Subaru Forester 2019-2024 - Starting and operating

Starting and operating

Entering the vehicle following remote engine

7-1. Fuel .................................................................. 303

Fuel requirements...............................................303

Fuel filler lid and cap ..........................................304

7-2. State emission testing (U.S. only)................. 307

7-3. Preparing to drive........................................... 309

7-4. Starting and stopping the engine (models

without push-button start system) .............. 309

Starting engine ...................................................310

Stopping the engine ........................................... 311

Steering lock ...................................................... 311

7-5. Starting and stopping engine (models

start shutdown................................................. 320

Pre-heating or pre-cooling the interior of

the vehicle ....................................................... 320

Remote transmitter program (Remote engine

starter transceiver)........................................... 320

System maintenance .......................................... 321

Certification for remote engine starter ................ 322

7-7. Continuously variable transmission..............323

Continuously variable transmission features ...... 323

Select lever........................................................ 324

Selection of manual mode (if equipped).............. 326

Selection of “L” (if equipped) ............................. 327

Shift lock function.............................................. 327

Driving tips ........................................................ 329

7-8. SI-DRIVE...........................................................329

Intelligent (I) mode ............................................. 329

Sport (S) mode (if equipped) .............................. 330

Sport Sharp (S#) mode (if equipped)................... 330

SI-DRIVE switches.............................................. 330

7-9. Power steering.................................................331

Power steering warning light.............................. 331

Power steering system features ......................... 331

7-10. Braking...........................................................332

Braking tips ....................................................... 332

Brake system..................................................... 332

Disc brake pad wear warning indicators ............. 333

7-11. ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)......................334

ABS self-check .................................................. 335

ABS warning light .............................................. 335

with push-button start system).................... 312

Safety precautions..............................................312

Operating range for push-button start system.....312

Starting engine ...................................................312

Stopping engine .................................................313

When access key fob does not operate

properly............................................................314

Steering lock ......................................................314

7

7-6. Remote engine start system (dealer

option)............................................................ 315

Remote engine starter transceiver (fob) ..............315

Alternate operation method for models with

“keyless access with push-button start

system”............................................................319

Entering the vehicle while it is running via

remote start (models without “keyless access

with push-button start system”)........................319

Entering the vehicle while it is running via

remote start (models with “keyless access

with push-button start system”)........................320

Starting and operating

BSD/RCTA warning light..................................... 365

BSD/RCTA OFF switch ....................................... 365

Certification for the BSD/RCTA........................... 366

Handling of radar sensors.................................. 367

7-20. Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB)

7-12. Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)

system ........................................................... 335

If EBD system malfunctions................................335

7-13. Vehicle Dynamics Control system .............. 336

Safety precautions..............................................336

System features..................................................337

Vehicle Dynamics Control system monitor ..........338

Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF switch.................338

7-14. X-MODE (if equipped)................................... 339

To activate/deactivate X-MODE............................341

Hill descent control function...............................343

7-15. Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)

(U.S.-spec. models)....................................... 344

7-16. Parking your vehicle..................................... 345

Electronic parking brake.....................................345

Parking tips........................................................351

7-17. Auto Start Stop system................................ 352

System operation ...............................................352

Displaying the Auto Start Stop system status .....356

System warning..................................................356

7-18. Hill start assist system................................. 357

7-19. BSD/RCTA (if equipped)............................... 358

System features..................................................359

System operation ...............................................361

system (if equipped) .....................................368

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system

overview .......................................................... 369

Operating conditions.......................................... 370

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system

operation ......................................................... 373

Canceling the Reverse Automatic Braking

(RAB) system operation ................................... 376

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system

ON/OFF setting ................................................ 377

RAB warning indicator ....................................... 378

Handling of the sonar sensors ........................... 378

7-21. Driver Monitoring System (if equipped) ......379

User recognition function................................... 383

Inattentive/drowsy driving warning ..................... 385

Driver Monitoring System indicator/warning ....... 387

Using the Driver Monitoring System ................... 387

Registering and deleting a user.......................... 389

Registering and deleting driver position

personalization ................................................ 389

Driver Monitoring System ON/OFF settings......... 390

Gesture control.................................................. 391

How to get the source code using the open

source ............................................................. 393

BSD/RCTA approach indicator light/warning

buzzer ..............................................................362

BSD/RCTA OFF indicator light.............................364

^Fuel303

SUBARU dealer for service. If it is deter-

mined that the condition is caused by the

type of fuel used, repairs may not be

covered by your warranty.

! RON

7-1. Fuel

This octane rating is the Research Octane

Number.

CAUTION

! AKI

! Gasoline for cleaner air

.

Use of a fuel which is low in

quality or use of an inappropriate

fuel additive may cause damage

to the engine and/or fuel system.

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).

Your use of gasoline with detergent ad-

ditives will help prevent deposits from

forming 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.

Some gas stations, particularly

those in high altitude areas, offer

fuels posted as regular octane

gasoline with an octane rating

below 87 AKI (90 RON). Use of

those fuels is not recommended.

! 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.

& Fuel requirements

The engine is designed to operate using

unleaded gasoline with an octane rating

of 87 AKI (90 RON) or higher.

Many gasolines are now blended with

materials called oxygenates. Use of these

fuels can also help keep the air cleaner.

Oxygenated blend fuels, such as ethanol

(ethyl or grain alcohol) may be used in your

vehicle, but should contain no more than

15% ethanol for the proper operation of

your SUBARU.

! Reformulated gasoline

SUBARU supports the use of reformulated

gasoline when available. Reformulated

gasoline has been blended to burn more

cleanly and reduce vehicle emissions.

! Fuel octane rating

! MMT

Using a gasoline with a lower octane rating

can cause persistent and heavy knocking,

which can damage the engine. Do not be

concerned if your vehicle sometimes

knocks lightly when you drive up a hill or

when you accelerate. Contact your

SUBARU dealer if you use a fuel with the

specified octane rating and your vehicle

knocks heavily or persistently.

Some gasoline contains an octane-enhan-

cing additive called MMT (Methylcyclo-

pentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl). If

you use such fuels, your emission control

system performance may deteriorate and

the CHECK ENGINE warning light/Mal-

function indicator light may turn on. If this

happens, return to your authorized

Do not use any gasoline that contains

more than 15% ethanol, including from any

pump labeled, E30, E50 or E85 (which are

only some examples of fuel containing

more than 15% ethanol).

In addition, some gasoline suppliers are

– CONTINUED –

Fuel

304

now producing reformulated gasolines,

which are designed to reduce vehicle

emissions. SUBARU approves the use of

reformulated gasoline.

SUBARU dealer.

! Refueling

.

Fuel system damage or driveability

problems which result from the use of

improper fuel are not covered under the

SUBARU Limited Warranty.

Only one person should be involved in

refueling. Do not allow others to approach

the area of the vehicle near the fuel filler

pipe while refueling is in progress.

Be sure to observe any other precautions

that are posted at the service station.

If you are not sure what the fuel contains,

you should ask your service station op-

erators if their gasolines contain deter-

gents and oxygenates and if they have

been reformulated to reduce vehicle emis-

sions.

CAUTION

Do not let fuel spill on the exterior

surfaces of the vehicle. Because fuel

may damage the paint, be sure to

wipe off any spilled fuel quickly.

Paint damage caused by spilled fuel

is not covered under the SUBARU

Limited Warranty.

1. Before refueling, stop the vehicle, then

turn off the ignition switch to turn off all

the electrical components. At this time,

the fuel filler lid also unlocks.

As additional guidance, only use fuels

suited for your vehicle as explained in the

following description.

NOTE

When you lock the door, the fuel filler

lid also locks. To unlock the fuel filler

lid, perform one of the operations

below.

.

Fuel should be unleaded and have an

octane rating no lower than that speci-

fied in this manual.

& Fuel filler lid and cap

.

Methanol (methyl or wood alcohol) is

sometimes mixed with unleaded gaso-

line. Methanol can be used in your

vehicle ONLY if it does not exceed 5%

of the fuel mixture AND if it is accom-

panied by sufficient quantities of the

proper cosolvents and corrosion inhibi-

tors required to prevent damage to the

fuel system. Do not use fuel containing

methanol EXCEPT under these condi-

tions.

– Press the unlock button on the

key fob.

– Press the unlock side of the

power door locking switch.

! Locations of the fuel filler lid

2. Push the rear side of the fuel filler lid.

3. The fuel filler lid opens automatically.

Open it further by hand.

WARNING

.

If undesirable driveability problems are

experienced and you suspect they may

be fuel related, try a different brand of

gasoline before seeking service at your

Before opening the fuel filler cap,

first touch the vehicle body or a

metal portion of the fuel pump or

similar object to discharge any sta-

^Fuel305

tic electricity that may be present on

your body. If your body is carrying

an electrostatic charge, there is a

possibility that an electric spark

could ignite the fuel, which could

burn you. To avoid acquiring a new

static electric charge, do not get

back into the vehicle while refueling

is in progress.

WARNING

.

Gasoline vapor is highly flam-

mable. Before refueling, always

turn the ignition switch to the

“LOCK”/“OFF” position first and

then close all vehicle doors and

windows. Make sure that there

are no lighted cigarettes, open

flames or electrical sparks in the

adjacent area. Only handle fuel

outdoors. Quickly wipe up any

spilled fuel.

5. Set the fuel filler cap on the cap holder

inside the fuel filler lid.

.

When opening the cap, grasp it

firmly and turn it slowly to the left.

Do not remove the cap quickly.

Fuel may be under pressure and

spray out of the fuel filler neck,

especially in hot weather. If you

hear a hissing sound while you

are removing the cap, wait for the

sound to stop and then slowly

open the cap to prevent fuel from

spraying out and creating a fire

hazard.

WARNING

.

When refueling, insert the fuel

nozzle securely into the fuel filler

pipe. If the nozzle is lifted or not

fully inserted, its automatic stop-

ping mechanism may not func-

tion, causing fuel to overflow the

tank and creating a fire hazard.

1

2

Open

Close

4. Remove the fuel filler cap by turning it

slowly counterclockwise.

– CONTINUED –

Fuel

306

.

Stop refueling when the auto-

matic stop mechanism on the

fuel nozzle activates. If you con-

tinue to add fuel, temperature

changes or other conditions

may cause fuel to overflow from

the tank and create a fire hazard.

mage to the fuel system.

NOTE

.

After refueling, turn the cap to the

right until it clicks to ensure that

it is fully tightened. If the cap is

not securely tightened, fuel may

leak out while the vehicle is being

driven or fuel spillage could oc-

cur in the event of an accident,

creating a fire hazard.

.

You will see the “

” 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/malfunction indicator

light may illuminate. Refer to

“CHECK ENGINE warning light/Mal-

function indicator light” �P172.

To lock the fuel filler lid, perform one

of the operations below. However if

these operations are performed

when the fuel filler lid is open, the

fuel filler lid will not lock when it is

subsequently closed.

6. Stop filling the tank after the fuel filler

pump automatically stops. Do not add

any more fuel.

7. Put the cap back on and turn it clock-

wise until you hear a clicking noise. Be

certain not to catch the tether under the

cap while tightening.

.

Do not let fuel spill on the exterior

surfaces of the vehicle. Because

fuel may damage the paint, be

sure to wipe off any spilled fuel

quickly. Paint damage caused by

spilled fuel is not covered under

the SUBARU Limited Warranty.

.

CAUTION

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

may be damaged. It could also

lead to fuel spillage and a fire.

Make sure that the cap is tightened

until it clicks to prevent fuel spillage

in the event of an accident.

– Press the lock/arm button on the

key fob.

– Press the lock side of the power

door locking switch.

8. Close the fuel filler lid completely.

.

When the doors are locked or un-

locked using the automatic door

lock system, the fuel filler lid will be

locked or unlocked at the same time.

CAUTION

Immediately put fuel in the tank

whenever the low fuel warning

light illuminates. Engine misfires

as a result of an empty tank could

cause damage to the engine.

Continuing to operate your vehi-

cle at an extremely low fuel level

may result in a reduction of

If you spill any fuel on the painted

surface, rinse it off immediately.

Otherwise, the painted surface

could be damaged.

CAUTION

.

Never add any cleaning agents to

the fuel tank. The addition of a

cleaning agent may cause da-

^{State emission testing (U.S. only)}307

engine performance.

7-2. State emission testing

(U.S. only)

! If the fuel filler lid cannot be opened

If the fuel filler lid cannot be opened due to

malfunction or a dead battery, it can be

opened from the cargo area.

WARNING

Only use a four-wheel dynamometer

when testing an All-Wheel Drive

model.

Testing of an AWD model must

NEVER be performed on a single

two-wheel dynamometer. Attempt-

ing to do so will result in uncon-

trolled vehicle movement and may

cause an accident or injuries to

persons nearby.

1

Clip

2. Remove the orange knob from the clip.

CAUTION

1. Remove the access cover at the right-

side of the cargo area trim using flat-

head screwdriver.

.

At state inspection time, remem-

ber to tell your inspection or

service station in advance not to

place your SUBARU AWD vehicle

on a two-wheel dynamometer.

Otherwise, serious transmission

damage will result.

Resultant vehicle damage due to

improper testing is not covered

under the SUBARU Limited War-

ranty and is the responsibility of

the state inspection program or

3. Pull the orange knob to unlock the fuel

filler lid.

– CONTINUED –

State emission testing (U.S. only)

308

observed, there are no stored diagnos-

tic trouble codes, and the OBDII readi-

ness monitors are all complete.

A vehicle fails the OBDII inspection if

the “CHECK ENGINE” warning light is

not properly operating (light is illumi-

nated or is not working due to faulty

LED [Light Emitting Diode]) or there is

one or more diagnostic trouble codes

stored in the vehicle’s computer.

A state emission inspection may reject

(not pass or fail) a vehicle if the number

of OBDII system readiness monitors

“NOT READY” is greater than one. If

the vehicle’s battery has been recently

replaced or disconnected, the OBDII

system inspection may indicate that the

vehicle is not ready for the emission

test. Under this condition, the vehicle

driver should be instructed to drive his/

her vehicle for a few days to reset the

readiness monitors and return for an

emission re-inspection.

one place. Prior to your vehicle being put

on a dynamometer, tell your emission

inspector not to place your SUBARU

AWD vehicle on a two-wheel dynam-

ometer. Otherwise, serious transmis-

sion damage will result.

its contractors or licensees.

California and a number of federal states

have Inspection/Maintenance programs to

inspect your vehicle’s emission control

system. If your vehicle does not pass this

test, some states may deny renewal of

your vehicle’s registration.

.

The U.S. Environmental Protection

Agency (EPA) and states using two-wheel

dynamometers in their emission testing

program have EXEMPTED SUBARU

AWD vehicles from the portion of the

testing program that involves a two-wheel

dynamometer. There are some states that

use four-wheel dynamometers in their

testing program. When properly used, this

equipment should not damage a SUBARU

AWD vehicle.

Your vehicle is equipped with a computer

that monitors the performance of the

engine’s emission control system. Certi-

fied emission inspectors will inspect the

On-Board Diagnostic (OBDII) system as

part of the state emission inspection

process. The OBDII system is designed

to detect engine and transmission pro-

blems that might cause the vehicle emis-

sions to exceed allowable limits. OBDII

inspections apply to all 1996 model year

and newer passenger cars and trucks.

Over 30 states plus the District of Colum-

bia have implemented emission inspection

of the OBDII system.

Under no circumstances should the rear

wheels be jacked off the ground, nor

should the driveshaft be disconnected in

an attempt to bypass AWD for state

emission testing. An AWD vehicle must

be tested using an AWD dynamometer

with all 4 wheels driven and loaded.

.

Owners of rejected or failing vehicles

should contact their SUBARU dealer

for service.

.

The inspection of the OBDII system

consists of a visual operational check of

the “CHECK ENGINE” warning light/

malfunction indicator light (MIL) and an

examination of the OBDII system with

an electronic scan tool.

A vehicle passes the OBDII system

inspection if proper operation of the

“CHECK ENGINE” warning light is

Some states still use dynamometers in

their emission inspection program. A

dynamometer is a treadmill or roller-like

testing device that allows your vehicle’s

wheels to turn while the vehicle remains in

.

^{Preparing to drive}309

7-3. Preparing to drive

7-4. Starting and stopping the

engine (models without push-

button start system)

CAUTION

Trapping small animals in the cool-

ing fan and belt of the engine may

result in a malfunction. Check that

no small animal enters the engine

compartment or under the vehicle

before starting the engine.

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

inflation.

3. Look under the vehicle for any sign of

leaks.

CAUTION

Do not operate the starter motor

continuously for more than 10 sec-

onds. If the engine fails to start after

operating the starter for 5 to 10

seconds, wait for 10 seconds or

more before trying again.

NOTE

.

Engine oil, engine coolant, brake

fluid, washer fluid and other fluid

levels should be checked daily,

weekly or at fuel stops.

4. Check that no small animals enter the

engine compartment.

.

When towing a trailer, refer to “Trai-

ler hitch (dealer option)” �P411.

5. Check that the hood and rear gate are

fully closed.

NOTE

It may be difficult to start the engine

when the battery has been discon-

nected and reconnected (for mainte-

nance or other purposes). This diffi-

culty is caused by the electronically

controlled throttle’s self-diagnosis

function. To overcome it, keep the

ignition switch in the “ON” position

for approximately 10 seconds before

starting the engine.

6. Check the adjustment of the seat.

7. Check the adjustment of the inside and

outside mirrors.

8. Fasten your seatbelt. Check that your

passengers have fastened their seat-

belts.

9. Check the operation of the warning

and indicator lights when the ignition

switch is turned to the “ON” position.

10. Check the gauges, indicator and warn-

ing lights after starting the engine.

– CONTINUED –

Starting and stopping the engine (models without push-button start system)

310

2. Turn off unnecessary lights and acces-

sories.

3. Shift the select lever to the “P” or “N”

position (preferably the “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”

position and check the operation of the

warning and indicator lights. Refer to

“Warning and indicator” �P168.

5. Turn the ignition switch to the “START”

position without depressing the accel-

erator pedal. Release the key immedi-

ately after the engine has started.

If the engine does not start, try the

following procedure.

.

When starting the engine, be sure

to sit in the driver’s seat (except

when using the remote engine

start system).

& Starting engine

! General precautions when starting

engine

WARNING

NOTE

.

Never start the engine from out-

side the vehicle (except when

using the remote engine start

system). It may result in an acci-

dent.

.

Avoid rapid racing and rapid accel-

eration immediately after the engine

has started.

After the engine starts, the engine

speed will be kept high.

.

Do not leave the engine running

in locations with poor ventilation,

such as a garage and indoors.

The exhaust gas may enter the

vehicle or indoors, and it may

result in carbon monoxide poi-

soning.

On rare occasions, it may be difficult

to start the engine depending on the

fuel and the usage condition (re-

peated driving of a distance in which

the engine has not warmed up

sufficiently). In such a case, it is

recommended that you change to a

different brand of fuel.

On rare occasions, transient knock-

ing may be heard from the engine

when the accelerator is operated

rapidly such as a rapid start-up and

a rapid acceleration. This is not a

malfunction.

(1) Turn the ignition switch to the

“LOCK”/“OFF” position and wait

for at least 10 seconds. After

checking that the parking brake is

firmly set, turn the ignition switch to

the “START” position while depres-

sing 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

“LOCK”/“OFF” position and wait

for at least 10 seconds. Then fully

depress the accelerator pedal and

.

Do not start the engine near dry

foliage, paper, or other flammable

substances. The exhaust pipe

and exhaust emissions can cre-

ate a fire hazard at high tempera-

tures.

.

The engine starts more easily when

the headlights, air conditioner and

rear window defogger are turned off.

Do not shift the select lever while the

starter is cranking.

CAUTION

.

If the engine is stopped while

driving, the catalyst may over-

heat and burn.

1. Apply the parking brake.

^{Starting and stopping the engine (models without push-button start system)}311

turn the ignition switch to the

“START” position. If the engine

starts, quickly release the accel-

erator pedal.

2. Turn off unnecessary lights and acces-

& Stopping the engine

The ignition switch should be turned off

only when the vehicle is stopped and the

engine is idling.

sories.

3. Check that the select lever is set in the

“P” position.

4. Depress the brake pedal and keep it

depressed.

5. Turn the ignition switch to the “ON”

position while turning the steering

wheel left and right.

(3) If this fails to start the engine, turn

the ignition switch again to the

“LOCK”/“OFF” position. After wait-

ing for 10 seconds or longer, turn

the ignition switch to the “START”

position without depressing the

accelerator pedal.

(4) If the engine still does not start,

contact your nearest SUBARU

dealer for assistance.

WARNING

Do not stop the engine when the

vehicle is moving. This will cause

loss of power to the power steering

and the brake booster, making steer-

ing and braking more difficult. It

could also result in accidental acti-

vation of the “LOCK”/“OFF” posi-

tion on the ignition switch, causing

the steering wheel to lock.

If you cannot unlock the steering wheel by

doing the steps, contact your nearest

SUBARU dealer.

6. Confirm that all warning and indicator

lights have turned off after the engine

has started. The fuel injection system

automatically lowers the idle speed as

the engine warms up.

& Steering lock

After stopping the engine and the key is

removed from ignition switch, the steering

wheel will be locked due to the steering

lock function.

While the engine is warming up, make sure

that the select lever is in the “P” or “N”

position and that the parking brake is

applied.

When the engine is restarted, the steering

lock will be automatically released.

CAUTION

! When the steering lock cannot be

If you restart the engine while the

vehicle is moving, shift the select

lever into the “N” position. Do not

attempt to place the select lever of a

moving vehicle into the “P” position.

released

When you cannot unlock the steering

wheel, perform the following steps.

1. Check that the parking brake is ap-

plied.

Starting and stopping engine (models with push-button start system)

312

NOTE

7-5. Starting and stopping

engine (models with push-

button start system)

CAUTION

.

After the engine starts, the engine

speed will be kept high.

.

When the operation indicator on

the push-button ignition switch is

flashing in orange, there may be a

malfunction with the vehicle.

Contact a SUBARU dealer imme-

diately.

.

When the push-button ignition

switch is pressed while depressing

the brake pedal, the engine starter

operates for a maximum of 10 sec-

onds. After starting the engine, the

starter stops automatically.

& Safety precautions

Refer to “Safety precautions” �P114.

& Operating range for push-

If the indicator on the push-but-

ton ignition switch is flashing in

green after the engine has

started, it means that the steering

is still locked. Depress the brake

pedal while moving the steering

wheel to the right and left, and

press the push-button ignition

switch.

button start system

.

When the push-button ignition

switch is pressed while depressing

the brake pedal, the engine can be

started regardless of the status of

the push-button ignition switch.

If the security indicator light illumi-

nates when you attempt to start the

engine but the engine does not start,

press the push-button ignition

switch to switch the power to

“OFF” and then try to start the

engine again.

Refer to “Operating range for push-button

start system” �P162.

& Starting engine

WARNING

.

There are some general precau-

tions when starting the engine.

Carefully read the precautions

described in “Starting engine”

�P310.

.

Do not continue pushing the

push-button ignition switch for

more than 10 seconds. Doing so

could cause a malfunction. If the

engine does not start, stop push-

ing the push-button ignition

switch. Instead, press the push-

button ignition switch without

depressing the brake pedal to

switch the power status to

“OFF”. Wait 10 seconds, and then

push the push-button ignition

switch to start the engine.

.

If the engine does not start, press the

push-button ignition switch without

depressing the brake pedal to switch

the power to “OFF”. Then, while

depressing the brake pedal more

forcefully, press the push-button

ignition switch.

The engine start procedures may not

function depending on the radio

wave conditions around the vehicle.

In such a case, refer to “Starting

If the indicator on the push-but-

ton ignition switch flashes in

green after the engine has

started, never drive the vehicle.

The steering is still locked, and it

may result in an accident.

^{Starting and stopping engine (models with push-button start system)}313

engine” �P440.

pressed while depressing the brake pedal,

the engine will start. The starting proce-

dure for the engine is as follows.

1. Carry the access key fob, and sit in the

driver’s seat.

2. Apply the parking brake.

3. Shift the select lever into the “P”

position. The engine can also start

when the select lever is in the “N”

position, however, for safety reasons,

start in the “P” position.

4. Depress the brake pedal until the

operation indicator on the push-button

ignition switch turns green. When

starting with the select lever in the “N”

position, the indicator does not turn

green.

and press the push-button ignition

switch for at least 15 seconds. The

engine may start. Only use this

engine start procedure in case of

emergency.

When the engine is not started, the

brake pedal may feel stiff. In such a

case, depress the brake pedal more

forcefully than usual. Check that the

operation indicator on the push-

button ignition switch turns green,

and press the push-button ignition

switch to start the engine.

.

It may be difficult to start the engine

when the battery has been discon-

nected and reconnected (for main-

tenance or other purposes). This

difficulty is caused by the electro-

nically controlled throttle’s self-di-

agnosis function. To overcome it,

keep the ignition switch in the “ON”

position for approximately 10 sec-

onds before starting the engine.

If the vehicle battery is discharged,

the steering cannot be unlocked.

Charge the battery.

.

& Stopping engine

1. Stop the vehicle completely.

2. Move the select lever to the “P”

position.

3. Press the push-button ignition switch.

The engine will stop, and the power will

be switched off.

Do not shift the select lever while the

starter is cranking.

5. While depressing the brake pedal,

press the push-button ignition switch.

NOTE

.

While pressing the select lever but-

ton in, the indicator on the push-

button ignition switch will not turn

green even when the select lever is

in the “P” position.

WARNING

.

Do not touch the push-button

ignition switch during driving.

When the push-button ignition

switch is operated as follows,

the engine will stop.

.

In case the engine does not start by

the normal engine start procedure,

move the select lever to the “P”

position, and switch the power to

“ACC”. Depress the brake pedal,

1

2

Operation indicator

Push-button ignition switch

– The switch is pressed and held

for 2 seconds or longer.

When the push-button ignition switch is

– CONTINUED –

Starting and stopping engine (models with push-button start system)

314

– The switch is pressed briefly 3

times or more in succession.

& Steering lock

After stopping the engine and any door

including the rear gate is opened, the

steering wheel will be locked due to the

steering lock function.

When the engine is restarted, the steering

lock will be automatically released.

When the engine stops, the brake

booster will not function. A great-

er foot pressure will be required

on the brake pedal.

The power steering system will

not operate either. A greater force

will be required to steer, and it

may result in an accident.

! When the steering lock cannot be

released

.

If the engine stops during driving,

do not operate the push-button

ignition switch or open any of the

doors until the vehicle is stopped

in a safe location. It is dangerous

because the steering lock may be

activated. Stop the vehicle in a

NOTE

.

If you press the push-button ignition

switch while driving, the emergency

engine stop interrupt screen alerts

the driver by messages on the

combination meter display (color

LCD) and beeps.

safe place, and contact

SUBARU dealer immediately.

a

.

Although you can stop the engine by

operating the push-button ignition

switch, do not stop the engine dur-

ing driving except in an emergency.

CAUTION

1

2

Operation indicator

Push-button ignition switch

.

Do not stop the engine while the

select lever is in a position other

than the “P” position.

& When access key fob does

When you cannot restart the engine due to

the steering lock, check the status of

operation indicator and perform the follow-

ing steps.

not operate properly

If the engine is stopped while the

select lever is in a position other

than the “P” position, the power

will be in “ACC”. If the vehicle is

left in this condition, the battery

may be discharged.

Refer to “Access key fob – if access key

fob does not operate properly” �P439.

^{Remote engine start system (dealer option)}315

mote engine start system.

! Operation indicator flashing in

7-6. Remote engine start

system (dealer option)

green

NOTE

1. Check that the select lever is set in the

“P” position.

2. Depress the brake pedal and keep it.

3. Press the push-button ignition switch

while turning the steering wheel left

and right.

.

The length of time for which it is

acceptable to allow the engine to

remain idling may be bound by local

laws and regulations. Check the

local rules when using the remote

engine start system.

WARNING

.

There are some general precau-

tions when starting the engine.

Carefully read the precautions

described in “General precau-

tions when starting engine”

�P310.

.

When taking your vehicle in for

service, it is recommended that you

inform the service personnel that

your vehicle is equipped with a

remote engine start system.

! Operation indicator flashing in

orange

There may be a malfunction in the steering

lock function. Immediately contact your

nearest SUBARU dealer.

Do not remote start a vehicle in an

enclosed environment (e.g.

closed garage). Prolonged opera-

tion of a motor vehicle in an

enclosed environment can cause

a harmful build-up of carbon

monoxide. Carbon monoxide is

harmful to your health. Exposure

to high levels of carbon monox-

ide can cause headaches, dizzi-

ness or in extreme cases uncon-

sciousness and/or death.

& Remote engine starter trans-

ceiver (fob)

The remote engine start system allows you

to start the engine from outside the vehicle.

In addition, the remote engine start system

can activate the heater or air conditioner,

providing you with a comfortable cabin

upon entry. For more details, refer to the

Owner’s Manual supplement for the re-

1

Fob button

– CONTINUED –

Remote engine start system (dealer option)

316

engine start system, the following will

occur.

starting (or stop the engine if running) and

sound the horn twice if any of the following

conditions is detected. In addition, the fob

will flash and beep 3 times.

! Starting the engine

NOTE

.

The side marker lights, tail lights, and

parking lights remain illuminated.

The fob button flashes once every 3

seconds.

All vehicle doors (including rear gate)

and the engine hood must be closed

prior to activating the remote engine

start system. Any open entry point will

prevent starting or cause the engine to

stop.

.

The total run-time has exceeded 20

minutes.

.

The brake pedal is depressed.

A key is in the ignition switch.

The engine hood is open.

The engine idle speed exceeds 3,500

rpm.

The power windows are disabled.

If the engine turns over but does not start

(or starts and stalls) the remote engine

start system will power off and then

attempt to start the engine 3 additional

times. The system will not attempt to

restart the engine if it determines a vehicle

malfunction is preventing starting. If the

engine does not start after 3 additional

attempts, the remote engine start request

will be aborted.

The remote engine start system is acti-

vated by pressing the fob button on your

remote engine starter transceiver (fob)

twice within 3 seconds. If the fob is within

operating range of the system and the start

request is received, the following will

occur.

.

The security alarm is triggered.

The select lever is not in the “P”

position.

If the system detects any door (including

the rear gate) open during operation, it will

prevent starting or stop the engine, and

sound the horn and flash side marker

lights, tail lights, and parking lights 6 times.

.

The fob flashes and beeps once.

The horn sounds once.

The side marker lights, tail lights, and

parking lights flash once.

! Stopping the engine

Press and hold the fob button for at least 2

seconds to stop the engine. The fob will

flash and beep three times, indicating the

engine has stopped. If the stop request is

not received (for example, if the user is too

far away from the vehicle), the fob will

continue to flash once every 3 seconds.

The system will automatically stop the

engine after 15 minutes.

In addition to the items above, if the

vehicle’s engine management system

determines there is a safety risk due to a

vehicle-related problem, the vehicle will

power down and the horn will sound 3

times.

The system will check certain safety

preconditions before starting, and if all

conditions are met, the engine will start

within 5 seconds. After the engine starts,

the following will occur.

.

The fob flashes and beeps twice.

The horn sounds once.

The side marker lights, tail lights, and

parking lights flash once.

NOTE

! Remote start safety features

.

If the alarm system is armed at the

time of remote engine starter activa-

tion (the security indicator light on

For safety and security reasons, the

remote engine start system will prevent

While the engine is idling via the remote

^{Remote engine start system (dealer option)}317

the combination meter is flashing),

the alarm system will remain armed

throughout the remote start run

cycle.

If the alarm system is disarmed at

the time of remote engine starter

activation (the security indicator

light on the combination meter is

not flashing), the alarm system will

remain disarmed throughout the

remote start run cycle.

.

! Remote start operation - fob con-

firmation

Your remote engine starter fob is a

bidirectional transceiver that can confirm

system operation with several different

visual and audible indications. The fob’s

LED-backlit button and internal piezo

buzzer will indicate status of the system

using the following flash and beep se-

quences, provided the fob is within opera-

tional range of the system.

– CONTINUED –

Remote engine start system (dealer option)

318

Fob Indication

Precondition

Meaning

Flash

Beep

—

Continuous while button is

held down

Fob start button is being pressed

The fob is transmitting an RF signal

1 flash

1 beep

2 beeps

Engine start request received

Engine started successfully

Engine idling

2 flashes

User attempts to start engine by pressing fob

button twice within 3 sec

1 flash every 3 sec

3 flashes

—

3 beeps

Vehicle is in range but engine not started

Engine idling

1 flash every 3 sec

—

Engine idling by remote engine start operation

Engine stopped by system time-out or for safety

reasons (see sections above)

3 flashes

3 beeps

3 flashes

Engine stopped by user request

User attempts to stop engine by pressing and

holding fob button for at least 2 sec

Stop request not received. Engine still idling.

1 flash every 3 sec

—

^{Remote engine start system (dealer option)}319

.

The engine hood is closed.

The push-button ignition switch is in the

“OFF” position.

& Alternate operation method

for models with “keyless ac-

cess with push-button start

system”

& Entering the vehicle while it is

running via remote start

(models without “keyless ac-

cess with push-button start

system”)

! When starting the engine

To start the engine with remote engine

start system, briefly press the lock button

twice within 2 seconds, then press and

hold the lock button for 3 seconds.

1. Unlock the vehicle doors using the

remote keyless entry system.

NOTE

1. Press the lock button briefly. The

hazard warning flashers then flash

once and the keyless buzzer chirps

once.

2. Within 2 seconds, press the lock button

briefly again. The hazard warning

flashers then flash once again, and

the keyless buzzer chirps once again.

3. After step 2, immediately press and

hold the lock button. Some exterior

lights then flash three times, and the

horn will honk once.

4. Approximately 3 seconds after step 3,

release the lock button. The engine will

then start successfully.

If the vehicle’s doors are unlocked

manually using the key, the vehicle’s

alarm system will trigger (if the alarm

system is armed prior to activating the

remote engine start system) and the

engine will turn off. Perform either of

the following procedures to disarm the

alarm system. Refer to “Alarm system”

�P138.

Access key fob

1

Lock button

– Insert the key into the ignition

switch and turn it to the “ON”

position.

– Press any button on the remote

keyless entry transmitter.

An access key fob can be used as the

remote engine start transmitter. Operate

the lock button to start or stop the engine

as follows.

! Before starting the engine

2. Enter the vehicle. The engine will shut

down when any door or rear gate is

opened.

3. Insert the key into the ignition switch

and turn it to the “START” position to

restart the engine.

! When stopping the engine

Before using the remote engine start

system to start the engine, confirm the

following conditions.

Press and hold the lock button to stop the

engine with remote engine start system.

.

The select lever is in the “P” position.

All doors including the rear gate are

closed.

! Remote start safety features

For detailed information, refer to “Remote

start safety features” �P316.

– CONTINUED –

Remote engine start system (dealer option)

320

engine starter transceiver (fob) will

flash and beep 3 times to indicate that

the remote start system has been shut

down.

transmitters). New remote engine start

transmitters can be programmed accord-

ing to the following procedure.

1. Open the driver’s door (the driver’s

door must remain open throughout the

entire process).

& Entering the vehicle while it is

running via remote start

(models with “keyless access

with push-button start sys-

tem”)

1. Unlock the vehicle doors using the

keyless access function and remote

keyless entry system.

& Enteringthe vehicle following

remote engine start shut-

down

An alarm trigger may occur if the vehicle is

opened by the remote keyless entry

transmitter within a few seconds immedi-

ately following remote engine start shut-

down.

2. Depress and hold the brake pedal.

3. Turn the ignition switch to “ON” then

“LOCK”/“OFF”, back to “ON” then

“LOCK”/“OFF”, then back to “ON”

again and leave the ignition “ON”

throughout the programming process.

4. The system will flash the side marker

lights, tail lights and parking lights and

honk the horn three times, indicating

that the system has entered the trans-

mitter learn mode.

5. Press and release the “ ” button on

the transmitter that you want to pro-

gram.

6. The system will flash the side marker

lights, tail lights and parking lights and

honk the horn one time, indicating that

the system has learned the transmitter.

Upon successful programming, the

remote start confirmation transmitter

button will flash one time.

NOTE

If the vehicle’s doors are unlocked

manually using the key, the vehicle’s

alarm system will trigger (if the alarm

system is armed prior to activating the

remote engine start system) and the

engine will turn off. Perform either of

the following procedures to disarm the

alarm system. Refer to “Alarm system”

�P138.

& Pre-heating or pre-cooling

the interior of the vehicle

Before exiting the vehicle, set the tem-

perature controls to the desired setting and

operation. After the system starts the

engine, the heater or air conditioning will

activate and heat or cool the interior to

your setting.

– Turn the push-button ignition

switch to the “ACC” or “ON”

position.

– Press any button on the access

key fob.

& Remote transmitter program

(Remote engine starter

transceiver)

New transmitters can be programmed to

the remote engine start system in the

event that a transmitter is lost, stolen,

damaged or additional transmitters are

desired (the system will accept up to eight

2. Enter the vehicle. The engine will

remain running provided the access

key fob is present and detected by the

vehicle.

3. Press the push-button ignition switch

once while depressing the brake pedal

before driving your vehicle. The remote

7. Repeat step 5 for any additional

transmitters (the system will accept

up to eight transmitters).

^{Remote engine start system (dealer option)}321

8. The system will exit the transmitter

learn mode if the key is turned to the

“LOCK”/“OFF” position, the door is

closed or after 2 minutes.

moved parts; children could

swallow them.

.

There is a danger of explosion if

an incorrect replacement battery

is used. Replace only with the

same or equivalent type of bat-

tery.

& System maintenance

NOTE

Battery should not be exposed to

excessive heat such as sunshine,

fire or the like.

For remote engine starter transceiver:

In the event that the vehicle’s battery is

replaced, discharged or disconnected,

it will be necessary to start the vehicle a

minimum of one time using the key

prior to activating the remote engine

start system. This is required to allow

the vehicle electronic systems to re-

synchronize.

For models with “keyless access with

push-button start system”:

Perform the procedure described in “Re-

placing battery of access key fob” �P496.

For remote engine starter transceiver:

1. Remove the small phillips screw lo-

cated on the back side lower left corner

of the transmitter.

2. Carefully pry the remote engine start

transmitter halves apart using a small

flat-head screwdriver.

The 3-volt lithium battery (model CR-2450)

supplied in your remote engine start

transmitter should last approximately one

year, depending on usage. When the

battery begin to weaken, you will notice a

decrease in range (distance from the

vehicle that your remote control operates).

Follow the instructions below to change

the remote engine start transmitter battery.

! Changing the battery

CAUTION

.

Do not let dust, oil or water get on

or in the remote engine start

transmitter when replacing the

battery.

Be careful not to damage the

printed circuit board in the re-

mote engine start transmitter

when replacing the battery.

Be careful not to allow children to

touch the battery and any re-

– CONTINUED –

Remote engine start system (dealer option)

322

erly (battery “+” should be pointed

away from the transmitter circuit board

on battery).

! Canada-spec. models

4. Carefully snap the case halves back

together, reinstall the phillips screw

and test the remote engine start

system.

& Certification for remote en-

gine starter

! U.S.-spec. models

CAUTION

FCC WARNING

Changes or modifications not ex-

pressly approved by the party re-

sponsible for compliance could void

the user’s authority to operate the

equipment.

NOTE

This device complies with part 15 of the

FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the

following two conditions: (1) This de-

vice may not cause harmful interfer-

ence, and (2) this device must accept

any interference received, including

interference that may cause undesired

operation.

3. Remove the circuit board from the

bottom half of the case and remove

the battery and replace with new one.

Be sure to observe the (+) sign on the

old battery before removing it to ensure

that the new battery is inserted prop-

^{Continuously variable transmission}323

.

Never move the vehicle as fol-

lows. Doing so may result in an

unexpected accident or malfunc-

tion.

& Continuously variable trans-

7-7. Continuously variable

transmission

mission features

The continuously variable transmission is

electronically controlled and provides an

infinite number of forward speeds and 1

reverse speed. It also has a manual mode

or an “L” position.

WARNING

–

Moving rearward by inertia

with the select lever set in a

forward driving position.

Do not shift from the “P” or “N”

position into the “D” or “R” position

while depressing the accelerator

pedal. This may cause the vehicle

to jump forward or backward.

–

Moving forward by inertia with

the select lever set in the “R”

position.

NOTE

.

When the engine coolant tempera-

ture is still low, the transmission will

shift at higher engine speeds than

when the coolant temperature is

sufficiently high in order to shorten

the warm-up time and improve dri-

veability. The gearshift timing will

automatically shift to the normal

timing after the engine has warmed

up.

.

When parking the vehicle, first

securely apply the parking brake

and then place the select lever in

the “P” position. Avoid parking

for a long time with the select

lever in any other position as

doing so could result in a dead

battery.

CAUTION

.

Observe the following precau-

tions. Otherwise, the transmis-

sion could be damaged.

–

Shift into the “P” or “R” posi-

tion only after the vehicle has

completely stopped.

.

Immediately after transmission fluid

is replaced, you may feel that the

transmission operation is somewhat

unusual. This results from invalida-

tion of data which the on-board

computer has collected and stored

in memory to allow the transmission

to shift at the most appropriate times

for the current condition of your

vehicle. Optimized shifting will be

restored as the vehicle continues to

be driven for a while.

–

Do not shift from the “D”

position into the “R” position

or vice versa until the vehicle

has completely stopped.

.

Do not race the engine for more

than 5 seconds in any position

except the “N” or “P” position

when the brake is applied or

when chocks are used in the

wheels. This may cause the

transmission fluid to overheat.

.

When driving a CVT model under

– CONTINUED –

Continuously variable transmission

324

continuous heavy load conditions

such as when towing a camper or

climbing a long, steep hill, the en-

gine speed or the vehicle speed may

automatically be reduced. This is not

a malfunction. This results from the

engine control function maintaining

the cooling performance of the ve-

hicle. The engine and vehicle speed

will return to a normal speed when

the engine is able to maintain the

optimum cooling performance after

the heavy load decreases. Driving

under a heavy load must be per-

formed with extreme care. Do not try

to pass a vehicle in front when

driving on an uphill slope while

towing.

The continuously variable transmis-

sion is a chain type system that

provides superior transmission effi-

ciency for maximum fuel economy.

At times, depending on varying

driving conditions, a chain operat-

ing sound may be heard that is

characteristic of this type of system.

& Select lever

1

2

Models with “L” position

Models with manual mode

Type A

1

Select lever button

: With the brake pedal depressed, shift

while pressing the select lever button

in.

: Shift while pressing the select lever

button in.

.

: Shift without pressing the select lever

button.

The select lever has four positions, “P”,

“R”, “N”, “D” and it also has an “L” or “M”

gate.

NOTE

.

For some models, to protect the

engine while the select lever is in

the “P” or “N” position, the engine is

controlled so that the engine speed

may not become too high even if the

Type B

Select lever button

1

^{Continuously variable transmission}325

accelerator pedal is depressed hard.

When you change the select lever

position, make sure to move the

select lever firmly to the selected

position.

pedal. For details, refer to “Shift lock

function” �P327.

ing while corresponding to the road grade.

.

When more acceleration is required in the

“D” position, depress the accelerator pedal

fully to the floor and hold that position. The

transmission will automatically downshift.

In this case, the transmission will operate

like a conventional automatic transmis-

sion. When you release the pedal, the

transmission will return to the original gear

position.

! N (Neutral)

This position is for restarting a stalled

engine. In this position, the transmission is

neutral, meaning that the wheels and

transmission are not locked. Therefore,

the vehicle will roll freely, even on the

slightest incline unless the parking brake

or foot brake is applied.

! P (Park)

This position is for parking the vehicle and

starting the engine. In this position, the

transmission is mechanically locked to

prevent the vehicle from rolling freely.

For models with manual mode, if one of the

shift paddles behind the steering wheel is

operated while driving in the “D” position,

the transmission will temporarily switch to

the manual mode. In this mode, you can

shift into any gear position using the shift

paddles. For details about the manual

mode, refer to “Selection of manual mode”

�P326. Once the vehicle speed stabi-

lizes, the transmission will switch from the

manual mode back to the “D” position for

normal driving.

Avoid coasting with the transmission in

neutral. Engine braking has no effect in

this condition.

When you park the vehicle, first apply the

parking brake firmly, then shift into the “P”

position. Do not hold the vehicle with only

the mechanical friction of the transmission.

WARNING

To shift the select lever from the “P”

position to any other position, you should

depress the brake pedal fully then move

the select lever. This prevents the vehicle

from lurching when it is started.

Do not drive the vehicle with the

select lever in the “N” (neutral)

position. Engine braking has no

effect in this condition and the risk

of an accident is consequently in-

creased.

! R (Reverse)

This position is for backing the vehicle. To

shift from the “N” to “R” position, stop the

vehicle completely then move the lever to

the “R” position while pressing the select

lever button in.

! D (Drive)

This position is for normal driving. The

transmission shifts automatically and con-

tinuously into a suitable gear according to

the vehicle speed and the acceleration you

require. Also, while driving up and down a

hill, the transmission assists and controls

the driving performance and engine brak-

When the ignition switch has been turned

to the “ACC” position, the movement of the

select lever from the “N” to “R” position is

only possible by depressing the brake

– CONTINUED –

Continuously variable transmission

326

position to the “M” position to select the

manual mode.

possible. When both indicators illuminate,

upshifting and downshifting are both pos-

sible. When the vehicle stops (for exam-

ple, at traffic signals), the downshift in-

dicator turns off.

& Selection of manual mode (if

equipped)

Gearshifts can be performed using the

shift paddle behind the steering wheel.

Select lever/gear position indicator

Type A

1

2

3

Upshift indicator

Downshift indicator

Gear position indicator

When the manual mode is selected, the

gear position indicator and upshift indica-

tor and/or downshift indicator on the

combination meter illuminate.

To upshift to the next higher gear position,

pull the shift paddle that has “+” indicated

on it. To downshift to the next lower gear

position, pull the shift paddle that has “–”

indicated on it.

The gear position indicator shows the

currently selected gear in the 1st-to-8th-

gear range.

To deselect the manual mode, return the

select lever to the “D” position from the “M”

position.

The upshift and downshift indicators show

when a gear shift is possible. When the

upshift indicator “ ” illuminates, upshift-

ing is possible. When the downshift in-

dicator “ ” illuminates, downshifting is

Type B

With the vehicle either moving or station-

ary, move the select lever from the “D”

^{Continuously variable transmission}327

safe location and let the engine idle

until the warning light turns off.

“L” is for using engine braking when going

down a hill, etc. To select this mode, move

the select lever from the “D” position to the

“L” position.

CAUTION

Do not place or hang anything on the

shift paddles. Doing so may result in

accidental gear shifting.

& Selection of “L” (if equipped)

NOTE

Please read the following points care-

fully and bear them in mind when using

the manual mode.

.

If you attempt to shift down when the

engine speed is too high, i.e., when a

downshift would push the tach-

ometer needle beyond the red zone,

beeps will be emitted to warn you

that the downshift is not possible.

If you attempt to shift up when the

vehicle speed is too low, the trans-

mission will not respond.

You can perform a skip-shift (for

example, from 4th to 2nd) by operat-

ing the shift paddle twice in rapid

succession.

.

When selected, the indicator “L” will

illuminate on the combination meter.

Type A

To deselect “L”, move the select lever to

the “D” position.

& Shift lock function

.

The transmission automatically se-

lects 1st gear when the vehicle stops

moving.

If the temperature of the transmis-

sion fluid becomes too high, the “AT

OIL TEMP” warning light on the

combination meter will illuminate.

Immediately stop the vehicle in a

The shift lock function helps prevent the

improper operation of the select lever.

.

The select lever cannot be operated

unless the ignition switch is turned to

the “ON” position and the brake pedal is

depressed.

.

The select lever cannot be moved from

the “P” position to any other position

Type B

– CONTINUED –

Continuously variable transmission

328

before the brake pedal is depressed.

Depress the brake pedal first, and then

operate the select lever.

Only the “P” position allows you to turn

the ignition switch from the “ACC”

position to the “LOCK”/“OFF” position

and remove the key from the ignition

switch.

If the ignition switch is turned to the

“ACC” position while the select lever is

in the “N” position, the select lever may

not be moved to the “P” position without

depressing the brake pedal and press-

ing the select lever button.

.

When the select lever cannot be

shifted from “N” to “R”, “P”:

Place the ignition switch in the “ACC”

position, then move the select lever to the

“P” position with the brake pedal de-

pressed.

.

If the select lever still does not move, refer

to “Shift lock release using the shift lock

release button” �P328.

If the shift lock cannot be released without

using the shift lock release button in the

above cases, there may be a malfunction

in the shift lock system or the vehicle

control system.

2. Wrap the tip of a flat-head screwdriver

with vinyl tape or a cloth and use it to

remove the shift lock cover. The shift

lock release button is located under the

shift lock cover.

! Shift lock release

Contact a SUBARU dealer for an inspec-

tion as soon as possible.

If the select lever cannot be operated, turn

the ignition switch back to the “ON”

position then move the select lever to the

“P” position with the select lever button

pressed and the brake pedal depressed.

! Shift lock release using the shift

lock release button

Perform the following procedure to release

the shift lock.

1. Apply the parking brake and stop the

engine.

If the select lever does not move after

performing the above procedure, check

and confirm the following and release the

shift lock accordingly.

.

When the select lever cannot be

shifted from “P” to “N”:

Refer to “Shift lock release using the shift

lock release button” �P328.

3. While depressing the brake pedal,

^SI-DRIVE329

insert a screwdriver into the hole, press

the shift lock release button using a

screwdriver, and then move the select

lever.

standstill. This phenomenon does not

indicate a malfunction.

7-8. SI-DRIVE

SI-DRIVE (SUBARU Intelligent Drive)

works to maximize engine performance,

control and efficiency.

This system consists of two modes:

Intelligent (I), Sport (S), and Sport Sharp

(S#). By operating the SI-DRIVE switches,

the character of the power unit changes.

If the select lever does not move after

performing the above procedure, the shift

lock system may be malfunctioning. Con-

tact a SUBARU dealer for an inspection as

soon as possible.

& Driving tips

& Intelligent (I) mode

CAUTION

! For smooth, efficient performance

driving

If the accelerator and brake pedals

are depressed at the same time,

driving torque may be restrained.

This is not a malfunction.

.

Always apply the foot or parking brake

when the vehicle is stopped in the “D” or

“R” position.

Make sure to apply the parking brake

when parking your vehicle. Do not hold

the vehicle with only the mechanical

friction of the transmission.

.

Do not keep the vehicle in a stationary

position on an uphill grade by using the

“D” position. Use the brake instead.

The engine may, on rare occasions,

knock when the vehicle rapidly accel-

erates or rapidly pulls away from a

The linear acceleration characteristic of

the Intelligent (I) mode is ideal for normal

driving usage.

The Intelligent (I) mode provides well-

balanced performance with greater fuel

– CONTINUED –

SI-DRIVE

330

efficiency and smooth driveability without

stress. Power delivery is moderate during

acceleration for maximum fuel efficiency.

This is ideal for around-town driving and

situations that do not require full power

output. It provides better control in difficult

driving conditions, such as slippery roads

or loose surfaces, due to gentler throttle

response.

& Sport Sharp (S#) mode (if

& SI-DRIVE switches

Type A SI-DRIVE switches

Type B SI-DRIVE switches

equipped)

! For maximum performance driving

& Sport (S) mode (if equipped)

! For all-around performance driving

For sports-minded drivers, the Sport

Sharp (S#) mode offers an exhilarating

level of engine performance and control.

The throttle becomes more responsive

regardless of the engine speed. Delivering

maximum driving enjoyment, this mode is

ideal for tackling twisting roads and for

merging or overtaking other vehicles on

the freeway with confidence.

The Sport (S) mode provides the engine

power desired by those who want to make

the driving experience their own personal

adventure.

.

To select the Intelligent (I) mode, press

the “I” switch.

^{Power steering}331

.

To select the Sport (S) mode, press the

“S” switch.

To select the Sport Sharp (S#) mode,

press the “S#” switch.

7-9. Power steering

CAUTION

When the power steering warning

light is illuminated, there may be

more resistance when the steering

wheel is operated. Drive carefully to

the nearest SUBARU dealer and

have the vehicle inspected immedi-

ately.

& Power steering warning light

NOTE

.

While the engine is cool, you cannot

change to Sport Sharp (S#) mode.

The next time you turn on the engine,

after you turned off the engine in the

Sport (S) mode (type A) or Sport

Sharp (S#) mode (type B), the

SI-DRIVE mode changes to the In-

telligent (I) mode.

If the CHECK ENGINE warning light/

malfunction indicator light illumi-

nates while the engine is running,

type A changes to the Sport (S)

mode, and type B remains in the

state that was in effect before the

warning light turned on. In this case,

it is not possible to change to

another mode.

.

NOTE

If the steering wheel is operated in the

following ways, the power steering

control system may temporarily limit

the power assist in order to prevent the

system components, such as the con-

trol computer and drive motor, from

overheating.

.

& Power steering system fea-

tures

.

The steering wheel is operated fre-

quently and turned sharply while the

vehicle is maneuvered at extremely

low speeds, such as while frequently

turning the steering wheel during

parallel parking.

The steering wheel remains in the

fully turned position for a long

period of time.

The vehicle is equipped with an electric

power steering system. When the ignition

switch is turned to the “ON” position, the

power steering warning light on the com-

bination meter illuminates to inform the

driver that the warning system is function-

ing properly. Then, if the engine started,

the warning light turns off to inform the

driver that the steering power assist is

operational.

If any of the SI-DRIVE indicators

blink, the SI-DRIVE system may be

malfunctioning. Contact your

SUBARU dealer.

.

At this time, there will be more resis-

tance when steering. However, this is

not a malfunction. Normal steering

force will be restored after the steering

– CONTINUED –

Braking

332

wheel is not operated for a while and

the power steering control system has

an opportunity to cool down. However,

if the power steering is operated in a

non-standard way which causes power

assist limitation to occur too frequently,

this may result in a malfunction of the

power steering control system.

a loss of control of the vehicle. Keep

driving straight ahead while gradually

reducing speed. Then slowly pull off the

road to a safe place.

7-10. Braking

& Braking tips

WARNING

& Brake system

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.

! Two separate circuits

Your vehicle has two separate circuit brake

systems. Each circuit works diagonally

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. A much longer

distance will be needed to stop the vehicle.

! When the brakes get wet

When driving in rain or after washing the

vehicle, the brakes may get wet. As a

result, brake stopping distance will be

longer. To dry the brakes, drive the vehicle

at a safe speed while lightly depressing the

brake pedal to heat up the brakes.

! Electronic brake booster

The vehicle is equipped with an electronic

brake booster to provide additional braking

force. Do not turn off the ignition switch

while driving because that will turn off the

brake booster, resulting in poor braking

power.

The brakes will continue to work even

when the brake booster completely stops

functioning. If this happens, you will have

to depress the pedal much harder than

during normal braking, and the braking

distance will increase.

! 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 to a lower gear to get

stronger engine braking.

! Braking when a tire is punctured

Do not depress the brake pedal suddenly

when a tire is punctured. This could cause

^Braking333

LCD). If the warning light illuminates,

promptly park in a safe location as soon

as possible and contact your SUBARU

dealer. Refer to “Electronic brake booster

warning” �P178.

NOTE

When the following operations are

performed, an operating sound from

the electronic brake boost control

module may be heard. This is not a

malfunction.

When you depress the brake pedal

strongly or suddenly, the following will

occur. However, even though these

occur, they do not indicate any mal-

functions, and the brake assist system

is operating properly.

! Brake assist system

.

The brake pedal was operated.

The driver’s door was opened.

The EyeSight function was acti-

vated.

WARNING

.

You might feel that the brake pedal is

applied by lighter force and gener-

ates a greater braking force.

Do not be overconfident about the

brake assist. It is not a system that

brings more braking ability to the

vehicle beyond its braking capabil-

ity. Always use the utmost care

when driving regarding vehicle

speed and safe distance.

.

Several minutes have passed after

the engine stopped.

.

You might hear an ABS operating

noise from the engine compartment.

! Supplemental booster function

when electronic brake booster

fails

& Disc brake pad wear warning

indicators

If there is a malfunction in the braking

system, the power for the braking will be

stored by controlling the hydraulic pres-

sure of the VDC system.

When the brake pedal is depressed while

the supplemental booster function is oper-

ating, an operation sound and brake pedal

vibration may be generated.

CAUTION

When you need to brake suddenly,

continue depressing the brake pedal

strongly to bring the effect of the

brake assist.

Brake assist is a driver assistance system.

It assists the brake power when the driver

cannot depress the brake pedal strongly

and the brake power is insufficient.

Brake assist generates the brake power

according to the speed at which the driver

depresses the brake pedal.

! Electronic brake booster warning

The brake system warning light illuminates

when the electronic brake booster is

malfunctioning. In addition, the warning

messages “Brake System” and “Check

Owner’s Manual” are displayed alternately

on the combination meter display (color

The disc brake pad wear warning indica-

tors on the disc brakes give a warning

noise when the brake pads are worn.

– CONTINUED –

ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)

334

If a squeaking or scraping noise is heard

from the disc brakes while braking, im-

mediately have your vehicle checked by

your SUBARU dealer.

7-11. ABS (Anti-lock Brake

System)

CAUTION

.

The ABS does not always de-

crease stopping distance. You

should always maintain a safe

following distance from other

vehicles.

The ABS prevents the lock-up of wheels

which may occur during sudden braking or

braking on slippery road surfaces. This

helps prevent the loss of steering control

and directional stability caused by wheel

lock-up.

When driving on badly surfaced

roads, gravel roads, icy roads, or

over newly fallen snow, stopping

distances may be longer for a

vehicle with the ABS than one

without. Therefore, when driving

under these conditions, reduce

your speed and leave ample dis-

tance from other vehicles.

When the ABS 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 will not operate when the vehicle

speed is below approximately 6 mph (10

km/h).

.

When tire chains are installed,

stopping distances may be long-

er for a vehicle with the ABS than

one without. Be sure to reduce

your speed and maintain a safe

distance from the vehicle in front.

WARNING

Always use the utmost care in driv-

ing – overconfidence because you

are driving a vehicle with the ABS

could easily lead to a serious acci-

dent.

When you feel the ABS operating,

you should maintain constant

brake pedal pressure. Do not

pump the brake pedal since

doing so may defeat the opera-

tion of the ABS.

^{Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) system}335

& ABS self-check

& If EBD system malfunctions

7-12. Electronic Brake Force

Distribution (EBD) system

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 being carried out and does not

indicate a malfunction.

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 vehicle’s

loading condition and speed.

The EBD system is an integral part of the

ABS and uses some of the ABS compo-

nents to perform its function of optimizing

the distribution of braking force. If any of

the ABS components used by the EBD

system malfunction, the EBD system also

stops working.

& ABS warning light

Refer to “ABS warning light” �P177.

If a malfunction occurs in the EBD system,

the system stops working and the following

warning lights illuminate simultaneously.

.

Brake system warning light

ABS warning light

Vehicle Dynamics Control warning light

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.

If all of the warning lights remain on even

though the parking brake is released, the

brake fluid level may be low or there could

be a problem with the EBD system. Park

the vehicle in a safe place immediately and

contact a Subaru dealer.

– CONTINUED –

Vehicle Dynamics Control system

336

Vehicle Dynamics Control is no

guarantee that full vehicle control

will be maintained at all times and

under all conditions, its activa-

tion should be seen as a sign that

the speed of the vehicle should

be reduced considerably.

7-13. Vehicle Dynamics Con-

trol system

WARNING

.

Driving with the brake system

warning light illuminated is dan-

gerous. This indicates your brake

system may not be working prop-

erly. If the light remains illumi-

nated, have the brakes inspected

by a SUBARU dealer immedi-

ately.

& Safety precautions

WARNING

Always use the utmost care in driv-

ing – overconfidence because you

are driving a vehicle with the Vehicle

Dynamics Control system could ea-

sily lead to a serious accident.

.

Whenever suspension compo-

nents, steering components, or

an axle are removed from a

vehicle, have an inspection of

that system performed by an

authorized SUBARU dealer.

.

If at all in doubt about whether the

brakes are operating properly, do

not drive the vehicle. Have your

vehicle towed to the nearest

SUBARU dealer for repair.

The following precautions should

be observed in order to ensure

that the Vehicle Dynamics Con-

trol system is operating properly:

CAUTION

.

Even if your vehicle is equipped

with the Vehicle Dynamics Con-

trol system, winter tires should

be used when driving on snow-

covered or icy roads; in addition,

vehicle speed should be reduced

considerably. Simply having a

Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-

tem does not guarantee that the

vehicle will be able to avoid

accidents in any situation.

–

All four wheels should be

fitted with tires of the same

size, type, and brand. Further-

more, the amount of wear

should be the same for all four

tires.

–

Keep the tire pressure at the

proper level as shown on the

vehicle placard attached to

the driver’s side door pillar.

.

Activation of the Vehicle Dy-

namics Control system is an

indication that the road on which

the vehicle is traveling has a

slippery surface; since having

Use only the specified tempor-

ary spare tire to replace a flat

tire. With a temporary spare

tire, the effectiveness of the

^{Vehicle Dynamics Control system}337

.

Traction Control Function

– The brake pedal seems to jolt

when driving off after starting the

engine.

In the circumstances shown in the

following list, the vehicle may be

less stable than it feels to the driver.

The Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-

tem may therefore operate. Such

operation does not indicate a sys-

tem malfunction.

Vehicle Dynamics Control

system is reduced and this

should be taken into account

when driving the vehicle in

such a condition.

The traction control function is designed to

prevent spinning of the driving wheels on

slippery road surfaces, thereby helping to

maintain traction and directional control.

Activation of this function is shown by

flashing the Vehicle Dynamics Control

operation indicator light.

.

If non-matching tires are used,

the Vehicle Dynamics Control

system may not operate cor-

rectly.

.

Skid Suppression Function

The Vehicle Dynamics Control

system helps prevent unstable

vehicle motion such as skidding

using control of the brakes and

engine power. Do not turn off the

Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-

tem unless it is absolutely neces-

sary. If you must turn off the

Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-

tem, drive very carefully accord-

ing to the road surface condi-

tions.

The skid suppression function is designed

to help maintain directional stability by

suppressing the wheels’ tendency to slide

sideways during steering operations. Acti-

vation of this function is shown by flashing

the Vehicle Dynamics Control operation

indicator light.

– On gravel-covered or rutted

roads

– On unfinished roads

– When the vehicle is towing a

trailer

– When the vehicle is fitted with

snow tires or winter tires.

Activation of the Vehicle Dynamics

Control system will cause operation

of the steering wheel to feel slightly

different compared to that for nor-

mal conditions.

It is always important to reduce

speed when approaching a corner,

even if your vehicle is equipped with

the Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-

tem.

Always turn off the engine before

replacing a tire. Failure to do so may

render the Vehicle Dynamics Control

system unable to operate correctly.

.

NOTE

.

The Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-

tem may be considered normal when

the following conditions occur.

– Slight twitching of the brake

pedal is felt.

& System features

– The vehicle or steering wheel

shakes to a small degree.

– An operating sound from the

engine compartment is heard

briefly when starting the engine

and when driving off after start-

ing the engine.

In the event of wheelspin and/or skidding

on a slippery road surface and/or during

cornering and/or an evasive maneuver,

the Vehicle Dynamics Control system

adjusts the engine’s output and the

wheels’ respective braking forces to help

maintain traction and directional control.

– CONTINUED –

Vehicle Dynamics Control system

338

& Vehicle Dynamics Control

system monitor

Refer to “Vehicle Dynamics Control warn-

ing light/Vehicle Dynamics Control opera-

tion indicator light” �P181 and “Vehicle

Dynamics Control OFF indicator light”

�P183.

& Vehicle Dynamics Control

OFF switch

Type B

When the switch is pressed or turned

during engine operation, the Vehicle Dy-

namics Control OFF indicator light “ ” on

the combination meter illuminates. The

Vehicle Dynamics Control system will be

deactivated and the vehicle will behave

like a model not equipped with the Vehicle

Dynamics Control system. When the

switch is pressed again (type A) or turned

to the “NORMAL” side (type B) to reacti-

vate the Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-

tem, the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF

indicator light turns off.

With the Vehicle Dynamics Control system

deactivated, traction and stability en-

hancement offered by the Vehicle Dy-

namics Control system is unavailable.

Therefore, you should not deactivate the

Vehicle Dynamics Control system except

Press or turn the Vehicle Dynamics Con-

trol OFF switch to deactivate the Vehicle

Dynamics Control system. Creating ade-

quate driving wheel slip by deactivating the

Vehicle Dynamics Control system may

help to recover from the loss of traction.

Use the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF

switch as necessary.

.

A standing start on a steeply sloping

road with a snowy, gravel-covered, or

otherwise slippery surface

Extrication of the vehicle when its

wheels are stuck in mud or deep snow

Type A

.

^X-MODE339

7-14. X-MODE (if equipped)

WARNING

under the above-mentioned situations.

.

Even when the Vehicle Dynamics

Control system is deactivated, com-

ponents of the brake control system

may still activate. When the brake

control system is activated, the

Vehicle Dynamics Control operation

indicator light flashes.

NOTE

.

When the switch has been pressed

(type A) or turned (type B) to deac-

tivate the Vehicle Dynamics Control

system, the Vehicle Dynamics Con-

trol system automatically reacti-

vates itself the next time the ignition

switch is turned to the “LOCK”/

“OFF” position and the engine is

restarted.

.

Always use the utmost care in

driving – overconfidence be-

cause you are driving a vehicle

with X-MODE could easily lead to

a serious accident.

.

Always use the utmost care in

driving – overconfidence be-

cause you are driving a vehicle

with hill descent control function

(if equipped) could easily lead to

a serious accident. Be especially

careful, and depress the brake

pedal if necessary when driving

on extremely steep downhill, fro-

zen, muddy or sandy roads. Fail-

ure to control the vehicle’s speed

may cause a loss of control and

result in a serious accident.

.

If the switch is pressed (type A) or

turned (type B) and held for 30

seconds or longer, the indicator light

turns off, the Vehicle Dynamics

Control system is activated, and

the system ignores any further

pressing of the switch. To make the

switch usable again, turn the igni-

tion switch to the “LOCK”/“OFF”

position and restart the engine.

When the switch is pressed (type A)

or turned (type B) to deactivate the

Vehicle Dynamics Control system,

the vehicle’s running performance is

comparable to that of a vehicle that

does not have a Vehicle Dynamics

Control system. Do not deactivate

the Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-

tem except when absolutely neces-

sary.

.

CAUTION

.

Even if your vehicle is equipped

with X-MODE, winter tires should

be used when driving on snow-

covered or icy roads; in addition,

vehicle speed should be reduced

considerably. Simply having

– CONTINUED –

X-MODE

340

X-MODE has the following functions.

X-MODE does not guarantee that

the vehicle will be able to avoid

accidents in any situation.

–

Use only the special tempor-

ary spare tire to replace a flat

tire. With a normal temporary

spare tire, the effectiveness of

X-MODE is reduced and this

should be taken into account

when driving the vehicle in

such a condition.

.

Hill descent control function (if

equipped):

Using the hill descent control function, you

can keep the vehicle at a consistent speed

driving downhill. If the vehicle speed is

likely to increase, the brake control system

will be activated to adjust the vehicle

speed.

.

Activate X-MODE when you en-

counter a very slippery surface at

low speed. However, having

X-MODE is no guarantee that full

vehicle control will be maintained

at all times and under all condi-

tions. When activating X-MODE,

the speed of the vehicle should

be reduced considerably.

.

Models with hill descent control:

If the hill descent control function

has operated continuously for a

long time, the temperature of the

brake disc may increase and the

hill descent control function may

be temporarily disabled. In this

case, the hill descent control

indicator will disappear. When

the hill descent control indicator

disappears, the hill descent con-

trol function is disabled.

.

Driving ability control:

This mode increases the hill-climbing

ability and driving ability as well as

enabling smooth application of torque for

easier control of the steering wheel.

.

Whenever suspension compo-

nents, steering components, or

an axle are removed from a

vehicle, have the system in-

spected by an authorized

SUBARU dealer.

Observe the following precau-

tions in order to ensure that

X-MODE is operating properly:

X-MODE is the integrated control system

of the engine, AWD and Vehicle Dynamics

Control system, etc. for driving with bad

road conditions. Using X-MODE, you can

drive more comfortably even in slippery

road conditions including uphill and down-

hill.

–

All four wheels should be

fitted with tires of the same

size, type, and brand. Further-

more, the amount of wear

should be the same for all four

tires.

–

Keep the tire pressure at the

proper level as shown on the

label attached to the vehicle’s

door pillar.

^X-MODE341

& To activate/deactivate

X-MODE

! X-MODE switch (models with 2

modes)

Type B

X-MODE indicator (models with 2 modes)

1

2

D.SNOW/MUD mode indicator

SNOW/DIRT mode indicator

! X-MODE switch (models with 1

mode)

Type A

X-MODE indicator (models with 1 mode)

– CONTINUED –

X-MODE

342

speed is 12 mph (20 km/h) or more,

X-MODE will not be activated. At this

time, a buzzer will sound twice.

If the vehicle speed reaches 25 mph

(40 km/h) or more while X-MODE is

activated, a buzzer will sound once

and X-MODE will be deactivated.

X-MODE will automatically reacti-

vate when the vehicle speed drops

below 22 mph (35 km/h).

– When you use the cruise control

after X-MODE is automatically

deactivated, X-MODE will not be

automatically reactivated when

the vehicle speed drops below

22 mph (35 km/h).

If the engine could overheat because

of a temperature increase of the

engine coolant, it may not be possi-

ble to activate X-MODE. Even while

X-MODE is activated, X-MODE will

be deactivated when the engine

coolant temperature increases.

The Auto Start Stop system will be

stopped while X-MODE is activated.

this time, a buzzer will sound twice.

X-MODE will be deactivated if any of

the following conditions is met while

the engine is running.

– The CHECK ENGINE warning

light/malfunction indicator light

illuminates.

– The AT OIL TEMP warning light

flashes.

– The ABS warning light illumi-

nates.

! To activate

.

Models with 2 modes

Turn the X-MODE switch to the right or left

and select SNOW/DIRTor D.SNOW/MUD.

While X-MODE is activated, the X-MODE

indicator appears.

.

Models with 1 mode

Press the X-MODE switch. While X-MODE

is activated, the X-MODE indicator ap-

pears.

– The Vehicle Dynamics Control

warning light illuminates.

! To deactivate

Press the X-MODE switch. The X-MODE

indicator will disappear when X-MODE is

deactivated.

When this occurs, it is not possible

to activate X-MODE. Also, for models

with SI-DRIVE, type A changes to the

Sport (S) mode, and type B remains

in the state that was in effect before

the warning light turned on. In this

case, it is not possible to change to

another mode.

.

NOTE

.

SNOW/DIRT is suitable for driving

on a snow-covered road where the

points of contact between the tires

and road surface are visible, or for

driving on an unpaved road.

For information on the types of

SI-DRIVE, refer to “SI-DRIVE

switches” �P330.

.

D.SNOW/MUD is suitable for driving

on a road covered with deep snow

where the points of contact between

the tires and road surface are not

visible, or for driving on a muddy

road.

.

If there is a possibility that the

engine could overheat because of a

temperature increase of the engine

coolant, it is not possible to change

to X-MODE. While the vehicle is in

X-MODE, it changes to the Sport (S)

mode or Sport Sharp (S#) mode

NOTE

.

The SI-DRIVE mode will change to

the Intelligent (I) mode when

X-MODE is deactivated.

The SI-DRIVE mode cannot be chan-

ged while X-MODE is activated. At

.

Even if you try to activate X-MODE

by turning (models with 2 modes) or

pressing (models with 1 mode) the

X-MODE switch when the vehicle

.

^X-MODE343

when the engine coolant tempera-

ture increases.

It is not possible to activate X-MODE

when the engine is not running,

because the hill descent control

function is not activated.

When X-MODE automatically reacti-

vates, the hill descent control func-

tion also reactivates.

! Hill descent control indicator

NOTE

.

Even while the hill descent control

.

function is operating, you can vary

the vehicle speed using the brake

pedal or accelerator pedal.

.

During braking by the hill descent

control function, the stop lights will

illuminate.

The hill descent control function is

operable regardless of the gradient

of the road.

The hill descent control function

may be considered normal when

the following conditions occur.

– An operating sound is heard

briefly from the engine compart-

ment while the hill descent con-

trol function is operating.

& Hill descent control function

The hill descent control function will be in

standby mode when X-MODE is activated

and the vehicle speed is less than approxi-

mately 12 mph (20 km/h).

The function will operate when the vehicle

speed is less than approximately 12 mph

(20 km/h) and the accelerator ratio is less

than approximately 10%.

The function will turn off when the vehicle

speed is more than approximately 12 mph

(20 km/h) and the accelerator pedal is

depressed.

Hill descent control indicator

This indicator appears while the hill des-

cent control function is in the standby

mode. It flashes while the function is

operating. It will disappear when the

function is in the disabled mode. When

this function is changed from operational

to non-operational, it will disappear when

the vehicle speed reaches more than

approximately 18 mph (30 km/h).

– The sensation of depressing the

brake pedal is different, (harder

than usual etc.) when the brake

pedal is depressed during hill

descent control function opera-

tion.

CAUTION

The braking power of the hill des-

cent control function may not be

sufficient when strong braking

power is needed (e.g., when towing

a trailer).

Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) (U.S.-spec. models)

344

The tire pressure monitoring sys-

tem does not function when the

vehicle is stationary. After adjust-

ing the tire pressures, increase

the vehicle speed to at least 20

mph (32 km/h) to start the TPMS

rechecking of the tire inflation

pressures. If the tire pressures

are now above the severe low

pressure threshold, the low tire

pressure warning light should

turn off a few minutes later.

7-15. Tire pressure monitor-

ing system (TPMS) (U.S.-

spec. models)

WARNING

.

If the low tire pressure warning

light illuminates while driving,

never brake suddenly. Instead,

perform the following procedure.

Otherwise, an accident involving

serious vehicle damage and ser-

ious personal injury could occur.

(1) Keep driving straight ahead

while gradually reducing

speed.

If this light still illuminates while

driving after adjusting the tire

pressure, a tire may have signifi-

cant damage and a fast leak that

causes the tire to lose air rapidly.

If you have a flat tire, replace it

with a spare tire as soon as

possible.

(2) Slowly pull off the road to a

safe location.

(3) Check the pressure for all four

tires and adjust the pressure

to the COLD tire pressure

shown on the tire inflation

pressure label. The tire infla-

tion pressure label is located

on the door pillar on the

driver’s side.

Low tire pressure warning light

The tire pressure monitoring system pro-

vides the driver with a warning message

when tire pressure is severely low.

The tire pressure monitoring system will

activate only when the vehicle is driven at

speeds above 20 mph (32 km/h). Also, this

system may not react immediately to a

sudden drop in tire pressure (for example,

a blow-out caused by running over a sharp

object).

.

When a spare tire is mounted or a

wheel rim is replaced without the

original pressure sensor/trans-

mitter being transferred, the low

tire pressure warning light will

illuminate steadily after blinking

for approximately 1 minute. This

indicates the TPMS is unable to

monitor all four road wheels.

Contact your SUBARU dealer as

soon as possible for tire and

sensor replacement and/or sys-

Even when the vehicle is driven a

very short distance, the tires get

warm and their pressures in-

crease accordingly. Be sure to

let the tires cool thoroughly be-

fore adjusting their pressures to

the standard values shown on the

tire inflation pressure label. Refer

to “Tires and wheels” �P471.

^{Parking your vehicle}345

tem resetting.

7-16. Parking your vehicle

CAUTION

.

When a tire is repaired with liquid

sealant, the tire pressure warning

valve and transmitter may not

operate properly. If a liquid sea-

lant is used, contact your nearest

SUBARU dealer or other qualified

service shop as soon as possi-

ble. Make sure to replace the tire

pressure warning valve and

transmitter when replacing the

tire. You may reuse the wheel if

there is no damage to it and if the

sealant residue is properly

cleaned off. Do not inject any tire

liquid or aerosol tire sealant into

the tires, as this may cause a

malfunction of the tire pressure

sensors. If the light illuminates

steadily after blinking for ap-

proximately 1 minute, promptly

contact a SUBARU dealer to have

the system inspected.

Do not place metal film or any metal

parts in the cargo area. This may

cause poor reception of the signals

from the tire pressure sensors, and

the tire pressure monitoring system

will not function properly.

& Electronic parking brake

NOTE

This device complies with part 15 of the

FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the

following two conditions: (1) This de-

vice may not cause harmful interfer-

ence, and (2) this device must accept

any interference received, including

interference that may cause undesired

operation.

1

2

3

4

Parking brake switch

Indicator light

Release the electronic parking brake

Apply the electronic parking brake

FCC CAUTION

Changes or modifications not ex-

pressly approved by the party respon-

sible for compliance could void the

user’s authority to operate the equip-

ment.

WARNING

.

Before exiting the vehicle, make

sure that you turn off the engine.

Otherwise, the parking brake may

be released and an accident may

occur.

If the brake system warning light

turns on, the electronic parking

brake system may be malfunc-

tioning. Immediately stop your

– CONTINUED –

Parking your vehicle

346

vehicle in a safe location, use tire

stops under the tires to prevent

the vehicle from moving and

contact your SUBARU dealer.

function” �P327.

NOTE

–

Use tire stops under the tires

to prevent the vehicle from

moving.

.

If you press the parking brake switch

under the following conditions, the

parking brake will not be released.

– The ignition switch is in the

“ACC” or “LOCK”/“OFF” posi-

tion.

.

If you operate the electronic park-

ing brake when the brake is over-

heated or the vehicle is on a steep

slope, the electronic parking

brake indicator light may flash.

In this case, the vehicle may start

to move and it may lead to an

accident. Always use the tire

stops.

.

Never drive with the parking

brake applied. Doing so will

cause unnecessary brake pad

wear. Before driving off, always

make sure that the parking brake

has been released and the brake

system warning light has turned

off.

– You are not depressing the brake

pedal.

.

The electronic parking brake system

uses motors to apply the parking

brake. Therefore, operating sounds

from the motors will be heard when

applying or releasing the parking

brake. Make sure that the motor

sounds are heard when applying or

releasing the parking brake.

If you operate the parking brake

switch under the following condi-

tions, a chirp will sound and the

electronic parking brake indicator

light will flash.

Your vehicle is equipped with an electronic

parking brake. You can apply/release the

parking brake by operating the parking

brake switch.

CAUTION

.

When the electronic parking

brake system has a malfunction

and the parking brake cannot be

applied, contact your SUBARU

dealer immediately for an inspec-

tion. If you have to park your

vehicle in such conditions, per-

form the following procedure.

To apply: Depress the brake pedal and

pull up the parking brake switch.

To release: Press the parking brake

switch firmly while the ignition switch is in

the “ON” position and the brake pedal is

depressed.

– When the electronic parking

brake system has a malfunction.

– When the electronic parking

brake operation is prohibited

temporarily.

When the parking brake is applied while

the ignition switch is in the “ON” position,

the electronic parking brake indicator light

and the indicator light on the parking brake

switch illuminate. Refer to “Brake system

warning light (red)” �P177.

–

Stop your vehicle in a flat

location.

–

Shift the select lever in the “P”

position. When the select le-

ver cannot be shifted into the

“P” position, you must release

shift lock. Refer to “Shift lock

.

When you cannot release the park-

ing brake due to, for example, a

system malfunction, contact your

SUBARU dealer and have your

SUBARU dealer release the parking

^{Parking your vehicle}347

brake.

from the apply and release sound.

This can occur:

parking brake is deactivated.

.

If you stop operating the electronic

parking brake switch midway or

operate extremely slowly, the sys-

tem may detect an error and turn on

the brake system warning light.

However, this does not indicate a

malfunction if the brake system

warning light turns off after operat-

ing the switch.

When the electronic parking brake

has not been used for a long period

of time, the electronic parking brake

may operate automatically after the

ignition switch is turned to the

“LOCK”/“OFF” position. This oc-

curs due to checking the proper

operation of the electronic parking

brake and does not indicate a mal-

function.

! Automatic release function by ac-

– If the brakes are extremely hot.

– If the car is parked on a steep

incline.

– If the electronic parking brake is

applied after the ignition switch is

turned OFF.

celerator pedal

The parking brake will be automatically

released by depressing the accelerator

pedal. However, the automatic release

function does not operate under the

following conditions.

This is a normal operating sound under

any of these conditions.

.

Any door (other than the rear gate) is

open.

The driver’s seatbelt is not fastened.

.

The Auto Start Stop system is deac-

tivated while the electronic parking

brake is applied.

.

If the parking brake is automatically

released, the electronic parking brake

indicator light and the indicator light on

the parking brake switch turn off.

.

If you operate the electronic parking

brake switch while the Auto Start

Stop system is activated, the Auto

Start Stop system will be deacti-

vated. The electronic parking brake

will activate after the engine is

restarted. After the electronic park-

ing brake indicator light is illumi-

nated, release your foot from the

brake pedal.

! Auto Vehicle Hold function

The Auto Vehicle Hold function will auto-

matically keep the vehicle stopped even

after releasing the brake pedal when the

vehicle is at a complete stop, such as at

traffic signals.

.

If you cannot release the electronic

parking brake due to the switch

malfunction, refer to the instructions

described in “Automatic release

function by accelerator pedal”

�P347.

.

When starting the engine or restart-

ing the engine using the Auto Start

Stop system, if you operate the

electronic parking brake switch, the

electronic parking brake indicator

light may flash temporarily. How-

ever, this is not a malfunction if the

light turns off after the electronic

WARNING

After activating the electronic parking

brake, you may hear a short sound

several minutes after the electronic

parking brake indicator light illumi-

nates as the system confirms proper

engagement. This sound is different

.

Do not use the Auto Vehicle Hold

function on a steep hill or slip-

pery road. The vehicle may move

even when using the Auto Vehicle

Hold function, causing serious

injury or accidents.

– CONTINUED –

Parking your vehicle

348

.

Do not use the Auto Vehicle Hold

function to park the vehicle. The

vehicle may move unexpectedly,

causing serious injury or acci-

dents. Make sure to shift the

select lever to the “P” position

and apply the electronic parking

brake in the following cases.

! To turn on/off the Auto Vehicle

CAUTION

Hold function

.

When stopping on a steep slope

with the Auto Vehicle Hold func-

tion turned on, the electronic

parking brake may be automati-

cally applied. Then the electronic

parking brake indicator light will

flash. In such a case, depress and

hold the brake pedal while stop-

ping. Otherwise, the vehicle may

move.

–

When you are going to park

your vehicle.

When passengers are getting

in or out of the vehicle.

.

When being towed, turn off the

Auto Vehicle Hold function.

When you are loading or un-

loading.

.

When using the Auto Vehicle

Hold function, do not release the

brake pedal before the Auto Ve-

hicle Hold operation indicator

illuminates. The vehicle may

move unexpectedly, causing ser-

ious injury or accidents.

Auto Vehicle Hold switch

NOTE

We recommend turning on the Auto

Vehicle Hold function when stopping

on an incline. If the Auto Vehicle Hold

function is turned off, the vehicle may

roll backward when driving off.

Deactivate the Auto Vehicle Hold

function in the following cases.

Otherwise, the vehicle may move

unexpectedly, causing serious

injury or accidents.

–

When washing your vehicle in

an automatic car wash

Auto Vehicle Hold ON indicator light

–

When being towed

^{Parking your vehicle}349

To turn on:

you press the Auto Vehicle Hold

switch, a chirp will sound.

! To release the Auto Vehicle Hold

Press the Auto Vehicle Hold switch when

the Auto Vehicle Hold ON indicator light is

OFF. Then the Auto Vehicle Hold ON

indicator light will illuminate.

function

Perform any of the following operations to

release the Auto Vehicle Hold function.

! To operate the Auto Vehicle Hold

function

.

Depress the accelerator pedal.

Depress the brake pedal again.

Apply the electronic parking brake.

Shift the select lever to the “P” position

with the brake pedal pressed.

Press the Auto Vehicle Hold switch with

the brake pedal pressed (The Auto

Vehicle Hold function turns off).

Stop the vehicle by depressing the brake

pedal when all of the following conditions

are met. Then the Auto Vehicle Hold

function will operate.

To turn off:

Press the Auto Vehicle Hold switch when

the Auto Vehicle Hold ON indicator light

illuminates. Then the Auto Vehicle Hold

ON indicator light will turn off.

.

Driver’s door is closed.

The driver’s seatbelt is fastened.

The select lever is in a position other

than the “P” position.

.

NOTE

.

When the electronic parking brake

system has a malfunction while the

Auto Vehicle Hold function is turned

on, a chirp will sound, the Auto

Vehicle Hold ON indicator light will

turn off and the brake system warn-

ing light will turn on.

When the Auto Vehicle Hold function is

released, the Auto Vehicle Hold operation

indicator light will turn off.

Under any of the following conditions, the

Auto Vehicle Hold function will be auto-

matically released and the electronic

parking brake will be automatically ap-

plied.

.

Every time when starting the engine,

the Auto Vehicle Hold function will

be set to “OFF”.

.

The Auto Vehicle Hold function has

been in operation for 10 minutes.

The driver’s seatbelt is unfastened.

The ignition switch is turned to the

“LOCK”/“OFF” position.

The vehicle is stopped on a steep

slope.

If the Auto Vehicle Hold switch is

pressed and held for more than 30

seconds, the Auto Vehicle Hold ON

indicator light will turn off, and the

system will ignore any further press-

ing of the switch. To activate the

function again, restart the engine.

When the Auto Vehicle Hold function

is deactivated while the Auto Vehicle

Hold function has a malfunction, if

.

Auto Vehicle Hold operation indicator light

.

While the vehicle is kept stopped by the

Auto Vehicle Hold function, the Auto

Vehicle Hold operation indicator light will

illuminate.

.

The Auto Vehicle Hold function is

malfunctioning.

– CONTINUED –

Parking your vehicle

350

In such cases, the Auto Vehicle Hold

operation indicator light will turn off and

the electronic parking brake indicator light

will illuminate.

the Auto Vehicle Hold function acti-

vated, the electronic parking brake may

automatically applied after stopping,

then the electronic parking brake in-

dicator light may flash. In such a case,

depress and hold the brake pedal while

stopped. Otherwise, the vehicle may

move. When getting out of the vehicle,

stop the vehicle on a flat surface, then

apply the electronic parking brake.

If the Auto Vehicle Hold ON indicator

light does not illuminates even after

pressing the Auto Vehicle Hold switch

with the operating conditions met, the

function may have a malfunction. Con-

tact your SUBARU dealer for an in-

spection.

You may hear a sound while the Auto

Vehicle Hold function is keeping your

vehicle stopped. This is normal, and

does not represent a malfunction.

When you depress the brake pedal to

release the Auto Vehicle Hold function,

an operation sound or vibration may be

generated, or the brake pedal may

return slowly. This is not a malfunction.

firmly. Otherwise, the Auto Vehicle Hold

may not operate.

.

When the Auto Vehicle Hold switch is

pressed and held for more than 30

seconds, the Auto Vehicle Hold ON

indicator light will turn off and further

operation of the switch will be ignored.

To make the switch usable again, turn

the ignition switch to the “LOCK”/“OFF”

position and then turn it to the “ON”

position.

! Tips

.

When the electronic parking brake is

automatically applied with the vehicle

kept stopped by the Auto Vehicle Hold

function, release the electronic parking

brake by either of the following opera-

tions before starting off. Then make

sure that the electronic parking brake

indicator light is off.

.

! Emergency brake

CAUTION

– Depress the accelerator pedal with

the driver’s seatbelt fastened and

with the doors closed.

– Press the electronic parking brake

switch with the brake pedal de-

pressed.

Use the emergency brake only in

case of an emergency. If the emer-

gency brake is excessively used, the

brake parts will wear down faster or

the brake may not work sufficiently

due to brake overheating.

.

Under certain conditions, including a

malfunction of the Auto Vehicle Hold, a

warning buzzer will sound and a warn-

ing message will appear on the combi-

nation meter display (color LCD). All

warning messages should be strictly

observed.

NOTE

While using the emergency brake:

.

The electronic parking brake indica-

tor light and the indicator light on the

parking brake switch illuminate and

a chirp sounds.

A sound may be heard from the

engine compartment. This is the

operating sound of the brake that is

.

While the vehicle is kept stopped by the

Auto Vehicle Hold function, the brake

pedal may feel stiff. However, this is not

a malfunction.

When using the Auto Vehicle Hold

function, depress the brake pedal

.

On a steep slope, the vehicle cannot be

kept stopped by the Auto Vehicle Hold

function. In such a case, depress and

hold the brake pedal.

.

When stopping on a steep slope with

^{Parking your vehicle}351

activated by the Vehicle Dynamics

Control system, and does not indi-

cate a malfunction.

& Parking tips

When parking your vehicle, always per-

form the following items.

If the foot brake has a malfunction, you can

stop the vehicle by pulling the parking

brake switch continuously.

.

Apply the parking brake firmly.

Put the select lever in the “P” position.

Never rely on the mechanical friction of the

transmission alone to hold the vehicle.

While applying the emergency brake, the

electronic parking brake indicator light and

the indicator light on the parking brake

switch illuminate and a chirp sounds.

! Electronic parking brake system

warning

When facing downhill, the front wheels

should be turned into the curb.

CAUTION

If the brake system warning light

turns on, the electronic parking

brake system may be malfunction-

ing. Immediately stop your vehicle in

the nearest safe location and con-

tact your SUBARU dealer.

WARNING

.

Never leave unattended children

or pets in the vehicle. They could

accidentally injure themselves or

others through inadvertent op-

eration of the vehicle. Also, on

hot or sunny days, the tempera-

ture in a closed vehicle could

quickly become high enough to

cause severe or possibly fatal

injuries to people.

When parking on a hill, always turn the

steering wheel. When the vehicle is

headed up the hill, the front wheels should

be turned away from the curb.

If a malfunction occurs in the electronic

parking brake system, the brake system

warning light turns on. Refer to “Electronic

parking brake light” �P179.

.

Do not park the vehicle over

flammable materials such as dry

grass, waste paper or rags, as

they may burn easily if they come

– CONTINUED –

Auto Start Stop system

352

engine will be automatically stopped.

near hot engine or exhaust sys-

tem parts.

7-17. Auto Start Stop system

If you release the brake pedal with the

select lever kept in the “D” position, the

engine will be automatically restarted.

However, when the Auto Vehicle Hold ON

indicator light illuminates, the engine will

not restart.

.

Be sure to stop the engine if you

take a nap in the vehicle. If engine

exhaust gas enters the passen-

ger compartment, occupants in

the vehicle could die from carbon

monoxide (CO) contained in the

exhaust gas.

The Auto Start Stop system is designed to

automatically stop and restart the engine

when the vehicle is stationary for a short

period of time (while waiting for a traffic

light or in a traffic jam) after the engine has

warmed up. The system operates in order

to reduce fuel consumption, exhaust emis-

sions and undesired idling noise.

CAUTION

& System operation

.

If your vehicle has a bumper

under guard (optional), pay atten-

tion to blocks and other obstruc-

tions on the ground when park-

ing. The underspoiler could be

damaged by contact with them.

CAUTION

The Auto Start Stop system is de-

signed to automatically stop and

restart the engine for a short period

of time during idling. Do not use the

system when parking the vehicle

normally.

The braking power of the parking

brake may not be sufficient when

stronger braking power is

needed (e.g., when parking on a

steep slope while towing a trai-

ler).

Auto Start Stop indicator light (green)

If the engine is temporarily stopped by the

system, the Auto Start Stop indicator light

(green) on the combination meter will

illuminate in green. This indicator light will

turn off when the system restarts the

engine.

So that it can be used safely and comfor-

tably, in addition to driver operations, the

Auto Start Stop system is designed to

constantly monitor the vehicle conditions

as well as the environment inside and

outside the vehicle, in order to control

stopping and restarting of the engine.

NOTE

.

After starting the engine, if the

vehicle is left idling without being

driven, the Auto Start Stop system

After the vehicle has been completely

stopped by depressing the brake pedal

with the select lever in the “D” position, the

^{Auto Start Stop system}353

will not operate.

ahead position.

The steering wheel is not being oper-

ated.

– The coolant temperature is low.

– When the battery terminals have

been reconnected after replacing

the battery, etc.

.

Your vehicle is equipped with a

special high-performance battery.

When replacing the vehicle battery,

be sure to replace it with a genuine

SUBARU battery (or equivalent) de-

signed specifically for use in a

vehicle equipped with the Auto Start

Stop system. For details, we recom-

mend that you consult your

SUBARU dealer.

.

*1: Even if the malfunction indicator light

(CHECK ENGINE warning light) is illumi-

nated, the Auto Start Stop system may

operate when the system recovers from the

malfunction (Subaru Forester Wilderness

models only).

! Non-operational conditions

In any of the following cases, the Auto

Start Stop system will not operate.

.

When the Auto Start Stop warning light/

Auto Start Stop OFF indicator light

(yellow) is illuminating or flashing.

When the malfunction indicator light

(CHECK ENGINE warning light) is

illuminating.*¹

The electronic parking brake is applied.

When the engine hood is opened.

When the CVT fluid is not sufficiently

warmed up.

When the temperature of the CVT fluid

is abnormally high.

When the vehicle battery is not in good

condition.

When using the climate control system,

the temperature difference between the

setting temperature and the tempera-

ture inside the vehicle is significant.

When using the climate control system,

the amount of air flow is significant.

NOTE

.

! Operational conditions

.

After the vehicle is stopped, the

engine may not automatically stop

under the following conditions.

– The vehicle is stopped on a road

with a steep slope.

The engine can be automatically stopped

by the Auto Start Stop system when all of

the following conditions are met.

.

The engine is sufficiently warmed up.

The engine hood is closed.

The driver’s door is closed.

The driver’s seatbelt is fastened.

The malfunction indicator light (CHECK

ENGINE warning light) is off.*¹

The airflow mode selection is set to a

mode other than “ ” mode.

The rear window defogger is not in use.

X-MODE has been turned off (if

equipped).

– The vehicle is stopped by hard

braking.

.

After the vehicle is stopped, the

engine may not automatically stop

if the brake pedal is not fully de-

pressed. Make sure to depress the

brake pedal firmly when stopping

the vehicle.

In the following cases, it may take

some time for the Auto Start Stop

system to operate.

– When the battery is discharged

because the vehicle has not been

used for a long period of time,

etc.

.

After the vehicle is stopped, the engine will

be automatically stopped when the follow-

ing conditions are met.

*1: Even if the malfunction indicator light

(CHECK ENGINE warning light) is illumi-

.

The steering wheel is in the straight

– CONTINUED –

Auto Start Stop system

354

brake switch

When activating X-MODE (if equipped)

When the airflow mode selection set to

pedal is released. In this case, check the

surrounding area and restart the engine by

normal operation.

Also, when the Auto Vehicle Hold opera-

tion indicator light is illuminated, the

engine will not restart.

nated, the Auto Start Stop system may

operate when the system recovers from the

malfunction (Subaru Forester Wilderness

models only).

.

“

” mode.

.

When the climate control system can

no longer maintain the set temperature.

When unbuckling the driver’s seatbelt

When opening the driver’s door

When activating the rear window de-

fogger

When the Auto Vehicle Hold function is

released, refer to “Auto Vehicle Hold

function” �P347.

NOTE

The Auto Start Stop system may not

operate in the following cases:

.

NOTE

.

When the Auto Start Stop system is

in operation, the brake pedal may

feel stiff. However, this is not a

malfunction.

When the battery is discharged, the

engine will be automatically re-

started even if you keep the brake

pedal depressed.

In the following cases, the length of

time that the engine is temporarily

stopped by the Auto Start Stop

system may be shorter.

.

The malfunction indicator light

(CHECK ENGINE warning light) or

other warning lights on the combi-

nation meter are illuminated or

flashing.

You are driving the vehicle in a high-

elevation area.

.

! Engine restart non-operational

conditions

! Engine restart operational condi-

tions

WARNING

In any one of the following cases, the

engine will be automatically restarted even

if the brake pedal is kept depressed.

Do not open the engine hood when

the Auto Start Stop system is in

operation. It may cause the vehicle

to move while on a slope, the steer-

ing wheel operation may become

heavy, or the brakes may not work

well, which can create dangerous

conditions.

– When the climate control system

is in operation.

– When the outside temperature is

high, or when it is low (because

the climate control system can no

longer maintain the set tempera-

ture).

.

When slightly releasing the brake pedal

on road with a steep slope and the

vehicle begins rolling

When further depressing the brake

pedal

When depressing the accelerator pedal

When you move the select lever to the

“R” position.

.

– When consumption of electricity

by electrical components is high.

When the engine is automatically

restarted by the Auto Start Stop

system, the power provided via the

To ensure safety, the engine will not be

automatically restarted if the engine hood

is opened when the Auto Start Stop

system is in operation, even if the brake

.

When turning the steering wheel

When operating the electronic parking

^{Auto Start Stop system}355

accessory power outlet will be re-

duced. Depending on the connected

appliance, the power of the appli-

ance may temporarily turn off.

CAUTION

If the Auto Start Stop warning light

does not turn off after the engine has

started, the Auto Start Stop system

may be malfunctioning. We recom-

mend that you contact your author-

ized SUBARU dealer for an inspec-

tion.

! Auto Start Stop warning light

! Auto Start Stop OFF switch

Auto Start Stop OFF indicator light (yel-

low)

If the Auto Start Stop OFF switch is

pressed, operation of the Auto Start Stop

system will be disabled. The Auto Start

Stop OFF indicator light on the combina-

tion meter will then illuminate in yellow. If

the switch is pressed once more, the Auto

Start Stop system will turn on again. The

Auto Start Stop OFF indicator light will then

turn off.

Auto Start Stop warning light (yellow)

The Auto Start Stop warning light will

illuminate in yellow when initially turning

the ignition switch to the “ON” position. The

light will turn off after the engine has

started.

The Auto Start Stop warning light will flash

when the Auto Start Stop system is

malfunctioning. We recommend that you

contact your authorized SUBARU dealer

for an inspection.

Auto Start Stop OFF switch

While the engine is temporarily stopped by

the system, if the Auto Start Stop OFF

switch is pressed, the engine will be

restarted even if you do not release the

brake pedal.

– CONTINUED –

Auto Start Stop system

356

will not stop and the Auto Start Stop No

Activity Detected indicator light will illumi-

nate. It will turn off when the vehicle begins

to drive.

! Warning buzzer

NOTE

The buzzer will sound when the engine

hood is opened while the engine is

stopped by the Auto Start Stop system.

When this occurs, the buzzer will stop

sounding when the following operations

are performed.

.

If the engine is restarted when the

Auto Start Stop system is not opera-

tional and the ignition switch has

been turned to the “LOCK”/“OFF”

position, the Auto Start Stop system

will turn on again.

& Displaying the Auto Start

Stop system status

.

Be sure to turn the ignition switch to

the “LOCK”/“OFF” position when

leaving the vehicle. Failure to do so

could result in the battery dischar-

ging.

Approximate indications of the time that

the engine has been stopped by the Auto

Start Stop system and/or the amount of

fuel saved can be displayed on the

combination meter display (color LCD).

For details, refer to “Basic screens”

�P196.

.

The engine is restarted by normal

operation. (Refer to “Preparing to drive”

�P309.)

.

The ignition switch is turned to the

“LOCK”/“OFF” position.

! Auto Start Stop No Activity Detected

! Display of warning messages

indicator light

If a warning message is displayed on the

combination meter display (color LCD)

while driving, a malfunction may have

occurred in the Auto Start Stop system.

In this case, the Auto Start Stop warning

light will illuminate or flash in yellow. We

recommend that you have your vehicle

inspected at a SUBARU dealer as soon as

possible.

& System warning

So that it can be used safely and comfor-

tably, the Auto Start Stop system is

designed to constantly monitor the vehicle

conditions as well as the environment

inside and outside the vehicle in addition

to driver operations, and to provide various

warnings to the driver via the warning light

and/or indicator light illuminating or flash-

ing and a buzzer sounding. For details

about the warning light and indicator light,

refer to “Auto Start Stop warning light/Auto

Start Stop OFF indicator light (yellow)”

�P190.

Auto Start Stop No Activity Detected

indicator light

If the operational conditions are not met

when the vehicle is stopped, the engine

^{Hill start assist system}357

Braking power is maintained temporarily

(for approximately 2 seconds) by the Hill

start assist system after the brake pedal is

released. The driver is therefore able to

start the vehicle in the same way as on a

level grade, just using the accelerator

pedal.

7-18. Hill start assist system

WARNING

.

The Hill start assist system is a

device only for helping the driver

to START the vehicle on an uphill

grade. To prevent accidents

when the vehicle is parked on a

slope, be sure to firmly set the

parking brake. When setting the

parking brake, make sure that the

vehicle remains stationary when

the brake pedal is released.

If the braking power of the Hill start assist

system is insufficient after the brake pedal

is released, apply more braking power by

depressing the brake pedal again.

The Hill start assist system may not

operate on slight grades. Also, the Hill

start assist system does not operate in the

following cases.

.

Do not turn the ignition switch to

the “LOCK”/“OFF” position while

the Hill start assist system is

operating. The Hill start assist

system will be deactivated and

may lead to an accident.

The Hill start assist system is a device to

make the following vehicle operations

easier.

1

2

A

Starting forward facing uphill

Starting backward facing downhill

Brake pedal

When the vehicle has stopped with the

brake pedal depressed, the Hill start assist

system operates.

– CONTINUED –

BSD/RCTA

358

.

While the Vehicle Dynamics Control

warning light is illuminated. Refer to

“Vehicle Dynamics Control warning

light/Vehicle Dynamics Control opera-

tion indicator light” �P181.

While the Auto Start Stop warning light

is illuminated. Refer to “Auto Start Stop

warning light/Auto Start Stop OFF

indicator light (yellow)” �P190.

7-19. BSD/RCTA (if equipped)

The BSD/RCTA consists of rear corner

radars with Blind Spot Detection and Rear

Cross Traffic Alert.

These functions enable the system to

detect objects or vehicles to the rear,

drawing attention to the driver when

changing a lane or when driving in reverse.

When using the Hill start assist system, a

braking effect may be felt even after the

brake pedal has been released.

WARNING

The driver is responsible for driving

safely. Always be sure to check the

surroundings when changing lanes

or reversing the vehicle.

CAUTION

The braking power of the Hill start

assist system may not be sufficient

when strong braking power is

needed (e.g., when towing a trailer).

The system is designed to assist the

driver to change lanes or reverse

safely by monitoring the rear and

side areas of the vehicle. However,

you cannot rely on this system alone

in assuring the safety during a lane

change or reversing. Overconfi-

dence in this system could result in

an accident and lead to serious

injury or death. Since the system

operation has various limitations,

the flashing or illumination of the

BSD/RCTA approach indicator light

may be delayed or the warning

buzzer may be delayed or inopera-

NOTE

A slight jolt may be felt when the

vehicle begins to move forward after

being reversed.

.

When starting backward facing uphill

When starting forward facing downhill

While the parking brake is applied

While the ignition switch is in the “ACC”

or “LOCK”/“OFF” position

^BSD/RCTA359

tive, even if there is a vehicle travel-

ing in a neighboring lane or ap-

proaching your vehicle from either

side.

! Blind Spot Detection (BSD)

The driver is responsible for paying

attention to the rear and side areas

of the vehicle.

& System features

BSD/RCTA consists of the following func-

tions.

.

To detect a vehicle in a blind spot on an

adjacent lane or a vehicle approaching

at high speeds (Blind Spot Detection).

To detect a vehicle approaching from

the right or left while reversing the

vehicle (Rear Cross Traffic Alert).

BSD/RCTA approach indicator light

.

If the driver operates the turn signal

lever in the direction which the BSD/

RCTA approach indicator light is illumi-

nating, the corresponding BSD/RCTA

approach indicator light will flash.

1

Operating range

The system warns the driver of dangers as

follows.

.

If the system detects a vehicle in the

blind spot, the BSD/RCTA approach

indicator light(s) on the outside mirror

(s) will illuminate.

The system uses radar sensors for the

above functions.

NOTE

The BSD/RCTA radar sensor has been

certified by the radio wave related laws

of the U.S. and Canada. When driving in

other countries, certification of the

country where the vehicle is driven

must be obtained. For certification in

the U.S. and Canada, refer to “Certifica-

tion for the BSD/RCTA” �P366.

– CONTINUED –

BSD/RCTA

360

! Lane Change Assist (LCA)

! Limitations of the detectability of

! Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

RCTA

Since the detectability of RCTA is limited,

the RCTA may not operate properly in

angled parking.

1

Operating range

1

Operating range

The system warns the driver of dangers as

follows.

The system notifies the driver of another

vehicle approaching from either side when

driving in reverse. This feature helps the

driver check the rear and side areas of the

vehicle when moving backward.

.

If the system detects a vehicle ap-

proaching at a high speed in the

neighboring lanes, the BSD/RCTA ap-

proach indicator light(s) on the outside

mirror(s) will illuminate.

Example 1

1

2

The detection range of the radar sensors

Area out of detection range of the radar

sensors

If the system detects a vehicle approach-

ing from either side while moving back-

ward, it warns the driver of dangers in the

following way.

A

B

Vehicle that may not be detected.

Parked vehicle

.

If the driver operates the turn signal

lever in the direction which the BSD/

RCTA approach indicator light is illumi-

nating, the corresponding BSD/RCTA

approach indicator light will flash.

WARNING

.

The BSD/RCTA approach indicator

light(s) on the outside mirror(s) flashes.

An approaching vehicle (A) may not

be detected because the detection

range is limited by the parked vehi-

cle (B). Always be sure to check the

surroundings when reversing the

.

A warning buzzer sounds.

An icon appears on the rear view

camera screen (audio/navigation moni-

tor)

^BSD/RCTA361

possible.

vehicle.

& System operation

– When a malfunction occurs in the

system, including the BSD/RCTA

approach indicator light.

In the following cases, the BSD/

RCTA will temporarily stop operat-

ing (or may stop operating) and the

BSD/RCTA OFF indicator light will

appear.

! Operating conditions

The BSD/RCTA will operate when all of the

following conditions are met.

.

The ignition switch is in the “ON”

position.

.

The BSD/RCTA warning light and BSD/

RCTA OFF indicator light are turned off.

– When the radar sensor becomes

significantly misaligned (If the

orientation of the radar sensor is

shifted for any reason, readjust-

ment is required. Have the sensor

adjusted at a SUBARU dealer.)

– When a large amount of snow or

ice sticks to the rear bumper

surface around the radar sen-

sors.

– When the vehicle is driven on a

snow-covered road or in an en-

vironment in which there are no

objects around (such as in a

desert) for a long time.

.

The EyeSight warning indicator is off.

The vehicle is driven at speeds above 7

mph (12 km/h) (except when rever-

sing).

The select lever is in the “R” position

(when reversing).

.

Example 2

1

C

The detection range of the radar sensors

Vehicle that may be detected.

The BSD/RCTA will not operate in the

following situations.

.

The BSD/RCTA OFF indicator light is

on.

The vehicle speed is below 6 mph (10

km/h) even when the BSD/RCTA OFF

indicator light remains off (except when

reversing).

NOTE

The system may detect that a vehicle

(C) is passing in front of your vehicle.

Always be sure to check the surround-

ings when reversing the vehicle.

.

– When the temperature around the

radar sensors increased exces-

sively due to long driving on

uphill grades in summer, etc.

– When the temperature around the

radar sensors becomes extre-

mely low.

NOTE

.

In the following case, the BSD/RCTA

will stop operating and the BSD/

RCTA warning light will appear. If

the BSD/RCTA warning light ap-

pears, have your vehicle inspected

at a SUBARU dealer as soon as

– When the vehicle battery voltage

– CONTINUED –

BSD/RCTA

362

lowers.

following.

neighboring lane.

.

When the 8-inch audio/navigation

system is performing a software

update, the RCTA warning icons

may not be displayed on the audio/

navigation screen until the update is

complete.

– When an overvoltage occurs in

the vehicle battery.

– Small motorcycles, bicycles, pe-

destrians, stationary objects on

the road or road side, etc.

– Vehicles with body shapes that

the radar may not reflect (vehi-

cles with a low body height such

as sports cars or a trailer with no

cargo).

– Vehicles that are not approaching

your vehicle even though they

are in the detection area (either

on a neighboring lane to the rear

or beside your vehicle when

reversing). (The system deter-

mines the presence of approach-

ing vehicles based on data de-

tected by the radar sensors.)

– Vehicles traveling at significantly

different speeds

– Vehicles driving parallel to your

vehicle at almost the same speed

for a prolonged time

– Oncoming vehicles

– Vehicles in a lane beyond the

neighboring lane

– Vehicles travelling at a signifi-

cantly lower speed that you are

trying to overtake

On a road with extremely narrow

lanes, the system may detect vehi-

cles driving in a lane next to the

When the above conditions are cor-

rected, the BSD/RCTA will resume

operation and the BSD/RCTA OFF

indicator light will disappear. How-

ever, if the BSD/RCTA OFF indicator

light has appeared for a prolonged

time, have the system inspected at a

SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.

& BSD/RCTA approach indica-

tor light/warning buzzer

When the BSD/RCTA is active, the BSD/

RCTA approach indicator light will operate

to alert the driver when there are vehicles

in the neighboring lanes. When reversing

the vehicle, the BSD/RCTA approach

indicator light and warning buzzer will

operate to alert the driver that a vehicle is

approaching from the left or right side.

.

The detectability of the radar sen-

sors is restricted. The BSD/RCTA

detection may be impaired and the

system may not operate properly

under the following conditions.

– When the rear bumper around the

radar sensors is distorted.

– When ice, snow or mud adheres

to the rear bumper surface

around the radar sensors.

– When stickers, etc. are affixed on

the areas of the radar sensors on

the rear bumper.

– During adverse weather condi-

tions such as rain, snow or fog

– When driving on wet roads such

as snow-covered roads or

through puddles

.

The radar sensors may not detect or

may have difficulty detecting the

^BSD/RCTA363

details, refer to “Menu screens” �P199.

! BSD/RCTA approach indicator

! BSD/RCTA approach indicator light

light dimming function

! Safety tips regarding the BSD/RCTA

approach indicator light/warning

buzzer

When the headlights are turned on, the

brightness of the BSD/RCTA approach

indicator light will be reduced.

.

In the following cases, operation of the

BSD/RCTA approach indicator light

and the warning buzzer may be de-

layed or the system may fail to issue

these warnings.

NOTE

.

You may have difficulty recognizing

the BSD/RCTA approach indicator

light under the following conditions.

– When affected by direct sunlight

– When affected by the headlight

beams from the vehicles behind

While the illumination brightness

control dial is in the fully upward

position, even if the headlights are

turned on, the brightness of the

BSD/RCTA approach indicator light

will not be reduced. For details about

the illumination brightness control

dial, refer to “Illumination bright-

ness control” �P167.

– When a vehicle moves to the neigh-

boring lane from a lane next to the

neighboring lane.

– When driving on a steep incline or

on repeated sharp uphill and down-

hill grades

– When going beyond a pass

– When both your vehicle and a

vehicle driving on a neighboring

lane are driving on the far side of

each lane.

– When several narrowly-spaced ve-

hicles are approaching in a row.

– In low radius bends (tight bends or

when making turns at an intersec-

tion)

.

BSD/RCTA approach indicator light

It is mounted in each side of the outside

mirrors.

The indicator light will illuminate when a

vehicle approaching from behind is de-

tected.

The indicator light will flash to warn the

driver of dangers under the following

conditions.

! BSD/RCTA approach warning buz-

.

While the indicator light illuminates, if

you operate the turn signal lever toward

the side in which this light turned on.

zer (only when reversing)

A warning buzzer sounds along with

flashing of the BSD/RCTA approach in-

dicator light to warn the driver of dangers.

– When there is a difference in height

between your lane and the neigh-

boring lane.

– Immediately after the BSD/RCTA is

activated by pressing the BSD/

RCTA OFF switch.

.

When reversing the vehicle while the

system detects a vehicle approaching

from either side.

The setting of the warning buzzer volume

can be changed by operating the combi-

nation meter display (color LCD). For

– CONTINUED –

BSD/RCTA

364

– Immediately after the select lever is

shifted to the “R” position.

– When extremely heavy cargo is

loaded in the cargo area.

to solid objects on the road or road side

(such as guardrails, tunnels or side-

walls).

The BSD/RCTA approach indicator

light may flash when turning at an

intersection in urban areas or a multi-

lane intersection.

The BSD/RCTA approach indicator

light may flash and the warning buzzer

may sound if a building or a wall exists

in the reversing direction.

In the following cases, the system may

detect a vehicle driving two lanes away

from your vehicle.

– When you are driving on the near

side of the lane of the corresponding

vehicle.

– When the vehicle driving two lanes

away is driving on the near side of its

lane from your vehicle.

& BSD/RCTA OFF indicator

light

! System temporary stop

.

During reversing, operation of the BSD/

RCTA approach indicator light and the

warning buzzer may be delayed or the

system may fail to issue these warnings

under the following conditions.

– When backing out of an angled

parking space

– When a large-sized vehicle is

parked next to your vehicle. (That

vehicle prevents the propagation of

radar waves.)

– When reversing on sloped roads

– When reversing at a high speed

1

2

BSD/RCTA temporary stop message

BSD/RCTA OFF indicator light

This display appears when the system is

used under the following conditions.

.

Extremely high or low temperatures

When abnormal voltage exists for the

vehicle battery.

.

When the radar sensor is significantly

misaligned.

Once the above conditions are corrected,

the system will recover from the temporary

stop condition and the indicator will dis-

appear. If the indicator remains displayed

for a prolonged time, have the system

.

The BSD/RCTA approach indicator

light may illuminate when driving close

^BSD/RCTA365

inspected at a SUBARU dealer.

& BSD/RCTA warning light

& BSD/RCTA OFF switch

! System temporary stop due to re-

! System malfunction

duced radar sensitivity

BSD/RCTA OFF switch

1

2

3

4

BSD/RCTA malfunction message

At first, this message will appear

Then this message will appear

BSD/RCTA warning light

1

2

BSD/RCTA temporary stop message due

to reduced radar sensitivity

BSD/RCTA OFF indicator light

This display appears when the detectabil-

ity of the radar sensors is reduced. Once

the condition is corrected, the system will

recover from the temporary stop condition

and the indicator will disappear. If the

indicator remains displayed for a pro-

longed time, have the system inspected

at a SUBARU dealer.

This display appears when a malfunction

occurs in the system. Contact a SUBARU

dealer and have the system inspected.

BSD/RCTA OFF indicator light

If the BSD/RCTA OFF switch is pressed,

the BSD/RCTA OFF indicator light ap-

pears on the combination meter, and the

– CONTINUED –

BSD/RCTA

366

BSD/RCTA is deactivated.

ignition switch is turned to the “ON”

position.

! Canada-spec. models

Press the switch again to activate the BSD/

RCTA. The BSD/RCTA OFF indicator light

will disappear.

When this occurs, the BSD/RCTA ap-

proach indicator light on the side of the

rearview mirror illuminates for a few

seconds and then turns off.

& Certification for the BSD/

RCTA

! U.S.-spec. models

FCC ID: OAYSRR3A

NOTE

CAUTION

.

In the following cases, the system

may not operate properly due to

blocked radar waves. Press the

BSD/RCTA OFF switch to deactivate

the system.

FCC WARNING

Changes or modifications not ex-

pressly approved by the party re-

sponsible for compliance could void

the user’s authority to operate the

equipment.

– When towing a load.

– When a bicycle carrier or other

carrier item is fitted to the rear of

the vehicle.

– When using a chassis dynam-

ometer or free roller device, etc.

– When running the engine and

making the wheels rotate while

lifting up the vehicle

NOTE

This device complies with part 15 of the

FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the

following two conditions: (1) This de-

vice may not cause harmful interfer-

ence, and (2) this device must accept

any interference received, including

interference that may cause undesired

operation.

.

If the ignition switch is turned to the

“LOCK”/“OFF” position, the last

known status of the system is main-

tained. For example, if the ignition

switch is turned to the “LOCK”/

“OFF” position with the BSD/RCTA

deactivated, the BSD/RCTA will re-

main deactivated the next time the

^BSD/RCTA367

sensor becomes misaligned, a system

malfunction may occur, including the

inability to detect vehicles entering the

detection areas. If any strong shock is

applied to the bumper, be sure to

contact your SUBARU dealer for in-

spection.

& Handling of radar sensors

.

Do not disassemble the radar sensors.

NOTE

If the radar sensors require repair or

replacement, or the bumper area

around the radar sensors requires

repair, paintwork or replacement, con-

tact your SUBARU dealer for assis-

tance.

1

Sensors

The radar sensors, one on each side of the

vehicle, are mounted inside the rear

bumper.

To ensure correct operation of the BSD/

RCTA, observe the following precautions.

.

Always keep the bumper surface near

the radar sensors clean.

.

Do not affix any stickers or other items

on the bumper surface near the radar

sensors.

.

Do not modify the bumper near the

radar sensors.

Do not paint the bumper near the radar

sensors.

Do not expose the bumper near the

radar sensors to strong impacts. If a

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system

368

be delayed or may not operate at

all even when an obstacle is

present.

guard) is installed on the rear of

the vehicle, turn off the Reverse

Automatic Braking (RAB). If this

function is on when an attach-

ment or a similar part is installed,

it may result in a system malfunc-

tion that causes an accident

resulting in serious damage, in-

jury or death.

7-20. Reverse Automatic

Braking (RAB) system (if

equipped)

.

The system is not designed to

detect people (including chil-

dren), animals or other moving

objects.

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) is a

system designed to help avoid collisions or

reduce collision damage when reversing

the vehicle. If a wall or an obstacle is

detected in the reversing direction, the

system will notify the driver with a warning

sound and may activate the vehicle’s

brakes automatically.

Depending on the vehicle condi-

tion or the surrounding environ-

ment, the sonar sensor’s ability

to detect objects may be compro-

mised.

NOTE

The Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB)

system records and stores the follow-

ing data when automatic braking oper-

ates. It does not record conversations,

personal information or other audio

data.

.

Do not remove the SUBARU gen-

uine navigation and/or audio sys-

tem. If the SUBARU genuine

navigation and/or audio system

is removed, the rear view camera

image and help lines (distance

marker, dynamic guidelines and

vehicle width lines) will no longer

be displayed.

WARNING

.

Reverse Automatic Braking

(RAB) is not a system intended

to replace the driver’s responsi-

bility to check surrounding areas

for vehicles or obstacles to avoid

a collision.

.

Distance from the object

Vehicle speed

Accelerator pedal operation status

Brake pedal operation status

Select lever position

Outside temperature

The sensitivity setting of the sonar

sensors

.

The driver is responsible for driv-

ing safely. Before reversing, be

sure to first depress the brake

pedal and visually check the

surroundings.

.

Even if the Reverse Automatic

Braking (RAB) system and object

detection warning is ON, the

visible alert of Reverse Auto-

matic Braking (RAB) system will

not be displayed. However, the

audible alert and its function will

operate.

SUBARU and third parties contracted

by SUBARU may acquire and use the

recorded data for the purpose of vehi-

cle research and development.

SUBARU and third parties contracted

by SUBARU will not disclose or provide

There are some cases in which

the vehicle cannot avoid colli-

sion, because the system opera-

tion has limitations. The warning

sound or automatic braking may

When an attachment part (trailer

hitch, bicycle carrier, bumper

^{Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system}369

the acquired data to any other third

party except under the following con-

ditions.

.

The vehicle owner has given his/her

consent.

.

The disclosure/provision is based

on a court order or other legally

enforceable request.

.

Data that has been modified so that

the user and vehicle cannot be

identified is provided to a research

institution for statistical processing

or similar purposes.

& Reverse Automatic Braking

(RAB) system overview

The system detects objects using sonar

sensors installed in the rear bumper.

.

If the system determines a possible

collision with an object in the reversing

direction, automatic deceleration will be

activated. Also, beeping sounds will

activate.

.

If the vehicle is further reversed, auto-

matic hard braking will be applied and a

continuous beeping sound will activate.

1

2

When reversing

3

4

When the vehicle is stopped by the

system (in this case, the continuous

beep will remain sounding)

When either strong automatic braking or

torque control is applied to prevent

collision (in this case, short warning

beeps or continuous warning beeps will

sound)

Object (e.g., a wall)

– CONTINUED –

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system

370

system is set to on.

The select lever is in the “R” position.

The vehicle speed is between 1 to 9

mph (1.5 to 15 km/h).

cancel the system, refer to “Cancel-

ing the Reverse Automatic Braking

(RAB) system operation” �P376.

! Detecting range

.

NOTE

& Operating conditions

The Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB)

system will operate when all of the follow-

ing conditions are met.

.

In the following cases, the Reverse

Automatic Braking (RAB) system

will not operate. Promptly contact a

SUBARU dealer to have the system

inspected.

– The EyeSight warning indicator

is illuminated.

– The RAB warning indicator is

illuminated.

When the RAB OFF indicator is

illuminated, the Reverse Automatic

Braking (RAB) system cannot be

operated.

1

2

Detecting range (width): Approximately 6

in (15 cm) outside of the vehicle width

.

Range that the system cannot detect:

Approximately 20 in (50 cm) behind the

rear of the vehicle

Detecting range (length): Approximately

5 ft (1.5 m) from the rear of the vehicle

3

In the following cases, the system

may not be able to properly detect an

obstacle. Promptly contact

SUBARU dealer to have the system

inspected.

– A sticker, paint, or a chemical is

applied to the sonar sensor or the

rear bumper near the sonar sen-

sor.

– The rear bumper is modified.

– The rear bumper has been re-

moved and reattached.

a

WARNING

1

2

3

EyeSight warning indicator

RAB warning indicator

RAB OFF indicator

If your vehicle is trapped on a rail-

road crossing and you are trying to

escape by reversing through the

crossing gate, the system may re-

cognize the crossing gate as an

obstacle and the brake may activate.

In this case, remain calm and either

continue to depress the accelerator

pedal or cancel the system. To

.

The ignition switch is in the “ON”

position.

The EyeSight warning indicator is off.

The RAB warning indicator is off.

The RAB OFF indicator is off.

.

The Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB)

^{Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system}371

– The ground clearance is changed

due to the vehicle’s loading con-

dition or modification.

– Ice, snow or mud is adhered to

the rear bumper near the sonar

sensor.

– The rear bumper is exposed to

strong impact, or the rear bumper

is deformed.

When the 8-inch audio/navigation

system is performing a software

update, the Reverse Automatic

Braking (RAB) system may not dis-

play the following items on the

audio/navigation screen until the

update is complete.

case, automatic braking will not

operate.

The system may not be able to detect

the following objects.

– Objects that are not perpendicu-

lar to the ground.

– The surface of the object is

uneven or wavy.

The system may not be able to

properly detect objects or may

cause a system malfunction when

the following conditions exist.

.

– Sharp or thin objects such as

poles, fences and ropes which

may not reflect the sound wave

emitted from the sonar sensor.

– Objects that are too close to the

rear bumper when the select

lever is set to the “R” position.

– Objects with a surface which may

not reflect the sound wave

emitted from the sonar sensor

such as a chain link fence.

Objects the system is not designed

to detect.

– Pedestrians

– Moving objects including moving

vehicles

– Objects which absorb sound

waves such as cloth or snow.

– Objects whose surface has a

diagonal angle.

– Objects that are low to the ground

such as parking blocks.

.

High frequency sound from other

sources are nearby:

– Horn sounds from other vehicles.

– Engine sounds from other vehi-

cles.

.

– Sounds of air brakes

– Vehicle detection equipment or a

sonar from other vehicles

– A sound wave with a frequency

similar to the vehicle’s system is

transmitted nearby.

– A vehicle equipped with the same

system is reversing toward your

reversing direction.

.

– Display Icon on/off Function

– Distance Indicator Image

– Warning Message

.

On a steep hill, the system’s auto-

matic braking ability will be reduced.

The system is designed to avoid

collisions by automatic hard braking

when the vehicle’s reversing speed

is less than approximately 3 mph (5

km/h). However, the system does not

guarantee that the vehicle will be

able to avoid collisions in any situa-

tion.

Weather conditions:

– Extremely high or extremely low

temperatures in which the area

near the sonar sensor becomes

too hot or too cold to operate.

– The sonar sensors or the rear

bumper near the sonar sensors is

exposed to heavy rain or a sig-

– Objects that are high above the

ground such as objects hanging

from above.

– Objects that are out of range of

the center of the vehicle in the

horizontal direction.

.

If the vehicle is reversed at an

extremely slow speed, the driver’s

operation may be prioritized. In this

– CONTINUED –

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system

372

nificant amount of water.

the vehicle such as narrow tun-

nels, narrow bridges, narrow

roads or narrow garages.

– Fog, snow or sandstorm, etc.

– Air is moving rapidly such as

when a strong wind is blowing.

– Wheel tracks or a hole is present

in the ground of the reversing

direction.

– When reversing over a drainage

cover (grate cover).

Parts attached to the rear bumper

near the sonar sensor:

– Commercial electronic parts (fog

light, fender pole, radio antenna)

are attached.

– Parts that emit high frequency

sound, such as a horn or speaker,

are attached.

– The path of the reversing direc-

tion is inclined such as on a steep

uphill.

– A curb is present in the reversing

direction.

Vehicle conditions:

– The vehicle is significantly in-

clined.

– The ground clearance is signifi-

cantly reduced due to the vehi-

cle’s loading condition, etc.

– When the sonar sensor is mis-

aligned due to a collision or an

accident.

– When reversing downhill.

Surrounding environment:

– A cloth banner, flag, hanging

branch or railroad crossing bars

are present in the reversing di-

rection.

– When reversing on a gravel or

grassy area.

– When reversing in an area where

objects or walls are adjacent to

^{Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system}373

– When reversing on an uneven

road.

& Reverse Automatic Braking

(RAB) system operation

When the Reverse Automatic Braking

(RAB) system is in operation, the range

between the vehicle and the detected

object will be indicated on the audio/

navigation monitor. Also, warning sounds

will activate in 3 levels to warn the driver of

a potential collision.

While the RAB is operating, a warning

message is displayed on the audio/navi-

gation monitor and the combination meter

display (color LCD).

.

In circumstances such as the follow-

ing, it may not be possible to avoid a

collision even when the system

operates normally.

– The roads are slippery.

– The tire air pressure is not cor-

rect.

– The tires have become worn.

– Tires which are not the desig-

nated size are installed.

– Emergency repairs were per-

formed using a puncture repair

kit.

– The suspension was modified.

– Tire chains are installed.

– Vehicle driving is unstable due to

accident or malfunction.

– The brake warning light is illumi-

nated.

– CONTINUED –

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system

374

Guideline of detecting range

! Obstacle detected and alert level

Alert level

Range of detected object*

Distance indicator

Alarm pattern

Long proximity alert

(object detected)

43 to 59 in (110 to 150 cm) Green

No warning sound

Medium proximity

alert (approaching the 28 to 43 in (70 to 110 cm) Yellow

object)

Short beeps

Short proximity alert

(approaching closer

to the object)

20 to 28 in (50 to 70 cm)

Orange

Red

Rapid short beeps

Continuous beep

Closest proximity

alert (too close to the 20 in (50 cm) or less

object)

*: Range of detection may vary depending on the environmental condition.

Long proximity alert (object detected)

1

Green: 43 to 59 in (110 to 150 cm)

Medium proximity alert (approaching the

object)

1

Yellow: 28 to 43 in (70 to 110 cm)

^{Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system}375

When an object is detected in the rever-

sing direction, the range of detected object

will be shown on the audio/navigation

monitor.

A warning alarm will sound and, depend-

ing on the speed, either torque control to

generate engine braking or automatic

braking will be applied.

! Object close behind warning

Short proximity alert (approaching the

object closer)

Depress brake pedal warning

1

Warning message

1

Orange: 20 to 28 in (50 to 70 cm)

Make sure to depress the brake pedal

once the vehicle has been stopped by

automatic braking. Until the brake pedal is

depressed, a message will be displayed

on the audio/navigation monitor and the

continuous beep will remain sounding.

At this time, a warning message is also

displayed on the combination meter dis-

play (color LCD).

Automatic braking warning

1

Warning message

If the vehicle continues to go in reverse,

the system may determine the risk of

collision with the object. In this case, short

warning beeps or continuous warning

beeps will sound and either strong auto-

matic braking or torque control will be

applied to prevent collision.

NOTE

The Sonar Audible Alarm function and

Automatic Braking function are differ-

ent operation conditions. Therefore,

there are cases in which only one of

these functions will activate.

Closest proximity alert (too close to the

object)

1

Red: 20 in (50 cm) or less

– CONTINUED –

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system

376

than the “R” position.

– When the EyeSight system mal-

functions.

– When the Reverse Automatic

Braking (RAB) system stops tem-

porarily.

The message/warning message will

not display for approximately 8 sec-

onds after turning the ignition

switch to the “ON” position.

WARNING

The system will operate again the next

time the select lever is shifted to “R”

position.

In circumstances such as the following, the

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system

automatically stops operating and the RAB

OFF indicator illuminates.

Depress the brake pedal immedi-

ately after the system stops the

vehicle by automatic braking. De-

pending on the conditions of the

road surface and tires, the vehicle

may not remain stopped, possibly

leading to an unexpected accident.

.

–

There is ice, snow, mud, or other

substance on the sonar sensors.

! After the vehicle is stopped by the

–

The select lever was shifted to “R” & Canceling the Reverse Auto-

system

when there is an obstacle located close

matic Braking (RAB) system

to the rear bumper.

operation

–

A sound with a frequency close to that

The Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB)

of the sonar used by the Reverse

system can be temporarily canceled by

Automatic Braking (RAB) system was

any of the following operations.

detected.

.

Depressing the brake pedal*

Depressing the accelerator pedal*

The Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF

mode is selected.

The accelerator pedal is kept de-

pressed. (In this case, limited accelera-

tion will be canceled and the vehicle will

continue reversing.)

The select lever is shifted to a position

other than the “R” position.

NOTE

.

In the following cases, after the

vehicle has been stopped by the

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB)

system, brake control is released

and the electronic parking brake

operates. For details about releasing

the parking brake, refer to “Electro-

nic parking brake” �P345.

.

1

RAB OFF indicator

*: While the vehicle is stopped by the automatic

braking

After the brake pedal is depressed, the

RAB OFF indicator will illuminate and the

system will temporarily stop operating.

The RAB OFF indicator will turn off when

the select lever is shifted to a position other

NOTE

– When 2 minutes pass after the

vehicle is stopped.

The system will be canceled if the

object is no longer detected.

– When any door is opened.

^{Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system}377

When the OFF setting is shown, the

corresponding setting is OFF.

Touch and hold the OFF setting key to turn

the setting ON.

& Reverse Automatic Braking

NOTE

(RAB) system ON/OFF setting

.

When the settings cannot be chan-

ged, the ON/OFF setting key will be

grayed out.

While the select lever is shifted to the “R”

position, the below functions of the Re-

verse Automatic Braking (RAB) system

can be set by operating the audio/naviga-

tion monitor.

.

The ON/OFF setting key may be

grayed out if the Reverse Automatic

Braking (RAB) system malfunctions,

etc. In this case, turn the ignition

switch to the “OFF” position and

then turn it to the “ON” position

again. If the setting cannot be chan-

ged even after turning the ignition

switch to the “ON” position again,

consult your SUBARU dealer.

When the Reverse Automatic Braking

(RAB) system is turned OFF, the following

indicator will illuminate.

.

As soon as you turn off the ignition

switch, the Reverse Automatic Brak-

ing (RAB) ON/OFF setting is stored

in the system. Therefore, when you

turn the ignition switch from the

“OFF” state to the “ON” position,

the Reverse Automatic Braking

(RAB) setting will revert to the state

that was set before the ignition

switch was turned off.

1

2

3

4

ON setting key of Reverse Automatic

Braking (RAB) system

OFF setting key of Reverse Automatic

Braking (RAB) system

ON setting key of the object detection

warning beeping sound

OFF setting key of the object detection

warning beeping sound

RAB OFF indicator: illuminates when the

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system is

turned OFF.

RAB OFF indicator will turn off when the

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system

is turned ON.

.

When you turn the ignition switch

off, the Sonar Audible Alarm ON/OFF

settings will always reset, and the

system will not store the settings of

the function. Therefore, every time

you turn the ignition switch to the

“ON” position, the Sonar Audible

Alarm will turn on automatically.

When the ON setting key is shown, the

corresponding setting is ON.

Touch and hold the ON setting key to turn

the setting OFF.

– CONTINUED –

Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system

378

Also, the following settings can be chan-

ged by operating the combination meter

display (color LCD).

.

Do not apply strong impacts to the rear

bumper near the sonar sensors. If a

sensor becomes misaligned, a system

malfunction may occur, including in-

ability to detect objects in the reversing

direction. If any strong impact is applied

to the rear bumper, contact a SUBARU

dealer to have the system inspected.

& Handling of the sonar sen-

sors

The 4 sonar sensors are located in the rear

bumper. To ensure the proper operation of

the Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB)

system, observe the following precau-

tions.

.

Warning volume

Sonar Audible Alarm ON/OFF

For details, refer to “Menu screens”

�P199.

Do not disassemble the sonar sensors.

& RAB warning indicator

NOTE

If the sonar sensors require repair or

replacement, or if the area of the rear

bumper near the sonar sensors re-

quires repair, paintwork or replace-

ment, contact your SUBARU dealer for

assistance.

.

Do not affix any stickers or other items

on the sonar sensor or the bumper

surface near the sonar sensors.

Always keep the rear bumper surface

near the sonar sensors clean.

1

2

RAB malfunction message

RAB warning indicator

If the Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB)

system malfunctions, the above indicator

illuminates on the combination meter.

Contact the nearest SUBARU dealer for

details.

.

Do not modify the rear bumper.

Do not paint the bumper near the sonar

sensors.

Do not apply high pressure water to the

sonar sensors with a high pressure

carwashing machine.

.

^{Driver Monitoring System}379

driving.

7-21. Driver Monitoring Sys-

tem (if equipped)

.

In some circumstances, the sys-

tem may not be able to correctly

detect the driver state.

Driver Monitoring System is introduced as

DriverFocus in some countries.

The Driver Monitoring System monitors

possible cases when the driver is not

paying attention to the forward direction,

and also recognizes individual users.

This system warns the driver of inattentive/

drowsy driving, and can support safe and

comfortable driving by automatically re-

trieving the following settings.

NOTE

.

The user recognition camera does

not save images, audio, or video.

The Driver Monitoring System may

not operate correctly when sunlight

is shining into the vehicle in the

following ways.

.

1

Camera

– Sunlight is shining directly (or

through glass) onto the user

recognition camera.

– There are shadows on the dri-

ver’s face caused by sunlight (or

any light with a strong infrared

component).

– There are large momentary fluc-

tuations in the strength of the

sunlight (or any light with a

strong infrared component) shin-

ing on the face.

–

Driver’s position

Climate control setting

Meter setting

CAUTION

.

Always use the utmost care in

driving

Multi-function display setting

When a user is registered, various settings

are automatically retrieved when the user

enters the vehicle.

The interior temperature setting can also

be changed using gesture control. Refer to

“Gesture control” �P391.

–

Overconfidence because you

are driving a vehicle with the

Driver Monitoring System

could easily lead to a serious

accident.

.

This system cannot detect if the

driver is feeling drowsy or is

concentrating on safe driving.

.

Correct detection may not be possi-

ble when a device that includes an

infrared light source (such as a

commercially available driver mon-

itoring system) is installed in the

vehicle interior.

It cannot judge if the driver is

awake or asleep, if their driving

abilities have diminished, or if

they are concentrating on safe

– CONTINUED –

Driver Monitoring System

380

.

The Driver Monitoring System may

not operate correctly at the following

times when the driver is wearing

glasses or sunglasses.

– The sunglasses do not allow the

easy passage of infrared light.

– The surrounding scenery is re-

flected strongly in the lenses of

the glasses or sunglasses.

– The eyes are hidden by the frame

of the glasses and the user

recognition camera cannot de-

tect the eyes.

– The light from an infrared light

source (LED) is reflected in the

lenses of the glasses or sun-

glasses.

the face and the system.

detection may not be possible. Be

careful that hard objects do not

contact these parts.

If there is condensation on the user

recognition camera or the infrared

light source (LED), correct detection

may not be possible. If there is

condensation on these parts, wipe

it away with a soft dry cloth.

When registering a user for user

recognition, avoid closing your eyes

as much as possible.

If the user recognition success rate

is low, it is possible that the user is

not correctly registered. Delete the

registered data and perform regis-

tration again.

If a user frequently drives both with

glasses and contact lenses, it is

recommended that registration be

performed both when wearing

glasses and when wearing contact

lenses.

User recognition starts immediately

after entering the vehicle, however if

the user looks downward or at the

driver side mirror for a long time, the

user may not be recognized.

When one person among twins or

another pair of persons with similar

facial features is registered, the

other person may be incorrectly

recognized as the registered user

.

If a thick cover is attached to the

steering wheel, then depending on

the position set for the tilt/telescopic

steering wheel, the cover may block

the system’s view of the face, and

the system and the Driver Monitor-

ing System may not operate cor-

rectly.

Do not attach any stickers to the

user recognition camera or the infra-

red light source (LED). If the user

recognition camera or infrared light

source (LED) is covered by an

obstruction, it will not be possible

to correctly monitor the driver.

If an accessory is hung from the

inside mirror, correct detection may

not be possible.

Do not touch the user recognition

camera or the infrared light source

(LED) directly with your fingers. If

there is dirt or a fingerprint on these

parts, it will not be possible to

correctly monitor the driver. If there

is dirt or a fingerprint on these parts,

either wipe them with a soft dry

cloth, or wipe gently with a damp

cloth after first firmly wringing the

water out.

.

– The driver is wearing an eye-

patch.

– The driver is wearing a hat set

deeply over the eyes.

.

Depending on the type of mask,

correct detection of inattentive/

drowsy driving may not be possible.

Correct user recognition is not pos-

sible if the eyes, nose, or mouth is

covered with a mask, muffler, sun-

glasses, or other item.

The Driver Monitoring System may

not operate correctly when the eye-

brows, eyes, nose, or mouth is

hidden due to item that is between

.

If the surface of the user recognition

camera or the infrared light source

(LED) becomes scratched, correct

^{Driver Monitoring System}381

when entering the vehicle.

sound.

.

If the person in the passenger’s seat

leans into the driver’s seat, or in

other cases when there are two or

more faces near the driver’s seat, the

system may not operate correctly.

There are cases when the system

concludes that the user’s eyes are

closed when the user is looking

downward during driving, such as

when checking instruments or the

navigation screen. In such cases,

the drowsy driving warning buzzer

may sound or the system may

otherwise not operate correctly.

If the eyes are narrowed when laugh-

ing or when there is a dazzling

outside light, the system may judge

that the eyes are closed and the

drowsy driving warning buzzer may

sound or the system may otherwise

not operate correctly.

The drowsy driving or asleep warn-

ing states are recognized from the

length of time and percentage of

time that the eyes are closed. The

drowsy driving warning buzzer will

not sound simply when the driver

feels sleepy or yawns.

Even when the driver does not feel

sleepy, if his or her eyes are closed

or if he or she blinks frequently, the

drowsy driving warning buzzer may

.

The inattentive driving warning buz-

zer may sound if the driver leans

forward or puts his or her head out of

the window while driving.

The inattentive driving warning buz-

zer will not sound when the vehicle

is stopped or travelling at slow

speed even if the driver is not

looking ahead.

The Driver Monitoring System col-

lects and stores data regarding

drivers’ facial features. Facial recog-

nition data is stored locally and does

not leave the vehicle. It is not

transmitted to or stored by SUBARU

or anyone else. The Driver Monitor-

ing System may be disabled and any

stored driver data may be deleted by

following the instructions below. If

the Driver Monitoring System is

disabled, it will be unable to provide

any of its safety or convenience

functions.

.

– CONTINUED –

Driver Monitoring System

382

The functions which are available vary depending on the Driver Monitoring System

setting and the user recognition function setting.

Available functions

Driver Monitoring System*¹

ON

OFF

Inattentive/drowsy

driving warning

Available

Not available

ON

User recognition

function

Available

Not available

User recognition

function*²

Inattentive/drowsy

driving warning

OFF

User recognition

function

Not available

^{Driver Monitoring System}383

Available function items

& User recognition function

Driver Monitoring System*¹

ON

OFF

WARNING

Register User

Delete User

Available

Not available

Perform registration, retrieving, or

delete of the seat position and out-

side mirror angle before beginning

driving. There is the risk of an

accident if registration, retrieving,

or delete is performed while driving.

Delete All Users

ON

Update User Set-

tings

Available

Not available

Delete Driver Posi-

tion

User recognition

function*²

When a user is registered, it is possible to

retrieve the following settings.

Register User

Delete User

Not available

Available

Not available

! Driver position personalization

Delete All Users

Available

.

Seat position and outside mirror angle

OFF

Update User Set-

tings

Retrieves the registered seat position and

outside mirror angle.

Not available

Delete Driver Posi-

tion

.

Reverse tilt angle

Retrieves the registered reverse tilt-down

outside mirror angle.

*1: The system can be turned ON/OFF with the Driver Monitoring System OFF switch. Refer to “Driver

Monitoring System OFF switch” �P390.

*2: The function can be turned ON/OFF in the multi-function display customization settings. Refer to

“User Recognition settings” �P222.

! Meter personalization

.

Combination meter display basic

screen

The functions which are available vary depending on whether or not the user is

registered.

Displays the screen which the user had

selected at the time when he/she last

exited the vehicle.

Available functions

.

Fuel consumption screen

The user is registered.

Available

The user is not registered.

Not available

Displays the average fuel economy for

past driving by that user.

User recognition function

– CONTINUED –

Driver Monitoring System

384

! Climate control personalization

Climate control settings

! Multi-function display personalization

Multi-function display basic screen

.

Displays the screen which the user had selected at the time when he/she last exited the

vehicle.

Retrieves setting the temperature, airflow

mode, and other settings which the user

had selected at the time when he/she last

exited the vehicle.

.

Fuel consumption screen

Displays the average fuel economy for past driving by that user.

Customization linked with the user recognition function

Menu Item

.

NOTE

When a recognized user exits the

vehicle while the Max A/C mode is on

and the push engine switch is turned

off, the system stores the setting con-

figured before Max A/C mode was

turned on.

Birthday

Date

Anniversary

Screen Off

Favorite

Birthday Reminder

Anniversary Reminder

Traffic Info

! Driver Monitoring System ON/OFF

status

Display/Beep

Bypass Screen

Retrieves the Driver Monitoring System

ON/OFF status which the user had se-

lected at the time when he/she last exited

the vehicle.

Weather

Turn by turn

Beep

Mode Setting

Occupant Detection

Climate Control

^{Driver Monitoring System}385

! Changing the personalization settings

& Inattentive/drowsy driving

warning

Item

While driving, the Driver Monitoring Sys-

tem monitors possible cases of driver

inattention or drowsiness and warns the

driver.

Seat position/outside mirror

Change the setting by using the

multi-function display customi-

zation function. Refer to “Driver

Monitoring System settings”

�P217.

angle

Driver’s position personaliza-

tion

Reverse tilt-down outside mir-

ror angle

When the inattentive/drowsy driving warn-

ing activates, the buzzer sounds and an

interrupt display appears.

Combination meter display ba-

sic screen

Meter personalization*

Multi-function display basic

screen

When the customization screen

linked with the synchronized

Multi-function display persona-

lization*

NOTE

Customization linked with syn- user function is selected and

chronized user function

.

The inattentive/drowsy driving warn-

ing operates regardless of the status

of the user recognition function.

The inattentive driving warning does

not activate when the turn signal is

operating or when the select lever is

in the “R” position.

the setting is changed, it is

automatically stored.

Climate control personaliza-

tion*

Climate control settings

Driver Monitoring System ON/OFF status

*: When the Driver Monitoring System is OFF, the Driver Monitoring System continues to store the

conditions from immediately before the Driver Monitoring System was turned OFF even if the

screen was selected and the setting was changed.

.

When the pre-crash brake OFF in-

dicator is illuminated on the combi-

nation meter display, the inattentive

driving warning activates at the

same timing as usual even when a

vehicle ahead or obstacle is de-

tected. For details about the

EyeSight system, refer to the Own-

er’s Manual supplement for the

EyeSight system.

– CONTINUED –

Driver Monitoring System

386

! Inattentive driving warning

! Drowsy driving warning

Possible drowsiness is detected from the amount of driver eyelid closure, and a warning

is given to the driver. When the drowsy driving warning activates, the buzzer sounds and

an interrupt display appears.

Combination meter

Multi-function display

Warning chime

display

Beep, beep... (Con-

tinues until the driver’s

eyes open.)

Drowsy driving

Very drowsy

Beep, beep, beep,

beep, beep (5 times)

Slightly drowsy

Not drowsy

—

Beep

—

When the system monitors that the driver

may be inattentive, it warns the driver.

When the inattentive driving warning acti-

vates, the buzzer sounds and an interrupt

display appears on the combination meter

display.

—

When the EyeSight system has detected a

vehicle ahead or obstacle in the forward

direction, the inattentive driving warning

may activate at earlier timing than usual.

Refer to the Owner’s Manual supplement

for the EyeSight system.

^{Driver Monitoring System}387

nated, the Driver Monitoring System

function cannot be used. In addition,

the following items cannot be selected.

is high or low.

& Driver Monitoring System in-

.

When the Driver Monitoring System

cannot monitor the driver’s eye

movement.

When the Driver Monitoring System

cannot monitor the driver’s eye-

brows, eyes, nose or mouth.

When the camera and the infrared

light source (LED) are covered and

the Driver Monitoring System can-

not monitor the driver correctly.

dicator/warning

.

Register User

Delete User

Delete All Users

Update User Settings

Delete Driver Position

Automatically retract seat on entry

! Driver Monitoring System operation

indicator light (green)

! Driver Monitoring System warning

This indicator illuminates when the Driver

Monitoring System is operating.

light (yellow)

This warning illuminates when there is a

problem with the Driver Monitoring Sys-

tem. Contact a SUBARU dealer to have

the system inspected.

! Driver Monitoring System OFF in-

1

2

3

4

Driver Monitoring System operation in-

dicator light (green)

Driver Monitoring System OFF indicator

light

Driver Monitoring System temporary stop

indicator light

Driver Monitoring System warning light

(yellow)

dicator light

This indicator illuminates when the user

has pressed the Driver Monitoring System

OFF switch and the Driver Monitoring

System is not operating.

& Using the Driver Monitoring

System

! Driver Monitoring System tempor-

! User recognition

ary stop indicator light

The Driver Monitoring System indicator/

warning indicates the status of the Driver

Monitoring System on the combination

meter display.

When a user is registered with the user

recognition function, the Driver Monitoring

System performs the following.

This indicator illuminates when the Driver

Monitoring System is temporarily stopped.

NOTE

The Driver Monitoring System stops

temporarily in the following circum-

stances.

NOTE

When the Driver Monitoring System

OFF indicator, Driver Monitoring Sys-

tem temporary stop indicator, or Driver

Monitoring System warning is illumi-

.

When the temperature of the main

unit of the Driver Monitoring System

– CONTINUED –

Driver Monitoring System

388

.

When the select lever is not in the

“P” position, the seat position will

not change even when user recogni-

tion is completed.

If user recognition fails, perform

recognition again following the in-

structions, refer to “When a user is

not recognized” �P389.

.

User recognition is not performed

while driving.

If the seat position or outside mirror

angle are in motion at the time when

user recognition is completed, then

it is not possible to retrieve the seat

position, outside mirror angle, or

reverse tilt-down outside mirror an-

gle.

1. When the door is opened and the

push-button ignition switch is OFF,

the user recognition screen appears

and the Driver Monitoring system

starts user recognition.

2. Sit in the driver’s seat and face forward

for a few moments.

3. When user recognition is completed,

the Hello screen appears on the multi-

function display.

.

If any of the following operations is

performed while retrieving of the

seat position or outside mirror an-

gle, retrieving of the seat position

and outside mirror angle is can-

celed.

– The power seat adjustment

switch was operated.

– The outside mirror adjustment

switch was operated.

– The “SET” button was pressed.

– The “1” or “2” button was

pressed.

– The select lever was moved to a

position other than “P” position.

The user recognition screen may not

appear when the door is opened in

some cases, such as when only a short

time has passed after the push-button

ignition switch was turned OFF. In such

cases, user recognition starts when the

door is closed however the user

recognition screen does not appear.

At this time, the seat position, outside

mirror angle, climate control settings,

combination meter display basic screen,

multi-function display basic screen, and

customization settings all change based

on the user information.

NOTE

.

When a multi-function display op-

eration switch is pressed, the user

recognition screen is canceled,

however user recognition con-

tinues.

^{Driver Monitoring System}389

wrung out.

& Registering and deleting dri-

! When a user is not recognized

.

When the synchronized user func-

tion is turned OFF, manual repeat

facial scan is not possible.

ver position personalization

In the following case, user recognition may

not be possible and “User recognition

stopped” may be displayed.

At the time when a user is registered, the

seat position, outside mirror angle, and

reverse tilt-down outside mirror angle are

registered at the same time. To change the

setting for the seat position, outside mirror

angle, or reverse tilt-down outside mirror

angle, refer to “Driver Monitoring System

settings” �P217.

.

There is an object blocking the camera.

& Registering and deleting a

user

Remove the obstacle and follow the

reference procedure to perform user re-

cognition again.

Users can be registered in the Driver

Monitoring System, and registered users

can be deleted. For the user registration

and delete procedures, refer to “Driver

Monitoring System settings” �P217.

Refer to “Repeat facial scan” �P217.

NOTE

.

Start the user registration after ad-

justing the seat position, outside

mirror angle, and reverse tilt-down

outside mirror angle. If they are

adjusted during user registration, it

may be disrupted. Refer to “Power

seat” �P34 or “Outside mirrors”

�P252.

If the ignition switch is turned to the

“OFF” position before user registra-

tion is complete, the information of

the adjusted seat position, outside

mirror angle, and reverse tilt-down

outside mirror angle will not be

saved.

NOTE

.

When the Driver Monitoring System

OFF indicator, Driver Monitoring

System temporary stop indicator,

or Driver Monitoring System warn-

ing is illuminated, the following

items cannot be selected.

– Register User

– Delete User

– Delete All Users

.

1

Camera

.

User information can also be deleted

by resetting the multi-function dis-

play to the factory default settings.

When the settings are reset to the

factory default settings, all user

information is deleted. The settings

cannot be reset to the factory default

settings when the Driver Monitoring

System is OFF.

NOTE

.

User recognition may not be possi-

When the user recognition setting is

OFF, or when the Driver Monitoring

System OFF indicator, Driver Mon-

itoring System temporary stop indi-

cator, or Driver Monitoring System

ble when there is dirt or fingerprints

on the user recognition camera. To

clean, either wipe using a soft cloth

or else wipe gently using a mois-

tened cloth that has been thoroughly

– CONTINUED –

Driver Monitoring System

390

warning is illuminated, the following

items cannot be selected.

– Update User Settings

! Driver Monitoring System OFF

! User recognition settings

switch

The Driver Monitoring System User recog-

nition function can be turned ON/OFF. For

the setting procedure, refer to “Driver

Monitoring System settings” �P217.

– Delete Driver Position

.

The driver position can be registered

or deleted only when a registered

user is sitting in the driver’s seat and

user recognition is completed.

NOTE

.

The user recognition function

setting cannot be changed for each

individual user.

& Driver Monitoring System

.

The default setting for the user

recognition function is ON.

When the user recognition function

is turned OFF, the following items

cannot be selected.

ON/OFF settings

NOTE

.

When the Driver Monitoring System

is turned OFF after user recognition

was completed, the user recognition

function stores the Driver Monitor-

ing System ON/OFF state.

Even when the Driver Monitoring

System OFF switch is set to OFF,

the Driver Monitoring System auto-

matically turns ON once the driver’s

door is opened and closed while the

vehicle is stopped. This only occurs

when the user recognition setting is

ON. The system then reverts auto-

matically to the OFF state.

– Repeat facial scan

– Register User

– Update User Settings

– Delete Driver Position

When the Driver Monitoring System OFF

switch is pressed, the Driver Monitoring

System turns OFF. When the Driver

Monitoring System is turned OFF, the

Driver Monitoring System OFF indicator

on the combination meter display will

illuminate. To turn the Driver Monitoring

System ON, press the Driver Monitoring

System OFF switch again.

.

! Automatically retract seat on entry

The automatically retract seat on entry

which automatically slides back the dri-

ver’s seat when the driver’s door is

unlocked and opened. This function can

be turned ON/OFF. For the setting proce-

dure, refer to “Driver Monitoring System

settings” �P217.

NOTE

Even when the Driver Monitoring Sys-

tem is turned off, the user recognition

and automatically retract seat on entry

functions do not switch on or off

automatically.

.

After the Driver Monitoring System

was turned OFF, if the Driver Mon-

itoring System is turned ON while

the driver’s door is open, user

recognition may not occur correctly.

^{Driver Monitoring System}391

& Gesture control

CAUTION

Gesture control is a function that allows

you to raise or lower the set temperature

on the driver’s side by 4 steps of the

temperature dial when a specific gesture

operation is performed in the area imme-

diately in front of the navigation system

and/or audio system.

Gesture control allows you to operate the

climate control system without taking your

eyes off the road and reduces the time you

take your hand off the steering wheel.

Wait until the seat automatic retrac-

tion is fully completed before sitting

in the driver’s seat.

NOTE

.

If the seat position is not registered

in the access key fob memory, the

automatically retract seat on entry

function can be used.

Even when the automatically retract

seat on entry setting is ON, the

automatically retract seat on entry

function automatically turns OFF

when the user recognition function

is OFF.

Automatically retract seat on entry

cannot be selected when the Driver

Monitoring System OFF indicator,

Driver Monitoring System temporary

stop indicator, or Driver Monitoring

System warning is illuminated.

This function will operate if the seat

is in front of the center of the seat

sliding mechanism.

.

Gesture control can be used under the

following conditions:

.

The engine is running.

The climate control system is activated.

Refer to “Climate control panel”

�P261.

.

The select lever is in a position other

than the “P” or “R” position.

– CONTINUED –

Driver Monitoring System

392

position in front of the camera. Keep your

hand in that position until you hear a short

beep sound.

While you are driving the vehicle, gesture

control is not available when the following

applies.

If there is no sound within a few seconds,

remove your hand from the detection area,

such as by returning your hand to the

steering wheel, and then perform the

gesture again.

.

The turn signal or hazard warning

flasher is activated.

The steering wheel is turned sharply.

The inattentive driving warning is acti-

vated.

.

The set temperature changes once per

gesture operation. The temperature can-

not be changed continuously by using

gesture operations. If you want to continue

setting the temperature, remove your hand

from the detection area, such as by

returning your hand to the steering wheel,

and then perform the gesture again.

.

The drowsy driving warning is acti-

vated.

Driver Monitoring System is in the

process of recognizing the driver.

The vehicle is traveling at low speeds.

NOTE

.

Gesture control may not operate

correctly under the following condi-

tions.

Gesture control is not available under the

following conditions.

– The sunlight (or any light source

with a strong infrared compo-

nent) is causing the driver’s hand

to cast a shadow.

– There are large momentary fluc-

tuations in the strength of the

sunlight (or any light source with

a strong infrared component)

shining on the driver’s hand.

– The driver is wearing gloves or

accessories on their hands.

– There is something between the

driver’s hand and the camera.

.

Any of the following lights is illuminated.

– Driver Monitoring System OFF in-

dicator light

– Driver Monitoring System tempor-

ary stop indicator light

– Driver Monitoring System warning

light (yellow)

The select lever is in the “P” or “R”

position.

1

2

Camera

.

When the gesture is an open palm, the

set temperature rises.

3

When the gesture is a closed fist, the set

temperature lowers.

Driver Monitoring System does not

recognize the driver’s face. Refer to

“Driver Monitoring System” �P379.

Face your palm toward the camera and

gesture so that your fingers are in a vertical

^{Driver Monitoring System}393

– There is more than one hand

within the range of detection,

such as when the passenger’s

hand is within the range of detec-

tion.

Gesture control may not operate

correctly when the following ap-

plies.

– The driver’s hand is too close to

the camera. If the camera does

not recognize your hand, move

your hand slightly closer to your

face.

– The driver’s hand is outside of

the sensor range.

places their hand within the

range of detection.

.

When the climate control system is

off, the system may beep in re-

sponse to the driver’s gestures.

The operational/non-operational

setting of gesture control can be

changed by a SUBARU dealer. For

details, we recommend that you

contact your SUBARU dealer.

.

& How to get the source code

using the open source

Free/Open Source Software Information

This product contains Free/Open Source

Software (FOSS).

– The driver’s hand is rotating

greatly.

The license information and/or the source

code of such FOSS can be found at the

following URL.

– The driver’s hand is tilted at a

sharp perpendicular angle rela-

tive to the sensor area.

http://www.embedded-carmultimedia.jp/

RTOS/License/oss/DMS_0102/

.

In the following cases, the system

may mistakenly detect hand move-

ment as a hand gesture, which may

cause the temperature setting to

change.

– Your hand is within the sensor

range when you motion to a

person outside the vehicle.

– You operate the inside mirror or

room lamp.

– A rear passenger reaches for-

ward from the rear seats and

Starting and operating for your Subaru Forester 2019-2024

Table of Contents

Popular Manuals

Latest Manuals