Does the 2014 Subaru Forester have TPMS?
Yes. The 2014 Subaru Forester includes a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that uses sensors in the wheels to monitor tire pressure and alert you if a tire is underinflated.
Overview: TPMS in the 2014 Forester
TPMS in the 2014 Forester is designed to help drivers maintain proper tire inflation by reporting actual pressures from each wheel to the vehicle’s instrument cluster. This system helps reduce the risk of underinflated tires, which can affect handling, fuel economy, and tire wear.
Key features and characteristics of TPMS on the 2014 Forester include:
- Direct TPMS sensors mounted in each wheel measure actual tire pressures.
- A Low Tire Pressure warning light on the instrument cluster alerts the driver when pressure falls below the recommended level.
- Some trims offer a digital readout of individual tire pressures on the vehicle’s information display.
- The spare tire typically does not include a TPMS sensor; the system monitors the four active tires.
- Sensor data is transmitted wirelessly to the vehicle’s control module for real-time monitoring.
In short, the Forester’s TPMS provides real-time data and warnings, helping drivers maintain safe tire inflation levels.
Direct TPMS vs. Indirect TPMS
Most 2014 Forester models use direct TPMS, which relies on actual sensors in the tires to report pressures. Indirect TPMS, which some vehicles use, infers low pressure from ABS wheel-speed data rather than measuring pressure directly. For the 2014 Forester, direct TPMS is the standard approach in most markets, offering more accurate readings and the potential for individual tire pressure displays on higher trims.
If you’re looking at a used Forester, confirm that the vehicle has functioning direct TPMS sensors and that the sensors in all four tires are present and communicating correctly.
Verification and maintenance: How TPMS works in practice
After inflating tires or rotating tires, you may need to reset or relearn the TPMS so it tracks accurately. Here are common steps for the 2014 Forester:
- Inflate all tires to the recommended pressures listed on the door jamb label.
- Drive at steady speeds (typically around 30–60 mph) for several minutes to allow the system to relearn the new pressures.
- If the low-pressure warning light remains on after inflation, recheck pressures and address any leaks.
- Some trims may require a reset procedure or a diagnostic tool to relearn sensors; consult the owner's manual for the exact method.
- If a TPMS warning persists after proper inflation and relearn attempts, have the system inspected by a Subaru dealer or a qualified tire shop, as a sensor or receiver fault could be present.
Regularly checking tire pressures with a gauge and ensuring the TPMS is functioning correctly helps maximize safety, fuel efficiency, and tire life.
Market variations and practical notes
In the United States, TPMS is standard on the 2014 Forester across most trims, with direct sensors in the four tires. Some international markets or late-production batches may have minor variations in packaging or display options, but the underlying TPMS capability is consistent for that model year. When shopping used, always verify that the TPMS lights work during startup and that pressures can be read on the display if your trim supports it.
Summary
The 2014 Subaru Forester is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System that uses direct sensors in each wheel to monitor tire pressure and provide warnings when inflation is too low. The system improves safety and efficiency, and owners should periodically verify tire pressures and perform TPMS relearn procedures after tire changes or rotations to ensure accurate readings.
