Where to find the clock and what you'll need
The clock in a Subaru Forester sits in the center of the dashboard, usually integrated into the infotainment system or displayed as a separate unit depending on your model year. On older Foresters (2008 and earlier), the clock is a standalone digital display. On 2009 and newer models, the clock is part of the main touchscreen or a smaller display panel above the steering wheel.
You will need only your hands and a few minutes. No tools are required. The process differs slightly between models with physical buttons and those with touchscreen controls, but both are straightforward enough to do while parked in your driveway.
Key Takeaways
- Older Foresters use a dedicated clock with physical buttons you press to adjust hours and minutes.
- Newer Foresters with touchscreens access the clock through the settings menu, usually labeled "Time" or "Clock."
- The clock automatically updates when you cross time zones if your vehicle has GPS or syncs with your phone.
- If your clock is part of the infotainment system, you may need to turn on the ignition but not start the engine to access the settings.
Changing the clock on 2008 and earlier Foresters
Look at the clock display on your dashboard. You should see two small buttons directly below or beside it, usually labeled with + and − symbols or arrows pointing up and down. The top button or right button typically controls the hours, and the bottom or left button controls the minutes.
Turn your ignition to the "On" position without starting the engine. Press and hold the hour button until the hour display reaches the correct time. Then press and hold the minute button until the minutes align. Release the button once you reach the correct time. The clock will save the change when ready.
Changing the clock on 2009 to 2016 Foresters
These models use a combination of buttons and a small display. Locate the clock on your instrument cluster (the panel directly behind the steering wheel). Turn the ignition to "On." Look for a button labeled "Set" or "Mode" near the clock display, usually on the left side of the steering wheel.
Press the "Set" or "Mode" button repeatedly until the hour digits begin to flash. Use the up and down arrow buttons (or + and − buttons) on the steering wheel to adjust the hours. Press "Set" again to move to the minutes, then use the arrows to set those. Press "Set" one more time to confirm and exit the adjustment mode.
Changing the clock on 2017 and newer Foresters with touchscreen
Turn your ignition to "On" and look at the main touchscreen in the center of your dashboard. Tap the "Settings" icon, usually represented by a gear symbol. Scroll down and select "Time" or "Clock Settings."
You will see options to adjust the hour and minute separately. Tap the hour field and use the + and − buttons on the screen to set the correct hour. Tap the minute field and adjust it the same way. Some models allow you to type the time directly if you tap the time display itself. Once the time is correct, tap "Done" or "Save" to confirm the change.
Automatic time updates and daylight saving time
If your Forester has a built-in GPS or connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth, the clock may update automatically when you cross time zones or when daylight saving time begins and ends. Check your infotainment settings to see if "Auto Time" or "GPS Time" is enabled. If it is, you do not need to adjust the clock manually when traveling.
If you prefer to set the time manually, you can usually disable automatic updates in the same settings menu where you found the time adjustment option. This is useful if you want to keep your clock on a different time zone than your current location.
What to do if the clock keeps resetting
If your clock resets to 12:00 or an incorrect time every time you turn off the engine, the battery in your infotainment system may be low or disconnected. This is most common after a battery replacement or if the vehicle's main battery has been disconnected for service.
Try disconnecting your vehicle's main battery for 15 minutes, then reconnecting it. This resets the system and often restores the clock's memory. If the problem continues, the infotainment unit itself may need service from a Subaru dealer. This is a rare issue and usually only occurs after electrical work.
Clock display format and 12-hour versus 24-hour time
Most Subaru Foresters display time in 12-hour format by default (with AM and PM indicators). Some models, particularly those with more advanced infotainment systems, allow you to switch to 24-hour format (military time) in the settings menu.
To change the format, go to Settings, then Time or Clock Settings, and look for an option labeled "Time Format" or "Display Format." Select your preferred format and save. The change takes effect when ready and will remain until you change it again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to start the engine to change the clock?
No. Turn the ignition to the "On" position, which powers the dashboard and infotainment system without starting the engine. This is sufficient for all clock adjustments on any model year Forester.
Why does my clock show the wrong time after I set it?
If the clock resets after you turn off the vehicle, the system battery may be weak or the infotainment unit may have lost power during a recent service. Disconnect and reconnect your vehicle's main battery to reset the system, or contact a Subaru dealer if the problem persists.
Can I change the clock while driving?
On touchscreen models, the infotainment system may lock certain functions while the vehicle is in motion for safety reasons. It is safest to adjust the clock while parked. On older models with physical buttons, you can adjust the clock while driving, but it is not recommended.
What if my Forester has no clock display visible?
Some older or base-model Foresters may not have a dedicated clock. Check your infotainment screen or the top of your dashboard near the rearview mirror. If you cannot find a clock, your model may not have one, or it may only display time through your smartphone or the infotainment system when powered on.