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Why is the battery in my 2021 Subaru Forester going flat and how do I fix it?

Q: The battery in my 2021 Subaru Forester has gone flat twice overnight without any accessories being left on. The second time there was enough charge to run the accessories but not start. When I tried again 10 hours later, the battery was dead flat. The car couldn't be started even with a jump from the RACV. I've been reading about parasitic battery drain in Subaru Foresters, should Subaru Australia be replacing the battery?

A: If the reason the battery is going flat has anything to do with a fault within the rest of the car, then yes, I would imagine the problem – and the subsequent battery replacement if the battery is damaged – would be a warranty issue. The body computer in modern cars can do curious things with the electrical systems and accessories fitted, and that can sometimes result in a flat battery.

Subaru is not the only brand with this problem, but flat batteries caused by it are definitely not the sort of statutory wear and tear issues that normally exclude a battery from any warranty claims. It would be the same with tyres, brakes and clutches. Normally, when these components wear out its deemed normal wear and tear and is not covered by the car’s warranty. But if a tyre, clutch or braking system fails because of a manufacturing or materials fault, then the new-car warranty should cover it.

Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.

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