2004 Subaru Legacy Owners Manual

Foreword

Congratulations on choosing a SUBARU vehicle. This Owner’s Man- ual has all the information necessary to keep your SUBARU in excel- lent condition and to properly maintain the emission control system for minimizing emission pollutants. We urge you to read this manual carefully so that you may understand your vehicle and its operation. For information not found in this Owner’s Manual, such as details concerning repairs or adjustments, please contact the dealer from whom you purchased your SUBARU or the nearest SUBARU dealer. The information, specifications and illustrations found in this manual are those in effect at the time of printing. FUJI HEAVY INDUSTRIES LTD. reserves the right to change specifications and designs at any time without prior notice and without incurring any obligation to make the same or similar changes on vehicles previously sold. This Owner’s Manual applies to all models and covers all equipment, in- cluding factory installed options. Some explanations, therefore may be for equipment not installed in your vehicle. Please leave this manual in the vehicle at the time of resale. The next owner will need the information found herein.

FUJI HEAVY INDUSTRIES LTD., TOKYO, JAPAN

and

are registered trademarks of FUJI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.

© copyright 2003 FUJI HEAVY INDUSTRIES LTD.

This manual describes the following types of the Legacy series.

Legacy Sedan

OUTBACK Sedan

Legacy Station Wagon

OUTBACK Station Wagon

UBF060AB

Warranties (cid:132) Warranties for U.S.A. All SUBARU vehicles distributed by Subaru of Ameri- ca, Inc. and sold at retail by an authorized SUBARU dealer in the United States come with the following warranties: (cid:121) SUBARU Limited Warranty (cid:121) Emission Control Systems Warranty (cid:121) Emissions Performance Warranty All warranty information, including details of coverage and exclusions, is in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”. Please read these warranties carefully. (cid:84) Warranties for Canada All SUBARU vehicles distributed by Subaru Canada, Inc. and sold at retail by an authorized SUBARU deal- er in Canada come with the following warranties: (cid:121) SUBARU Limited Warranty (cid:121) Anti-Corrosion Warranty (cid:121) Emission Control Warranty All warranty information, including details of coverage and exclusions, is in the “Warranty and Service Book- let”. Please read these warranties carefully.

This vehicle does not contain mer- cury devices or parts.

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How to use this owner’s manual (cid:132) Using your Owner’s manual Before you operate your vehicle, carefully read this manual. To protect yourself and extend the service life of your vehicle, follow the instructions in this manual. Failure to observe these instructions may result in se- rious injury and damage to your vehicle. This manual is composed of fourteen chapters. Each chapter begins with a brief table of contents, so you can usually tell at a glance if that chapter contains the information you want. Chapter 1: Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags This chapter informs you how to use the seat and seat- belt and contains precautions for the SRS airbags. Chapter 2: Keys and doors This chapter informs you how to operate the keys, locks and windows. Chapter 3: Instruments and controls This chapter informs you about the operation of instru- ment panel indicators and how to use the instruments and other switches. Chapter 4: Climate control This chapter informs you how to operate the climate control. Chapter 5: Audio

This chapter informs you how to operate your audio system. Chapter 6: Interior equipment This chapter informs you how to operate interior equipment. Chapter 7: Starting and operating This chapter informs you how to start and operate your SUBARU. Chapter 8: Driving tips This chapter informs you how to drive your SUBARU in various conditions and explains some safety tips on driving. Chapter 9: In case of emergency This chapter informs you what to do if you have a prob- lem while driving, such as a flat tire or engine over- heating. Chapter 10: Appearance care This chapter informs you how to keep your SUBARU looking good. Chapter 11: Maintenance and service This chapter informs you when you need to take your SUBARU to the dealer for scheduled maintenance and informs you how to keep your SUBARU running properly. Chapter 12: Specifications This chapter informs you about dimension and capac- ities of your SUBARU.

Chapter 13: Consumer information and Reporting safety defects This chapter informs you about Tire information, Uni- form tire quality grading standards and Reporting safety defects. Chapter 14: Index This is an alphabetical listing of all that’s in this manu- al. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.

(cid:132) Safety warnings You will find a number of WARNINGs, CAUTIONs and NOTEs in this manual. These safety warnings alert you to potential hazards that could result in injury to you or others. Please read these safety warnings as well as all other portions of this manual carefully in order to gain a bet- ter understanding of how to use your SUBARU vehicle safely.

A WARNING indicates a situation in which seri- ous injury or death could result if the warning is ignored.

A CAUTION indicates a situation in which injury or damage to your vehicle, or both, could result if the caution is ignored.

NOTE A NOTE gives information or suggestions how to make better use of your vehicle.

(cid:132) Safety symbol

HSF019AA

You will find a circle with a slash through it in this man- – CONTINUED –

ual. This symbol means “Do not”, “Do not do this”, or “Do not let this happen”, depending upon the context.

Safety precautions when driving (cid:132) Seatbelt and SRS airbag

(cid:121) All persons in the vehicle should fasten their seatbelts BEFORE the vehicle starts to move. Otherwise, the possibility of serious injury be- comes greater in the event of a sudden stop or accident. (cid:121) To obtain maximum protection in the event of an accident, the driver and all passengers in the vehicle should always wear seatbelts when the vehicle is moving. The SRS (Supplemental Re- straint System) airbag does not do away with the need to fasten seatbelts. In combination with the seatbelts, it offers the best combined protection in case of a serious accident. Not wearing a seatbelt increases the chance of severe injury or death in a crash even when the car has the SRS airbag. (cid:121) The SRS airbags deploy with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are out of proper position when the SRS airbag deploys could suffer very serious injuries. Because the SRS airbag needs enough space for deploy-

ment, the driver should always sit upright and well back in the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full ve- hicle control and the front passenger should move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in the seat.

Carefully read the sections “Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags” in chapter 1 of this owner’s manual for in- structions and precautions concerning the seatbelt system and SRS airbag system.

(cid:132) Child safety

(cid:121) Never hold a child on your lap or in your arms while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from injury in a colli- sion, because the child will be caught between the passenger and objects inside the vehicle. (cid:121) While riding in the vehicle, infants and small children should always be placed in the REAR seat in an infant or child restraint system which is appropriate for the child’s age, height and weight. If a child is too big for a child restraint

system, the child should sit in the REAR seat and be restrained using the seatbelts. Accord- ing to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating po- sitions than in the front seating positions. Nev- er allow a child to stand up or kneel on the seat. (cid:121) Put children aged 12 and under in the REAR seat properly restrained at all times in a child restraint device or in a seatbelt. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, especially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or improperly restrained. Because children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk being injured from deployment is greater. (cid:121) NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SAFETY SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG. (cid:121) Always use the child safety locks whenever a child rides in the rear seat. Serious injury could result if a child accidentally opened the door and fell out. Refer to the “Door locks” section in chapter 2. (cid:121) Always lock the passenger’s windows using

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the lock switch when children are riding in the vehicle. Failure to follow this procedure could result in injury to a child operating the power window. Refer to the “Power windows” section in chapter 2. (cid:121) Never leave unattended children in the vehi- cle. They could accidentally injure themselves or others through inadvertent operation of the vehicle. Also, on hot or sunny days, tempera- ture in a closed vehicle could quickly become high enough to cause severe or possibly fatal injuries to them. (cid:121) Help prevent young children from locking themselves in the trunk. When leaving the vehi- cle, either close all windows and lock all doors or cancel the inside trunk lid release. Also make certain that the trunk is closed. On hot or sunny days, the temperature in a trunk could quickly become high enough to cause death or serious heat-related injuries including brain damage, particularly for small children.

Carefully read the sections “Child restraint sys- tems”,“*SRS airbag (Supplemental Restraint System airbag)”, and “Seatbelts” in chapter 1 of this owner’s manual for instructions and precautions concerning the child restraint system, seatbelt system and SRS

airbag system.

(cid:132) Engine exhaust gas (carbon monox-

ide)

(cid:121) Never inhale engine exhaust gas. Engine ex- haust gas contains carbon monoxide, a color- less and odorless gas which is dangerous, or even lethal, if inhaled. (cid:121) Always properly maintain the engine exhaust system to prevent engine exhaust gas from en- tering the vehicle. (cid:121) 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. (cid:121) Avoid remaining in a parked vehicle for a lengthy time while the engine is running. If that is unavoidable, then use the ventilation fan to force fresh air into the vehicle. (cid:121) Always keep the front ventilator inlet grille free from snow, leaves or other obstructions to ensure that the ventilation system always works properly. (cid:121) If at any time you suspect that exhaust fumes are entering the vehicle, have the problem

checked and corrected as soon as possible. If you must drive under these conditions, drive only with all windows fully open. (cid:121) Keep the trunk lid or rear gate closed while driving to prevent exhaust gas from entering the vehicle.

you may have consumed too much alcohol to drive safely even if the level of alcohol in your blood is below the legal limit. The safest thing you can do is never drink and drive. However if you have no choice but to drive, stop drinking and sober up completely before getting behind the wheel.

(cid:132) Drinking and driving

(cid:132) Drugs and driving

Drinking and then driving is very dangerous. Alcohol in the bloodstream delays your reac- tion and impairs your perception, judgment and attentiveness. If you drive after drinking – even if you drink just a little – it will increase the risk of being involved in a serious or fatal accident, injuring or killing yourself, your passengers and others. In addition, if you are injured in the accident, alcohol may increase the severity of that injury. Please don’t drink and drive.

Drunken driving is one of the most frequent causes of accidents. Since alcohol affects all people differently,

There are some drugs (over the counter and prescription) that can delay your reaction time and impair your perception, judgment and at- tentiveness. If you drive after taking them, it may increase your, your passengers’ and other persons’ risk of being involved in a serious or fatal accident.

If you are taking any drugs, check with your doctor or pharmacist or read the literature that accompanies the medication to determine if the drug you are taking can impair your driving ability. Do not drive after taking any medications that can make you drowsy or otherwise affect your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. If you have a medical condition that requires you to take

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drugs, please consult with your doctor. Never drive if you are under the influence of any illicit mind-altering drugs. For your own health and well-be- ing, we urge you not to take illegal drugs in the first place and to seek treatment if you are addicted to those drugs.

(cid:132) Driving when tired or sleepy

When you are tired or sleepy, your reaction will be delayed and your perception, judgment and attentiveness will be impaired. If you drive when tired or sleepy, your, your passengers’ and other persons’ chances of being involved in a serious accident may increase.

Please do not continue to drive but instead find a safe place to rest if you are tired or sleepy. On long trips, you should make periodic rest stops to refresh your- self before continuing on your journey. When possible, you should share the driving with others.

(cid:132) Car/Mobile phones and driving

Do not use a hand-held phone while driving; it may distract your attention from driving and can lead to an accident. If you use a hand-held phone, pull off the road and park in the safe place before using your phone. In some States/ Provinces, only hands-free phones may legally be used while driving.

(cid:132) Modification of your vehicle

Your vehicle should not be modified. Modifica- tion could affect its performance, safety or du- rability, and may even violate governmental regulations. In addition, damage or perfor- mance problems resulting from modification may not be covered under warranties.

(cid:132) Driving with pets Unrestrained pets can interfere with your driving and distract your attention from driving. In a collision or sudden stop, unrestrained pets or cages can be thrown around inside the vehicle and hurt you or your passengers. Besides, the pets can be hurt under these situations. It is also for their own safety that pets should be properly restrained in your vehicle. Restrain a pet with a special traveling harness which can be se- cured to the rear seat with a seatbelt or use a pet car- rier which can be secured to the rear seat by routing a seatbelt through the carrier’s handle. Never restrain pets or pet carriers in the front passenger’s seat. For further information, consult your veterinarian, local an- imal protection society or pet shop.

(cid:132) Tire pressures

Driving at high speeds with excessively low tire pressures can cause the tires to deform severe- ly and to rapidly become hot. A sharp increase in temperature could cause tread separation, and destruction of the tires. The resulting loss of vehicle control could lead to an accident.

Check and, if necessary, adjust the pressure of each tire (including the spare) at least once a month and be- fore any long journey. Check the tire pressure when the tires are cold. Use a pressure gauge to adjust the tire pressures to the values shown on the tire placard. Refer to the “Tires and wheels” section in chapter 11
for detailed information.

(cid:132) California proposition 65 warning

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other repro- ductive harm. In addition, certain fluids in vehi- cles and certain components of product wear contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

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Table of contents Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Keys and doors

Instruments and controls

Climate control

Audio

Interior equipment

Starting and operating

Driving tips

In case of emergency

Appearance care

Maintenance and service

Specifications

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects

Index

10
11
12
13
14

Illustrated index

(cid:132) Exterior

1) Hood lock release (page 11-5) 2) Headlight switch (page 3-19) 3) Bulb replacement (page 11-65) 4) Wiper switch (page 3-26) 5) Moonroof (page 2-32) 6) Roof rail (page 8-20) 7) Door locks (page 2-3) 8) Tire pressure (page 11-44) 9) Flat tires (page 9-5) 10) Tire chains (page 8-15) 11) Fog light switch (page 3-24) 12) Tie-down hooks (page 9-21) 13) Towing hook (page 9-21)

13

12

11

8910

UBF003BB

12

1) Rear wiper switch (page 3-27) 2) Rear window defogger switch

(page 3-28)

3) Fuel filler lid (page 7-4) 4) Child safety locks (page 2-22) 5) Towing hook (page 9-21) 6) Trunk/Rear gate (page 2-26/2-

31)

7) Tie-down hooks (page 9-21) 8) Bulb replacement (page 11-71)

UBF061BB

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1)

Lower anchorage for child re- straint system (page 2-22)

2) Seatbelt (page 1-18) 3) Parking brake lever (page 7-40) 4) Front seat (page 1-2) 5) Rear seat (page 1-10)

(cid:132) Interior (cid:84) Passenger compartment area

UBF038BB

14

1

1) Moonroof (page 2-32) 2) 3) Rear center passenger’s seat

Interior lights (page 6-2)

seatbelt (page 1-18) 4) Sun visors (page 6-4) 5) Map light (page 6-3) 6)

Inside mirror (page 3-31)

56

UBF026BB

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1) Cup holder (page 6-8) 2) Center console (page 6-6) 3) Glove box (page 6-6) 4) Cigarette lighter (page 6-10) 5) Ashtray (page 6-12)

UBF036CB

16

(cid:84) Trunk/cargo area

Jack (page 9-32) Jack handle (page 9-32)

1) 2) 3) Spare tire (page 9-32)

UBF062BB

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(cid:132) Instrument panel

17

16

15

14

13

12

11

10

UBF021BB

18

1) Door locks (page 2-3) 2) Outside mirror (page 3-33) 3) Light control lever (page 3-19) 4) Combination meter (page 3-7) 5) Wiper control lever (page 3-24) 6) Hazard warning flasher switch

(page 3-6)

7) Climate control (page 4-1) 8) Gear shift lever (MT) (page 7-

12)/Selector lever (AT) (page 7- 15)

9) Audio (page 5-1) 10) Cruise control (page 7-42) 11) Horn (page 3-36) 12) SRS airbag (page 1-57) 13) Tilt steering (page 3-35) 14) Fuse box (page 11-59) 15) Hood lock release (page 11-5) 16) Power door locking switch (page

2-5)

17) Power window (page 2-23)

(cid:132) Light control and wiper control levers/switches

12

10

11

34

UBF023BB

1) Parking light switch (page 3-23) 2) Windshield wiper (page 3-24) 3) Mist (page 3-26) 4) Windshield washer (page 3-26) 5) Rear window wiper and washer

switch (page 3-27)

6) Wiper control lever (page 3-26) 7) Illumination brightness control (page 3-22) 8) Light control lever (page 3-19) 9) Headlight ON/OFF (page 3-19) 10) Headlight flasher High/Low

beam change (page 3-19)

11) Turn signal (for lane change)

(page 3-21)

12) Turn signal (page 3-21)

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1) Fuel gauge (page 3-8) 2) Speedometer (page 3-7) 3) Gear position indicator (page 3-

17)

4) Tachometer (page 3-8) 5) Temperature gauge (page 3-9) 6) Clock setting knob (page 3-18) 7) Clock and outside temperature

indicator (page 3-18, 3-8)

8) Selector lever position indicator

(page 3-17)

9) Trip meter A/B selection and trip

meter reset knob (page 3-7)

10) Trip meter and odometer (page

3-7)

(cid:132) Combination meter (cid:84) Overview

10

UBF057BB

20

(cid:84) Warning and indicator light

Mark

Name

Seatbelt warning light

SRS airbag system warning light

CHECK ENGINE warning light/Malfunction indicator lamp

Charge warning light

Oil pressure warning light

AT OIL temperature warn- ing light (if equipped)

ABS warning light

VDC warning equipped)

light

(if

Brake system warning light

or

or

Page

3-10

3-10

3-11

3-12

3-12

3-12

3-13

3-13

3-14

Mark

Name

Door open warning light

Low fuel warning light

Front-wheel drive warning light (if equipped)

VDC operation indicator light (if equipped)

VDC OFF indicator light (if equipped)

Security system indicator light (if equipped)

Turn signal indicator lights

High beam indicator light

Cruise control set indicator light

Page

3-15

3-15

3-15

3-15

3-16

3-16

3-17

3-18

3-18

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

*SRS airbag (Supplemental Restraint

Installing child restraint systems with A/ELR seatbelt ............................................................ 1-41
Installing a booster seat ................................... 1-46
Installation of child restraint systems by use of lower and tether anchorages (LATCH) .... 1-48
Top tether anchorages ..................................... 1-52
System airbag) ........................................... 1-57
Vehicle with driver’s and front passenger’s 1-57
SRS airbags and lap/shoulder restraints ..... 1-62
SRS frontal airbag ............................................ 1-70
SRS side airbag (if equipped) .......................... 1-78
SRS airbag system monitors ........................... SRS airbag system servicing .......................... 1-79
Precautions against vehicle modification ...... 1-80

Front seats .................................................... Fore and aft adjustment ................................... Seat cushion angle and height adjustment (Power seat only) ........................................... Reclining the seatback ..................................... Head restraint adjustment ................................ Lumbar support (if equipped) .......................... Seat heater (if equipped) .............................. Rear seats ..................................................... Armrest (if equipped) ........................................ Headrest adjustment – Rear center seating position on Station wagon ............................ Folding down the rear seat – Station wagon .. Seatbelts ....................................................... Seatbelt safety tips ........................................... Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) .............. Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor (A/ELR) ............................................................ Seatbelt warning light and chime ................... Fastening the seatbelt ...................................... Seatbelt maintenance ....................................... Seatbelt extender ......................................... Front seatbelt pretensioners ....................... System monitors ............................................... System servicing .............................................. Precautions against vehicle modification ...... Child restraint systems ................................ Where to place a child restraint system ......... Choosing a child restraint system ..................

1-2
1-3
1-4
1-5
1-7
1-8
1-9
1-10
1-11
1-13
1-14
1-18
1-18
1-19
1-20
1-20
1-20
1-31
1-32
1-34
1-35
1-36
1-37
1-37
1-39
1-41

1-1

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Front seats

(cid:121) Never adjust the seat while driving to avoid the possibility of loss of vehicle control and of personal injury. (cid:121) Before adjusting the seat, make sure the hands and feet of rear seat passengers are clear of the adjusting mechanism. (cid:121) Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. To reduce the risk of sliding under the seatbelt in a collision, the front seatbacks should be always used in the upright position while the vehicle is running. If the front seat- backs are not used in the upright position in a collision, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious in- ternal injury or death. (cid:121) The SRS airbags deploy with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are out of proper position when the SRS airbag deploys could suffer very serious injuries. Because the SRS airbag needs enough space for deploy- ment, the driver should always sit upright and

1-2

well back in the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full ve- hicle control and the front passenger should move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in the seat.

HS1034BA

Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly restrained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, especially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not

restrained or improperly restrained. Because children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deployment is greater. For that reason, we strongly recom- mend that ALL children (including those in child seats and those that have outgrown child restraint devices) sit in the REAR seat properly restrained at all times in a child restraint device or in a seatbelt, whichever is appropriate for the child’s age, height and weight. Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (in- cluding forward facing child seat) in the REAR seats at all times. NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seat- ing positions than in the front seating posi- tions. For instructions and precautions con- cerning child restraint systems, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chapter.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:132) Fore and aft adjustment (cid:84) Manual type

UB1058BA

Pull the lever upward and slide the seat to the desired position. Then release the lever and move the seat- back and forth to make sure that it is securely locked into place.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:84) Power seat (if equipped)

(cid:132) Seat cushion angle and height adjust-

ment (Power seat only)

To adjust the seat forward or backward, move the con- trol switch forward or backward.

UB1060BA

UB1078BA

1-4

To adjust the angle and height of the seat cushion, move the control switch in the corresponding direction.

UB1062BA

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:132) Reclining the seatback

HS1037BA

To prevent the passenger from sliding under the seatbelt in the event of a collision, always put the seatback in the upright position while the vehicle is in motion. Also, do not place ob- jects such as cushions between the passenger and the seatback. If you do so, the risk of slid- ing under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:84) Manual type

(cid:84) Power seat (if equipped)

UB1072BA

UB1084BA

Pull the reclining lever up and adjust the seatback to the desired position. Then release the lever and make sure the seat is securely locked into place. The seatback placed in a reclined position can spring back upward with force when released. When operat- ing the reclining lever to return the seatback, hold it lightly so that it may be raised back gradually.

To adjust the angle of the seatback, move the control switch. NOTE While adjusting the seatback, you can not at the same time adjust the seat position or the seat cushion angle and height.

1-6

(cid:132) Head restraint adjustment

the vehicle is struck from the rear.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1016BA

To raise the head restraint, pull it up. To lower it, push the head restraint down while pressing the release button on the top of the seatback. The head restraint should be adjusted so that the cen- ter of the head restraint is closest to the top of the oc- cupant’s ears.

Never drive the vehicle with the head restraints removed because they are designed to reduce the risk of serious neck injury in the event that

NOTE If the seatback is reclined rearward to the same level as the rear seat cushion with the head re- straint removed, a wide flat bed is made available.

(cid:121) Never drive your car with the seats converted in a flat bed position. If you do so, occupants will have a greater chance of being injured even during simple deceleration, acceleration and cornering since no firm restraint will be avail- able for them. (cid:121) Before you lie on the flat bed to take a rest, read the description “Parking your vehicle” in Chapter 7 carefully and follow the instructions.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:132) Lumbar support (if equipped)

UBS011AA

1. Slide the front seat forward as far as possible. 2. Pull off the head restraint while pressing the re- lease button. 3. Recline the seatback rearward up to the lowest po- sition. Remember to reinstall the head restraint when- ever the seatback is raised back.

Pull the lever forward or backward. Pulling the lever forward will increase the amount of support for your lower back.

UB1059BA

1-8

Seat heater (if equipped)

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1073BB

1) Heating element The seat heater operates when the ignition switch is either in the “ACC” or “ON” position.

LO

HI

UB1093BB

1) Indicator light To turn on the seat heater, push the “LO” or “HI” posi- tion on the switch, as desired, depending on the tem- perature. Selecting the “HI” position will cause the seat to heat up quicker. LO: Normal heating HI: Rapid heating The indicator located on the switch comes on when the seat heater is in operation. When the vehicle’s in- terior is warmed enough or before you leave the vehi- cle, be sure to turn the switch off.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:121) There is a possibility that people with delicate skin may suffer slight burns even at low tem- peratures if he/she uses the seat heater for a long period of time. When using the heater, al- ways be sure to warn the persons concerned. (cid:121) Do not put anything on the seat which insu- lates against heat, such as a blanket, cushion, or similar items. This may cause the seat heater to overheat.

NOTE (cid:121) Use of the seat heater for a long period of time while the engine is not running can cause battery discharge. (cid:121) When cleaning the seat, do not use benzine, paint thinner, or any similar materials.

1-10

Rear seats

UB0302

Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. Do not put cushions or any other materials be- tween occupants and seatbacks or seat cush- ions. If you do so, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:132) Armrest (if equipped)

HS8005BA

UB1068BA

Never stack luggage or other cargo higher than the top of the seatback because it could tumble forward and injure passengers in the event of a sudden stop or accident.

Sedan

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:84) Loading long objects (Sedan)

Station wagon To lower the armrest, pull on the top edge of the arm- rest.

UB1100BA

To avoid the possibility of serious injury, pas- sengers must never be allowed to sit on the center armrest while the vehicle is in motion.

UB1052BA

Folding down the armrest and opening the seatback panel affords a loading space for long objects. To open the seatback panel, pull the panel down while pressing the release tab down.

(cid:121) Secure long objects properly to prevent them from shooting forward and causing serious in- jury during a sudden stop or sharp cornering. Tie long objects down with a rope or something equivalent. (cid:121) Avoid loading objects longer than 6.6 ft (2 m)

1-12

and heavier than 55 lbs (25 kg). Such objects can interfere with the driver’s proper operation of the car, possibly causing an accident and se- rious injury.

(cid:132) Headrest adjustment – Rear center seating position on Station wagon

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1053BA

UB1099BA

To raise the headrest, pull it up. To lower it, push the headrest down while pressing the release button on the top of the seatback. When the rear center seating position is occupied, place the headrest in its highest position. When the rear center seating position is not occupied, lower the headrest to improve rearward visibility.

– CONTINUED – 1-13

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:132) Folding down the rear seat – Station

wagon

(cid:84) Folding down the seatback

(cid:121) After returning the rear seat to its original po- sition, be certain to place all of the seatbelts and the tab attached to the seat cushion above the seat cushion. And make certain that the shoulder belts are fully visible. (cid:121) Never allow passengers to ride on the folded rear seatback, in the cargo area. Doing so may result in serious injury or death. (cid:121) Secure skis and other lengthy items properly to prevent them from being thrown around in- side the vehicle and causing serious injury dur- ing a sudden stop, a sudden steering or a rapid acceleration.

1-14

UB1094BA

UB1095BA

1. Lower the headrests. 2. Unlock the seatback by pulling the release knob and then fold the seatback down. (cid:84) Folding down the seat cushion and seatback 1. Move the front seat forward. 2. Close the rear passengers’ cup holder and ashtray. 3. Remove the headrests (if so equipped).

Window-side seating positions: Pull the headrest up while pressing the release button located on the backside of the seatback.

UB1096BA

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Center seating position: Pull the headrest up while pressing the release button located on the top of the seatback.

UB1099CA

– CONTINUED – 1-15

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1074BB

UB1097BA

1) Seatbelt pocket 2) Buckles of rear center seatbelt 4. Store the seatbelts in the seatbelt pockets to pre- vent them from falling below the cushion.

5. Raise the seat cushion by pulling up the tab. Make certain that the rear passenger’s cup holder is fully retracted before raising the seat cushion.

1-16

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1027BA

UB1098BA

6. Unlock the seatback by pulling the release knob and fold the seatback down. Confirm that the pin locat- ed at the bottom of the seat cushion is inserted into the slot at the top of the seatback.

7. Install the headrests (if so equipped) onto the back- side of the seatback (window-side positions only). To return the rear seat to its original position, raise the seatback and seat cushion until they lock into place and make sure that they are securely locked. Make sure that the rear seatbelts are not under the seat cushion or seatback. Place the headrests (if so equipped) back in their nor- mal position.

– CONTINUED – 1-17

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Seatbelts (cid:132) Seatbelt safety tips

(cid:121) All persons in the vehicle should fasten their seatbelts BEFORE the vehicle starts to move. Otherwise, the possibility of serious injury be- comes greater in the event of a sudden stop or accident. (cid:121) All belts should fit snugly in order to provide full restraint. Loose fitting belts are not as ef- fective in preventing or reducing injury. (cid:121) Each seatbelt is designed to support only one person. Never use a single belt for two or more persons – even children. Otherwise, in an accident, serious injury or death could result. (cid:121) Replace all seatbelt assemblies including re- tractors and attaching hardware worn by occu- pants of a vehicle that has been in a serious ac- cident. The entire assembly should be replaced even if damage is not obvious. (cid:121) Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly restrained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, espe-

1-18

cially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or improperly restrained. Be- cause children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deploy- ment is greater. For that reason, we strongly recommend that ALL children (including those in child seats and those that have outgrown child restraint devices) sit in the REAR seat properly restrained at all times in a child re- straint device or in a seatbelt, whichever is ap- propriate for the child’s height and weight. Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (in- cluding forward facing child seats) in the REAR seats at all times. NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seat- ing positions than in the front seating posi- tions. For instructions and precautions con- cerning the child restraint system, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chap- ter.

(cid:84) Infants or small children Use a child restraint system that is suitable for your ve- hicle. See information on “Child restraint systems” in this chapter. (cid:84) Children If a child is too big for a child restraint system, the child should sit in the rear seat and be restrained using the seatbelts. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating po- sitions than in the front seating positions. Never allow a child to stand up or kneel on the seat. If the shoulder portion of the belt crosses the face or neck, move the child closer to the belt buckle to help provide a good shoulder belt fit. Care must be taken to securely place the lap belt as low as possible on the hips and not on the child’s waist. If the shoulder portion of the belt cannot be properly positioned, a child re- straint system should be used. Never place the shoul- der belt under the child’s arm or behind the child’s back.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:84) Expectant mothers

HS1107AA

Expectant mothers also need to use the seatbelts. They should consult their doctor for specific recom- mendations. The lap belt should be worn securely and as low as possible over the hips, not over the waist.

(cid:132) Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) The driver’s seatbelt has an Emergency Locking Re- tractor (ELR). The emergency locking retractor allows normal body movement but the retractor locks automatically during a sudden stop, impact or if you pull the belt very quick- ly out of the retractor.

– CONTINUED – 1-19

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:132) Automatic/Emergency Locking Retrac-

tor (A/ELR)

Each passenger’s seatbelt has an Automatic/Emer- gency Locking Retractor (A/ELR). The Automatic/ Emergency Locking Retractor normally functions as an Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR). The A/ELR has an additional locking mode “Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode” intended to secure a child re- straint system. When the seatbelt is once drawn out completely and is then retracted even slightly, the re- tractor locks the seatbelt in that position and the seat- belt cannot be extended. As the belt is rewinding, clicks will be heard which indicate the retractor func- tions as ALR. When the seatbelt is retracted fully, ALR mode is released. When securing a child restraint system on the passen- gers’ seats, the seatbelt must be changed over to the Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode. When the child restraint system is removed, make sure that the retractor is restored to the Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) function by allowing the seat- belt to retract fully. For instructions on how to convert the retractor to the ALR mode and restore it to the ELR mode, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chapter.

1-20

(cid:132) Seatbelt warning light and chime Your vehicle is equipped with a seatbelt warning de- vice at the driver’s seat. This device causes the seatbelt warning light on the instrument panel to light up for about six seconds when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position to remind the driver to wear the seatbelt. If the driver’s seatbelt is not fastened, a warning chime sounds at the same time.

(cid:132) Fastening the seatbelt

(cid:121) Never use a belt that is twisted or reversed. In an accident, this can increase the risk or sever- ity of injury. (cid:121) Keep the lap belt as low as possible on your hips. In a collision, this spreads the force of the lap belt over stronger hip bones instead of across the weaker abdomen. (cid:121) Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. To reduce the risk of sliding under the seatbelt in a collision, the front seatbacks should be always used in the upright position while the vehicle is running. If the front seat-

backs are not used in the upright position in a collision, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious in- ternal injury or death. (cid:121) Do not put cushions or any other materials between occupants and seatbacks or seat cushions. If you do so, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.

HS1049BA

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Never place the shoulder belt under the arm or behind the back. If an accident occurs, this can increase the risk or severity of injury.

Metallic parts of the seatbelt can become very hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sun- ny weather; they could burn an occupant. Do not touch such hot parts until they cool.

(cid:84) Front seatbelts 1. Adjust the seat position: Driver’s seat: Adjust the seatback to the upright posi- tion. Move the seatback as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full vehicle control. Front passenger’s seat: Adjust the seatback to the upright position. Move the seat as far back as possi- ble. 2. Sit well back in the seat. 3. Pick up the tongue plate and pull the belt out slowly. Do not let it get twisted. If the belt stops before reach- ing the buckle, return the belt slightly and pull it out – CONTINUED – 1-21

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

more slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked, let the belt retract slightly after giving it a strong pull, then pull it out slowly again.

4. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click.

HS1050BA

HS1051BA

5. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt. 6. Place the lap belt as low as possible on your hips, not on your waist.

1-22

(cid:86) Adjusting the front seat shoulder belt anchor

height

HS1052BA

The shoulder belt anchor height should be adjusted to the position best suited for you. To lower the anchor height, push the release button and slide the anchor down. To raise the anchor height, slide the anchor up. Pull down on the anchor to make sure that it is locked in place. Always adjust the anchor height so that the shoulder belt passes over the middle of the shoulder without touching the neck.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

When wearing the seatbelts, make sure the shoulder portion of the webbing does not pass over your neck. If it does, adjust the seatbelt an- chor to a lower position. Placing the shoulder belt over the neck may result in neck injury dur- ing sudden braking or in a collision.

(cid:86) Unfastening the seatbelt

HS1053BA

Push the button on the buckle. Before closing the door, make sure that the belts are – CONTINUED – 1-23

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

retracted properly to avoid catching the belt webbing in the door. (cid:84) Rear seatbelts (except rear center seatbelt on

wagon)

1. Sit well back in the seat. 2. Pick up the tongue plate and pull the belt out slowly. Do not let it get twisted. If the belt stops before reach- ing the buckle, return the belt slightly and pull it out more slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked, let the belt retract slightly after giving a strong pull on it, then pull it out slowly again.

HS1051BA

4. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt. 5. Place the lap belt as low as possible on your hips, not on your waist.

3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click.

HS1050BA

1-24

(cid:86) Unfastening the seatbelt

(cid:84) Rear center seatbelt on wagon model

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1053BA

US1017BB

Push the button on the buckle. Before closing the door, make sure that the belts are retracted properly to avoid catching the belt webbing in the door.

1) Center seatbelt tongue plate 2) Connector (tongue) 3) Connector (buckle) 4) Center seatbelt buckle

– CONTINUED – 1-25

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1030BA

UB1031BA

Fastening the seatbelt with the webbing twisted can increase the risk or severity of injury in an accident. When fastening the belt after it is pulled out from the retractor, especially when inserting the connector’s tongue plate into the mating buckle (on right-hand side), always check that the webbing is not twisted.

Be sure to fasten both tongue plates to the re- spective buckles. If the seatbelt is used only as a shoulder belt (with the connector’s tongue plate not fastened to the connector’s buckle on the right-hand side), it cannot properly restrain the wearer in position in an accident, possibly resulting in serious injury or death.

1-26

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1065CA

UB1032BA

Rear-center seatbelt is stowed in the recess of the ceiling. 1. Remove the connector (tongue) plate from the holder located at the front of the recess by pulling the connector (tongue) plate rearward.

2. Pull out the seatbelt slowly from the overhead re- tractor.

– CONTINUED – 1-27

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1033BA

UB1034BA

3. After confirming that the webbing is not twisted, in- sert the connector (tongue) attached at the webbing end into the buckle on the right-hand side until a click is heard. If the belt stops before reaching the buckle, return the belt slightly and pull it out more slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked, let the belt retract slightly after giving it a strong pull, then pull it out slowly again.

4. Insert the center seatbelt tongue plate in the center seatbelt buckle marked “CENTER” on the left-hand side until it clicks.

1-28

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:86) Unfastening the seatbelt

5. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt. And place the lap belt as low as possible on your hips, not on your waist.

HS1061BA

US0317

Push the release button of the center seatbelt buckle (on the left-hand side) to unfasten the seatbelt. NOTE When the seatback is folded down for greater lug- gage space, it is necessary to disconnect the con- nector.

– CONTINUED – 1-29

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

slot in the connector (buckle) on the right-hand side and push it in, and the connector (tongue) plate will disconnect from the buckle.

UB1036BA

UB1038CA

2. Allow the retractor to roll up the belt. You should hold the webbing end and guide it back into the retrac- tor while it is rolling up. Neatly store the tongue plates in the recess in the retractor and then insert the con- nector (tongue) plate into the slot located at the front of the recess.

1. Insert a key or other hard pointed object into the

UB1037BA

1-30

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1048BA

UB1074BB

(cid:121) Do not allow the retractor to roll up the seat- belt too quickly. Otherwise, the metal tongue plates may hit against the trim, resulting in damaged trim. (cid:121) Have the seatbelt fully rolled up so that the tongue plates are neatly stored. A hanging tongue plate can swing and hit against the trim during driving, causing damage to the trim.

1) Seatbelt pocket 2) Buckles of rear center seatbelt NOTE When folding down the rear seat cushion, store the seatbelts in the seatbelt pocket to prevent them falling below the cushion.

(cid:132) Seatbelt maintenance To clean the seatbelts, use a mild soap and lukewarm water. Never bleach or dye the belts because this could seriously affect their strength. Inspect the seatbelts and attachments including the – CONTINUED – 1-31

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

webbing and all hardware periodically for cracks, cuts, gashes, tears, damage, loose bolts or worn areas. Re- place the seatbelts even if only minor damage is found.

(cid:121) Keep the belts free of polishes, oils, chemi- cals and particularly battery acid. (cid:121) Never attempt to make modifications or changes that will prevent the seatbelt from op- erating properly.

1-32

Seatbelt extender If the front seatbelts are not long enough to permit the tongue plate to engage with the seatbelt buckle, an optional seatbelt extender is available from your SUBARU dealer. When ordering an extender, only or- der one particularly designed for your vehicle. Several different types of extenders are available to match var- ious varieties of front seatbelt designs. See your SUBARU dealer for assistance. The extender adds approximately 8 inches (200 mm) of length and it can be used for either the driver or front passenger seating position.

Be sure to observe the following when using the seatbelt extender. Failure to follow these instructions and warn- ings could reduce the effectiveness of the seat- belt and result in more serious injury in the event of a collision. (cid:121) Never use the extender when the belt itself is long enough to permit it to be buckled properly. If removal of heavy clothing is all that is needed to permit the seatbelt to be buckled properly, remove the heavy clothing and do not use the

extender. (cid:121) Do not use the extender if the buckle of the extender rests over the abdomen. (cid:121) Do not let someone else use the extender. Use of an extender when it is not needed could reduce the effectiveness of the seatbelt and re- sult in more serious injury in the event of a col- lision. (cid:121) Use the extender only for the front seatbelts and only for the model for which it was original- ly provided. Never use the extender for the rear seatbelts or for a different model.

NOTE When the seatbelt extender is used by a pregnant passenger, consult a doctor to get approval in ad- vance.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UZS000BA

To connect the extender to the seatbelt, insert the tongue plate into the seatbelt buckle so that the “PRESS” signs on the buckle-release buttons of the extender and the seatbelt are both facing outward as shown in the diagram. You will hear a click when the tongue plate locks into the buckle. When releasing the seatbelt, press on the buckle-re- lease button on the extender, not on the seatbelt. This helps to prevent damage to the vehicle interior and ex- tender itself. For the safety of others, the extender should be re- moved after each use, especially if the next person us- ing the seatbelt does not need one.

– CONTINUED – 1-33

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Front seatbelt pretensioners

HS1067BA

The driver’s and front passenger’s seatbelts have a seatbelt pretensioner. The seatbelt pretensioners are designed to be activated in the event of an accident in- volving a moderate to severe frontal collision. The pretensioner sensor also serves as a SRS frontal airbag sensor. If the sensor detects a certain predeter- mined amount of force during a frontal collision, the front seatbelt is quickly drawn back in by the retractor to take up the slack so that the belt more effectively re- strains the front seat occupant. When a seatbelt pretensioner is activated, an operat-

1-34

ing noise will be heard and a small amount of smoke will be released. These occurrences are normal and not harmful. This smoke does not indicate a fire in the vehicle. Once the seatbelt pretensioner has been activated, the seatbelt retractor remains locked. Consequently, the seatbelt can not be pulled out and retracted and therefore must be replaced. NOTE (cid:121) Seatbelt pretensioners are not designed to acti- vate in minor frontal impacts, in side or rear im- pacts or in roll-over accidents. (cid:121) The driver’s seat and passenger’s seat preten- sioners and frontal airbag operate simultaneous- ly. (cid:121) Pretensioners are designed to function on a one-time-only basis. In the event that a preten- sioner is activated, both the driver’s and front pas- senger’s seatbelt retractor assemblies must be re- placed and only by an authorized SUBARU dealer. When replacing seatbelt retractor assemblies, use only genuine SUBARU parts. (cid:121) If either front seatbelt does not retract or cannot be pulled out due to a malfunction or activation of the pretensioner, contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:121) If the front seatbelt retractor assembly or sur- rounding area has been damaged, contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible. (cid:121) When you sell your vehicle, we urge you to ex- plain to the buyer that it has seatbelt pretension- ers by alerting him to the contents of this section.

your SUBARU dealer.

(cid:132) System monitors

(cid:121) To obtain maximum protection, occupants should sit in an upright position with their seat- belts properly fastened. Refer to “Seatbelts” section in this chapter. (cid:121) Do not modify, remove or strike the front seatbelt retractor assemblies or surrounding area. This could result in accidental activation of the seatbelt pretensioners or could make the system inoperative, possibly resulting in seri- ous injury. Seatbelt pretensioners have no user-serviceable parts. For required servicing of front seatbelt retractors equipped with seat- belt pretensioners, see your nearest SUBARU dealer. (cid:121) When discarding front seatbelt retractor as- semblies or scrapping the entire car due to col- lision damage or for other reasons, consult

UB4010EA

SRS airbag system warning light A diagnostic system continually monitors the readi- ness of the seatbelt pretensioner while the vehicle is being driven. The seatbelt pretensioners share the control module with the airbag system. Therefore, if any malfunction occurs in a seatbelt pretensioner, the SRS airbag system warning light will illuminate. The SRS airbag system warning light will show normal sys- tem operation by lighting for about 6 seconds when – CONTINUED – 1-35

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position. The following components are monitored by the indi- cator: (cid:121) Front sub sensor (Right hand side) (cid:121) Front sub sensor (Left hand side) (cid:121) Airbag control module (including impact sensors) (cid:121) Seatbelt pretensioner (Driver’s side) (cid:121) Seatbelt pretensioner (Passenger’s side) (cid:121) All related wiring In the event of a malfunction indicated by any of follow- ing, the vehicle should be taken promptly to your near- est SUBARU dealer to have the system checked. Un- less checked and repaired, the seatbelt pretensioners and airbags will not function reliably: (cid:121) Flashing or flickering of the indicator light. (cid:121) No illumination of the warning light when the ignition switch is first turned to the “ON” position. (cid:121) Continuous illumination of the warning light. (cid:121) Illumination of the warning light while driving.

(cid:132) System servicing

(cid:121) When discarding a seatbelt retractor assem- bly or scrapping the entire car damaged by a

1-36

collision, consult your SUBARU dealer. (cid:121) Tampering with or disconnecting the sys- tem’s wiring could result in accidental activa- tion of the seatbelt pretensioner and/or airbag or could make the system inoperative, which may result in serious injury. The wiring har- nesses of the seatbelt pretensioner and SRS airbag systems are covered with yellow insula- tion and the connectors of the system are yel- low for easy identification. Do not use electrical test equipment on any circuit related to the seatbelt pretensioner and airbag systems. For required servicing of the seatbelt pretensioner, see your nearest SUBARU dealer.

The front sub sensors are located in both front fenders and the airbag control module includ- ing the impact sensors is located under the center console. If you need service or repair in those areas or near the front seatbelt retrac- tors, we recommend that you have an autho- rized SUBARU dealer perform the work.

NOTE If the front part of the vehicle is damaged in an ac- cident to the extent that the seatbelt pretensioner does not operate, contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Child restraint systems

(cid:132) Precautions against vehicle modifica-

tion

Always consult your SUBARU dealer if you want to in- stall any accessory parts to your vehicle.

Do not perform any of the following modifica- tions. Such modifications can interfere with proper operation of the seatbelt pertensioners. (cid:121) Attachment of any equipment (bush bar, winches, snow plow, skid plate, etc.) other than SUBARU genuine accessory parts to the front end. (cid:121) Modification of the suspension system or front end structure. (cid:121) Installation of a tire of different size and con- struction from the tires specified on the tire placard attached to the door jamb.

UB1080BA

Infants and small children should always be placed in an infant or child restraint system in the rear seat while riding in the vehicle. You should use an infant or child restraint system that meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, is compatible with your vehicle and is ap- propriate for the child’s age and size. All child restraint systems are designed to be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or the lap belt portion of a lap/shoulder belt (except those covered under the section in this manu- al, entitled “Installation of child restraint systems by use of lower and tether anchorages (LATCH)”).

– CONTINUED – 1-37

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Children could be endangered in an accident if their child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle. When installing the child restraint system, carefully fol- low the manufacturer’s instructions. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. All U.S. states and Canadian provinces require that in- fants and small children be restrained in an approved child restraint system at all times while the vehicle is moving.

Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from injury in a colli- sion, because the child will be caught between the passenger and objects inside the vehicle. Additionally, holding a child in your lap or arms in the front seat exposes that child to another serious danger. Since the SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force, the child could be injured or even killed.

HS1069BA

HS1070BA

1-38

Children should be properly restrained at all times. Never allow a child to stand up, or to kneel on any seat. Unrestrained children will be thrown forward during sudden stop or in an ac- cident and can be injured seriously. Additionally, children standing up or kneeling on or in front of the front seat are exposed an- other serious danger. Since the SRS airbag de- ploys with considerable speed and force, the child could be injured or even killed.

(cid:132) Where to place a child restraint system The following are SUBARU’s recommendations on where to place a child restraint system in your vehicle.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1118AA

A: Front passenger’s seat You should not install a child restraint system due to the hazard to children posed by the passenger’s air- bag. B: Rear seat, window-side seating positions Recommended positions for all types of child restraint systems. In these positions, Automatic/Emergency Locking Re- tractor (A/ELR) seatbelts and lower anchor bars are provided for installing a child restraint system. C: Rear seat, center seating position Installing a child restraint system is not recommended, although the A/ELR seatbelt is provided in this posi- – CONTINUED – 1-39

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

tion. Some types of child restraints might not be able to be secured firmly due to projection of the seat cushion. In this seating position, you should use only a child re- straint system that has a bottom base that fits snugly against the contours of the seat cushion and can be securely retained using the seatbelt.

positions.

(cid:121) Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly restrained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, espe- cially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or improperly restrained. Be- cause children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deploy- ment is greater. For that reason, be sure to secure ALL types of child restraint devices (including forward fac- ing child seats) in the REAR seats at all times. You should choose a restraint device which is appropriate for the child’s age, height and weight. According to accident statistics, chil- dren are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating

1-40

HG1043BA

SINCE YOUR VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH A PASSENGER’S SRS AIRBAG, DO NOT IN- STALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SAFETY SEAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER’S SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG.

(cid:132) Choosing a child restraint system

(cid:132) Installing child restraint systems with

A/ELR seatbelt

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UBS108AA

Choose a child restraint system that is appropriate for the child’s age and size (weight and height) in order to provide the child with proper protection. The child re- straint system should meet all applicable requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for United States or Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for Canada. It can be identified by locking for the label on the child restraint system or the manufacture’s state- ment of compliance in the document attached to the system. Also it is important for you to make sure that the child restraint system is compatible with the vehi- cle in which it will be used.

(cid:121) Child restraint systems and seatbelts can be- come hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sunny weather; they could burn a small child. Check the child restraint system before you place a child in it. (cid:121) Do not leave an unsecured child restraint system in your vehicle. Unsecured child re- straint systems can be thrown around inside of the vehicle in a sudden stop, turn or accident; it can strike and injure vehicle occupants as well as result in serious injuries or death to the child.

When you install a child restraint system, fol- low the manufacturer’s instructions supplied with it. After installing the child restraint sys- tem, check to ensure that it is held securely in position. If it is not held tight and secure, the danger of your child suffering personal injury in

– CONTINUED – 1-41

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

the event of an accident may be increased.

(cid:84) Installing a rearward facing child restraint

UBS109BA

1. Place the child restraint system in the rear seating position. 2. Run the lap and shoulder belt through or around the child restraint system following the instructions provided by its manufacturer. 3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click.

1-42

UBS110BA

4. Take up the slack in the lap belt. 5. Pull out the seatbelt fully from the retractor to change the retractor over from the Emergency Lock- ing Retractor (ELR) to the Automatic Locking Retrac- tor (ALR) function. Then, allow the belt to rewind into the retractor. As the belt is rewinding, clicks will be heard which indicate the retractor functions as ALR.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UBS111BA

UG1089BA

6. Push and pull the child restraint system forward and from side to side to check if it is firmly secured. Sometimes a child restraint can be more firmly se- cured by pushing it down into the seat cushion and then tightening the seatbelt. 7. Pull at the shoulder portion of the belt to confirm that it cannot be pulled out (ALR properly functioning).

8. To remove the child restraint system, press the re- lease button on the seatbelt buckle and allow the belt to retract completely. The belt will return to the ELR mode.

NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER’S SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG.

– CONTINUED – 1-43

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

NOTE When the child restraint system is no longer in use, remove it and restore the ELR function of the retractor. That function is restored by retracting the seatbelt fully. (cid:84) Installing forward facing child restraint

UB1124BA

1. Place the child restraint system in the seating posi- tion. 2. Run the lap and shoulder belt through or around the child restraint system following the instructions provided by its manufacturer. 3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click.

1-44

UB1125BA

4. Take up the slack in the lap belt. 5. Pull out the seatbelt fully from the retractor to change the retractor over from the Emergency Lock- ing Retractor (ELR) to the Automatic Locking Retrac- tor (ALR) function. Then, allow the belt to rewind into the retractor. As the belt is rewinding, clicks will be heard which indicate the retractor functions as ALR.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1126BA

UG1087BA

6. Before having a child sit in the child restraint sys- tem, move it back and forth and right and left to check if it is firmly secured. Sometimes a child restraint can be more firmly secured by pushing it down into the seat cushion and then tightening the seatbelt. 7. Pull at the shoulder portion of the belt to confirm that it cannot be pulled out (ALR properly functioning).

8. If the child restraint system requires a top tether,