2006 Subaru Impreza WRX Owners Manual

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600229 The cargo area is equipped with four tie- down hooks so that cargo can be secured with a cargo net or ropes. When using the tie-down hooks, turn them down out of the storing recesses. When not in use, put the hooks up into the stor- ing recesses. 6-12 Interior equipment Cargo area bars Under-floor storage compart- ment (if equipped) Do not store spray cans, contain- ers with flammable or corrosive liquids or any other dangerous items in the storage compartment. 600528 1) Cargo area bar In the cargo area, there are two bars (one on each side) to which a net can be at- tached. Do not place objects with a total weight exceeding 6.6 lbs (3 kg) on a net attached to the cargo area bars. 600539 The storage compartment is located un- der the floor of the cargo area and can be used to store small items. To open the lid, pull the tab up. NOTE When storing a flat tire, put the storage tray in the cargo area. Always keep the lids closed while driving to reduce the risk of injury in the event of sudden stop or an accident. Starting and operating Braking tips ............................................................. Brake system .......................................................... Disc brake pad wear warning indicators .............. Braking ................................................................ 7-21 7-21 7-21 7-22 ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) .......................... 7-22 7-22 7-23 ABS system self-check .......................................... ABS warning light ................................................... Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) Parking brake .......................................................... Parking tips ............................................................. system .............................................................. 7-24 Steps to take if EBD system fails .......................... 7-24 Parking your vehicle .......................................... 7-25 7-25 7-25 Cruise control ..................................................... 7-27 7-27 7-28 7-28 7-28 To set cruise control .............................................. To temporarily cancel the cruise control ............. To turn off the cruise control ................................. To change the cruising speed ............................... Fuel ...................................................................... Fuel requirements .................................................. Fuel filler lid and cap .............................................. State emission testing (U.S. only) .................... Preparing to drive .............................................. Starting the engine ............................................. Manual transmission vehicle ................................. Automatic transmission vehicle ............................ Stopping the engine ........................................... Manual transmission 6 speeds (WRX-STI) ... Selecting reverse gear ........................................... Shifting speeds ....................................................... Driving tips .............................................................. Manual transmission 5 speeds (except 7-2 7-2 7-4 7-5 7-6 7-7 7-7 7-7 7-8 7-9 7-9 7-9 7-10 WRX-STI) .......................................................... 7-11 7-11 Shifting speeds ....................................................... Driving tips .............................................................. 7-12 Drivers Control Center Differential (DCCD) (WRX-STI) ........................................................ 7-12 7-13 Auto mode ............................................................... Manual mode ........................................................... 7-13 7-15 Temporary release .................................................. Automatic transmission .................................... 7-16 7-16 7-19 Limited slip differential (LSD) (if equipped) ..... 7-20 Power steering ................................................... 7-21 Selector lever for automatic transmission ........... Shift lock release .................................................... 7-2 Starting and operating Fuel Starting and operating poor accelerator response will result. Use of a fuel which is low in quality or use of an inappropriate fuel addi- tive may cause engine damage. Fuel requirements 2.5-liter non-turbo models The 2.5-liter non-turbo engine is designed to operate using unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 AKI or higher. WRX The 2.5-liter turbo engine is designed to operate using premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 AKI or higher. If premium unleaded gasoline is not avail- able, regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 AKI or higher may be temporarily used. For optimum engine performance and driveability, it is required that you use premium grade unleaded gasoline. NOTE Be sure to use premium unleaded gas- oline of 91 AKI or higher for WRX. If other gasoline (lower than 91 AKI) is used, knocking, reduced output and WRX-STI The 2.5-liter turbo engine is designed to operate using super-premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 93 AKI or higher. If super-premium unleaded gaso- line with an octane rating of 93 AKI or higher is not available, premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 AKI or higher may be temporarily used. For opti- mum engine performance and driveability, it is required that you use super-premium grade unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 93 AKI or higher. NOTE Be sure to use super-premium unlead- ed gasoline of 93 AKI or higher for WRX-STI. If other gasoline (lower than 93 AKI) is used, knocking, reduced out- put and poor accelerator response will result. Fuel octane rating This octane rating is the average of the Research Octane and Motor Octane num- bers and is commonly referred to as the Anti Knock Index (AKI). Using a gasoline with a lower octane rat- ing can cause persistent and heavy knocking, which can damage the engine. Do not be concerned if your vehicle some- times knocks lightly when you drive up a hill or when you accelerate. See your dealer or a qualified service technician if you use a fuel with the specified octane rating and your vehicle knocks heavily or persistently. Unleaded gasoline The neck of the fuel filler pipe is designed to accept only an unleaded gasoline filler nozzle. Under no circumstances should leaded gasoline be used because it will damage the emission control system and may impair driveability and fuel economy. Gasoline for California-certified LEV Your vehicle was certified to Californias low emission vehicle (LEV) standards as indicated on the underhood tune-up label, it is designed to optimize engine and emission performance with gasoline that meets the clean burning low-sulfur Califor- nia gasoline specifications. If you live in any other state than California, your vehi- cle will operate on gasoline meeting Fed- eral specifications. Gasoline sold outside California is permitted to have higher sul- fur levels, which may affect the perfor- mance of your vehicles catalytic convert- er and may produce a sulfur exhaust odor or smell. SUBARU recommends that you try a different brand of unleaded gasoline having lower sulfur to determine if the problem is fuel related before returning your vehicle to an authorized dealer for service. MMT Some gasoline contains an octane-en- hancing additive called MMT (Methylcy- clopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl). If you use such fuels, your emission control system performance may deteriorate and the CHECK ENGINE warning light/Mal- function indicator lamp may turn on. If this happens, to your authorized SUBARU Dealer for service. If it is deter- mined that the condition is caused by the type of fuel used, repairs may not be cov- ered by your warranty. return Gasoline for cleaner air Your use of gasoline with detergent addi- tives will help prevent deposits from form- ing in your engine and fuel system. This helps keep your engine in tune and your emission control system working properly, and is a way of doing your part for cleaner air. If you continuously use a high quality fuel with the proper detergent and other additives, you should never need to add any fuel system cleaning agents to your fuel tank. Many gasolines are now blended with ma- terials called oxygenates. Use of these fu- els can also help keep the air cleaner. Ox- ygenated blend fuels, such as MTBE (Me- thyl Tertiary Butyl ether) or ethanol (ethyl or grain alcohol) may be used in your ve- hicle, but should contain no more than 15% MTBE or 10% ethanol for the proper operation of your SUBARU. In addition, some gasoline suppliers are now producing reformulated gasolines, which are designed to reduce vehicle emissions. SUBARU approves the use of reformulated gasoline. If you are not sure what the fuel contains, you should ask your service station oper- ators if their gasolines contain detergents and oxygenates and if they have been re- formulated to reduce vehicle emissions. As additional guidance, only use fuels suited for your vehicle as explained in the following. Fuel should be unleaded and have an octane rating no lower than that specified in this manual. Methanol (methyl or wood alcohol) is sometimes mixed with unleaded gasoline. Methanol can be used in your vehicle ONLY if it does not exceed 5% of the fuel mixture AND if it is accompanied by suffi- cient quantities of the proper cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors required to pre- Starting and operating 7-3 vent damage to the fuel system. Do not use fuel containing methanol EXCEPT un- der these conditions. If undesirable driveability problems are experienced and you suspect they may be fuel related, try a different brand of gaso- line before seeking service at your SUBARU dealer. Fuel system damage or driveability problems which result from the use of im- proper fuel are not covered under the SUBARU Limited Warranty. Do not let fuel spill on the exterior surfaces of the vehicle. Fuels con- taining alcohol may cause paint damage, which is not covered under the SUBARU Limited Warranty. CONTINUED 7-4 Starting and operating Fuel filler lid and cap Refueling When opening the cap, do not re- move the cap quickly. Fuel may be under pressure and spray out of the fuel filler neck especially in hot weather, which may cause in- jury. 700330 1) Open 2) Close 2. Remove the fuel filler cap by turning it slowly counterclockwise. 200209 Gasoline vapor is highly flamma- ble. Before refueling, always first stop the engine and make sure that there are no lighted ciga- rettes, open flames or electrical sparks in the adjacent area. 700122 1. To open the fuel filler lid, pull the lid re- lease lever up. The lever is on the floor at the left of the drivers seat. 3. Stop filling the tank after the fuel filler pump automatically stops. Do not add any more fuel. 4. Put the cap back on, turn it clockwise until you hear a clicking noise. Be certain not to catch the tether under the cap while tightening. 5. Close the fuel filler lid completely. If you spill any fuel on the painted surface, rinse it off immediately. Otherwise, the painted surface could be damaged. NOTE You will see the or FUEL DOOR sign in the fuel gauge. This indicates that the fuel filler door (lid) is located on the right side of the vehicle. If the fuel filler cap is not tightened until it clicks or if the tether is caught under the cap, the CHECK ENGINE warning light may come on. Refer to the Warning and indicator lights sec- tion located in chapter 3. (Turbo model only) Promptly put fuel in the tank whenever the low fuel warning light comes on. Engine misfires as a re- sult of an empty tank could cause dam- age to the engine. Never add any cleaning agents to the fuel tank. The addition of a cleaning agent may cause dam- age to the fuel system. Make sure that the cap is tight- ened until it clicks to prevent fuel spillage in the event of an acci- dent. Do not let fuel spill on the exterior surfaces of the vehicle. Fuels may cause paint damage, which is not covered under the SUBARU Limited Warranty. Always use a genuine SUBARU fuel filler cap. If you use the wrong cap, it may not fit or have proper venting, and your fuel tank and emission control system might be damaged. State emission testing (U.S. only) At state inspection time, remember to tell your inspection or service station in advance not to place your Subaru AWD vehicle on a two-wheel dyna- mometer. Otherwise, serious transmis- sion damage will result. Some states have started using dyna- mometers in their state inspection pro- grams in order to meet their obligation un- der federal law to implement stricter vehi- cle emission standards to reduce air pollu- tion from vehicles. A dynamometer is a treadmill or roller-like testing device that allows your vehicles wheels to turn while the vehicle remains in one place. Depend- ing on the severity of a states air pollution problems, the states must adopt either a basic or enhanced vehicle emission in- spection test. Normally, a portion of the basic emission test consists of an emis- sion inspector inserting an analyzer probe into the exhaust pipe of an idling vehicle for a short period of time. States with more severe air pollution problems are required to adopt an enhanced vehicle emission test. This test simulates actual driving conditions on a dynamometer and permits more accurate measurement of tailpipe Starting and operating 7-5 emitted pollution than the basic emission test. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agen- cy (EPA) and states using two-wheel dy- namometers in their emission testing pro- grams have EXEMPTED Subaru AWD vehicles from the portion of the testing program that involves a two-wheel dyna- mometer. There are some states that use four-wheel dynamometers in their testing programs. When properly used, that equipment will not damage an AWD Subaru vehicle. Under no circumstances should the rear wheels be jacked off the ground, nor should the driveshaft be disconnected for state emission testing. Testing of an All-Wheel Drive vehi- cle must NEVER be performed on a single two-wheel dynamometer. At- tempting to do so will result in un- controlled vehicle movement and may cause an accident or injuries to persons nearby. CONTINUED 7-6 Starting and operating Resultant vehicle damage due to im- proper testing is not covered under the SUBARU Limited Warranty and is the responsibility of the state in- spection program or its contractors or licensees. The EPA has issued regulations for in- specting the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system as part of the state emissions in- spection. The OBD system is designed to detect engine and transmission problems that might cause vehicle emissions to ex- ceed allowable limits. These inspections apply to all 1996 model year and newer passenger cars and light trucks. Over 30 states plus the District of Columbia have implemented the OBD system inspection. The inspection of the OBD system con- sists of a visual operational check of the CHECK ENGINE warning light/malfunc- tion indicator lamp (MIL) and an examina- tion of the OBD system with an electronic scan tool while the engine is running. A vehicle passes the OBD system in- spection if proper the CHECK ENGINE warning light/MIL illumination is observed, there is no stored diagnostic trouble codes, and the OBD system readiness monitors are complete. A vehicle fails the OBD inspection if the CHECK ENGINE warning light/MIL is not properly operating or there is one or more diagnostic trouble codes stored in vehicles computer with the CHECK EN- GINE warning light/MIL illuminated. A state emission inspection may reject (not pass or fail) a vehicle if the number of OBD system readiness monitors Not Ready is greater than one. Under this condition, the vehicle operator should be instructed to drive his/her vehicle for a few days to set the monitors and return for an emission re-inspection. Owners of rejected or failing vehicles should contact their Subaru Dealer for service. Preparing to drive You should perform the following checks and adjustments every day before you start driving. 1. Check that all windows, mirrors, and lights are clean and unobstructed. 2. Check the appearance and condition of the tires. Also check tires for proper infla- tion. 3. Look under the vehicle for any sign of leaks. 4. Check that the hood, trunk (Sedan) and rear gate (Wagon) are fully closed. 5. Check the adjustment of the seat. 6. Check the adjustment of the inside and outside mirrors. 7. Fasten your seatbelt. Check that your passengers have fastened their seatbelts. 8. Check the operation of the warning and indicator lights when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position. 9. Check the gauges, indicator and warn- ing lights after starting the engine. NOTE Engine oil, engine coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid and other fluid levels should be checked daily, weekly or at fuel stops. Starting the engine Do not operate the starter motor continuously for more than ten sec- onds. If the engine fails to start after operating the starter for five to ten seconds, wait for ten seconds or more before trying again. Manual transmission vehicle 1. Apply the parking brake. 2. Turn off unnecessary lights and acces- sories. 3. Press the clutch pedal to the floor and shift the shift lever into neutral. Hold the clutch pedal to the floor while starting the engine. The starter motor will only operate when the clutch pedal is pressed fully to the floor. 4. Turn the ignition switch to the ON po- sition and check the operation of the warn- ing and indicator lights. Refer to the Warning and indicator lights section (chapter 3). 5. Turn the ignition switch to the START position without depressing the accelera- tor pedal. Release the key immediately af- ter the engine has started. If the engine does not start, try the follow- ing. 1)Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and wait for at least 10 sec- onds. After checking that the parking brake is firmly set, turn the ignition switch to the START position while de- pressing the accelerator pedal slightly (approximately a quarter of the full stroke). Release the accelerator pedal as soon as the engine starts. 2)If this fails to start the engine, turn the ignition switch back to the OFF posi- tion and wait for at least 10 seconds. Then fully depress the accelerator ped- al and turn the ignition switch to the START position. If the engine starts, quickly release the accelerator pedal. 3)If this fails to start the engine, turn the ignition switch again to the OFF posi- tion. After waiting for 10 seconds or longer, turn the ignition switch to the START position without depressing the accelerator pedal. 4)If the engine still refuses to start, con- tact your nearest SUBARU dealer for assistance. 6. Confirm that all warning and indicator lights have gone off after the engine has started. The fuel injection system auto- matically lowers the idle speed as the en- gine warms up. Starting and operating 7-7 NOTE The engine may be difficult to start when the battery has been disconnect- ed and reconnected (for maintenance or other purposes). This difficulty is caused by the electronically controlled throttles self-diagnosis function. To overcome it, keep the ignition switch in the ON position for approximately 10 seconds before starting the engine. Automatic transmission vehi- cle 1. Apply the parking brake. 2. Turn off unnecessary lights and acces- sories. 3. Shift the selector lever to the P or N position (preferably P position). The starter motor will only operate when the select lever is at the P or N position. 4. Turn the ignition switch to the ON po- sition and check the operation of the warn- ing and indicator lights. Refer to the Warning and indicator lights section (chapter 3). 5. Turn the ignition switch to the START position without depressing the accelera- tor pedal. Release the key immediately af- ter the engine has started. If the engine does not start, try the follow- CONTINUED sure that the selector lever is at the P or N position and that the parking brake is applied. NOTE The engine may be difficult to start when the battery has been disconnect- ed and reconnected (for maintenance or other purposes). This difficulty is caused by the electronically controlled throttles self-diagnosis function. To overcome it, keep the ignition switch in the ON position for approximately 10 seconds before starting the engine. If you restart the engine while the vehicle is moving, shift the selector lever into the N position. Do not attempt to place the selector lever of a moving vehicle into the P posi- tion. Stopping the engine The ignition switch should be turned off only when the vehicle is stopped and the engine is idling. Do not stop the engine when the ve- hicle is moving. This will cause loss of power to the power steering and the brake booster, making steering and braking more difficult. It could also result in accidental activation of the LOCK position on the igni- tion switch, causing the steering wheel to lock. 7-8 Starting and operating ing. 1)Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and wait for at least 10 sec- onds. After checking that the parking brake is firmly set, turn the ignition switch to the START position while de- pressing the accelerator pedal slightly (approximately a quarter of the full stroke). Release the accelerator pedal as soon as the engine starts. 2)If this fails to start the engine, turn the ignition switch back to the OFF posi- tion and wait for at least 10 seconds. Then fully depress the accelerator ped- al and turn the ignition switch to the START position. If the engine starts, quickly release the accelerator pedal. 3)If this fails to start the engine, turn the ignition switch again to the OFF posi- tion. After waiting for 10 seconds or longer, turn the ignition switch to the START position without depressing the accelerator pedal. 4)If the engine still refuses to start, con- tact your nearest SUBARU dealer for assistance. 6. Confirm that all warning and indicator lights have gone out after the engine has started. The fuel injection system auto- matically lowers the idle speed as the en- gine warms up. While the engine is warming up, make Manual transmission 6 speeds (WRX-STI) 700140 The manual transmission is a fully syn- chromeshed, 6-forward-speed and 1-re- verse-speed transmission. The shift pattern is shown on the shift le- ver knob. Do not drive the vehicle with the clutch disengaged (i.e., when the clutch pedal is depressed) or with the shift lever in the neutral posi- tion. Engine braking has no effect in either of these conditions and the risk of an accident is consequently increased. Selecting reverse gear 700355 1) Slider You must raise the slider and hold it in that position before you can move the shift le- ver to the R position. To change gears, fully depress the clutch Starting and operating 7-9 pedal, move the shift lever, and gradually let up on the clutch. If it is difficult to shift into gear, put the transmission in neutral, release the clutch pedal momentarily, and then try again. Shift into reverse ONLY when the vehicle has completely stopped. It may cause damage to the transmis- sion to try shifting into reverse when the vehicle is moving. Shifting speeds Recommended shifting speeds The best compromise between fuel econ- omy and vehicle performance during nor- mal driving is ensured by shifting up at the speeds listed in the following table. Shift up 1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th 5th to 6th mph (km/h) 15 (24) 25 (40) 40 (64) 45 (72) 50 (80) CONTINUED 7-10 Starting and operating Maximum allowable speeds The following tables show the maximum speeds that are possible with each differ- ent gear. The tachometers needle will en- ter the red area if these speeds are ex- ceeded. With the exception of cases where sudden acceleration the vehicle should not be driven with the tachometers needle inside the red area. Failure to ob- serve this precaution can lead to exces- sive engine wear and poor fuel economy. required, is Gear 1st 2nd 3rd 4th mph (km/h) 33 (53) 50 (81) 68 (110) 114 (143) When shifting down a gear, ensure that the vehicle is not travelling at a speed exceeding the Maximum Al- lowable Speed for the gear which is about to be selected. Failure to ob- serve this precaution can lead to en- gine over-revving and this in turn can result in engine damage. effect. Remember, if you ride (over use) the brakes while descending a hill, they may overheat and not work properly. The engine may, on rare occasions, knock when the vehicle rapidly accelerates or rapidly pulls away from a standstill. This phenomenon is not an indication of a problem in your vehicle. In addition, sudden application of engine brakes when the vehicle is travelling on a slippery surface can lead to wheel locking; as a conse- quence, control of the vehicle may be lost and the risk of an accident in- creased. NOTE Never exceed posted speed limits. Driving tips Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal and do not use the clutch to hold your vehicle at a standstill on an up- grade. Either of those actions may cause clutch damage. Do not drive with your hand resting on the shift lever. This may cause wear on the transmission components. When it is necessary to reduce vehicle speed due to slow traffic, turning corners, or driving up steep hills, downshift to a lower gear before the engine starts to la- bor. On steep downgrades, downshift the transmission to 5th, 4th, 3rd or 2nd gear as necessary; this helps to maintain a safe speed and to extend brake pad life. In this way, the engine provides a braking Manual transmission 5 speeds (except WRX-STI) 700032 The manual transmission is a fully syn- chromeshed, 5-forward-speed and 1-re- verse-speed transmission. The shift pattern is shown on the shift le- ver knob. When shifting from 5th gear to reverse gear, first return the shift lever to the neutral position then shift into reverse gear. To change gears, fully depress the clutch pedal, move the shift lever, and gradually let up on the clutch pedal. If it is difficult to shift into gear, put the transmission in neutral, release the clutch pedal momentarily, and then try again. Do not drive the vehicle with the clutch disengaged (i.e., when the clutch pedal is depressed) or with the shift lever in the neutral posi- tion. Engine braking has no effect in either of these conditions and the risk of an accident is consequently increased. Shift into reverse ONLY when the vehicle has completely stopped. It may cause damage to the transmis- sion to try shifting into reverse when the vehicle is moving. Shifting speeds Recommended shifting speeds The best compromise between fuel econ- omy and vehicle performance during nor- mal driving is ensured by shifting up at the speeds listed in the following table. Starting and operating 7-11 Shift up 1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th mph (km/h) 15 (24) 25 (40) 40 (65) 45 (73) Maximum allowable speeds The following table shows the maximum speeds that are possible with each differ- ent gear. Never exceed the speed limit listed in the following table for each gear position ex- cept for brief acceleration in an emergen- cy. The tachometers needle will enter the red area if these speeds are exceeded. Failure to observe this precaution can lead to excessive engine wear and poor fuel economy. Non-turbo models mph (km/h) 1st 2nd 3rd 31 (50) 52 (84) 75 (120) CONTINUED 7-12 Starting and operating Turbo models 1st 2nd 3rd mph (km/h) 34 (54) 59 (95) 85 (136) When shifting down a gear, ensure that the vehicle is not travelling at a speed exceeding the Maximum Al- lowable Speed for the gear which is about to be selected. Failure to ob- serve this precaution can lead to en- gine over-revving and this in turn can result in engine damage. In addition, sudden application of engine brakes when the vehicle is travelling on a slippery surface can lead to wheel locking; as a conse- quence, control of the vehicle may be lost and the risk of an accident in- creased. Driving tips Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal and do not use the clutch to hold your vehicle at a standstill on an up- grade. Either of those actions may cause clutch damage. Do not drive with your hand resting on the shift lever. This may cause wear on the transmission components. When it is necessary to reduce vehicle speed due to slow traffic, turning corners, or driving up steep hills, downshift to a lower gear before the engine starts to la- bor. On steep downgrades, downshift the transmission to 4th, 3rd or 2nd gear as necessary; this helps to maintain a safe speed and to extend brake pad life. In this way, the engine provides a braking effect. Remember, if you ride (over use) the brakes while descending a hill, they may overheat and not work properly. The engine may, on rare occasions, knock when the vehicle rapidly accelerates or rapidly pulls away from a standstill. This phenomenon is not an indication of a problem in your vehicle. Drivers Control Center Dif- ferential (DCCD) (WRX-STI) Always use the utmost care when driving. Being overconfident be- cause you are driving a vehicle with a drivers control center differential could easily lead to a serious acci- dent. 700379 In the event of failure of the drivers control center differential, the indicator light will flash. Have the vehicle inspected by your SUBARU dealer. The drivers control center differential al- lows you to freely change the degree of limitation of the differential action (limited slip differential (LSD) torque) of your vehi- cles center differential. By using the center differential control di- al, you can set an initial LSD torque to match the road surface conditions, driving conditions and your driving style. LOCK 700378 1) LSD torque 2) Traction torque A) Initial LSD torque (adjustable) B) Mechanical LSD torque NOTE If you rapidly depress and release the accelerator pedal while driving at low speed, you may hear a knocking sound from the vicinity of the center differen- tial and rear differential. This sound oc- curs because of the structure of the center differential. It does not indicate a problem. Starting and operating 7-13 Auto mode 700123 In the auto mode, the system estimates the driving and road conditions using sig- nals from the wheel speed sensor, throttle position sensor, steering angle sensor and brake switch, etc. According to the re- sult, it electronically and automatically controls the degree of limitation of the dif- ferential action (LSD torque) to optimize the differential action of the center differ- ential. When the ignition switch is turned ON, the AUTO indicator light in the com- bination meter comes on. The system can be switched to a manual mode. Manual mode In the manual mode, you can use the cen- ter differential control dial to adjust the ini- CONTINUED 7-14 Starting and operating tial LSD torque as desired. When this mode is selected, the AUTO indicator light in the combination meter goes off. Manual switch MANU Center differential control dial and indicator light 700356 Press the DCCD-MANU switch on the center console to switch from auto mode to manual mode. The AUTO indicator light in the combination meter will go off. Press the switch again to go back to auto mode. The AUTO indicator light in the combination meter will come on. 700125 The control dial is located beside the park- ing-brake lever. By turning the control dial forward and rearward, it is possible to change the initial LSD torque. The center-differential indicator lights in the combination meter give six levels of in- dication. The indicator lights and control dial are linked; when the dial is turned to change the initial LSD torque, the illumina- tion position of the indicator lights chang- es accordingly. 700357 Turn the dial forward to increase the initial LSD torque; when the white line on the dial reaches the frontmost position, the ini- tial LSD torque setting is maximum. The center differential will then be almost com- pletely locked and the LOCK indicator light will come on. Starting and operating 7-15 vibration and noise. This does not indi- cate a problem. The phenomenon will disappear when you turn the center dif- ferential control dial to the rearmost position (minimum initial LSD torque position). Use the center-differential indicator light only as a rough indication of the initial LSD torque. If you operate the center differential control dial while quickly accelerating or turning a tight corner, you may feel slight shocks. This is due to differential action by the center differential and does not indicate a problem. Temporary release When the driver stops the vehicle and pulls the parking-brake lever after manual- ly setting the initial LSD torque, the LSD torque is temporarily minimized. However the indicator in the combination meter continues to show the drivers selected ini- tial LSD torque. When the driver releases the parking-brake lever, the initial LSD torque set by the driver is restored. Under any of the following condi- tions, turn the center differential control dial to the rearmost posi- tion to minimize the initial LSD torque: When a temporary spare tire is installed When your vehicle is towed When the vehicle is stopped with the manual mode selected NOTE A higher initial LSD torque setting gives the vehicle greater traction when driving straight ahead but makes cor- nering more difficult. Remember this when adjusting the initial LSD torque. In general, higher initial LSD torque settings assist driving on slippery roads and lower settings for non-slip- pery roads. If you become stuck in snow or mud, turning the center differ- ential control dial to the frontmost po- sition will help move the vehicle out. (The LOCK indicator will come on at the frontmost position.) During cornering or when making turns (especially when getting into the garage), the rotational difference be- tween the front and rear wheels may cause a braking effect accompanied by 700358 Turn the dial rearward to reduce the initial LSD torque; when the white line reaches the rearmost position, the initial LSD torque will be minimum and the indi- cator light will come on. Under this condi- tion, only the Mechanical LSD torque will limit the differential action. Do not turn the control dial when a wheel slippage occurs. Wait un- til the wheelspin has been brought under control. 7-16 Starting and operating Automatic transmission The automatic transmission is electroni- cally controlled with 4-forward speeds and 1-reverse speed. NOTE When the engine coolant tempera- ture is still low, your vehicles automat- ic transmission will up-shift at higher engine speeds than when the coolant temperature is sufficiently high in or- der to shorten the warm-up time and improve driveability. The gearshift tim- ing will automatically shift to the nor- mal timing after the engine has warmed up. Immediately after ATF (automatic transmission fluid) is replaced, you may feel that the automatic transmis- sion operation is somewhat unusual. This results from invalidation of data the on-board computer has collected and stored in memory to allow the transmission to shift at the most ap- propriate times for the current condi- tion of your vehicle. Optimized shifting will be restored as the vehicle contin- ues to be driven for a while. When parking the vehicle, first se- curely apply the parking brake and then place the selector lever in the P position. Avoid parking for a long time with the selector le- ver in any other position as doing so could result in a dead battery. Selector lever for automatic transmission 700034 Do not shift from the P or N po- sition into the D, 3, 2, 1 or R position while depressing the accelerator pedal. This may cause the vehicle to jump forward or back- ward. Shift into the P or R position only after the vehicle is complete- ly stopped. Shifting while the ve- hicle is moving may cause dam- age to the transmission. Do not race the engine for more than five seconds in any position except the N or P position when the brake is set or when chocks are used in the wheels. This may cause the automatic transmission fluid to overheat. Avoid shifting from one of the for- ward driving positions into the R position or vice versa until the vehicle has completely stopped. Such shifting may cause damage to the transmission. sure safe starting of the vehicle. To shift the selector lever from the P to the any other position, you have to de- press the brake pedal fully when the igni- tion switch is in the ON position. This prevents the vehicle from lurching when it is started. If the shift lever does not move from the P position with the brake pedal de- pressed, refer to the Shift lock release section in this chapter. R (Reverse) This position is for backing the vehicle. To shift from the N to R position, first stop the vehicle completely then move the lever to the R position. N (Neutral) This position is for restarting a stalled en- gine. In this position the wheels and transmis- sion are not locked. In this position, the transmission is neutral; the vehicle will roll freely, even on the slightest incline unless the parking brake or foot brake is on. Avoid coasting with the transmission neu- tral. During coasting, there is no engine brak- ing effect. Starting and operating 7-17 NOTE If you stop the engine with the selector lever in the N position, move the se- lector lever to the P position immedi- ately. Otherwise, you may find that the selector lever soon cannot be moved to the P position. If you find that the selector lever cannot be moved from the N position to the P position, turn the ignition switch to the ON po- sition and try again. Do not drive the vehicle with the se- lector lever in the N (neutral) posi- tion. Engine braking has no effect in this condition and the risk of an ac- cident is consequently increased. D (Drive) This position is for normal driving. The transmission automatically shifts into a suitable gear from 1st to 4th according to the vehicle speed and the acceleration you require. When more acceleration is required in this position, press the accelerator pedal fully to the floor and hold that position. The transmission will automatically downshift to 3rd, 2nd or 1st gear. When you release the pedal, the transmission will return to CONTINUED : With the brake pedal depressed, move the lever along the gate. : Move the lever along the gate. 700332 The selector lever has seven positions. P (Park) This position is for parking the vehicle and starting the engine. In this position, the transmission is me- chanically locked to prevent the vehicle from rolling freely. When you park the vehicle, first set the parking brake fully, then shift into the P position. Do not hold the vehicle with only the transmission. A shift interlock function is employed in the automatic transmission system to en- 7-18 Starting and operating the original gear position. While climbing a grade When driving up hill, undesired upshift to 4th gear is prevented from taking place when the accelerator pedal is released. This minimizes the chances of subse- quent downshifting to a lower gear when accelerating again. This prevents repeat- ed upshifting and downshifting resulting in a smoother operation of the vehicle. NOTE The transmission may downshift to 2nd or 1st gear, depending on the way the accelerator pedal is pressed to ac- celerate the vehicle again. While going down a hill When descending a steep hill, depressing the brake pedal will cause the transmis- sion to downshift to 3rd gear, thus apply- ing engine braking. Reacceleration for a short time will cause the transmission to upshift normally. NOTE In some cases, depressing the brake pedal on a downhill grade does not re- sult in an automatic downshift to 3rd gear. This can happen when the auto- matic transmission fluid temperature is very low, for example, during driving shortly after the vehicle has been parked for an extended period of time. When the ATF temperature has risen to a certain level, automatic downshift normally takes place. In the meantime, downshift manually for engine braking as required. Also, downshifting when braking downhill will not occur at speeds above approximately 48 mph (78 km/h). 3 (Third) This position is for using engine braking when going down a hill or for climbing a grade. The transmission automatically shifts into a suitable gear from 1st to 3rd according to the vehicle speed and the acceleration you require. When more acceleration is required in this position, press the accelerator pedal fully to the floor and hold that position. The transmission will automatically downshift to 2nd or 1st gear. When you release the pedal, the transmission will return to the original gear position. 2 (Second) This position is for using engine braking when going down a hill or for climbing a steep grade. In this position, the transmission holds in the 2nd gear. Use this position when starting off from a standstill on slippery road surfaces such as mud or snow. It will ensure greater trac- tion. 1 (First) This position is for driving up or down very steep grades, or driving through mud or sand, or on slippery surfaces. In this posi- tion, the transmission holds in the 1st gear. Maximum speeds The following tables show the maximum speeds that are possible with each differ- ent gear. When shifting down a gear, it is important to confirm that the current vehicle speed is not in excess of the Maximum Allowable Speed of the gear which is about to be se- lected. Non-turbo models Turbo models mph (km/h) 28 (45) 62 (100) 97 (156) 28 (45) 65 (104) 104 (167) parking your vehicle. Do not hold the vehi- cle with only the transmission. Do not keep the vehicle in a stationary position on an uphill grade by using the D, 3, 2, or 1 position. Use the brake instead. The engine may, on rare occasions, knock when the vehicle rapidly accelerates or rapidly pulls away from a standstill. This phenomenon is not an indication of a problem in your vehicle. Shift lock release If the selector lever does not move from the P position with the brake pedal de- pressed and the ignition switch in the ON position, perform the following steps: To override the shift lock: 1. Set the parking brake and stop the en- gine. 2. Take out the screwdriver from the tool bag. 3. Remove the cover by prying on the edge with the screwdriver. NOTE In order to prevent over-revving during deceleration of the vehicle, the trans- mission will remain in the current gear if the speed of the vehicle is in excess of the Maximum Allowable Speed for the gear to which the selector lever has been moved. When shifting down a gear, ensure that the vehicle is not travelling at a speed exceeding the Maximum Al- lowable Speed for the gear which is about to be selected. Failure to ob- serve this precaution can lead to en- gine over-revving and this in turn can result in engine damage. In addition, sudden application of engine brakes when the vehicle is travelling on a slippery surface can lead to wheel locking; as a conse- quence, control of the vehicle may be lost and the risk of an accident in- creased. Driving tips Always apply the foot or parking brake when the vehicle is stopped in the D, 3, 2, 1 or R position. Always set the parking brake when Starting and operating 7-19 700059 700060 4. Insert the screwdriver into the hole. 5. Push down on the screwdriver and move the selector lever from the P to the N position. 6. Remove the screwdriver from the hole. Depress the brake pedal and start the en- CONTINUED 7-20 Starting and operating gine. Take your vehicle to the nearest SUBARU dealer immediately to have the system re- paired. If you use a temporary spare tire to replace a flat tire, be sure to use the original temporary spare tire stored in the vehicle. Using other sizes will adversely affect the LSD. Limited slip differential (LSD) (if equipped) The LSD provides optimum distribution of power according to the difference in revo- lutions between the right and left wheels that may be caused by certain driving con- ditions, thereby improving driving stability on snow-covered, muddy or other slippery roads or when high speed driving. NOTE (WRX-STI) The rear differential may emit a knock- ing sound when the vehicle is driven slowly with the steering wheel turned fully to either side. This sound occurs because of the design of the mechani- cal LSD. It does not indicate a problem. Never start the engine while a tire on one side is jacked up, as the vehicle may move. If one tire is spinning in mud, avoid continued spinning at high speed as this could adversely af- fect the LSD. Power steering The power steering system operates only when the engine is running. If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system fails to function, you can steer but it will take much more effort. NOTE Right after the engine has been started and before it has warmed up, you may hear a noise coming from areas adja- cent to the power steering pump which is located at the right-front area of the engine compartment. This noise is nor- mal. It does not indicate power steering system trouble. Do not hold the steering wheel at the fully locked position left or right for more than five seconds. This may damage the power steering pump. Braking Braking tips Never rest your foot on the brake pedal while driving. This can cause dangerous overheating of the brakes and needless wear on the brake pads and linings. When the brakes get wet When driving in rain or after washing the vehicle, the brakes may get wet. As a re- sult, brake stopping distance will be long- er. To dry the brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe speed while lightly depressing the brake pedal to heat up the brakes. Use of engine braking Remember to make use of engine braking in addition to foot braking. When descend- ing a grade, if only the foot brake is used, the brakes may start working improperly because of brake fluid overheating, caused by overheated brake pads. To help prevent this, shift into a lower gear to get stronger engine braking. Braking when a tire is punctured Do not depress the brake pedal suddenly Starting and operating 7-21 when a tire is punctured. This could cause a loss of control of the vehicle. Keep driv- ing straight ahead while gradually reduc- ing speed. Then slowly pull off the road to a safe place. Brake system Two separate circuits Your vehicle has two separate circuit brake systems. Each circuit works diago- nally across the vehicle. If one circuit of the brake system should fail, the other half of the system still works. If one circuit fails, the brake pedal will go down much closer to the floor than usual and you will need to press it down much harder. And a much longer distance will be needed to stop the vehicle. Brake booster The brake booster uses engine manifold vacuum to assist braking force. Do not turn off the engine while driving because that will turn off the brake booster, result- ing in poor braking power. The brakes will continue to work even when the brake booster completely stops functioning. If this happens, however, you will have to push the pedal much harder than normal and the braking distance will increase. CONTINUED 7-22 Starting and operating Disc brake pad wear warning indicators ABS (Anti-lock Brake Sys- tem) The ABS system prevents the lock-up of wheels which may occur during sudden braking or braking on slippery road surfac- es. This helps prevent the loss of steering control and directional stability caused by wheel lock-up. When the ABS system is operating, you may hear a chattering noise or feel a slight vibration in the brake pedal. This is normal when the ABS operates. The ABS system will not operate when the vehicle speed is below approximately 6 mph (10 km/h). Always use the utmost care in driv- ing overconfidence because you are driving with an ABS equipped vehicle could easily lead to a seri- ous accident. 700040 The disc brake pad wear warning indica- tors on the disc brakes give a warning noise when the brake pads are worn. If a squeaking or scraping noise is heard from the disc brakes while braking, imme- diately have your vehicle checked by your SUBARU dealer. The ABS system does not always decrease stopping distance. You should always maintain a safe fol- lowing distance from other vehi- cles. When driving on badly surfaced roads, gravel roads, icy roads, or over deep newly fallen snow, stopping distances may be longer for a vehicle with the ABS system than one without. When driving under these conditions, therefore, reduce your speed and leave am- ple distance from other vehicles. When you feel the ABS system operating, you should maintain constant brake pedal pressure. Do not pump the brake pedal since doing so may defeat the op- eration of the ABS system. ABS system self-check Just after the vehicle is started, you may feel on the brake pedal a vibration similar to when the ABS operates, and you may also hear the sound of the ABS working from the engine compartment. This is caused by an automatic functional test of the ABS system being carried out and Starting and operating 7-23 immediately, remaining off. The warning light remains on after the engine has been started, but it goes out when the vehicle speed reaches approximately 8 mph (12 km/h). The warning light comes on during driving, but it goes out immediately and remains off. does not indicate any abnormal condition. ABS warning light 700359 The ABS warning light comes on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON posi- tion and goes out after approximately two seconds. This is an indication that the ABS system is working properly. When driving with an insufficient battery voltage such as when the engine is jump started, the ABS warning light may come on. This is due to the low battery voltage and does not indicate a malfunction. When the battery becomes fully charged, the light will go out. If the warning light behaves as fol- lows, the ABS system may not be working properly. When the warning light is on, the ABS function shuts down; however, the conventional brake system con- tinues to operate normally. The warning light does not come on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position. The warning light comes on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, but it does not go out even when the vehicle speed exceeds approximately 8 mph (12 km/h). The warning light comes on dur- ing driving. If these occur, have the ABS system repaired at the first available oppor- tunity by your SUBARU dealer. NOTE If the warning light behavior is as de- scribed in the following, the ABS sys- tem may be considered normal. The warning light comes on right af- ter the engine is started but goes out 7-24 Starting and operating Electronic Brake Force Dis- tribution (EBD) system The EBD system maximizes the effective- ness of the brakes by allowing the rear brakes to supply a greater proportion of the braking force. It functions by adjusting the distribution of braking force to the rear wheels in accordance with the vehicles loading condition and speed. The EBD system is an integral part of the ABS system and uses some of the ABS systems components to perform its func- tion of optimizing the distribution of brak- ing force. If any of the ABS components used by the EBD function fails, the EBD system also stops working. When the EBD system is operating, you may hear a chattering noise or feel a slight vibration in the brake pedal. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction. warning light illuminate simultaneously, take the following steps: 1. Stop the vehicle in the nearest safe, flat place. 2. Shut down the engine, then restart it. 3. Release the parking brake. If both warning lights go out, the EBD system may be faulty. Drive carefully to the near- est SUBARU dealer and have the system inspected. 4. If both warning lights come on again and stay illuminated after the engine has been restarted, shut down the engine again, apply the parking brake, and check the brake fluid level. 5. If the brake fluid level is not below the MIN mark, the EBD system may be faulty. Drive carefully to the nearest SUBARU dealer and have the system in- spected. 6. If the brake fluid level is below the MIN mark, DO NOT drive the vehicle. In- stead, have the vehicle towed to the near- est SUBARU dealer for repair. Steps to take if EBD system fails 700360 If a malfunction occurs in the EBD system, the system stops working and the brake system warning light and ABS warning light come on simultaneously. The EBD system may be faulty if the brake system warning light and ABS warning light illuminate simultaneously during driv- ing. Even if the EBD system fails, the conven- tional braking system will still function. However, the rear wheels will be more prone to locking when the brakes are ap- plied harder than usual and the vehicles motion may therefore become somewhat harder to control. If the brake system warning light and ABS Parking your vehicle Parking brake To set the parking brake, press the brake pedal firmly and hold it down while fully pulling up the parking brake lever. Driving with the brake system warning light on is dangerous. This indicates your brake system may not be working properly. If the light remains on, have the brakes inspected by a SUBARU dealer immediately. If at all in doubt about whether the brakes are operating properly, do not drive the vehicle. Have your vehicle the nearest SUBARU dealer for repair. towed to 700336 To release the parking brake, pull the le- ver up slightly, press the release button, then lower the lever while keeping the but- ton pressed. When the parking brake is set while the engine is running, the parking brake warn- ing light comes on. After starting the vehi- cle, be sure that the warning light has gone out before the vehicle is driven. Re- fer to the Warning and indicator lights section (chapter 3). Starting and operating 7-25 Never drive while the parking brake is set because this will cause unnec- essary wear on the brake linings. Before starting to drive, always make sure that the parking brake has been fully released. Parking tips When parking your vehicle, always set the parking brake firmly and put the shift lever in the 1 (1st) for an upgrade or R (Re- verse) for a downgrade for manual trans- mission vehicles, or in the P (Park) posi- tion for automatic transmission vehicles. Always set the parking brake firmly when parking your vehicle. Never rely on the transmission alone to hold the vehicle. CONTINUED If your vehicle has a front under- spoiler and rear underspoiler (both optional), pay attention to blocks and other obstructions on the ground when parking. The under- spoilers could be damaged by con- tact with them. 7-26 Starting and operating 700136 When parking on a hill, always turn the steering wheel. When the vehicle is head- ed up the hill, the front wheels should be turned away from the curb. 700137 When facing downhill, the front wheels should be turned into the curb. Never leave unattended children or pets in the vehicle. They could accidentally injure themselves or others through inadvertent opera- tion of the vehicle. Also, on hot or sunny days, the temperature in a closed vehicle could quickly be- come high enough to cause se- vere or possibly fatal injuries to people. Do not park the vehicle over flam- mable materials such as dry grass, waste paper or rags, as they may burn easily if they come near hot engine or exhaust sys- tem parts. Be sure to stop the engine if you take a nap in the vehicle. If engine exhaust gas enters the passenger compartment, occupants in the vehicle could die from carbon monoxide (CO) contained in the exhaust gas. Cruise control To set cruise control vehicle reaches the desired speed. Starting and operating 7-27 Cruise control enables you to maintain a constant vehicle speed without holding your foot on the accelerator pedal and it is operative when the vehicle speed is 25 mph (40 km/h) or more. Make sure the main switch is turned OFF when the cruise control is not in use to avoid unin- tentionally setting the cruise control. NOTE If you move the cruise control lever or press the main switch button while turning the ignition switch ON, the cruise control function is deactivated and the CRUISE indicator light flash- es. To reactivate the cruise control function, turn the ignition switch back to the ACC or LOCK position, and then turn it again to the ON position. Do not use the cruise control under any of the following conditions. This may cause loss of vehicle control: driving up or down a steep grade driving on slippery or winding roads driving in heavy traffic 1. Push the main switch button. 300332 300333 3. Push the control lever downward in the SET/COAST direction and release it. Then release the accelerator pedal. 700361 indicator light on the com- The bination meter will come on. 2. Depress the accelerator pedal until the At this time, the illuminated in the combination meter. 700362 indicator light is CONTINUED 7-28 Starting and operating The vehicle will maintain the desired speed. Vehicle speed can be temporarily in- creased while driving with the cruise con- trol activated. Simply depress the acceler- ator pedal to accelerate the vehicle. When the accelerator pedal is released, the ve- hicle will return to and maintain the previ- ous cruising speed. To temporarily cancel the cruise control There are five ways to cancel the cruise control temporarily: Depress the clutch pedal (manual trans- mission vehicles only). Shift the selector lever into the N posi- transmission vehicles (automatic tion only). Shift the shift lever into neutral position (manual transmission vehicles only). The indicator light in the combi- nation meter goes off when the cruise control is cancelled. To resume the cruise control after it has been temporarily canceled and with vehi- cle speed of approximately 20 mph (32 km/h) or more, push the control lever up- ward in the RES/ACC direction to return to the original cruising speed automatical- ly. The indicator light in the combi- nation meter will automatically come on at this time. To turn off the cruise control There are two ways to turn off the cruise control: Push the main switch again. Turn the ignition switch to the ACC or LOCK position (but only when the vehi- cle is completely stopped). 700161 Pull the control lever in the CANCEL direction. Depress the brake pedal. To change the cruising speed To increase the speed (by control le- ver) 300334 Push the control lever upward in the RES/ACC direction and hold it until the vehicle reaches the desired speed. Then, release the control lever. The vehicle speed at that moment will be memorized and treated as the new set speed. When the difference between the actual vehicle speed and the set speed is less than 4 mph (6.8 km/h), the set speed can be increased 1 mph (1.6 km/h) each time by pressing the control lever upward in the RES/ACC direction quickly. To increase the speed (by accelera- tor pedal) 1. Depress the accelerator pedal to accel- erate the vehicle to the desired speed. 2. Push the control lever downward in the SET/COAST direction once. Now the desired speed is set and the vehicle will keep running at that speed without de- pressing the accelerator pedal. NOTE If the difference between the actual ve- hicle speed when the control lever is pushed downward and the speed last time you set is less than 4 mph (6.8 km/ h), the vehicle speed will be lowered by 1 mph (1.6 km/h). This occurs because the cruise control system unit regards this lever operation as that intended to decrease the vehicle speed. To decrease the speed (by control lever) Starting and operating 7-29 cruise control temporarily. 2. When the speed decreases to the de- sired speed, press the control lever down- ward in the SET/COAST direction once. Now the desired speed is set and the ve- hicle will keep running at that speed with- out depressing the accelerator pedal. 300333 Push the control lever downward in the SET/COAST direction and hold it until the vehicle reaches the desired speed. Then, release the control lever. The vehi- cle speed at that moment will be memo- rized and treated as the new set speed. When the difference between the actual vehicle speed and the set speed is less than 4 mph (6.8 km/h), the set speed can be lowered 1 mph (1.6 km/h) each time by pressing the control lever downward in the SET/COAST direction quickly. To decrease the speed (by brake pedal) 1. Depress the brake pedal to release Driving tips Trailer towing ...................................................... 8-19 8-19 8-20 8-23 8-24 8-25 Warranties and maintenance ................................. Maximum load limits .............................................. Trailer hitches ......................................................... Connecting a trailer ................................................ Trailer towing tips ................................................... 8-2 8-2 8-2 8-3 8-4 8-4 8-5 8-6 New vehicle break-in driving the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) .............................................. Fuel economy hints ........................................... Engine exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ......... Catalytic converter ............................................. Periodic inspections .......................................... Driving in foreign countries .............................. Driving tips for AWD vehicles ........................... Off road driving .................................................. All AWD models except OUTBACK SPORT and vehicles with 17 inch tires ................................... OUTBACK SPORT .................................................. Winter driving ..................................................... Operation during cold weather .............................. Driving on snowy and icy roads ............................ Corrosion protection .............................................. Snow tires ............................................................... Tire chains ............................................................... Rocking the vehicle ................................................ 8-6 8-6 8-8 8-8 8-9 8-10 8-10 8-11 8-12 Loading your vehicle ......................................... 8-12 8-13 Vehicle capacity weight ......................................... GVWR and GAWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and Gross Axle Weight Rating) ........................... Roof rail and crossbar (if equipped) ..................... 8-14 8-14 Trailer hitch (if equipped) .................................. 8-17 8-17 8-19 Connecting a trailer ................................................ When you do not tow a trailer ............................... 8-2 Driving tips New vehicle break-in driving the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) Driving tips Fuel economy hints The following suggestions will help to save your fuel. Engine exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) The performance and long life of your ve- hicle are dependent on how you handle and care for your vehicle while it is new. Follow these instructions during the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km): Do not race the engine. And do not al- low engine speed to exceed 4,000 rpm ex- cept in an emergency. Do not drive at one constant engine or vehicle speed for a long time, either fast or slow. Avoid starting suddenly and rapid accel- eration, except in an emergency. Avoid hard braking, except in an emer- gency. The same break-in procedures should be applied to an overhauled engine, newly mounted engine or when brake pads or brake linings are replaced with new ones. Select the proper gear position for the speed and road conditions. Avoid sudden acceleration or decelera- tion. Always accelerate gently until you reach the desired speed. Then try to main- tain that speed for as long as possible. Do not pump the accelerator and avoid racing the engine. Avoid unnecessary engine idling. Keep the engine properly tuned. Keep the tires inflated to the correct pressure shown on the tire placard, which is located under the door latch on the driv- ers side. Low pressure will increase tire wear and fuel consumption. Use the air conditioner only when nec- essary. er alignment. cargo. Keep the front and rear wheels in prop- Avoid carrying unnecessary luggage or Never inhale engine exhaust gas. Engine exhaust gas contains car- bon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas which is dangerous, or even lethal, if inhaled. Always properly maintain the en- gine exhaust system to prevent engine exhaust gas from entering the vehicle. Never run the engine in a closed space, such as a garage, except for the brief time needed to drive the vehicle in or out of it. Avoid remaining in a parked vehi- cle for a lengthy time while the en- gine is running. If that is unavoid- able, then use the ventilation fan to force fresh air into the vehicle. Always keep the front ventilator inlet grille free from snow, leaves or other obstructions to ensure that the ventilation system always works properly. If at any time you suspect that ex- haust fumes are entering the vehi- cle, have the problem checked and corrected as soon as possi- ble. If you must drive under these conditions, drive only with all win- dows fully open. Keep the trunk lid (Sedan) or rear gate (Wagon) closed while driving to prevent exhaust gas from en- tering the vehicle. NOTE Due to the expansion and contraction of the metals used in the manufacture of the exhaust system, you may hear a crackling sound coming from the ex- haust system for a short time after the engine has been shut off. This sound is normal. Catalytic converter Turbo models 800232 Driving tips 8-3 The catalytic converter is installed in the exhaust system. It serves as catalyst to reduce HC, CO and NOx in exhaust gas- es, thus providing cleaner exhaust. To avoid damage to the catalytic convert- er: Use only unleaded fuel. Even a small amount of leaded fuel will damage the cat- alytic converter. Never start the engine by pushing or pulling the vehicle. Avoid racing the engine. Never turn off the ignition switch while the vehicle is moving. Keep your engine tuned-up. If you feel the engine running rough (misfiring, back- firing or incomplete combustion), have your vehicle checked and repaired by an authorized SUBARU dealer. Do not apply undercoating or rust pre- vention treatment to the heat shield of cat- alytic converter and the exhaust system. Non-turbo models

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2006 Subaru Impreza WRX Owners Manual