Subaru Forester battery drain issue caused by STARLINK system, DCM replacement needed on Subaru Forester

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Subaru Forester owners report experiencing battery drain issues linked to the STARLINK system and a faulty Digital Communications Module (DCM). This parasitic drain can be persistent, often requiring the removal of the DCM fuse as a temporary fix, which may result in the loss of certain STARLINK features. Additionally, there have been class-action lawsuits addressing these widespread battery problems, leading to settlements that include extended warranties and reimbursements for affected owners. To help manage battery health, some owners suggest using a battery maintainer with a repair mode after disconnecting the fuse box to restore battery capacity. It is advisable for owners to consider these solutions and seek assistance from Subaru for potential DCM replacements or bypass options.

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