Subaru Won't Start Depress Brake

Experiencing issues with your Subaru not starting when you depress the brake pedal can be frustrating. This problem often arises due to a variety of mechanical or electrical issues that can prevent the vehicle from starting, especially in models equipped with a push-button ignition system. Understanding the underlying causes and potential solutions is crucial for resolving this issue effectively.

When you encounter a situation where your Subaru won’t start and the brake pedal feels stiff or unresponsive, it’s essential to diagnose the problem accurately. The brake pedal must be depressed to engage the ignition system in most modern automatic vehicles, including Subarus. If this action fails to initiate the starting sequence, it may indicate a malfunction that requires attention.

To assist you in troubleshooting this issue, we have compiled some common causes and their respective solutions. Below is a concise table summarizing these factors for quick reference.

Understanding the Brake Pedal System

The brake pedal system in modern vehicles, particularly those with automatic transmissions, is designed as a safety feature. This system requires the driver to depress the brake pedal before starting the engine. When you press the brake pedal, it completes an electrical circuit that allows the ignition system to engage. If this circuit is interrupted or if there are issues with the brake pedal itself, the vehicle may not start.

One common reason for a hard-to-depress brake pedal is a lack of vacuum pressure. Most vehicles utilize a vacuum-assisted braking system that relies on engine vacuum to function correctly. When the engine is off and you press the brake pedal multiple times, it can deplete this vacuum reserve, resulting in a stiff pedal.

If you find that your brake pedal is unresponsive or feels unusually hard, it’s advisable to wait a few moments before trying again. This allows time for the vacuum pressure to build back up, which may resolve the issue temporarily.

Common Causes of Starting Issues

There are several reasons why your Subaru may not start when you press down on the brake pedal:

• Dead Key Fob Battery: A weak or dead battery in your key fob can prevent the push-button start from functioning correctly. Replacing the key fob battery is often an easy fix.

• Faulty Brake Pedal Switch: The switch that detects whether the brake pedal is depressed may be malfunctioning. If this switch fails, it will not send signals to allow the vehicle to start.

• Obstructed Brake Pedal: Sometimes, objects such as floor mats or debris can obstruct the movement of the brake pedal. Ensure nothing is blocking its path.

• No Vacuum Pressure: As mentioned earlier, if you've pressed the brake multiple times without starting the engine, you may have exhausted the vacuum pressure required for proper operation.

• Electrical Issues: Problems with your vehicle's battery or electrical connections can also lead to starting difficulties. Checking these components can help identify any underlying issues.

Troubleshooting Steps

When faced with a situation where your Subaru won't start despite pressing down on the brake pedal, follow these troubleshooting steps:

1. Check Key Fob Battery: Ensure that your key fob battery is functional. If necessary, replace it and try starting your vehicle again.

2. Inspect Brake Pedal Switch: Test whether pressing down on the brake engages any dashboard indicators or lights. If not, consider having this switch inspected by a professional.

3. Clear Obstructions: Look under and around your brake pedal for any objects that could be preventing it from fully depressing.

4. Allow Vacuum Pressure to Rebuild: If you've pressed the brake multiple times without starting, wait a few minutes before attempting to start again.

5. Examine Electrical Components: Check your vehicle's battery and connections for any signs of wear or damage that could affect starting performance.

By following these steps, you may be able to diagnose and resolve your Subaru's starting issue effectively.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you've gone through all troubleshooting steps and your Subaru still won’t start when you depress the brake pedal, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic. Persistent starting issues can indicate more complex problems within your vehicle’s electrical system or braking components that require specialized knowledge and tools for diagnosis and repair.

A qualified technician can perform thorough diagnostics on your vehicle's ignition system, braking components, and electrical systems to identify any underlying issues that may not be immediately apparent during basic troubleshooting.

Preventative Measures

To avoid future problems with starting your Subaru, consider implementing some preventative measures:

• Regularly check and replace batteries in both your key fob and vehicle as needed.

• Keep your vehicle clean and free of debris that could obstruct critical components like pedals.

• Schedule routine maintenance checks with a trusted mechanic to ensure all systems are functioning properly.

• Familiarize yourself with your vehicle's owner's manual for specific recommendations regarding maintenance and troubleshooting tips.

By staying proactive about maintenance and being aware of potential issues, you can help ensure that your Subaru remains reliable and starts smoothly every time.

FAQs About Subaru Won't Start Depress Brake

• Why won't my Subaru start even when I press the brake?
  This could be due to a dead key fob battery or faulty brake pedal switch.
• What does it mean if my brake pedal feels stiff?
  A stiff brake pedal often indicates low vacuum pressure in power-assisted brakes.
• How do I fix my Subaru if it won't start?
  Check for obstructions under the brake pedal and ensure all batteries are functional.
• Can I drive my Subaru if it won't start?
  No, if it won't start, it's best not to attempt driving until resolved.
• When should I call a mechanic?
  If basic troubleshooting doesn't work after several attempts, consult a professional.

In conclusion, understanding why your Subaru won’t start when you depress the brake can save you time and frustration. By following troubleshooting steps and knowing when to seek professional help, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly while ensuring safety features remain intact.