold it to enter edit mode. Also, make sure you’re setting the correct AM/PM if your model uses a 12-hour format.

For 2014–2018 Subaru Forester Models

For mid-generation Foresters with touchscreen systems, follow these steps:

Turn on the ignition. Again, the engine doesn’t need to be running, but the electronics must be powered.
Tap the “Home” button on the touchscreen. This is usually located at the bottom of the screen or as a physical button below the display.
Select “Settings” from the menu. Look for a gear icon or the word “Settings.”
Scroll to “Clock” or “Time Settings.” This may be under a submenu like “System” or “Display.”
Choose “Manual” if prompted. Some models default to “Auto” sync with GPS. Switch to “Manual” to input the time yourself.
Enter the correct hour and minute. Use the on-screen keypad or +/- buttons to adjust the time.
Tap “OK” or “Save” to confirm. The clock will update immediately.

Pro Tip: If you can’t find the clock settings, check your owner’s manual—some models hide it under “Vehicle Settings” or “Driver Assistance.” Also, if your screen is unresponsive, try restarting the infotainment system by turning the car off and on.

For 2019–2024 Subaru Forester Models

Newer Foresters with STARLINK make clock adjustments even easier, especially with GPS sync. Here’s how to do it:

Start the vehicle or turn the ignition to “ON.” Ensure the system is fully powered.
Tap the “Home” icon on the touchscreen. This brings up the main menu.
Select “Settings” (gear icon). Navigate to the system preferences.
Choose “Clock” or “Time & Date.” This may be under “General” or “System.”
Toggle between “Auto” and “Manual.” If you want the clock to update automatically, leave it on “Auto” and ensure GPS is enabled. For manual control, switch to “Manual.”
Adjust the time manually if needed. Use the on-screen controls to set the hour and minute.
Confirm your selection. Tap “Save” or “Done” to apply the changes.

Pro Tip: If your clock keeps resetting, check if the GPS signal is weak or if the vehicle’s battery was recently disconnected. Also, make sure “Daylight Saving Time” is enabled in the settings if you want automatic adjustments.

Troubleshooting Common Clock Issues

Even with clear instructions, you might run into a few hiccups when trying to change the clock in your Subaru Forester. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.

Clock Won’t Change or Save

If the clock won’t respond when you try to adjust it, the first thing to check is the ignition status. The vehicle must be in “ON” or “ACC” mode—just having the radio on isn’t enough. If that’s not the issue, try restarting the infotainment system by turning the car off completely, waiting 30 seconds, and turning it back on.

Another possibility is a software glitch. In newer models, a simple system reboot can resolve the issue. If the problem persists, consult your owner’s manual or visit a Subaru dealership for a software update.

Clock Resets After Battery Replacement

This is extremely common. When the battery is disconnected or dies, the clock loses power and resets to 12:00. The good news is that it’s easy to fix—just follow the steps above to reset the time. To avoid this in the future, consider using a memory saver device when replacing the battery, which keeps the electronics powered during the swap.

GPS Time Sync Not Working

If your Forester has GPS sync but the clock isn’t updating automatically, check your location settings. Make sure GPS is enabled in the system settings and that you’re in an area with a clear signal. Tall buildings, tunnels, or dense forests can block GPS signals. Also, verify that your vehicle’s software is up to date—Subaru occasionally releases updates that improve GPS accuracy.

Buttons or Touchscreen Unresponsive

Over time, buttons can wear out or touchscreens can become less sensitive. If the clock buttons aren’t working, try cleaning them with a soft cloth and isopropyl alcohol. For touchscreens, recalibrate the display through the settings menu. If hardware failure is suspected, a visit to the dealership may be necessary.

Tips for Maintaining an Accurate Clock

Once you’ve set the clock correctly, you’ll want to keep it that way. Here are a few tips to ensure your Subaru Forester’s clock stays accurate over time.

Enable GPS sync if available. This is the easiest way to keep the time accurate without manual adjustments.
Check the clock after battery work. Always verify the time after jump-starting or replacing the battery.
Update your vehicle’s software. Subaru releases updates that can improve system performance, including clock accuracy.
Use a phone mount with time display. As a backup, keep your phone visible so you always have a reliable time reference.
Set a reminder for daylight saving changes. Even with GPS sync, it’s good to double-check the time twice a year.

Conclusion

Changing the clock in your Subaru Forester might seem like a small task, but it’s one that can make a big difference in your daily driving experience. Whether you’re driving a classic 2008 model with physical buttons or a sleek 2024 Forester with GPS sync, knowing how to adjust the time ensures you’re always on schedule. With the step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting tips in this guide, you’ll be able to handle any clock-related issue with confidence.

Remember, the key is to know your model year and system type. Once you’ve identified that, the process becomes quick and straightforward. And if you ever get stuck, your owner’s manual is always there to help. So the next time you notice the clock is off, don’t stress—just follow this guide, and you’ll have it fixed in minutes. Happy driving!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I change the clock in a 2010 Subaru Forester?

Press and hold the “CLOCK” or “SET” button near the instrument panel until the hour blinks. Use the “H” button to adjust the hour, press “SET” again, then use the “M” button for minutes. Press “SET” once more to save.

Can I sync the clock in my Subaru Forester with GPS?

Yes, models from 2019 and newer with STARLINK can sync the clock automatically via GPS. Go to Settings > Clock > Auto to enable this feature.

Why does my Forester’s clock keep resetting?

This usually happens after a battery disconnect or failure. The clock loses power and resets to 12:00. Simply follow the manual adjustment steps to fix it.

How do I change the clock in a 2022 Subaru Forester?

Tap the Home button, go to Settings > Clock, choose “Manual,” then adjust the hour and minute using the on-screen controls. Tap “Save” to confirm.

Is there a way to set the clock using voice commands?

Yes, if your Forester supports Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you can use voice commands like “Hey Siri, set the clock to 3:15 PM” to adjust the time hands-free.

What if the clock buttons don’t work?

Try cleaning the buttons with a soft cloth and isopropyl alcohol. If they’re still unresponsive, the issue may be electrical or mechanical, and a dealership visit may be needed.

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