Subaru 2007 Forester 2 5X Owners Manual

2015-09-07

: Subaru Subaru-2007-Forester-2-5X-Owners-Manual-762948 subaru-2007-forester-2-5x-owners-manual-762948 subaru pdf

Open the PDF directly: View PDF .
Page Count: 356

Download
Open PDF In Browser	View PDF

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

is a registered trademark of FUJI HEAVY INDUSTRIES LTD.
© copyright 2006 FUJI HEAVY INDUSTRIES LTD.

This manual describes the following vehicle types.

000135

* The illustrated vehicle is one of the FORESTER series.

1
Warranties

T 2.5XT (Canada model only)

Warranties for U.S.A.
All SUBARU vehicles distributed by
Subaru of America, Inc. and sold at retail
by an authorized SUBARU dealer in the
United States come with the following
warranties:
y SUBARU Limited Warranty
y Emission Control Systems Warranty
y Emissions Performance Warranty
All warranty information, including details
of coverage and exclusions, is in the
“Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”.
Please read these warranties carefully.

Warranties for Canada
All SUBARU vehicles distributed by
Subaru Canada, Inc. and sold at retail by
an authorized SUBARU dealer in Canada
come with the following warranties:
y SUBARU Limited Warranty
y Anti-Corrosion Warranty
y Emission Control Warranty
All warranty information, including details
of coverage and exclusions, is in the Warranty and Service Booklet. Please read
these warranties carefully.

2.5XT models are equipped with
High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights that contain mercury. For that
reason, it is necessary to remove
HID headlights before vehicle disposal. Once removed, please reuse,
recycle or dispose of the HID headlights as hazardous waste.
T All models except Canada model
2.5XT

This vehicle does not contain mercury devices or parts.

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

2
the climate control.
Chapter 5: Audio
This chapter informs you how to operate
your audio system.
Chapter 6: Interior equipment
This chapter informs you how to operate
interior equipment.
Chapter 7: Starting and operating
This chapter informs you how to start and
operate your SUBARU.
Chapter 8: Driving tips
This chapter informs you how to drive your
SUBARU in various conditions and explains some safety tips on driving.
Chapter 9: In case of emergency
This chapter informs you what to do if you
have a problem while driving, such as a
flat tire or engine overheating.
Chapter 10: Appearance care
This chapter informs you how to keep your
SUBARU looking good.
Chapter 11: Maintenance and service
This chapter informs you when you need
to take your SUBARU to the dealer for
scheduled maintenance and informs you
how to keep your SUBARU running properly.
Chapter 12: Specifications
This chapter informs you about dimension
and capacities of your SUBARU.
Chapter 13: Consumer information and
Reporting safety defects

This chapter informs you about Uniform
tire quality grading standards and Reporting safety defects.
Chapter 14: Index
This is an alphabetical listing of all that’s in
this manual. You can use it to quickly find
something you want to read.

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

Safety symbol

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

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

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

000013

You will find a circle with a slash through it
in this manual. This symbol means “Do
not”, “Do not do this”, or “Do not let this
happen”, depending upon the context.

3
Vehicle symbols

Mark

There are some of the symbols you may
see on your vehicle.
Mark

Name

Name
Child restraint top tether anchorages

Mark

Name
Parking lights, tail lights, license plate light and instrument panel illumination

Child restraint lower anchorages

Head lights

Horn

Headlight beam leveler

Windshield wiper deicer

Illumination brightness

Wiper intermittent

Fan speed

Windshield washer

Instrument panel outlets

WARNING
CAUTION
Power door lock
Passenger’s windows lock
Fuel
Front fog lights

Windshield wiper mist (for
single wipe)

Parking lights

Rear window wiper

Hazard warning flasher

Rear window washer

Instrument panel outlets and
foot outlets
Foot outlets
Windshield defroster and
foot outlets
Windshield defroster

Engine hood

Lights
Outside mirror defogger

Seat heater
– CONTINUED –

4
Mark

Name
Rear window defogger

Safety precautions when
driving
Seatbelt and SRS airbag

Air recirculation
Engine oil
Washer

Door lock (Transmitter)

Door unlock (Transmitter)

y All persons in the vehicle should
fasten their seatbelts BEFORE the
vehicle starts to move. Otherwise,
the possibility of serious injury
becomes greater in the event of a
sudden stop or accident.
y To obtain maximum protection in
the event of an accident, the driver and all passengers in the vehicle should always wear seatbelts
when the vehicle is moving. The
SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbag does not do away with
the need to fasten seatbelts. In
combination with the seatbelts, it
offers the best combined protection in case of a serious accident.
Not wearing a seatbelt increases
the chance of severe injury or
death in a crash even when the vehicle has the SRS airbag.

y The SRS airbags deploy with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are out of proper position when the SRS airbag deploys
could suffer very serious injuries.
Because the SRS airbag needs
enough space for deployment, the
driver should always sit upright
and well back in the seat as far
from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full vehicle control and the front passenger should move the seat as far
back as possible and sit upright
and well back in the seat.
Carefully read the sections “Seatbelts”
and “*SRS airbag (Supplemental Restraint System airbag)” in chapter 1 of this
Owner’s Manual for instructions and precautions concerning the seatbelt system
and SRS airbag system.

5
Child safety

y Never hold a child on your lap or
in your arms while the vehicle is
moving. The passenger cannot
protect the child from injury in a
collision, because the child will be
caught between the passenger
and objects inside the vehicle.
y While riding in the vehicle, infants
and small children should always
be placed in the REAR seat in an
infant or child restraint system
which is appropriate for the
child’s age, height and weight. If a
child is too big for a child restraint
system, the child should sit in the
REAR seat and be restrained using the seatbelts. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the
rear seating positions than in the
front seating positions. Never allow a child to stand up or kneel on
the seat.

y Put children aged 12 and under in
the REAR seat properly restrained
at all times in a child restraint device or in a seatbelt. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable
speed and force and can injure or
even kill children, especially if
they are 12 years of age and under
and are not restrained or improperly restrained. Because children
are lighter and weaker than
adults, their risk being injured
from deployment is greater.
y NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD
FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE
FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO
THE CHILD BY PLACING THE
CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO
THE SRS AIRBAG.
y Always use the child safety locks
whenever a child rides in the rear
seat. Serious injury could result if
a child accidentally opened the
door and fell out. Refer to the
“Child safety locks” section in
chapter 2.

y Always lock the passenger’s windows using the lock switch when
children are riding in the vehicle.
Failure to follow this procedure
could result in injury to a child operating the power window. Refer
to the “Windows” section in chapter 2.
y Never leave unattended children
in the vehicle. They could accidentally injure themselves or others through inadvertent operation
of the vehicle. Also, on hot or sunny days, temperature in a closed
vehicle could quickly become
high enough to cause severe or
possibly fatal injuries to them.
Carefully read the sections “Child restraint
systems”,“*SRS airbag (Supplemental
Restraint System airbag)”, and “Seatbelts”
in chapter 1 of this Owner’s Manual for instructions and precautions concerning the
child restraint system, seatbelt system
and SRS airbag system.

– CONTINUED –

6
Engine exhaust gas (carbon
monoxide)

y Never inhale engine exhaust gas.
Engine exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide, a colorless and
odorless gas which is dangerous,
or even lethal, if inhaled.
y Always properly maintain the engine exhaust system to prevent
engine exhaust gas from entering
the vehicle.
y Never run the engine in a closed
space, such as a garage, except
for the brief time needed to drive
the vehicle in or out of it.
y Avoid remaining in a parked vehicle for a lengthy time while the engine is running. If that is unavoidable, then use the ventilation fan
to force fresh air into the vehicle.
y Always keep the front ventilator
inlet grille free from snow, leaves
or other obstructions to ensure
that the ventilation system always
works properly.

y If at any time you suspect that exhaust fumes are entering the vehicle, have the problem checked
and corrected as soon as possible. If you must drive under these
conditions, drive only with all windows fully open.
y Keep the rear gate closed while
driving to prevent exhaust gas
from entering the vehicle.

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

Drugs and driving

Drinking and driving

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

There are some drugs (over the
counter and prescription) that can
delay your reaction time and impair
your perception, judgment and attentiveness. If you drive after taking
them, it may increase your, your
passengers’ and other persons’ risk
of being involved in a serious or fatal accident.
If you are taking any drugs, check with
your doctor or pharmacist or read the literature that accompanies the medication to
determine if the drug you are taking can
impair your driving ability. Do not drive after taking any medications that can make
you drowsy or otherwise affect your ability
to safely operate a motor vehicle. If you

7
have a medical condition that requires you
to take drugs, please consult with your
doctor.
Never drive if you are under the influence
of any illicit mind-altering drugs. For your
own health and well-being, we urge you
not to take illegal drugs in the first place
and to seek treatment if you are addicted
to those drugs.

Driving when tired or sleepy

When you are tired or sleepy, your
reaction will be delayed and your
perception, judgment and attentiveness will be impaired. If you drive
when tired or sleepy, your, your passengers’ and other persons’ chances of being involved in a serious accident may increase.
Please do not continue to drive but instead find a safe place to rest if you are
tired or sleepy. On long trips, you should
make periodic rest stops to refresh yourself before continuing on your journey.
When possible, you should share the driving with others.

Modification of your vehicle

Your vehicle should not be modified
other than with genuine Subaru
parts and accessories. Other types
of modifications could affect its performance, safety or durability, and
may even violate governmental regulations. In addition, damage or performance problems resulting from
modification may not be covered
under warranties.

Car phone/cell phone and
driving

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

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

Tire pressures
Check and, if necessary, adjust the pressure of each tire (including the spare) at
least once a month and before any long
journey.
Check the tire pressure when the tires are
cold. Use a pressure gauge to adjust the
tire pressures to the values shown on the
tire placard.
Refer to the “Tires and wheels” section in
– CONTINUED –

8
chapter 11 for detailed information.

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

California proposition 65
warning

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

Table of contents
Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Keys and doors

Instruments and controls

Climate control

Audio

Interior equipment

Starting and operating

Driving tips

In case of emergency

Appearance care

Maintenance and service

Specifications

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects

Index

10
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
9)
10)
11)

Illustrated index
Exterior
1

000194

Headlight switch (page 3-17)
Replacing bulbs (page 11-44)
Engine hood (page 11-4)
Wiper switch (page 3-22)
Roof rails (page 8-13)
Door locks (page 2-4)
Tire pressure (page 11-31)
Flat tires (page 9-3)
Tire chains (page 8-10)
Front fog light button (page 3-20)
Tie-down/Towing hooks (page 9-11)

11
1)
1

2)
3)
4)
5)

Rear window defogger button (page
3-24)
Rear gate (page 2-20)
Child safety locks (page 2-17)
Fuel filler lid and cap (page 7-3)
Tie-down/Towing hook (page 9-11)

4
000121

– CONTINUED –

12
Interior

T Passenger compartment area

2)
3)
4)
5)
6)

4
000122

Lower anchorage for child restraint
system (page 1-32)
Seatbelt (page 1-10)
Moonroof (page 2-21)
Parking brake lever (page 7-20)
Front seat (page 1-2)
Rear seat (page 1-7)

13
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

Cup holder (page 6-7)
Center console (page 6-4)
Glove box (page 6-4)
Front power supply socket (page 6-8)
Pocket (if equipped) (page 6-7)
AUX unit (if equipped) (page 6-8)

3
4 5
000123

– CONTINUED –

14
Instrument panel

1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)

6 7

7)
8)
9)
10)
11)
12)
13)
14)
15)
16)

16 15 14 13 12 11 10

8
000223

Door locks (page 2-4)
Outside mirror switch (page 3-27)
Light control lever (page 3-17)
Combination meter (page 3-6)
Wiper control lever (page 3-21)
Hazard warning flasher switch (page
3-6)
Audio (page 5-1)
Gear shift lever (MT) (page 7-9)
Selector lever (AT) (page 7-10)
Climate control (page 4-1)
Cruise control (page 7-22)
Horn (page 3-29)
SRS airbag (page 1-36)
Tilt steering (page 3-28)
Fuse (page 11-41)
Hood lock release knob (page 11-4)
Power windows (page 2-18)

15
Light control and wiper control levers/switches

1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

10
11

3
2

Parking light switch (page 3-20)
Windshield wiper (page 3-22)
Mist (page 3-23)
Windshield washer (page 3-23)
Rear window wiper and washer
switch (page 3-23)
6) Wiper control lever (page 3-22)
7) Illumination brightness control (page
3-19)
8) Light control lever (page 3-17)
9) Headlight ON/OFF (page 3-17)
10) Headlight flasher High/Low beam
change (page 3-17)
11) Turn signal (for lane change) (page 319)
12) Turn signal (page 3-19)

6
000020

– CONTINUED –

16
Combination meter

1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

T U.S.-spec. models
V AT vehicles

6)
7)

765
000248

Fuel gauge (page 3-7)
Temperature gauge (page 3-8)
Speedometer (page 3-6)
Tachometer (page 3-7)
Trip meter A/B selection and trip
meter reset knob (page 3-6)
Odometer and trip meter (page 3-6)
Outside temperature indicator (page
3-8)
Select lever position indicator (page
3-15)

1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

6)
7)
8)

7 6 5
000227

X, XS, L.L.Bean

– CONTINUED –

18
V MT vehicles

1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

6)
7)

5
000126

1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

6)
7)

5
000228

X, XS, L.L.Bean

– CONTINUED –

20
T Canada-spec. models

1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

V AT vehicles

6)
7)
8)

765
000247

1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

6)
7)
8)

7 6 5
000129

X, XS, L.L.Bean

– CONTINUED –

22
V MT vehicles

1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

6)
7)

5
000130

1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

6)
7)

5
000131

X, XS, L.L.Bean

– CONTINUED –

24
T Warning and indicator light
Mark

Name

Page

Seatbelt warning light
SRS airbag
warning light

Mark

system

3-10

3-11

Front passenger’s
frontal airbag OFF indicator light

Page

Brake system warning
light

3-13

Door open warning
light

3-14

All-Wheel Drive warning light (AT vehicles)

3-15

Low fuel warning light

3-14

Turn signal indicator
lights

3-15

High beam indicator
light

3-15

Security indicator light
(if equipped)

2-3

Cruise control indicator light (if equipped)

3-15

Cruise control set indicator light (if equipped)

3-16

3-9

Front passenger’s
frontal airbag ON indicator light

CHECK ENGINE
warning light/Malfunction indicator lamp

3-11

Charge warning light

3-12

Oil pressure warning
light

Name

3-12

AT OIL temperature
warning light (AT vehicles)

3-12

ABS warning light

3-13

25
Tire changing tools

1)
2)
3)

Jack (page 9-14)
Jack handle (page 9-14)
Spare tire (page 9-3)

1
3

2
000132

– CONTINUED –

26
Cargo area cover
1

1)
2)
3)
4)

3
2

000195

Cargo area cover (page 6-13)
Cargo tie-down hook (page 6-14)
Accessory power outlet (page 6-8)
Shopping bag hook (page 6-14)

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Front seats ..........................................................

1-2

Manual seat .............................................................
Power seat (if equipped) ........................................
Lumbar support (Driver’s seat only) .....................
Head restraint adjustment .....................................
Active head restraint ..............................................

1-3
1-4
1-5
1-6
1-6

Seat heater (if equipped) ...................................
Rear seats ...........................................................

1-7
1-7

Head restraint adjustment .....................................
Folding down the rear seatback ............................

1-8
1-9

Armrest (if equipped) .........................................
Seatbelts .............................................................

1-10
1-10

Seatbelt safety tips .................................................
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) ....................
Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor
(A/ELR) ..................................................................
Seatbelt warning light and chime ..........................
Fastening the seatbelt ............................................
Seatbelt maintenance .............................................

1-10
1-11
1-12
1-12
1-13
1-19

Seatbelt extender ...............................................
Front seatbelt pretensioners .............................

1-20
1-21

System monitors ....................................................
System servicing ....................................................
Precautions against vehicle modification ............

1-22
1-23
1-23

Child restraint systems .....................................

1-24

Where to place a child restraint system ...............
Choosing a child restraint system ........................
Installing child restraint systems with A/ELR
seatbelt ..................................................................

1-25
1-26
1-27

Installing a booster seat .........................................
Installation of child restraint systems by use of
lower and tether anchorages (LATCH) ...............
Top tether anchorages ...........................................

1-30
1-32
1-34

*SRS airbag (Supplemental Restraint System
airbag) .............................................................. 1-36
Vehicle with driver’s and front passenger’s
SRS airbags and lap/shoulder restraints ...........
Subaru advanced frontal airbag system ..............
SRS side airbag (if equipped) ................................
SRS airbag system monitors .................................
SRS airbag system servicing ................................
Precautions against vehicle modification ............

1-36
1-40
1-52
1-57
1-58
1-59

1-2 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Front seats

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

y Never adjust the seat while driving to avoid the possibility of loss
of vehicle control and of personal
injury.
y Before adjusting the seat, make
sure the hands and feet of rear
seat passengers are clear of the
adjusting mechanism.
y Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits
well back and upright in the seat.
To reduce the risk of sliding under
the seatbelt in a collision, the
front seatbacks should be always
used in the upright position while
the vehicle is running. If the front
seatbacks are not used in the upright position in a collision, the
risk of sliding under the lap belt
and of the lap belt sliding up over
the abdomen will increase, and
both can result in serious internal
injury or death.

100082

Put children aged 12 and under in
the rear seat properly restrained at
all times. The SRS airbag deploys
with considerable speed and force
and can injure or even kill children,
especially if they are 12 years of age
and under and are not restrained or
improperly restrained. Because children are lighter and weaker than
adults, their risk of being injured
from deployment is greater. Consequently, we strongly recommend
that ALL children (including those in
child seats and those that have outgrown child restraint devices) sit in
the REAR seat properly restrained
at all times in a child restraint device
or in a seatbelt, whichever is appropriate for the child’s age, height and
weight. Secure ALL types of child
restraint devices (including forward
facing child seat) in the REAR seats
at all times.
NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD
FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT
SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD
BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD
TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-3

According to accident statistics,
children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. For instructions and precautions concerning child restraint systems, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chapter.

T Reclining the seatback

Manual seat
T Fore and aft adjustment

100596
100085

100595

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

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

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

– CONTINUED –

1-4 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
T Seat height adjustment (Driver’s
seat only)

Power seat (if equipped)

T Seat cushion angle adjustment

T Fore and aft adjustment

100739
100597
100598

1) Turn the dial backward to lower the seat.
2) Turn the dial forward to raise the seat.

Use the adjusting dial to adjust the height
of the seat.

To adjust the seat forward or backward,
move the control switch forward or backward.

To adjust the seat cushion angle, pull up
or push down the front end of the control
switch.
T Seat height adjustment

100600

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-5

Lumbar support (Driver’s
seat only)

To adjust the seat height, pull up or push
down the rear end of the control switch.
T Reclining the seatback

100601

To adjust the angle of the seatback, move
the control switch forward or backward.
100085

100545

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

1-6 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Head restraint adjustment

Active head restraint
y Each active head restraint is effective only when its height is
properly adjusted and the driver/
passenger sits in the correct position on the seat.

100087

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

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

100089

The front seats of your vehicle are
equipped with active head restraints. They
automatically tilt forward slightly in the
event the vehicle is struck from the rear,
decreasing the amount of rearward head
movement and thus reducing the risk of
whiplash. For maximum effectiveness the
head restraint should be adjust so that the
center of the head restraint is closest to
the top of the occupant’s ears.

y If your vehicle is involved in a
rear-end collision, have an authorized SUBARU dealer inspect the
active head restraints.
y The active head restraints may
not operate in the event the vehicle experiences only a slight impact in the rear.
y The active head restraints may be
damaged if they are pushed hard
from behind or subjected to
shock. As a result, they may not
function if the vehicle suffers a
rear impact.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-7

Seat heater (if equipped)

Rear seats
y There is a possibility that people
with delicate skin may suffer
slight burns even at low temperatures if he/she uses the seat heater for a long period of time. When
using the heater, always be sure
to warn the persons concerned.

100092

HI – Rapid heating
LO – Normal heating

The seat heater operates when the ignition switch is either in the “ACC” or “ON”
position.
To turn on the seat heater, push the “LO”
or “HI” position on the switch, as desired,
depending on the temperature. Selecting
the “HI” position will cause the seat to heat
up quicker.
The indicator located on the switch comes
on when the seat heater is in operation.
When the vehicle’s interior is warmed
enough or before you leave the vehicle,
be sure to turn the switch off.

y Do not put anything on the seat
which insulates against heat,
such as a blanket, cushion, or
similar items. This may cause the
seat heater to overheat.

100093

NOTE
Use of the seat heater for a long period
of time while the engine is not running
can cause battery discharge.

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

– CONTINUED –

1-8 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
T Rear windows side seating position

T Rear center seating position

The head restraint is not intended to
be used at the lowest position. Before sitting on the seat, raise the
head restraint to the click position
depending on your sitting height.

100098

100099

100094

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

Head restraint adjustment

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

To raise the head restraint, pull it up.
To lower it, push the head restraint down
while pressing the release button on the
top of the seatback.

When the seats are not occupied, lower
the head restraint to improve rearward visibility.

When the rear center seating position is
occupied, place the head restraint to the
click position. When the rear center seating position is not occupied, lower the
head restraint to improve rearward visibil-

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-9

ity.

tion, raise the seatback until it locks into
place and make sure that it is securely
locked.

Folding down the rear seatback

y After returning the rear seatback
to its original position, make certain that the shoulder belts are fully visible.
y Never allow passengers to ride on
the folded rear seatback or in the
cargo area. Doing so may result in
serious injury or death.
y Secure lengthy items properly to
prevent them from shooting forward and causing serious injury
during a sudden stop.

100095

100096

1. Lower the head restraints.
2. Unlock the seatback by pulling the release knob and then fold the seatback
down.
To return the seatback to its original posi-

1-10 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Armrest (if equipped)

Seatbelts
Seatbelt safety tips

To lower the armrest, pull on the top edge
of the armrest.

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

y All belts should fit snugly in order
to provide full restraint. Loose fitting belts are not as effective in
preventing or reducing injury.
y Each seatbelt is designed to support only one person. Never use a
single belt for two or more persons – even children. Otherwise,
in an accident, serious injury or
death could result.
y Replace all seatbelt assemblies
including retractors and attaching
hardware worn by occupants of a
vehicle that has been in a serious
accident. The entire assembly
should be replaced even if damage is not obvious.

y Put children aged 12 and under in
the rear seat properly restrained
at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed
and force and can injure or even
kill children, especially if they are
12 years of age and under and are
not restrained or improperly restrained. Because children are
lighter and weaker than adults,
their risk of being injured from deployment is greater. Consequently, we strongly recommend that
ALL children (including those in
child seats and those that have
outgrown child restraint devices)
sit in the REAR seat properly restrained at all times in a child restraint device or in a seatbelt,
whichever is appropriate for the
child’s height and weight.
Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (including forward
facing child seats) in the REAR
seats at all times.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-11

NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD
FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE
FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO
THE CHILD BY PLACING THE
CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO
THE SRS AIRBAG.
According to accident statistics,
children are safer when properly
restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. For instructions and precautions concerning the child restraint system, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this
chapter.
Your vehicle is equipped with a crash
sensing and diagnostic module, which will
record the use of the seatbelt(s) by the
driver and/or front passenger when any of
the SRS frontal and side airbags deploys.
T Infants or small children
Use a child restraint system that is suitable for your vehicle. See information on
“Child restraint systems” in this chapter.
T Children
If a child is too big for a child restraint system, the child should sit in the rear seat
and be restrained using the seatbelts. Ac-

cording to accident statistics, children are
safer when properly restrained in the rear
seating positions than in the front seating
positions. Never allow a child to stand up
or kneel on the seat.
If the shoulder portion of the belt crosses
the face or neck, adjust the shoulder belt
anchor height (window-side seating positions only) and then if necessary move the
child closer to the belt buckle to help provide a good shoulder belt fit. Care must be
taken to securely place the lap belt as low
as possible on the hips and not on the
child’s waist. If the shoulder portion of the
belt cannot be properly positioned, a child
restraint system should be used. Never
place the shoulder belt under the child’s
arm or behind the child’s back.

T Expectant mothers

100100

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

Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR)
The driver’s seatbelt has an Emergency
Locking Retractor (ELR).
The emergency locking retractor allows
normal body movement but the retractor
locks automatically during a sudden stop,
impact or if you pull the belt very quickly
out of the retractor.
– CONTINUED –

1-12 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor (A/ELR)
Each passenger’s seatbelt has an Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor (A/
ELR). The Automatic/Emergency Locking
Retractor normally functions as an Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR). The A/
ELR has an additional locking mode “Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode” intended to secure a child restraint system.
When the seatbelt is once drawn out completely and is then retracted even slightly,
the retractor locks the seatbelt in that position and the seatbelt cannot be extended. As the belt is rewinding, clicks will be
heard which indicate the retractor functions as an ALR. When the seatbelt is retracted fully, the ALR mode is released.
When securing a child restraint system on
the rear seats by the use of the seatbelt,
the seatbelt must be changed over to the
Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode.
When the child restraint system is removed, make sure that the seatbelt retracts fully and the retractor returned to
the Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR)
mode.
For instructions on how to convert the retractor to the ALR mode and restore it to
the ELR mode, see the “Child restraint

systems” section in this chapter.

Seatbelt warning light
and chime
Your vehicle is equipped with a seatbelt
warning device at the driver’s seat, as required by current safety standards. There
is a seatbelt warning light in the combination meter.
If the driver has not yet fastened the seatbelt when the ignition switch is turned to
the “ON” position, the seatbelt warning
light will flash for 6 seconds, to warn that
the seatbelt is unfastened. If the driver’s
seatbelt is not fastened, a chime will also
sound simultaneously.
If the driver’s seatbelt is still not fastened
6 seconds later, the warning light will remain lit for 15 seconds. If the driver’s seatbelt is still not fastened even 15 seconds
later (21 seconds after turning ON the ignition switch), the warning lights will alternate between flashing and steady illumination at 15-second intervals, and the
chime will sound while the warning light is
flashing.
Alternate flashing and steady illumination
of the warning lights and sounding of the
chime will continue until the driver fastens
the seatbelt.

NOTE
y If the driver unfastens the seatbelt after fastening, the seatbelt warning device operates as follows according to
the vehicle speed.
y At speeds lower than approximately 9 mph (15 km/h)
The warning light will alternate between flashing and steady illumination at 15-second intervals. The
chime will not sound.
y At speeds higher than approximately 9 mph (15 km/h)
The warning light will alternate between flashing and steady illumination at 15-second intervals and the
chime will sound while the warning
light is flashing.
y It is possible to cancel the warning
operation that follows the 6-second
warning after turning ON the ignition
switch. When the ignition switch is
turned ON next time, however, the
complete sequence of warning operation resumes. For further details about
canceling the warning operation,
please contact your SUBARU dealer.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-13

Fastening the seatbelt

y Never use a belt that is twisted or
reversed. In an accident, this can
increase the risk or severity of injury.

y Do not put cushions or any other
materials between occupants and
seatbacks or seat cushions. If you
do so, the risk of sliding under the
lap belt and of the lap belt sliding
up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.

y Keep the lap belt as low as possible on your hips. In a collision,
this spreads the force of the lap
belt over stronger hip bones instead of across the weaker abdomen.
y Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits
well back and upright in the seat.
To reduce the risk of sliding under
the seatbelt in a collision, the
front seatbacks should be always
used in the upright position while
the vehicle is running. If the front
seatbacks are not used in the upright position in a collision, the
risk of sliding under the lap belt
and of the lap belt sliding up over
the abdomen will increase, and
both can result in serious internal
injury or death.

100101

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

Metallic parts of the seatbelt can become very hot in a vehicle that has
been closed up in sunny weather;
they could burn an occupant. Do not
touch such hot parts until they cool.
T Front seatbelts
1. Adjust the seat position:
Driver’s seat: Adjust the seatback to the
upright position. Move the seat as far from
the steering wheel as practical while still
maintaining full vehicle control.
Front passenger’s seat: Adjust the seatback to the upright position. Move the seat
as far back as possible.
2. Sit well back in the seat.
3. Pick up the tongue plate and pull the
belt out slowly. Do not let it get twisted. If
the belt stops before reaching the buckle,
return the belt slightly and pull it out more
slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked,
let the belt retract slightly after giving it a
strong pull, then pull it out slowly again.

– CONTINUED –

1-14 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
V Adjusting the front seat shoulder
belt anchor height
When wearing the seatbelts, make
sure the shoulder portion of the
webbing does not pass over your
neck. If it does, adjust the seatbelt
anchor to a lower position. Placing
the shoulder belt over the neck may
result in neck injury during sudden
braking or in a collision.
V Unfastening the seatbelt

100102

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

100104

The shoulder belt anchor height should be
adjusted to the position best suited for the
driver/front passenger.
To lower the anchor height, push the release button and slide the anchor down.
To raise the anchor height, slide the anchor up. Pull down on the anchor to make
sure that it is locked in place.
Always adjust the anchor height so that
the shoulder belt passes over the middle
of the shoulder without touching the neck.
100103

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

100105

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

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-15

T Rear seatbelts (except rear center
seatbelt)
1. Sit well back in the seat.
2. Pick up the tongue plate and pull the
belt out slowly. Do not let it get twisted. If
the belt stops before reaching the buckle,
return the belt slightly and pull it out more
slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked,
let the belt retract slightly after giving a
strong pull on it, then pull it out slowly
again.

V Adjusting the rear seat shoulder belt
anchor height (window-side seating
positions only)

100103

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

100102

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

100104

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

– CONTINUED –

1-16 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
T Rear center seatbelt
When wearing the seatbelts, make
sure the shoulder portion of the
webbing does not pass over your
neck. If it does, adjust the seatbelt
anchor to a lower position. Placing
the shoulder belt over the neck may
result in neck injury during sudden
braking or in a collision.

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

1
2
3

V Unfastening the seatbelt
100603

1)
2)
3)
4)

Center seatbelt tongue plate
Connector (tongue)
Connector (buckle)
Center seatbelt buckle

100105
100109

Push the button on the buckle.
Before closing the door, make sure that
the belts are retracted properly to avoid
catching the belt webbing in the door.
100108

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-17

comfort guide located beside the head restraint.

plate rearward.
Be sure to fasten both tongue plates
to the respective buckles. If the
seatbelt is used only as a shoulder
belt (with the connector’s tongue
plate not fastened to the connector’s buckle on the right-hand side),
it cannot properly restrain the wearer in position in an accident, possibly resulting in serious injury or
death.
100111

2. Pull out the seatbelt slowly from the
overhead retractor.

100110

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

100113

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

100604

1) Seatbelt comfort guide

3. Pass the seatbelt through the seatbelt
– CONTINUED –

1-18 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
7. Place the lap belt as low as possible on
your hips, not on your waist.

V Unfastening the seatbelt

100114

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

100117

100116

Push the release button of the center
seatbelt buckle (on the left-hand side) to
unfasten the seatbelt.

NOTE
When the seatback is folded down for
greater cargo area, it is necessary to
disconnect the connector.
100118

100115

6. To make the lap part tight, pull up on
the shoulder belt.

1. Insert a key or other hard pointed object into the slot in the connector (buckle)
on the right-hand side and push it in, and
the connector (tongue) plate will disconnect from the buckle.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-19

fect their strength.
Inspect the seatbelts and attachments including the webbing and all hardware periodically for cracks, cuts, gashes, tears,
damage, loose bolts or worn areas. Replace the seatbelts even if only minor
damage is found.

100119

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

100120

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

Seatbelt maintenance
To clean the seatbelts, use a mild soap
and lukewarm water. Never bleach or dye
the belts because this could seriously af-

y Keep the belts free of polishes,
oils, chemicals and particularly
battery acid.
y Never attempt to make modifications or changes that will prevent
the seatbelt from operating properly.

1-20 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Seatbelt extender
If the front seatbelts are not long enough
to permit the tongue plate to engage with
the seatbelt buckle, an optional seatbelt
extender is available from your SUBARU
dealer. When ordering an extender, only
order one particularly designed for your
vehicle. Several different types of extenders are available to match various varieties of front seatbelt designs. See your
SUBARU dealer for assistance.
The extender adds approximately 8 inches (200 mm) of length and it can be used
for either the driver or front passenger
seating position.
For the safety of others, the extender
should be removed after each use, especially if the next person using the seatbelt
does not need one.
Note that leaving the seatbelt extender’s
tongue plate engaged with the seatbelt
buckle may prevent the Subaru advanced
front airbag system from functioning correctly or cause the system to fail.

Be sure to observe the following
when using the seatbelt extender.

Failure to follow these instructions
and warnings could reduce the effectiveness of the seatbelt and result in more serious injury in the
event of a collision.
y Never use the extender when the
belt itself is long enough to permit
it to be buckled properly. If removal of heavy clothing is all that is
needed to permit the seatbelt to
be buckled properly, remove the
heavy clothing and do not use the
extender.
y Do not use the extender if the
buckle of the extender rests over
the abdomen.
y Do not let someone else use the
extender. Use of an extender
when it is not needed could reduce the effectiveness of the seatbelt and result in more serious injury in the event of a collision.
y Use the extender only for the front
seatbelts and only for the model
for which it was originally provided. Never use the extender for the
rear seatbelts or for a different
model.

NOTE
When the seatbelt extender is used by

a pregnant passenger, consult a doctor
to get approval in advance.

100605

To connect the extender to the seatbelt,
insert the tongue plate into the seatbelt
buckle so that the “PRESS” signs on the
buckle-release buttons of the extender
and the seatbelt are both facing outward
as shown in the diagram. You will hear a
click when the tongue plate locks into the
buckle.
When releasing the seatbelt, press on the
buckle-release button on the extender, not
on the seatbelt. This helps to prevent
damage to the vehicle interior and extender itself.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-21

Front seatbelt pretensioners

100121

The driver’s and front passenger’s seatbelts have a seatbelt pretensioner. The
seatbelt pretensioners are designed to be
activated in the event of an accident involving a moderate to severe frontal collision.
Also, the seatbelt pretensioners are designed to be activated in the event of an
accident involving a moderate to severe
side impact collision.
The pretensioner sensor also serves as
the frontal and side SRS airbag sensors. If
the sensors detect a certain predetermined amount of force during a frontal collision or a side impact collision, the front
seatbelt is quickly drawn back in by the re-

tractor to take up the slack so that the belt
more effectively restrains the front seat
occupant.
When a seatbelt pretensioner is activated,
an operating noise will be heard and a
small amount of smoke will be released.
These occurrences are normal and not
harmful. This smoke does not indicate a
fire in the vehicle.
Once the seatbelt pretensioner has been
activated, the seatbelt retractor remains
locked. Consequently, the seatbelt can
not be pulled out and retracted and therefore must be replaced.

NOTE
y Seatbelt pretensioners are not designed to activate in minor frontal impacts, in minor side impacts or in rear
impacts or in roll-over accidents.
y The driver’s seat and passenger’s
seat pretensioners and frontal SRS airbag operate simultaneously.
y The driver’s and passenger’s seatbelt pretensioners and the SRS side
airbag operate simultaneously.
y Pretensioners are designed to function on a one-time-only basis. In the
event that a pretensioner is activated,
both the driver’s and front passenger’s
seatbelt retractor assemblies must be
replaced only by an authorized SUBA-

RU dealer. When replacing seatbelt retractor assemblies, use only genuine
SUBARU parts.
y If either front seatbelt does not retract or cannot be pulled out due to a
malfunction or activation of the pretensioner, contact your SUBARU dealer as
soon as possible.
y If the front seatbelt retractor assembly or surrounding area has been damaged, contact your SUBARU dealer as
soon as possible.
y When you sell your vehicle, we urge
you to explain to the buyer that it has
seatbelt pretensioners by alerting him
to the contents of this section.

y To obtain maximum protection,
the occupants should sit in an upright position with their seatbelts
properly fastened. Refer to the
“Seatbelts” section in this chapter.

– CONTINUED –

1-22 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
y Do not modify, remove or strike
the front seatbelt retractor assemblies or surrounding area. This
could result in accidental activation of the seatbelt pretensioners
or could make the system inoperative, possibly resulting in serious injury. Seatbelt pretensioners
have no user-serviceable parts.
For required servicing of front
seatbelt retractors equipped with
seatbelt pretensioners, see your
nearest SUBARU dealer.
y When discarding front seatbelt retractor assemblies or scrapping
the entire vehicle due to collision
damage or for other reasons, consult your SUBARU dealer.

System monitors

100606

A diagnostic system continually monitors
the readiness of the seatbelt pretensioner
while the vehicle is being driven. The seatbelt pretensioners share the control module with the SRS airbag system. Therefore, if any malfunction occurs in a seatbelt pretensioner, the SRS airbag system
warning light will illuminate. The SRS airbag system warning light will show normal
system operation by lighting for approximately 6 seconds when the ignition switch
is turned to the “ON” position.
The following components are monitored
by the indicator:
y Front sub sensor (Right-hand side)
y Front sub sensor (Left-hand side)
y Airbag control module (including impact

sensors)
y Frontal airbag module (Driver’s side)
y Frontal airbag module (Front passenger’s side)
y Side airbag sensor (Center pillar righthand side)
y Side airbag sensor (Center pillar lefthand side)
y Side airbag module (Driver’s side)
y Side airbag module (Front passenger’s
side)
y Seatbelt pretensioner (Driver’s side)
y Seatbelt pretensioner (Front passenger’s side)
y Seatbelt buckle switch (Driver’s side)
y Seatbelt buckle switch (Front passenger’s side)
y Driver’s seat position sensor
y Front passenger’s seatbelt tension sensor (if equipped)
y Front passenger’s occupant detection
system weight sensor
y Front passenger’s occupant detection
control module
y Front passenger’s frontal airbag ON
and OFF indicator
y All related wiring

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-23

System servicing
If the warning light exhibits any of
the following conditions, there may
be a malfunction in the seatbelt pretensioners and/or SRS airbag system. Immediately take your vehicle
to your nearest SUBARU dealer to
have the system checked. Unless
checked and properly repaired, the
seatbelt pretensioners and/or SRS
airbags will not operate properly in
the event of a collision, which may
increase the risk of injury.
y Flashing or flickering of the warning light
y No illumination of the warning
light when the ignition switch is
first turned to the “ON” position
y Continuous illumination of the
warning light
y Illumination of the warning light
while driving

y When discarding a seatbelt retractor assembly or scrapping the entire vehicle damaged by a collision, consult your SUBARU dealer.
y Tampering with or disconnecting
the system’s wiring could result in
accidental activation of the seatbelt pretensioner and/or SRS airbag or could make the system inoperative, which may result in serious injury. The wiring harnesses
of the seatbelt pretensioner and
SRS airbag systems are covered
with yellow insulation and the
connectors of the system are yellow for easy identification. Do not
use electrical test equipment on
any circuit related to the seatbelt
pretensioner and SRS airbag systems. For required servicing of
the seatbelt pretensioner, see
your nearest SUBARU dealer.

The front sub sensors are located
near the bottom of the radiator and
the side airbag sensor is located inside each center pillar and the SRS
airbag control module including the
impact sensors is located under the
center console. If you need service
or repair in those areas or near the
front seatbelt retractors, we recommend that you have an authorized
SUBARU dealer perform the work.

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

Precautions against vehicle
modification
Always consult your SUBARU dealer if
you want to install any accessory parts to
your vehicle.

– CONTINUED –

1-24 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Child restraint systems

Children could be endangered in an accident if their child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle. When installing
the child restraint system, carefully follow
the manufacturer’s instructions.

Do not perform any of the following
modifications. Such modifications
can interfere with proper operation
of the seatbelt pretensioners.
y Attachment of any equipment
(bush bar, winches, snow plow,
skid plate, etc.) other than genuine SUBARU accessory parts to
the front end.
y Modification of the suspension
system or front end structure.
y Installation of a tire of different
size and construction from the
tires specified on the vehicle placard attached to the driver’s door
pillar or specified for individual
vehicle models in this Owner’s
Manual.

According to accident statistics, children
are safer when properly restrained in the
rear seating positions than in the front
seating positions.

100607

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

All U.S. states and Canadian provinces
require that infants and small children be
restrained in an approved child restraint
system at all times while the vehicle is
moving.

100125

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-25

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

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

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

100126

100127

A: Front passenger’s seat
You should not install a child restraint system (including a booster seat) due to the
hazard to children posed by the passenger’s airbag.
B: Rear seat, window-side seating positions
Recommended positions for all types of
child restraint systems.
In these positions, Automatic/Emergency
Locking Retractor (A/ELR) seatbelts and
lower anchorages (bars) are provided for
installing a child restraint system.
Some types of child restraints might not
be able to be secured firmly due to projection of the seat cushion.
In this seating position, you should use
only a child restraint system that has a
– CONTINUED –

1-26 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
bottom base that fits snugly against the
contours of the seat cushion and can be
securely retained using the seatbelt.
C: Rear seat, center seating position
Installing a child restraint system is not
recommended, although the A/ELR seatbelt and an upper anchorage (tether anchorage) are provided in this position.
Some types of child restraints might not
be able to be secured firmly due to projection of the seat cushion.
In this seating position, you should use
only a child restraint system that has a
bottom base that fits snugly against the
contours of the seat cushion and can be
securely retained using the seatbelt.

Consequently, be sure to secure
ALL types of child restraint devices
(including forward facing child
seats) in the REAR seats at all times.
You should choose a restraint device which is appropriate for the
child’s age, height and weight. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions.

SINCE
YOUR
VEHICLE
IS
EQUIPPED WITH A PASSENGER’S
SRS AIRBAG, NEVER INSTALL A
REARWARD FACING CHILD SAFETY SEAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER’S SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE
CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S
HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS
AIRBAG.

Choosing a child restraint
system

100608

100502

Choose a child restraint system that is appropriate for the child’s age and size
(weight and height) in order to provide the

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-27

child with proper protection. The child restraint system should meet all applicable
requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle
Safety Standards for United States or
Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
for Canada. It can be identified by looking
for the label on the child restraint system
or the manufacture’s statement of compliance in the document attached to the system. Also it is important for you to make
sure that the child restraint system is compatible with the vehicle in which it will be
used.

Installing child restraint systems with A/ELR seatbelt

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

When you install a child restraint
system, follow the manufacturer’s
instructions supplied with it. After
installing the child restraint system,
check to ensure that it is held securely in position. If it is not held
tight and secure, the danger of your
child suffering personal injury in the
event of an accident may be increased.
T Installing a rearward facing child restraint

100503

1. Place the child restraint system in the
rear seating position.
2. Run the lap and shoulder belt through
or around the child restraint system follow– CONTINUED –

1-28 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
ing the instructions provided by its manufacturer.
3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle
until you hear a click.

100506

100610

100609

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

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

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

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

NOTE
When the child restraint system is no
longer in use, remove it and restore the

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-29

ELR function of the retractor. That
function is restored by allowing the
seatbelt to retract fully.
T Installing forward facing child restraint

100137

100136

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

100138

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

– CONTINUED –

1-30 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
press the release button on the seatbelt
buckle and allow the belt to retract completely. The belt will return to the ELR
mode. Unhook the top tether hook from
the top tether anchor.

NOTE

100139

8. If the child restraint system requires a
top tether, latch the hook onto the top tether anchor and tighten the top tether. See
the “Top tether anchorages” for additional
instructions.

100611

9. To remove the child restraint system,

When the child restraint system is no
longer in use, remove it and restore the
ELR function of the retractor. That
function is restored by allowing the
seatbelt to retract fully.

Installing a booster seat

y Do not leave an unsecured child
restraint system in your vehicle.
Unsecured child restraint systems can be thrown around inside
of the vehicle in a sudden stop,
turn or accident; they can strike
and injure vehicle occupants as
well as result in serious injuries or
death to the child.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-31

100141

1. Place the booster seat in the rear seating position and sit the child on it. The
child should sit well back on the booster
seat.
2. Run the lap and shoulder belt through
or around the booster seat and the child
following the instructions provided by its
manufacturer.
3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle
until you hear a click. Take care not to
twist the seatbelt.
Make sure the shoulder belt is positioned
across the center of child’s shoulder and
that the lap belt is positioned as low as
possible on the child’s hips.

100142

4. To remove the booster seat, press the
release button on the seatbelt buckle and
allow the belt to retract.

y The seatbelt should fit snugly in
order to provide full restraint.
Loose fitting belts are not as effective in preventing or reducing
injury.
y Place the lap belt as low as possible on the child’s hips. A high-positioned lap belt will increase the
risk of sliding under the lap belt
and of the lap belt sliding up over
the abdomen, and both can result
in serious internal injury or death.
y Make sure the shoulder belt is positioned across the center of
child’s shoulder. Placing the
shoulder belt over the neck may
result in neck injury during sudden braking or in a collision.

y Never use a belt that is twisted or
reversed. In an accident, this can
increase the risk or severity of injury to the child.
y Never place the shoulder belt under the child’s arm or behind the
child’s back. If an accident occurs, this can increase the risk or
severity of injury to the child.

– CONTINUED –

1-32 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Installation of child restraint
systems by use of lower and
tether anchorages (LATCH)

The lower and tether anchorages are
sometimes referred to as the LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren).
Your vehicle is equipped with four lower
anchorages (bars) and three upper anchorages (tether anchorages) for accommodating such child restraint systems.

100144

100612

Some types of child restraint systems can
be installed on the rear seat of your vehicle without use of the seatbelts. Such child
restraint systems are secured to the designated anchorages provided on the vehicle body.

The lower anchorages (bars) are used for
installing a child restraint system only on
the rear seat window-side seating positions. For each window-side seating position, two lower anchorages are provided.
Each anchor bar is located where the seat
cushion meets the seatback.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-33

dicate the positions of the lower anchorages (bars).

100520

100613

The tether anchorages (upper anchorages) are provided for all the seating positions (center and both window-side ones)
of the rear seat.

100615

Each lower anchorage is located where
the seat cushion meets the seatback.
1. Use the “
” marks to locate the two
lower anchorages (bars) for the position
where you want to install the child restraint
system.

2. While following the instructions supplied by the child restraint system manufacturer, connect the lower hooks onto the
lower anchorages located at “
” marks
on the bottom of the rear seatback. When
the hooks are connected, make sure the
adjacent seatbelts are not caught.

100614

You will find marks “
” at the bottom of
the rear seat seatbacks. These marks in– CONTINUED –

1-34 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
structions by the child restraint system
manufacturer.
Since a top tether can provide additional
stability by offering another connection
between a child restraint system and the
vehicle, we recommend that you use a top
tether whenever one is required or available.

100616

3. [If your child restraint system is of a
flexible attachment type (which uses tether belts to connect the child restraint system properly to the lower anchorages)]
While pushing the child restraint into the
seat cushion, pull both left and right lower
tether belts up to secure the child restraint
system firmly by taking up the slack in the
belt.
4. Connect the top tether hook to the tether anchorage and firmly tighten the tether.
For information on how to set the top tether, read the following “Top tether anchorages”.

100149

5. Before seating a child in the child restraint system, try to move seat back and
forth and left and right to verify that it is
held securely in position.
6. To remove the child restraint system,
follow the reverse procedures of installation.
If you have any question concerning this
type of child restraint system, ask your
SUBARU dealer.

Top tether anchorages
Your vehicle is equipped with three top
tether anchorages so that a child restraint
system having a top tether can be installed in the rear seat. When installing a
child restraint system using top tether,
proceed as follows, while observing the in-

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-35

T Anchorage location

Open the cover flaps to use the tether anchorages.
T To hook the top tether

3
2
100152

100151

TOP TETHER

100740

1) For left seat
2) For center seat
3) For right seat

Three upper anchorages are installed on
the rear edge of the roof.

1. Remove the head restraint at the seating position where the child restraint system has been installed with the lower anchorages or seatbelt; lift up the head restraint while pressing the release button.
Store the head restraint in the cargo area.
Avoid placing the head restraint in the
passenger compartment to prevent it from
being thrown around in the passenger
compartment in a sudden stop or a sharp
turn.

2. Open the cover flaps to use the anchorages. Fasten the top tether hook of
the child restraint system to the appropriate top tether anchorage.

100139

3. Tighten the top tether securely.
– CONTINUED –

1-36 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Always remove the head restraint
when mounting a child restraint system with a top tether. Otherwise, it
may not be possible to fasten the
top tether tightly.

*SRS airbag (Supplemental
Restraint System airbag)
*SRS: This stands for supplemental restraint system. This name is used because the airbag system supplements the
vehicle’s seatbelts.
Your vehicle is equipped with a crash
sensing and diagnostic module, which will
record the use of the seatbelt(s) by the
driver and/or front passenger when any of
the SRS frontal and side airbags deploys.

Vehicle with driver’s and
front passenger’s SRS airbags and lap/shoulder restraints
Your vehicle is equipped with a supplemental restraint system in addition to a
lap/shoulder belt at each front seating position.
The supplemental restraint system (SRS)
consists of two airbag (driver’s and front
passenger’s frontal airbags) or four airbags (driver’s and front passenger’s frontal airbags and driver’s and front passenger’s side airbags).
These SRS airbags are designed only
as a supplement to the primary protection provided by the seatbelt.

The system also controls front seatbelt
pretensioners. For operation instructions
and precautions concerning the seatbelt
pretensioner, see the “Front seatbelt pretensioners” section in this chapter.

y To obtain maximum protection in
the event of an accident, the driver and all passengers in the vehicle should always wear seatbelts
when the vehicle is moving. The
SRS airbag is designed only as a
supplement to the primary protection provided by the seatbelt. It
does not do away with the need to
fasten seatbelts. In combination
with the seatbelts, it offers the
best combined protection in case
of a serious accident.
Not wearing a seatbelt increases
the chance of severe injury or
death in a crash even when the vehicle has the SRS airbag.
For instructions and precautions
concerning the seatbelt system,
see the “Seatbelts” section in this
chapter.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-37

y Do not sit or lean unnecessarily
close to the SRS airbag. Because
the SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed – faster than the
blink of an eye – and force to protect in high speed collisions, the
force of an airbag can injure an
occupant whose body is too close
to SRS airbag.
It is also important to wear your
seatbelt to help avoid injuries that
can result when the SRS airbag
contacts an occupant not in proper position such as one thrown
forward during pre-accident braking.
Even when properly positioned,
there remains a possibility that an
occupant may suffer minor injury
such as abrasions and bruises to
the face or arms because of the
SRS airbag deployment force.

y The SRS airbags deploy with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are out of proper position when the SRS airbag deploys
could suffer very serious injuries.
Because the SRS airbag needs
enough space for deployment, the
driver should always sit upright
and well back in the seat as far
from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full vehicle control and the front passenger should move the seat as far
back as possible and sit upright
and well back in the seat.
y Do not place any objects over or
near the SRS airbag cover or between you and the SRS airbag. If
the SRS airbag deploys, those objects could interfere with its proper operation and could be propelled inside the vehicle and
cause injury.

100082

– CONTINUED –

1-38 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Consequently, we strongly recommend that ALL children (including those in child seats and
those that have outgrown child restraint devices) sit in the REAR
seat properly restrained at all
times in a child restraint device or
in a seatbelt, whichever is appropriate for the child’s age, height
and weight.

y Never allow a child to stand up, or
to kneel on the front passenger’s
seat, or never hold a child on your
lap or in your arms. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable
force and can injure or even kill
the child.

Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (including forward
facing child seats) in the REAR
seats at all times.
According to accident statistics,
children are safer when properly
restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions.
For instructions and precautions
concerning the child restraint system, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chapter.

y When the SRS airbag deploys,
some smoke will be released. This
smoke could cause breathing
problems for people with a history
of asthma or other breathing trouble. If you or your passengers
have breathing problems after
SRS airbag deploys, get fresh air
promptly.

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

y A deploying SRS airbag releases
hot gas. Occupants could get
burned if they come into direct
contact with the hot gas.

NOTE
When you sell your vehicle, we urge
you to explain to the buyer that it is
equipped with SRS airbags by alerting
him or her to the applicable section in
this Owner’s Manual.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-39

17
9

100800

1) Airbag control module (including impact
sensors)
2) Frontal airbag module (driver’s side)
3) Frontal airbag module (front passenger’s side)
4) Front sub sensor (left-hand side)
5) Front sub sensor (right-hand side)
6) Side airbag module (driver’s side)
7) Side airbag module (front passenger’s
side)
8) Side airbag sensor (center pillar lefthand side)
9) Side airbag sensor (center pillar righthand side)
10)Airbag wiring (yellow)
11)Seatbelt pretensioner (driver’s side)
12)Seatbelt pretensioner (front passenger’s
side)
13)Seatbelt buckle switch (front passenger’s side)
14)Seatbelt buckle switch (driver’s side)
15)Driver’s seat position sensor
16)Front passenger’s seatbelt tension sensor
17)Front passenger’s occupant detection
system weight sensor
18)Front passenger’s occupant detection
control module
19)Front passenger’s frontal airbag ON and
OFF indicator
20)SRS airbag system warning light

– CONTINUED –

1-40 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
Subaru advanced frontal airbag system
Your vehicle is equipped with a Subaru
advanced frontal airbag system that complies with the new advanced frontal airbag
requirements in the amended Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No.
208.
The Subaru advanced frontal airbag system automatically determines the deployment force of the driver’s SRS frontal airbag at the time of deployment as well as
whether or not to activate the front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag and, if activated, the deployment force of the SRS frontal airbag at the time of deployment.
Your vehicle has warning labels on the
driver’s and front passenger’s sun visors
beginning with the phrase “EVEN WITH
ADVANCED AIR BAGS” and a tag attached to the glove box lid beginning with
the phrase “Even with Advanced Air
Bags”. Make sure that you carefully read
the instructions on the warning labels and
tag.
Always wear your seatbelt. The subaru
advanced frontal airbag system is a supplemental restraint system and must be
used in combination with a seatbelt. All
occupants should wear a seatbelt or be
seated in an appropriate child restraint
system.

The driver’s SRS frontal airbag is stowed
in the center portion of the steering wheel.
The front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag
is stowed near the top of the dashboard
under an “SRS AIRBAG” mark.
In a moderate to severe frontal collision,
the driver’s and front passenger’s SRS
frontal airbags deploy and supplement the
seatbelts by reducing the impact on the
driver’s and front passenger’s head and
chest.

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

100126

100608

Never allow a child to stand up, or to
kneel on the front passenger’s seat.
The SRS airbag deploys with considerable force and can injure or
even kill the child.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-41

It is also important to wear your
seatbelt to help avoid injuries that
can result when the SRS airbag contacts an occupant not in proper position such as one thrown toward
the front of the vehicle during preaccident braking.

100125

100155

Never hold a child on your lap or in
your arms. The SRS airbag deploys
with considerable force and can injure or even kill the child.

The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are out of proper position
when the SRS airbag deploys could
suffer very serious injuries. Because the SRS airbag needs enough
space for deployment, the driver
should always sit upright and well
back in the seat as far from the
steering wheel as practical while
still maintaining full vehicle control
and the front passenger should
move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in
the seat.

100156

Do not put any objects over the
steering wheel pad and dashboard.
If the SRS frontal airbag deploys,
those objects could interfere with its
proper operation and could be propelled inside the vehicle and cause
injury.

– CONTINUED –

1-42 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

100157

Do not attach accessories to the
windshield, or fit an extra-wide mirror over the rear view mirror. If the
SRS airbag deploys, those objects
could become projectiles that could
seriously injure vehicle occupants.
T Driver’s SRS frontal airbag
The driver’s SRS frontal airbag uses a
dual stage inflator. The inflator operates in
different ways depending on the severity
of impact, backward-forward adjustment
of the driver’s seat position and whether or
not he/she is wearing the seatbelt.
The backward-forward adjustment of the
driver’s seat position is monitored by the
driver’s seat position sensor under the

driver’s seat.
Whether or not the driver is wearing the
seatbelt is monitored by the seatbelt buckle switch.
Observe the following precautions. Failure
to do so may cause the seatbelt buckle
switch and/or the seat position sensor to
malfunction, preventing the Subaru advanced frontal airbag system from functioning correctly or causing the system to
fail.
y Do not place articles/metal objects or install any accessory other than a genuine
SUBARU accessory under the driver’s
seat. Do not allow the rear seat occupant
to kick the driver’s seat or push up its bottom surface with his/her feet.
y Do not place a magnet near the seatbelt
buckle or under the driver’s seat.
If the seatbelt buckle switch and/or the
driver’s seat position sensor have failed,
the SRS airbag system warning light will illuminate. Although the driver’s SRS frontal airbag can deploy regardless of the
backward-forward adjustment of the driver’s seat position even when the warning
light is on, have the system inspected by
your SUBARU dealer immediately if the
SRS airbag system warning light comes
on.

NOTE
The driver’s SRS side airbag and seatbelt pretensioner are not controlled by
the Subaru advanced frontal airbag
system.
T Front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag
The front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag
uses a dual stage inflator. The inflator operates in different ways depending on the
severity of impact.
The total load on the seat is monitored by
the occupant detection system’s weight
sensor located under the seat.
The system has another sensor that monitors the tension of the front passenger
seatbelt. Using the total seat load and
seatbelt tension data from the sensors,
the occupant detection system determines whether the front passenger’s SRS
frontal airbag should or should not be inflated.
The occupant detection system may not
inflate the front passenger’s SRS frontal
airbag even when the driver’s SRS frontal
airbag deploys. This is normal.
Observe the following precautions. Failure
to do so may prevent the Subaru advanced frontal airbag system from functioning correctly or cause the system to
fail.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-43

y Do not apply any strong impact to the
front passenger’s seat such as by kicking.
y Do not spill liquid on the front passenger’s seat. If liquid is spilled, wipe it off immediately.
y Do not remove or disassemble the front
passenger’s seat.
y Do not install any accessory (such as
an audio amplifier) other than a genuine
SUBARU accessory under the front passenger’s seat.
y Do not place anything (shoes, umbrella,
etc.) under the front passenger’s seat.
y The front passenger’s seat must not be
used with the head restraint removed.
y Do not leave any article including a child
restraint system on the front passenger’s
seat or the seatbelt tongue and buckle engaged when you leave your vehicle.
y Do not place a magnet near the seatbelt
buckle and the seatbelt retractor.
y Do not use front seats with their backward-forward position and seatback not
being locked into place securely. If any of
them are not locked securely, adjust them
again. For adjusting procedure, refer to
the “Manual seat” in the front seats section in Chapter 1 in this Owner’s Manual.
(Models equipped with manual seats only)
y If you use an optional seatbelt extender,
remove it after each use. (Refer to the
“Seatbelt extender” section in this chap-

ter.)
If the seatbelt buckle switch and/or front
passenger’s occupant detection system
have failed, the SRS airbag system warning light will illuminate. Have the system
inspected by your SUBARU dealer immediately if the SRS airbag system warning
light comes on.
If your vehicle has sustained impact, this
may affect the proper function of the Subaru advanced frontal airbag system. Have
your vehicle inspected at your SUBARU
dealer.

NOTE
The front passenger’s SRS side airbag
and seatbelt pretensioner are not controlled by the Subaru advanced frontal
airbag system.

T Passenger’s frontal airbag ON and
OFF indicators

100547

1) U.S.-spec. models
2) Canada-spec. models
or
:Front passenger’s frontal
airbag ON indicator
or
:Front passenger’s frontal
airbag OFF indicator

1-44 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
tinguish for 2 seconds. After this, one of
the indicators illuminates depending on
the status of the front passenger’s SRS
frontal airbag reached by the Subaru advanced frontal airbag system monitoring.
If the front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag
is activated, the passenger’s frontal airbag
ON indicator will illuminate while the OFF
indicator will remain extinguished.
If the front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag
is deactivated, the passenger’s frontal airbag ON indicator will remain extinguished
while the OFF indicator will illuminate.
With the ignition switch turned to the “ON”
position, if both the ON and OFF indicators remain lit or extinguished simultaneously even after the system check period, the system is faulty. Contact your
SUBARU dealer immediately for an inspection.
T Conditions in which front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag is not activated
The front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag
will not be activated when any of the following conditions are met regarding the
front passenger’s seat:
y The seat is empty.
y The seat is equipped with a rearward
facing child restraint system and an infant
is restrained with it. (See WARNING that

follows.)
y The seat is equipped with a forward facing child restraint system and a small child
is restrained with it. (See WARNING that
follows.)
y The seat is equipped with a booster
seat and a small child is in the booster
seat. (See WARNING that follows.)
y The seat is relieved of the occupant
load for a time exceeding the predetermined period.
y The seat is occupied by a child who has
outgrown a child restraint system (See
WARNING that follows.) or a small adult.
y The front passenger’s occupant detection system is faulty.

NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD
FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT
PASSENGER’S SEAT EVEN IF THE
FRONT PASSENGER’S SRS FRONTAL AIRBAG IS DEACTIVATED. Be
sure to install it in the REAR seat in
a correct manner. Also, it is strongly
recommended that any forward facing child seat or booster seat be installed in the REAR seat, and that
even children who have outgrown a
child restraint system be also seated in the REAR seat. This is because
children sitting in the front passenger’s seat may be killed or severely
injured should the front passenger’s
SRS frontal airbag deploy. REAR
seats are the safest place for children.
When the front passenger’s seat is occupied by a child, observe the following precautions. Failure to do so may increase
the load on the front passenger’s seat, activating the front passenger’s SRS frontal
airbag even though that seat is occupied
by a child.
y Do not place any article on the seat other than the child occupant and a child restraint system.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-45

y Do not place more than one child on the
seat.
y Do not install any accessory such as a
table or TV onto the seatback.
y Do not store a heavy load in the seatback pocket.
y Do not allow the rear seat occupant to
place his/her hands or legs on the front
passenger’s seatback, or allow him/her to
pull the seatback.
V If the front passenger’s frontal airbag ON indicator illuminates and the
OFF indicator extinguishes even
when an infant or a small child is in
a child restraint system (including
booster seat)
Turn the ignition switch to the “OFF” position if the front passenger’s frontal airbag
ON indicator illuminates and the OFF indicator extinguishes even when an infant or
a small child is in a child restraint system
(including booster seat). Remove the child
restraint system from the seat. By referring to the child restraint manufacturer’s
recommendations as well as the child restraint system installation procedures in
the “Child restraint systems” section in this
chapter, correctly install the child restraint
system. Turn the ignition switch to the
“ON” position and make sure that the front
passenger’s frontal airbag ON indicator

goes out and the OFF indicator comes on.
If the ON indicator remains illuminated
while the OFF indicator extinguishes, take
the following actions.
y Ensure that no article is placed on the
seat other than the child restraint system
and the child occupant.
y Ensure that there is no article left in the
seatback pocket.
y Ensure that the backward-forward position and seatback of front passenger’s
seat are locked into place securely by
moving the seat back and forth. (Models
equipped with manual seats only)
If the ON indicator still illuminates while
the OFF indicator extinguishes after taking relevant corrective actions described
above, relocate the child restraint system
to the rear seat and immediately contact
your SUBARU dealer for an inspection.

NOTE
When a child who has outgrown a child
restraint system or a small adult is
seated in the front passenger’s seat,
the Subaru advanced frontal airbag
system may or may not activate the
front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag
depending on the occupant’s seating
posture. If the front passenger’s SRS
frontal airbag is activated (the ON indi-

cator illuminates while the OFF indicator extinguishes), take the following
actions.
y Ensure that no article is placed on
the seat other than the occupant.
y Ensure that there is no article left in
the seatback pocket.
If the ON indicator still illuminates
while the OFF indicator extinguishes
despite the fact that the actions noted
above have been taken, seat the child/
small adult in the rear seat and immediately contact your SUBARU dealer for
an inspection. Even if the system has
passed the dealer inspection, it is recommended that on subsequent trips
the child/small adult always take the
rear seat.
Children who have outgrown a child restraint system should always wear the
seatbelt irrespective of whether the airbag
is deactivated or activated.
T Conditions in which front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag is activated
The front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag
will be activated for deployment upon impact when any of the following conditions
is met regarding the front passenger’s
seat.
y When the seat is occupied by an adult.
– CONTINUED –

1-46 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
y When a heavy article is placed on the
seat.
When the front passenger’s seat is occupied by an adult, observe the following
precautions. Failure to do so may lessen
the load on the front passenger’s seat, deactivating the front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag despite the fact that the seat is
occupied by an adult.
y Do not allow the rear seat occupant to
lift the front passenger’s seat cushion using his/her feet.
y Do not place any article under the front
passenger’s seat, or squeeze any article
from behind and under the seat. This may
lift the seat cushion.
y Do not squeeze any article between the
front passenger’s seat and side trim/pillar,
door or center console box. This may lift
the seat cushion.
V If the passenger’s frontal airbag
OFF indicator illuminates and the
ON indicator extinguishes even
when the front passenger’s seat is
occupied by an adult
This can be caused by the adult incorrectly sitting in the front passenger’s seat.
Turn the ignition switch to the “OFF” position. Ask the front passenger to set the
seatback to the upright position, sit up
straight in the center of the seat cushion,

correctly fasten the seatbelt, position his/
her legs out forward, and adjust the seat
to the rearmost position. Turn the ignition
switch to the “ON” position. If the OFF indicator remains illuminated while the ON
indicator remains extinguished, take the
following actions.
y Turn the ignition switch to the “OFF” position.
y Ensure that there are no articles, books,
shoes or other objects trapped under the
seat, at the rear of the seat, or on the side
of the seat.
y Ensure that the backward-forward position and seatback of front passenger’s
seat are locked into place securely by
moving the seat back and forth. (Models
equipped with manual seats only)
y Next, turn the ignition switch to the “ON”
position and wait 6 seconds to allow the
system to complete self-checking. Following the system check, both indicators extinguish for 2 seconds. Now, the ON indicator should illuminate while the OFF indicator remains extinguished.
If the OFF indicator still illuminates while
the ON indicator remains extinguished,
ask the occupant to move to the rear seat
and immediately contact your SUBARU
dealer for an inspection.

T Effect vehicle modifications made
for persons with disabilities may
have on Subaru advanced frontal
airbag system operation (U.S. only)
Changing or moving any parts of the front
seats, seat belts, front bumper, front side
frame, instrument panel, combination
meter, steering wheel, steering column,
tire, suspension or floor panel can affect
the operation of the Subaru advanced airbag system. If you have any questions,
you may contact the following Subaru distributors:

Subaru of America, Inc.
Customer Dealer Services Department
P.O. Box 6000
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034-6000
1-800-SUBARU3 (1-800-782-2783)

Schuman Inc, dba Subaru of Hawaii
740 Halekauwila Street Honolulu, HI
96813
808-591-3075

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-47

Shen’s Corporation dba Prestige
Automobile
491, East Marine Drive, Route 1 Dededo,
Guam
671-633-2698

Trebol Motors
P.O. Box 11204, San Juan, Puerto Rico
00910
787-793-2828
There are currently no Subaru distributors
in any other U.S. territories. If you are in
such an area, please contact the Subaru
distributor or dealer from which you
bought your vehicle.

– CONTINUED –

1-48 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
T Operation

The SRS airbag can function only when
the ignition switch is in the “ON” position.
The Subaru advanced frontal airbag system is designed to determine the activation or deactivation condition of the front
passenger’s SRS frontal airbag depending on the total load on the front passenger’s seat monitored by the front passenger’s occupant detection system weight
sensor. For this reason, only the driver’s
SRS frontal airbag may deploy in the
event of a collision, but this does not mean
failure of the system.

100619

A)
B)
1)
2)

Driver’s side
Passenger’s side
SRS AIRBAGs deploy as soon as a collision occurs.
After deployment, SRS AIRBAGs start to deflate immediately so that the driver’s vision is not
obstructed.

If the front sub sensors inside both front
fenders and the impact sensors in the airbag control module detect a predetermined amount of force during a frontal collision, the control module sends signals to
the airbag module(s) (only driver’s module
or both driver’s and front passenger’s
modules) instructing the module(s) to inflate the SRS frontal airbag(s). The driver’s and front passenger’s SRS frontal airbags use dual stage inflators. The two inflators of each airbag are triggered either
sequentially or simultaneously, depending
on the severity of impact, backward-forward adjustment of the driver’s seat position and fastening/unfastening of the seatbelt in the case of the driver’s SRS frontal
airbag and depending on the severity of
impact and the total load on the seat in the

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-49

case of the front passenger’s SRS frontal
airbag. After deployment, the SRS airbags
immediately start to deflate so that the
driver’s vision is not obstructed. The time
required from detecting impact to the deflation of the SRS airbag after deployment
is shorter than the blink of an eye.
Both when only the driver’s SRS frontal
airbag deploys and the driver’s and front
passenger’s SRS frontal airbags deploy,
the driver’s and front passenger’s seatbelt
pretensioners operate at the same time.
Although it is highly unlikely that the SRS
airbag would activate in a non-accident
situation, should it occur, the SRS airbag
will deflate quickly, not obscuring vision
and will not interfere with the driver’s ability to maintain control of the vehicle.
When the SRS airbag deploys, a sudden,
fairly loud inflation noise will be heard and
some smoke will be released. These occurrences are a normal result of the deployment. This smoke does not indicate a
fire in the vehicle.

the visible damage done to the vehicle itself.
Do not touch the SRS airbag system
components around the steering
wheel and dashboard with bare
hands right after deployment. Doing
so can cause burns because the
components can be very hot as a result of deployment.
The driver’s SRS frontal airbag and front
passenger’s SRS frontal airbag are designed to deploy in the event of an accident involving a moderate to severe frontal collision. They are basically not designed to deploy in lesser frontal impacts
because the necessary protection can be
achieved by the seatbelt alone. Also, they
are basically not designed to deploy in
side or rear impacts or in roll-over accidents because deployment of only the
driver’s SRS frontal airbag or both driver’s
and front passenger’s SRS frontal airbags
would not help the occupant in those situations. The driver’s and front passenger’s
SRS frontal airbags are designed to function on a one-time-only basis.
SRS airbag deployment depends on the
level of force experienced in the passenger compartment during a collision. That
level differs from one type of collision to
another, and it may have no bearing on

V Examples of accidents in which the
driver’s/driver’s and front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag(s) will most
likely deploy.

100159

A head-on collision against a thick concrete wall at a vehicle speed of 12 to 19
mph (20 to 30 km/h) or higher activates
only the driver’s SRS frontal airbag or both
driver’s and front passenger’s SRS frontal
airbags. The airbag(s) will also be activated when the vehicle is exposed to a frontal
impact similar in fashion and magnitude to
the collision described above.

– CONTINUED –

1-50 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
V Examples of the types of accidents
in which it is possible that the driver’s/driver’s and front passenger’s
SRS frontal airbag(s) will deploy.

100160

Only the driver’s SRS frontal airbag or
both driver’s and front passenger’s SRS

frontal airbags may be activated when the
vehicle sustains a hard impact in the undercarriage area from the road surface
(such as when the vehicle plunges into a
deep ditch, is severely impacted or
knocked hard against an obstacle on the
road such as a curb).

V Examples of the types of accidents
in which deployment of the driver’s/
driver’s and front passenger’s SRS
frontal airbag(s) is unlikely to occur.

100161

There are many types of collisions which
might not necessarily require deployment

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-51

of driver’s/driver’s and front passenger’s
SRS frontal airbag(s). If the vehicle strikes
an object, such as a telephone pole or
sign pole, or if it slides under a truck’s load
bed, or if it sustains an oblique offset frontal impact, the driver’s/driver’s and front
passenger’s SRS frontal airbag(s) may
not deploy depending on the level of accident forces involved.

V Examples of the types of accidents
in which the driver’s/driver’s and
front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag(s) will basically not deploy.

to deploy if the vehicle is struck from the
side or from behind, or if it rolls onto its
side or roof, or if it is involved in a lowspeed frontal collision.
2

1
100621

1) First impact
2) Second impact

In an accident where the vehicle is impacted more than once, the driver’s and/or
front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag(s)
will deploy only once on the first impact.

100162

The driver’s and front passenger’s SRS
frontal airbags are designed basically not

Example: In the case of a double collision,
first with another vehicle, then against a
concrete wall in immediate succession,
once either or both of the driver’s and front
passenger’s SRS frontal airbags is/are activated on the first impact, it/they will not
be activated on the second impact.
– CONTINUED –

1-52 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
SRS side airbag (if equipped)
The SRS side airbag is stored in the door
side of each front seat seatback, which
bears an “SRS AIRBAG” label.
In a moderate to severe side impact collision, the SRS side airbag on the impacted
side of the vehicle deploys between the
occupant and the door panel and supplements the seatbelt by reducing the impact
on the occupant’s chest and head.

The SRS side airbag is designed as
only a supplement to the primary
protection provided by the seatbelt.
They do not do away with the need
to fasten seatbelts. It is also important to wear your seatbelt to help
avoid injuries that can result when
an occupant is not seated in a proper upright position.

100164

100165

Do not sit or lean unnecessarily
close to either front door. The SRS
side airbag is stored in both front
seat seatbacks next to the door, and
it provides protection by deploying
rapidly (faster than the blink of an
eye) in the event of a side impact
collision. However, the force of SRS
side airbag deployment may cause
injuries if your head or other parts of
the body are too close to the SRS
side airbag.

Do not rest your arm on either front
door or its internal trim. It could be
injured in the event of SRS side airbag deployment.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-53

100622

Never allow a child to kneel on the
front passenger’s seat facing the
side window or to wrap his/her arms
around the front seat seatback. In
the event of an accident, the force of
the SRS side airbag deployment
could injure the child seriously because his/her head or arms or other
parts of the body are too close to the
SRS side airbag. Since your vehicle
is also equipped with a passenger’s
SRS frontal airbag, children aged 12
and under should be placed in the
rear seat anyway and should be
properly restrained at all times.

Do not attach accessories to the
door trim or near either SRS side airbags and do not place objects near
the SRS side airbags. In the event of
the SRS side airbag deployment,
they could be propelled dangerously toward the vehicle’s occupants
and cause injuries.

100624

100167

100623

– CONTINUED –

1-54 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
T Operation
Do not put any kind of cover or
clothes or other objects over either
front seatback and do not attach labels or stickers to the front seat surface on or near the SRS side airbag.
They could prevent proper deployment of the SRS side airbag, reducing protection available to the front
seat’s occupant.

The SRS side airbag can function only
when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position.
The driver’s and front passenger’s SRS
side airbags deploy independently of each
other since each has its own impact sensor. Also, the SRS side airbag deploys independently of the frontal airbags in the
steering wheel and instrument panel.

An impact sensor is incorporated into
each of the vehicle’s center pillars. If either sensor detects a certain predetermined amount of force during a side impact collision, the control module sends a
signal to the side airbag module on the impacted side of the vehicle, instructing it to
inflate the SRS side airbag. Then the side
airbag module produces gas, which instantly inflates the SRS side airbag. After
deployment, the SRS side airbag will deflate in a few seconds.

100625

1) SRS side airbag deploys as soon as a
collision occurs.
2) SRS side airbag protects the front passenger’s head and chest.
3) After deployment, SRS side airbag
starts to deflate immediately.

The SRS side airbag deploys even when
no one occupies the seat on the side on
which an impact is applied.
When the SRS side airbag deploys, a sudden, fairly loud inflation noise will be heard
and some smoke will be released. These
occurrences are a normal result of the deployment. This smoke does not indicate a
fire in the vehicle.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-55

Do not touch the SRS side airbag
system components around the
front seat seatback with bare hands
right after deployment. Doing so can
cause burns because the components can be very hot as a result of
deployment.
The SRS side airbag is designed to deploy in the event of an accident involving a
moderate to severe side impact collision.
It is basically not designed to deploy in a
lesser side impact. Also, it is basically not
designed to deploy in frontal or rear impacts because SRS side airbag deployment would not help the occupant in those
situations.
Each SRS side airbag is designed to function on a one-time-only basis.

V Example of the type of accident in
which the SRS side airbag will most
likely deploy.

100171

A severe side impact near the front seat
activates the SRS side airbag.

SRS side airbag deployment depends on
the level of force experienced in the passenger compartment during a side impact
collision. That level differs from one type
of collision to another, and it may have no
bearing on the visible damage done to the
vehicle itself.

– CONTINUED –

1-56 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
V Examples of the types of accidents in which the SRS side airbag is unlikely to
deploy.

1)
2)

3)
4)
5)

The vehicle is involved in an oblique
side-on impact.
The vehicle is involved in a side-on
impact in an area outside the vicinity
of the passenger compartment.
The vehicle strikes a telephone pole
or similar object.
The vehicle is involved in a side-on
impact from a motorcycle.
The vehicle rolls onto its side or roof.

There are many types of collisions which
might not necessarily require SRS side
airbag deployment. In the event of accidents like those illustrated, the SRS side
airbag may not deploy depending on the
level of accident forces involved.

100627

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-57

V Examples of the types of accidents
in which the SRS side airbag will basically not deploy.

The SRS side airbag is basically not designed to deploy if the vehicle is involved
in a frontal collision or is struck from behind. Examples of such accidents are illustrated.

SRS airbag system monitors

1
2
1

100606

100629

1) First impact
2) Second impact

In an accident where the vehicle is struck
from the side more than once, the SRS
side airbag deploys only once on the first
impact.

100628

1) The vehicle is involved in frontal collision
with another vehicle (moving or stationary).
2) The vehicle is struck from behind.

Example: In the case of a double side impact collision, first with one vehicle and
immediately followed by another from the
same direction, once the SRS side airbag
is activated on the first impact, it will not be
activated on the second.

A diagnostic system continually monitors
the readiness of the SRS airbag system
(including front seatbelt pretensioners)
while the vehicle is being driven. The SRS
airbag system warning light “
” will
show normal system operation by lighting
for approximately 6 seconds when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position.
The following components are monitored
by the indicator:
y Front sub sensor (Right-hand side)
y Front sub sensor (Left-hand side)
y Airbag control module (including impact
sensors)
y Frontal airbag module (Driver’s side)
y Frontal airbag module (Front passenger’s side)
– CONTINUED –

1-58 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
y Side airbag sensor (Center pillar righthand side)
y Side airbag sensor (Center pillar lefthand side)
y Side airbag module (Driver’s side)
y Side airbag module (Front passenger’s
side)
y Seatbelt pretensioner (Driver’s side)
y Seatbelt pretensioner (Front passenger’s side)
y Seatbelt buckle switch (Driver’s side)
y Seatbelt buckle switch (Front passenger’s side)
y Driver’s seat position sensor
y Front passenger’s seatbelt tension sensor
y Front passenger’s occupant detection
system weight sensor
y Front passenger’s occupant detection
control module
y Front passenger’s frontal airbag ON
and OFF indicator
y All related wiring

SRS airbag system servicing
If the warning light exhibits any of
the following conditions, there may
be a malfunction in the seatbelt pretensioners and/or SRS airbag system. Immediately take your vehicle
to your nearest SUBARU dealer to
have the system checked. Unless
checked and properly repaired, the
seatbelt pretensioners and/or SRS
airbags will not operate properly in
the event of a collision, which may
increase the risk of injury.
y Flashing or flickering of the warning light
y No illumination of the warning
light when the ignition switch is
first turned to the “ON” position
y Continuous illumination of the
warning light
y Illumination of the warning light
while driving

y When discarding an airbag module or scrapping the entire vehicle
damaged by a collision, consult
your SUBARU dealer.
y The SRS airbag has no user-serviceable parts. Do not use electrical test equipment on any circuit
related to the SRS airbag system.
For required servicing of the SRS
airbag, see your nearest SUBARU
dealer. Tampering with or disconnecting the system’s wiring could
result in accidental inflation of the
SRS airbag or could make the system inoperative, which may result
in serious injury. The wiring harnesses of the SRS airbag system
are covered with yellow insulation
and system connectors are yellow
for easy identification.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1-59

jamb.
If you need service or repair in areas
listed below, have an authorized
SUBARU dealer perform the work.
The SRS airbag control module, impact sensors and airbag modules
are stored in these areas.
y Under the center console
y Inside each front fender
y Steering wheel and column and
nearby areas
y Top of the dashboard on front
passenger’s side and nearby areas
y Each front seat and nearby area
y Inside each center pillar
In the event that the SRS airbag is deployed, replacement of the system
should be performed only by an authorized SUBARU dealer. When the components of the SRS airbag system are
replaced, use only genuine SUBARU
parts.

NOTE
In the following cases, contact your
SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.
y The front part of the vehicle was involved in an accident in which only the
driver’s SRS frontal airbag or both driver’s and front passenger’s SRS frontal
airbags did not deploy.
y The pad section of the steering
wheel or front passenger’s frontal airbag cover is scratched, cracked, or
otherwise damaged.
In addition, if your vehicle is equipped
with SRS side airbags, contact your
SUBARU dealer as soon as possible in
the following cases.
y Either center pillar or a nearby area
of the vehicle was involved in an accident in which the SRS side airbag did
not deploy.
y The fabric or leather of either front
seatback is cut, frayed, or otherwise
damaged.

Precautions against vehicle
modification

y To avoid accidental activation of
the system or rendering the system inoperative, which may result
in serious injury, no modifications
should be made to any components or wiring of the SRS airbag
system.
This includes following modifications:
y Installation of custom steering
wheels
y Attachment of additional trim
materials to the dashboard
y Installation of custom seats
y Replacement of seat fabric or
leather
y Installation of additional fabric
or leather on the front seat

To ensure their long-term reliability, the
SRS airbags must be inspected by a SUBARU dealer ten years after the date of
manufacture, which is shown on the certification plate attached to the driver’s door– CONTINUED –

1-60 Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags
y Installation of additional electrical/electronic equipment such
as a mobile two-way radio on or
near the SRS airbag system
components and/or wiring is
not advisable. This could interfere with proper operation of the
SRS airbag system.

Do not perform any of the following
modifications. Such modifications
can interfere with proper operation
of the SRS airbag system.
y Attachment of any equipment
(brush bar, winches, snow plow,
skid plate, etc.) other than genuine SUBARU accessory parts to
the front end.
y Modification of the suspension
system or front end structure.
y Installation of a tire of different
size and construction from the
tires specified on the vehicle placard attached to the driver’s door
pillar or specified for individual
vehicle models in this Owner’s
Manual.

y Attachment of any equipment
(side steps or side sill protectors,
etc.) other than genuine SUBARU
accessory parts to the side body.
Always consult your SUBARU dealer if
you want to install any accessory parts on
your vehicle.

Keys and doors
Keys .....................................................................

2-2

Key number .............................................................

2-2

Immobilizer (if equipped) ...................................

2-3

Security ID plate .....................................................
Security indicator light .......................................
Key replacement .....................................................

2-3
2-3
2-4

Door locks ...........................................................

2-4

Locking and unlocking from the outside .............
Locking and unlocking from the inside ................

2-4
2-5

Power door locking switches ............................

2-6

Key lock-in prevention function ............................

2-6

Remote keyless entry system ...........................

2-6

Locking the doors ..................................................
Unlocking the doors ...............................................
Illuminated entry .....................................................
Vehicle finder function ...........................................
Sounding a panic alarm .........................................
Selecting audible signal operation .......................
Replacing the battery .............................................
Replacing lost transmitters ...................................

2-7
2-7
2-8
2-8
2-8
2-8
2-8
2-9

Alarm system ......................................................

2-12

System operation ...................................................
Activating and deactivating the alarm system .....
If you have accidentally triggered the alarm
system ...................................................................
Arming the system .................................................
Disarming the system ............................................
Valet mode ..............................................................
Passive arming .......................................................

2-12
2-13
2-13
2-13
2-14
2-15
2-15

Tripped sensor identification ................................
Shock sensors (dealer option) ..............................

2-16
2-16

Child safety locks ............................................... 2-17
Windows .............................................................. 2-18
Power windows .......................................................

2-18

Rear gate ............................................................. 2-20
Moonroof (if equipped) ...................................... 2-21
To open the moonroof ............................................
To close the moonroof ...........................................
Anti-entrapment function .......................................

2-21
2-21
2-21

2-2 Keys and doors
Keys
1

Keys and doors

4
4

5
200801

Vehicle with immobilizer system
1) Master key (Black)
2) Submaster key (Black)
3) Valet key (Gray)
4) Key number plate
5) Security ID plate

Do not attach a large key holder or
key case to either key. If it bangs
against your knees while you are
driving, it could turn the ignition
switch from the ON position to the
ACC or OFF position, thereby stopping the engine.

Key number
200802

Vehicle without immobilizer system
1) Master key
2) Submaster key
3) Valet key
4) Key number plate

Three types of keys are provided for your
vehicle:
Master key, submaster key and valet key.
The master key and submaster key fit all
locks on your vehicle.
y Ignition switch
y Driver’s door
y Glove box
The valet key fits only the ignition switch
and door lock. You can keep the glove box
locked when you leave your vehicle and
valet key at a parking facility.

The key number is stamped on the key
number plate attached to the key set.
Write down the key number and keep it in
another safe place, not in the vehicle. This
number is needed to make a replacement
key if you lose your key or lock it inside the
vehicle.
For information on making replacement
keys for vehicles with the immobilizer system, refer to the “Immobilizer (if
equipped)” section in this chapter.

Keys and doors 2-3

Immobilizer (if equipped)
The immobilizer system is designed to
prevent an unauthorized persons from
starting the engine. Only keys registered
with your vehicle’s immobilizer system
can be used to operate your vehicle. Even
if an unregistered key fits into the ignition
switch and can be turned to the “START”
position, the engine will automatically stop
after several seconds.
Each immobilizer key contains a transponder in which the key’s ID code is
stored. When a key is inserted into the ignition switch and turned to the “ON” position, the transponder transmits the key’s
ID code to the immobilizer system’s receiver. If the transmitted ID code matches
the ID code registered in the immobilizer
system, the system allows the engine to
be started. Since the ID code is transmitted and acted upon almost instantly, the
immobilizer system does not impede normal starting of the engine.
If the engine fails to start, pull out the key
once before trying again. (Refer to the “Ignition switch” section [chapter 3].)
This device complies with Part 15 of
the FCC Rules and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) This

device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.

NOTE
To protect your vehicle from theft,
please pay close attention to the following security precautions:
y Never leave your vehicle unattended
with its keys inside.
y Before leaving your vehicle, close all
windows and lock the doors and rear
gate.
y Do not leave spare keys or any
record of your key number in the vehicle.

y Do not place the key under direct
sunlight or anywhere it may become hot.
y Do not get the key wet. If the key
gets wet, wipe it dry with a cloth
immediately.

Security ID plate

200803

1) Key number plate
2) Security ID plate

The security ID is stamped on the security
ID plate attached to the key set. Write
down the security ID and keep it in another
safe place, not in the vehicle. This number
is needed to make a replacement key if
you lose your key or lock it inside the vehicle.
This number is also needed for replacement or repair of the engine control module and immobilizer control module.

Security indicator light
The security indicator light deters potential
thieves by indicating that the vehicle is
– CONTINUED –

2-4 Keys and doors
equipped with an immobilizer system. It
begins flashing approximately 60 seconds
after the ignition switch is turned from the
“ON” position to the “ACC” or “LOCK” position or immediately after the key is pulled
out.
If the security indicator light does not
flash, the immobilizer system may be
faulty. If this occurs, contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.

have their ID codes erased and re-registered when a new key is made. Therefore,
all of your vehicle’s keys must be presented when a new key is registered. Any key
that is not re-registered when a new key is
made cannot be used after the other keys
are re-registered. For information on replacement keys and on the registration of
keys with your immobilizer system, contact your SUBARU dealer.

Door locks
Locking and unlocking from
the outside

In case an unauthorized key is used (e.g.
an imitation key), the security indicator
light comes on.
2

NOTE
Even if the security indicator light
flashes irregularly or its fuse blows
(the light does not flash if its fuse is
blown), the immobilizer system will
function normally.

Key replacement
Your key number plate and security ID
plate will be required if you ever need a replacement key made. Any new key must
be registered for use with your vehicle’s
immobilizer system before it can be used.
Up to four keys can be registered for use
with one vehicle.
For security, all the keys registered with
your vehicle’s immobilizer system will

1
200804

1) Lock
2) Unlock

To lock the driver’s door from the outside
with the key, turn the key toward the rear.
To unlock the door, turn the key toward
the front (Driver’s side only).
Pull the outside door handle to open the
unlocked door.

Keys and doors 2-5

doors from the outside without the key.

Locking and unlocking from
the inside

Keep all doors locked when you
drive, especially when small children are in your vehicle.

1
2
200805

1) Rotate the lock lever rearward.
2) Close the door.

To lock the door from the outside without
the key, rotate the lock lever rearward and
then close the door.
To lock the door from the outside using the
power door locking switch, push the front
side of the switch (“LOCK” side) and then
close the door. In this case, all closed
doors and the rear gate are locked at the
same time.
Always make sure that all doors and the
rear gate are locked before leaving your
vehicle.

NOTE
Make sure that you do not leave the key
inside the vehicle when locking the

Along with the proper use of seatbelts and child restraints, locking
the doors reduces the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in an
accident.
It also helps prevent passengers
from falling out if a door is accidentally opened, and intruders from unexpectedly opening doors and entering your vehicle.

200806

1) Lock
2) Unlock

To lock the door from the inside, rotate the
lock lever rearward. To unlock the door
from the inside, rotate the lock lever forward.
The red mark on the lock lever appears
when the door is unlocked.
Pull the inside door handle to open an unlocked door.
Always make sure that all doors and the
rear gate are closed before starting to
drive.

2-6 Keys and doors
Power door locking switches

inside the vehicle before locking the
doors from the outside using the power door locking switches.

Key lock-in prevention function

This function prevents the doors from being locked with the key still in the ignition
switch.

2
200807

1) Lock
2) Unlock

All doors and the rear gate can be locked
and unlocked by the power door locking
switches located at the driver’s side and
the front passenger’s side doors.
To lock all the doors and the rear gate,
push the “LOCK” side of the switch.
To unlock all the doors and the rear gate,
push the “UNLOCK” side of the switch.
When you close the doors after you set
the door locks, the doors remain locked.

NOTE
Make sure that you do not leave the key

T Behavior with key lock-in prevention function operative
With the driver’s door open, the doors are
automatically kept unlocked even if the
door locking switch is pushed to the
“LOCK” side.
T Behavior with key lock-in prevention function non-operative
y If the lock lever is turned to the rear
(“LOCK”) position with the driver’s door
open and the driver’s door is then closed
with the lock lever in that position, the driver’s door is locked.
y If the spare key is used to lock the driver’s door from the outside of the vehicle,
the door is locked.

NOTE
When leaving the vehicle, make sure
you are holding the key before locking
the doors.

Remote keyless entry system

y Do not expose the transmitter to
severe shocks, such as those experienced as a result of dropping
or throwing.
y Do not take the transmitter apart
except when replacing the battery.
y Do not get the transmitter wet. If it
gets wet, wipe it dry with a cloth
immediately.
This device complies with Part 15 of
the FCC Rules and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) This
device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
Two transmitters are provided for your ve-

Keys and doors 2-7

hicle.

If any of the doors or the rear gate is not
fully closed, an electronic chirp will sound
five times and the turn signal lights will
flash five times to alert you that the doors
or the rear gate are not properly closed.
When you close the door, it will automatically lock.

The remote keyless entry system has the
following functions.
y Locking and unlocking the doors and
rear gate without a key
y Sounding a panic alarm
y Arming and disarming the alarm system
(if your vehicle is equipped with an optional alarm system). See the next section
“Alarm system” for detailed information.
The operable distance of the keyless entry
system is approximately 30 feet (10
meters). However, this distance will vary
depending on environmental conditions.
The system’s operable distance will be
shorter in areas near a facility or electronic
equipment emitting strong radio waves
such as a power plant, broadcast station,
TV tower, or remote controller of home
electronic appliances.
The keyless entry system does not operate when the key is inserted in the ignition
switch to prevent accidental lockout.

NOTE

: LOCK/ARM button
Press to Lock all doors.
Press and Hold to activate panic
alarm.
Press three times in a five-second
period to use vehicle finder function.
: UNLOCK/DISARM button
1) Press once to Unlock driver’s
door.
2) Press a second time to Unlock
all other doors and rear gate.

Locking the doors
Briefly press the “
” button (for less
than two seconds) to lock all doors and
rear gate. An electronic chirp will sound
once and the turn signal lights will flash
once.

If the “
” button is pressed for two
seconds or longer, the panic alarm will
sound. When locking the doors in normal circumstances, press the “
”
button for less than two seconds. For
details on the panic alarm, refer to
“Sounding a panic alarm”.

Unlocking the doors
Briefly press the “
” button (for less
than two seconds) to unlock the driver’s
door. An electronic chirp will sound twice
and the turn signal lights will flash twice.
To unlock all other doors and the rear
gate, briefly press the “
” button a
second time within 5 seconds.

NOTE
If the interval between the first and second presses of the “
” button (for
unlocking of all of the doors and the
rear gate) is extremely short, the system may not respond.
– CONTINUED –

2-8 Keys and doors
Illuminated entry

Sounding a panic alarm

The interior (dome and cargo area) light
will illuminate when the “
” button is
pressed. This light stay illuminated for approximately 30 seconds if any of the doors
or the rear gate is not opened.
If the “
” button is pressed before 30
seconds have elapsed, this light will go
out.
To activate this function, set the following
interior light switches to the indicated positions:
Dome light: Middle position
Cargo area light: DOOR position

To activate the alarm, keep the “
” button pressed for more than two seconds.
The horn will sound and the turn signal
lights will flash.
To deactivate it, press any button on the
remote transmitter. Unless a button on the
remote is pressed, the alarm will be deactivated after approximately 30 seconds.

Vehicle finder function
Use this function to find your vehicle
parked among many vehicles in a large
parking lot. Provided you are within 30
feet (10 meters) of the vehicle, pressing
the “
” button three times in a five-second period will cause your vehicle’s horn
to sound once and its turn signal lights to
flash three times.

NOTE
If the interval between presses is too
short when you press the “
” button
three times, the system may not respond to the signals from the remote
transmitter.

Selecting audible signal operation
Using an electronic chirp, the system will
give you an audible signal when the doors
lock and unlock. If desired, you may turn
the audible signal off.
Do the following to deactivate the audible
signal. You can also use the same steps
to restore the function.
1. Sit in the driver’s seat and shut all
doors and the rear gate.
2. Open the driver’s door, then remove
the key from the ignition switch.
3. Hold down the “UNLOCK” side of the
power door locking switch.
4. While holding down the “UNLOCK”
side of the power door locking switch, insert the key into the ignition switch and remove it again at least 6 times within 10
seconds after Step 3.
5. While still holding down the “UNLOCK”

side of the power door locking switch,
close the driver’s door once within 10 seconds after Step 4.
6. The turn signal lights flashes 3 times to
indicate completion of the setting.

NOTE
If you do not close the driver’s door
within 10 seconds after Step 4, a flash
of the turn signal lights will signal timeout. If this happens, repeat the whole
procedure from Step 1.
You may have the above settings done by
your SUBARU dealer.

Replacing the battery

y Do not let dust, oil or water get on
or in the transmitter when replacing the battery.
y Be careful not to damage the
printed circuit board in the transmitter when replacing the battery.
When the transmitter battery begins to get
weak, transmitter range will begin to decrease. Replace the battery as soon as
possible.

Keys and doors 2-9

To replace the battery:

gram all of your transmitters for security
reasons. It is recommended that you have
your dealer program all of your transmitters into your system.

200717

1) Negative (–) side facing up

1. Open the transmitter case using a flathead screwdriver.

4. Replace with a new battery (Type
CR2025 or equivalent) making sure to install the new battery with the negative (–)
side facing up.
5. Reinstall the back half of the transmitter case by snapping it back on.

T Programming the transmitters
The keyless entry system is equipped with
a special code learning feature that allows
you to program new transmitter codes into
the system or to delete old ones. The system can learn up to four unique transmitter
codes. The four transmitter codes may be
the same or different.
Programming transmitter codes into
system:

After the battery is replaced, the transmitter must be synchronized with the
keyless entry system’s control unit.
Press either the “
” or “
” button
six times to synchronize the unit.
200716

2. Separate the case.
3. Remove the old battery from the holder.

Replacing lost transmitters
If you lose a transmitter or want to purchase additional transmitters (up to four
can be programmed), you should re-pro-

200718

Bag containing transmitter

– CONTINUED –

2-10 Keys and doors
then turn it from the “LOCK” position to
the “ON” position 10 times within 15
seconds.

NOTE
y When you complete step 2), an electronic tone will sound once.
y If you do not perform steps 1) and 2)
within 45 seconds, an error will occur.
An electronic tone will not sound. In
this event, perform the whole procedure again beginning with part 1.
200719

Transmitter circuit board

To register a new transmitter with the keyless entry system, it is necessary to program the transmitter’s code (identification
number) into the system. A label showing
the code is affixed to the bag containing
the transmitter, and another is affixed to
the circuit board inside the transmitter. If
there is no bag, open the transmitter case
and make a note of the eight-digit number.
Program the number into the system in
accordance with the following procedure:
1. Firmly close the doors and the rear
gate.
2. Open the driver’s door, sit on the driver’s seat, and close the door.
3. Perform the following steps within 45
seconds.

200813

1) Open and close the driver’s door
once.

200814

1) ON
2) LOCK

2) Insert the key into the ignition switch,

4. Open and close the door once within
15 seconds.

NOTE
y When part 4 of the procedure is completed, an electronic tone will sound
for 30 seconds.
y If you do not perform the operations
in part 4 within 15 seconds, an error
will occur and the electronic tone will
not sound. In this event, perform the
registration steps again beginning with
part 3 of the procedure.

Keys and doors 2-11

the switch and the next exceeds five
seconds, an error will occur. In this
event, perform the procedure again beginning with part 4. If an error occurs
six times, perform the procedure again
starting with part 3.

NOTE
y The electronic tone will stop sounding when you start entering the number.
y If you do not start entering the number using the lock switch before the
electronic tone stops sounding, an error will occur. In this event, perform the
registration steps again beginning with
part 3 of the procedure.
y If the interval between one push of

NOTE
y When you finish entering the eighth
digit, an electronic tone will sound for
30 seconds.
y If the interval between one push of
the switch and the next exceeds five
seconds, an error will occur. In this
event, perform the procedure again beginning with part 4. If an error occurs
six times, perform the procedure again
starting with part 3.

200812

5. Before the electronic tone stops sounding, push the “LOCK” side of the power
door lock switch the same number of
times as the leftmost digit of the transmitter code. For example, push the lock
switch eight times if the leftmost digit of
the code is 8.

7. Perform parts 5 and 6 of the procedure
for each of the remaining digits of the
transmitter code beginning with the second digit (counting from the left) and finishing with the eighth digit.

200827

6. When you have finished entering the
number, push the “UNLOCK” side of the
lock switch within five seconds.

NOTE
y An electronic tone will sound.
y If you push the “UNLOCK” side of
the lock switch when more than five
seconds have passed, an error will occur. In this event, perform the procedure again beginning with part 4. If an
error occurs six times, perform the procedure again starting with part 3.

8. Before the electronic tone stops sounding, use the power door lock switch to reenter the transmitter code beginning with
the leftmost digit.

NOTE
If you do not start entering the number
using the lock switch before the electronic tone stops sounding, an error
will occur. In this event, perform the
procedure again beginning with part 3.
9. When you have finished entering the
code a second time, an electronic tone will
sound for one second to indicate completion of registration, provided the code en– CONTINUED –

2-12 Keys and doors
tered the second time is identical to that
entered the first time.

NOTE
If the code entered the second time is
not identical to the code entered the
first time, an error will occur. In this
event, perform the procedure again beginning with part 5. If an error occurs
five times, perform the procedure
again starting with part 3.
10.If you wish to program another transmitter code into the system (up to four
transmitter codes can be programmed
into the system), perform the procedure
beginning with part 4. When you have finished programming all of the necessary
transmitter codes into the system, remove
the key from the ignition switch.
11.Test every registered transmitter to
confirm correct operation.
T Deleting old transmitter codes
The control unit of the keyless entry system has four memory locations to store
transmitter codes, giving it the ability to
operate with up to four transmitters. When
you lose a transmitter, the lost transmitter’s code remains in the memory. For security reasons, lost transmitter codes
should be deleted from the memory.
To delete old transmitter codes, program

four transmitter codes into the system. If
you have only one current transmitter,
program it four times. If you have two current transmitters, program each one twice.
If you have three current transmitters, program two of them once and the third one
twice. This process will leave only current
transmitter codes in the system’s memory.

Alarm system

NOTE

The system can be armed and disarmed
with the remote transmitter.
The system does not operate when the
key is inserted into the ignition switch.

Make sure no one else is operating
their keyless entry system within range
of your vehicle when programming
transmitters. If someone else were to
operate their remote transmitter while
you are programming your transmitters, it is possible that their transmitter
code will be programmed into your
system, allowing them unauthorized
access to your vehicle.

The alarm system helps to protect your
vehicle and valuables from theft. The horn
sounds and the turn signal lights flash if
someone attempts to break into your vehicle. The starter motor is also interrupted to
prevent starting the vehicle without a key.

Your vehicle’s alarm system has been set
for activation at the time of shipment from
the factory. You can set the system for deactivation yourself or have it done by your
SUBARU dealer.

System operation
The alarm system will give the following
alarm when triggered:
y The vehicle’s horn will sound and the
turn signal lights will flash for 30 seconds.
y If any door or the rear gate remains
open after the 30-second period, the horn
will continue to sound for a maximum of 3
minutes. If the door and the rear gate are
closed while the horn is sounding, the
horn will stop sounding with a delay of up
to 30 seconds.

Keys and doors 2-13

The alarm is triggered by:
y Opening a door or the rear gate.
y Physical impact to the vehicle, such as
forced entry (only vehicles with shock sensors (dealer option))

Activating and deactivating
the alarm system
To change the setting of your vehicle’s
alarm system for activation or deactivation, do the following.
1. Disarm the alarm system (see “Disarming the system” in this section).
2. Sit in the driver’s seat and shut all
doors and the rear gate.
3. Turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position.
4. Hold down the UNLOCK side of the
driver’s power door locking switch, open
the driver’s door within the following 1 second, and wait 10 seconds without releasing the switch. The setting will then be
changed as follows:
If the system was previously activated:
The horn sounds twice, indicating that the
system is now deactivated.
If the system was previously deactivated:
The horn sounds once, indicating that the
system is now activated.

NOTE
You may have the above setting
change done by your SUBARU dealer.

If you have accidentally triggered the alarm system
T To stop the alarm
Do any of the following operations:
y Press any button on the remote transmitter.
y Cycle the ignition switch from the
“LOCK” to “ON” position three times within
5 seconds.

: Press to Arm the system.
: Press to Disarm the system.

Arming the system
T To arm the system using remote
transmitter
1. Close all windows and the moonroof (if
so equipped).
2. Remove the key from the ignition
switch.
3. Open the doors and get out of the vehicle.
4. Make sure that the engine hood is
locked.
5. Close all doors and the rear gate.

200815

Security indicator light

6. Briefly press the “

” button (for less
– CONTINUED –

2-14 Keys and doors
than two seconds). All doors and the rear
gate will lock, an electric chirp will sound
once, the turn signal lights will flash once,
and the indicator lights will start flashing
rapidly. After rapid flashing for 30 seconds
(standby time), the indicator lights will
then flash slowly (twice approximately every two seconds), indicating that the system has been armed for surveillance.
If any of the doors or the rear gate is not
fully closed, an electronic chirp sounds
five times, the turn signal lights flash five
times to alert you that the doors or the rear
gate are not properly closed. When you
close the door, the system will automatically arm and doors will automatically
lock.
T To arm the system using power
door locking switches
1. Close all windows.
2. Remove the key from the ignition
switch.
3. Open the doors and get out of the vehicle.
4. Make sure that the engine hood is
locked.
5. Close the doors and the rear gate but
leave only the driver’s door or the front
passenger’s door open.

200883

6. Push the front side (“LOCK” side) of
the power door locking switch to set the
door locks.
7. Close the door. An electronic chirp will
sound once, the turn signal lights will flash
once, and the indicator lights will start
flashing rapidly. After rapid flashing for 30
seconds (standby time), the indicator
lights will then flash slowly (twice approximately every two seconds), indicating that
the system has been armed for surveillance.

NOTE
y The system can be armed even if the
engine hood, the windows and/or
moonroofs are opened. Always make
sure that they are fully closed before
arming the system.

y The 30-second standby time can be
eliminated if you prefer. Have it performed by your SUBARU dealer.
y The system is in the standby mode
for a 30-second period after locking the
doors with the remote transmitter. The
security indicator light will flash at
short intervals during this period.
y If any of the following actions is done
during the standby period, the system
will not switch to the surveillance state.
y Doors are unlocked using the remote transmitter.
y Any door or the rear gate is
opened.
y Ignition switch is turned to the
“ON” position.
y The engine does not start even when
the ignition switch is turned to the
“START” position once the alarm system has been triggered.

Disarming the system
Briefly press the “
” button (for less
than two seconds) on the remote transmitter. The driver’s door will unlock, an electronic chirp will sound twice, the turn signal lights will flash twice and the indicator
light will go off.

Keys and doors 2-15

NOTE (Models with immobilizer)

for locking and unlocking the doors and
rear gate and panic activation.

If your vehicle is equipped with an immobilizer, the immobilizer’s function
will cause the security indicator light to
flash (approximately once every three
seconds) even after the system is disarmed.

To enter the valet mode, change the setting of your vehicle’s alarm system for deactivation mode. (Refer to “Activating and
deactivating the alarm system” in this section.) The security indicator light will continue to flash once every three seconds indicating that the system is in the valet
mode (only vehicle with an immobilizer).

NOTE
The system can be disarmed by the following method, too.
y Cycle the ignition switch from the
“LOCK” to the “ON” position three
times within 5 seconds.
T Emergency disarming
If you cannot disarm the system using the
transmitter (i.e. the transmitter is lost, broken or the transmitter battery is too weak),
you can disarm the system without using
the transmitter.
1. Unlock the door with the key and then
open the door.
2. Insert the key into the ignition switch
and cycle it from the “LOCK” to the “ON”
position three times within 5 seconds.

Valet mode
When you choose the valet mode, the security system does not operate. In valet
mode, the remote transmitter is used only

To exit valet mode, change the setting of
your vehicle’s alarm system for activation
mode. (Refer to “Activating and deactivating the alarm system” in this section.)

NOTE
If your vehicle is not equipped with an
immobilizer, the security indicator light
does not flash during the valet mode.

dealer.
T Arming the system

In passive mode, the system will automatically activate the alarm but
WILL NOT automatically lock the
doors. In order to lock the doors you
must either lock them as indicated
in the following step 4 or with the
key once they have been closed.
Failure to lock the doors manually
will result in a higher security risk.
1. Turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position.

Passive arming

When passive arming mode has been
programmed by the dealer, arming of the
system is automatically accomplished
without using the remote transmitter. Note
that in this mode, DOORS MUST BE
MANUALLY LOCKED.
T To enter the passive mode
If you wish to program the passive arming
mode, have it done by your SUBARU

200816

1) ON
2) LOCK
– CONTINUED –

2-16 Keys and doors
2. Turn the ignition switch from “ON” to
“LOCK” position and remove the key from
the ignition switch.

T Disarming the system
To disarm the system, briefly press the
“
” button on the transmitter.

Tripped sensor identification

200817

3. Open the doors and get out of the vehicle.
4. Before closing the doors, lock all doors
with the inside door lock levers.
5. Close the doors. The system will automatically arm after one minute.
In the passive mode, the system can also
be armed with the remote transmitter or
with the power door locking switches. If
the remote transmitter or power door locking switch is used to lock the vehicle, arming will take place immediately regardless
of whether or not the passive mode has
been selected.

The security indicator light flashes when
the alarm system has been triggered. Also, the number of flashes indicates the location of unauthorized intrusion or the severity of impact on the vehicle.
y When the ignition switch is turned to the
“ON” position, the indicator light will light
for 1 second and then flash as follows:
When a door or rear gate was opened:
5 times
When the ignition switch was turned to
the “ON” position: 3 times
When a strong impact or multiple impacts were sensed: twice (only vehicles
with shock sensors (dealer option))
When a light impact was sensed: once
(only vehicles with shock sensors (dealer option))

NOTE
Any of the above indicator light flashings will recur each time the ignition
switch is turned to the “ON” position.
Rearming the alarm system cancels
the flashing.

Shock sensors (dealer option)
The shock sensors trigger the alarm system when they sense impacts applied to
the vehicle and when any of their electric
wires is cut. The alarm system causes the
horn to sound and the turn signal lights to
flash for a short time when the sensed impact is weak, but it warns of a strong impact or multiple impacts by sounding the
horn and flashing the turn signal lights,
both lasting approximately 30 seconds.
If you desire, your SUBARU dealer can
connect them and set them for activation
or deactivation.

NOTE
y The shock sensors are not always
able to sense impacts caused by
breaking in, and cannot sense an impact that does not cause vibration
(such as breaking the glass using a
rescue hammer).
y The shock sensors may sense vibration like those shown below and trigger
the alarm system. Select the settings of
the alarm system and shock sensors
appropriately depending on where you
usually park your vehicle.
Example:
Vibration from a construction site
Vibration in a multistory parking ga-

Keys and doors 2-17

rage
Vibration from trains
y You can have the sensitivity of the
shock sensors adjusted to your preference by your SUBARU dealer.

Child safety locks

the inner door handle lock lever. The door
can only be opened from the outside.

Always use the child safety lock
whenever a child rides in the rear
seat. Serious injury could result if a
child accidentally opened the door
and fell out.

200818

1) Lock
2) Unlock

Each rear door has a child safety lock that
prevents the doors from being opened
even if the inside door handle is pulled.
When the child safety lock lever is in the
lock position, the door cannot be opened
from inside regardless of the position of

2-18 Keys and doors
Windows

T Driver’s side switches

V Operating the driver’s window

Power windows
3

To avoid serious personal injury
caused by entrapment, you must do
the following.
y When operating the power windows, be extremely careful to prevent anyone’s fingers, arms, neck
or head from being caught in the
window.
y Always lock the passengers’ windows using the lock switch when
children are riding in the vehicle.
y Before leaving the vehicle, always
remove the key from the ignition
switch for safety and never allow
an unattended child to remain in
the vehicle. Failure to follow this
procedure could result in injury to
a child operating the power window.
The power windows operate only when
the ignition switch is in the “ON” position.

2
3

4
5

1
2

200819

1) Lock switch
2) For driver’s window (with one-touch auto
down feature)
3) For front passenger’s window
4) For rear left window
5) For rear right window

All door windows can be controlled by the
power window switch cluster at the driver
side door.

200820

1) Open
2) Automatically open
3) Close

To open:
Push the switch down lightly and hold it.
The window will open as long as the
switch is held.
This switch also has a one-touch auto
down feature that allows the window to be
opened fully without holding the switch.
Push the switch down until it clicks and release it, and the window will fully open. To
stop the window halfway, pull the switch
up lightly.
To close:
Pull the switch up lightly and hold it. The
window will close as long as the switch is

Keys and doors 2-19

V Locking the passengers’ windows

held.
V Operating the passengers’ windows

2
200821
200191

To open the passengers’ windows, push
the appropriate switch down and hold it
until the window reaches the desired position.
To close the window, pull the switch up
and hold it until it reaches the desired position.

1) Lock
2) Unlock

To lock the passengers’ windows, push
the lock switch. When the lock switch is in
the “LOCK” position, the passengers’ windows cannot be opened or closed.
Press the switch again to cancel the passengers’ window locking.
T Passengers’ side switches
To open the window, push the switch
down and hold it until the window reaches
the desired position.
To close the window, pull the switch up
and hold it until the window reaches the
desired position.
When the lock switch on the power win-

dow switch cluster, located on the driver’s
side door, is in the “LOCK” position, the
passengers’ windows cannot be operated
with the passengers’ switches.

2-20 Keys and doors
Rear gate

y Do not attempt to shut the rear
gate while holding the inside handle. Also avoid closing the rear
gate by pulling on the inside handle from inside the cargo space.
There is a danger of your hand being caught and injured.
y To prevent dangerous exhaust
gas from entering the vehicle, always keep the rear gate closed
while driving.

The rear gate can be locked and unlocked
using either the keyless entry system or
the power door locking switches.
Refer to the “Power door locking switches”
and “Remote keyless entry system” sections in this chapter.

200194

To close the rear gate, lower it slowly and
push down firmly until the latch engages.
The rear gate can be lowered easily if you
pull down holding the recessed grip.
200822

y Do not jam a plastic bag in or
place cellophane tape on the rear
gate stays or scratch the stays
while loading or unloading cargo.
That could cause leakage of gas
from the stays, which may result
in their inability to hold the rear
gate open.
y Be careful not to hit your head or
face on the rear gate when opening or closing the rear gate and
when loading or unloading cargo.

To open the rear gate, first unlock the rear
gate lock then pull the outside handle up.
Then, hold the rear gate and raise it as
high as it will go.

NOTE
If the rear gate cannot be unlocked due
to a discharged battery, a fault in the
door locking/unlocking system or other causes, you can unlock it by manually operating the rear gate lock release
lever.
For the procedure, refer to “Rear gate –
if the rear gate cannot be unlocked” in
chapter 9 “In case of emergency”.

Keys and doors 2-21

Moonroof (if equipped)
y Do not sit on the edge of the open
moonroof.
y Never let anyone’s hands, arms,
head or any objects protrude from
the moonroof. A person could be
seriously injured if the vehicle
stops suddenly or turns sharply
or if the vehicle is involved in an
accident.

y Do not operate the moonroof if
falling snow or extremely cold
conditions have caused it to
freeze shut.

After washing the vehicle or after it rains,
wipe away water on the roof prior to opening the moonroof to prevent drops of water
from falling into the passenger compartment.

To avoid serious personal injury
caused by entrapment, you must
do the following.
y Before closing the moonroof,
make sure that no one’s hands,
arms, head or other objects will be
accidentally caught in the moonroof.
y Before leaving the vehicle, always
remove the key from the ignition
switch for safety and never allow
an unattended child to remain in
the vehicle. Failure to follow this
procedure could result in injury to
a child operating the moonroof.
y Never try to check the anti-entrapment function by deliberately
placing part of your body in the
moonroof.

shade will also be opened together with
the moonroof. The moonroof will stop at a
position 20 in (50 cm) away from the fully
closed position. Push the switch again to
open the moonroof completely.
To stop the moonroof at a desired position, simply push the opposite side of the
switch.

To close the moonroof

3
1

200823

1) Open/close switch
2) Open
3) Close

The moonroof operates only when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position.

To open the moonroof
Push and quickly release the rear part of
the switch to open the moonroof. The sun

Push and quickly release the front part of
the switch to close the moonroof. The
moonroof will stop at a position 8 in (20
cm) away from the fully closed position.
Push the switch again to close the moonroof completely.
To stop the moonroof at a desired position, simply push the opposite side of the
switch.

Anti-entrapment function
When the moonroof senses an object
trapped between its glass and the vehicle’s roof during closure, it automatically
moves back by 6 in (15 cm) from that point
– CONTINUED –

2-22 Keys and doors
and then stops. The anti-entrapment function may also be activated by a strong
shock on the moonroof even when there is
nothing trapped.

T Sun shade

NOTE
y For the sake of safety, it is recommended that you avoid driving with the
moonroof fully opened.
y Driving with the moonroof fully open
can cause an annoying sound to generate at high speeds. If such a condition has been encountered, use the
moonroof at the initial stop position of
20 in (50 cm).
y If the moonroof cannot be closed
through switch operation because of
system failure, it can be closed manually using a hex-head wrench. For the
procedure, refer to “Moonroof – if the
moonroof cannot be closed” in Chapter 9 “In case of emergency”.

200196

The sun shade can be slid forward or
backward by hand while the moonroof is
closed.
If the moonroof is opened, the sun shade
also moves back.

Instruments and controls
Ignition switch ....................................................

3-3

LOCK .......................................................................
ACC ..........................................................................
ON ............................................................................
START ......................................................................
Key reminder chime ...............................................
Ignition switch light (if equipped) .........................
Key interlock release (AT vehicles only) ..............

3-3
3-4
3-4
3-4
3-5
3-5
3-5

Hazard warning flasher ......................................
Meters and gauges .............................................

3-6
3-6

Speedometer ...........................................................
Odometer/Trip meter ..............................................
Tachometer .............................................................
Fuel gauge ...............................................................
Temperature gauge ................................................
Outside temperature indicator ..............................

3-6
3-6
3-7
3-7
3-8
3-8

Warning and indicator lights .............................

3-9

Seatbelt warning light and chime ..........................
SRS airbag system warning light ..........................
Front passenger’s frontal airbag ON and OFF
indicators ..............................................................
CHECK ENGINE warning light/Malfunction
indicator lamp .......................................................
Charge warning light ..............................................
Oil pressure warning light .....................................
AT OIL TEMPerature warning light
(AT vehicles) .........................................................
ABS warning light ...................................................
Brake system warning light ...................................
Door open warning lights ......................................

3-9
3-10
3-11
3-11
3-12
3-12
3-12
3-13
3-13
3-14

Low fuel warning light ............................................
All-Wheel Drive warning light (AT vehicles) .........
Shift position indicator (AT vehicles) ...................
Turn signal indicator lights ....................................
High beam indicator light .......................................
Cruise control indicator light .................................
Cruise control set indicator light ..........................

3-14
3-15
3-15
3-15
3-15
3-15
3-16

Clock .................................................................... 3-16
Light control switch ........................................... 3-17
Headlights ...............................................................
High/low beam change (dimmer) ..........................
Headlight flasher .....................................................
Daytime running light system ...............................

3-17
3-17
3-18
3-18

Turn signal lever .................................................
Illumination brightness control .........................
Headlight beam leveler (Canada-spec.
2.5XT) ...............................................................
Parking light switch ...........................................
Front fog light button .........................................
Wiper and washer ...............................................

3-19
3-19

Windshield wiper and washer switches ...............
Rear window wiper and washer switch ................

3-22
3-23

Windshield wiper deicer (if equipped) ..............
Rear window defogger button ...........................
Mirrors .................................................................

3-24
3-24
3-25

Inside mirror ............................................................
Outside mirrors .......................................................

3-25
3-27

3-20
3-20
3-20
3-21

Instruments and controls

Tilt steering wheel ..............................................
Horn .....................................................................

3-28
3-29

Instruments and controls 3-3

Ignition switch

your knees or hands may accidentally
touch it in a way that turns the ignition
switch.

Instruments and controls

y Never turn the ignition switch to
“LOCK” while the vehicle is being
driven or towed because that will
lock the steering wheel, preventing steering control. And when
the engine is turned off, it takes a
much greater effort than usual to
steer.
y Before leaving the vehicle, always
remove the key from the ignition
switch for safety and never allow
an unattended child to remain in
the vehicle. Failure to follow this
procedure could result in injury to
a child or others. Children could
operate the power windows, the
sunroof or other controls or even
make the vehicle move.
The ignition switch has four positions:
LOCK, ACC, ON and START.

LOCK

300564

NOTE
y Keep the ignition switch in the
“LOCK” position when the engine is
not running.
y Using electrical accessories for a
long time with the ignition switch in the
“ON” or “ACC” position can cause the
battery to go dead.
If the ignition switch will not move from
the “LOCK” position to the “ACC” position, turn the steering wheel slightly
to the left and right as you turn the ignition switch.
y If the key is attached to a keyholder
or to a large bunch of other keys, centrifugal force may act on it as the vehicle moves, resulting in unwanted turning of the ignition switch. Also, if a
large keyholder is attached to the key,

The key can only be inserted or removed
in this position. The ignition switch will lock
the steering wheel when you remove the
key.
If turning the key is difficult, turn the steering wheel slightly to the right and left as
you turn the key.
T Automatic transmission vehicles

300565

– CONTINUED –

3-4 Instruments and controls
“LOCK” only when the key is pushed in
while turning it.

ACC
In this position the electrical accessories
(radio, accessory power outlet, etc.) can
be used.

tion switch and turn it to the “START” position and again try to start your engine.

NOTE
The engine may not start in the following cases:

ON
300566

The key can be turned from “ACC” to
“LOCK” only when the selector lever is in
the “P” position.
T Manual transmission vehicles

This is the normal operating position after
the engine is started.

START

Do not turn the ignition switch to the
“START” position while the engine
is running.
The engine is started in this position. The
starter cranks the engine to start it. When
the key is released (after the engine has
started), the key automatically returns to
the “ON” position.

300115

The key can be turned from “ACC” to

T For models with immobilizer
If you fail to start your engine with your
registered key, once pull out the key (at
this time, the security indicator light
blinks), and then insert the key in the igni-

300567

y The key grip is touching another key
or a metallic key holder.

Instruments and controls 3-5

when the driver’s door is opened. After
closing the door, the light remains lit for 5
seconds and then dims before it goes out.
The light flashes if you insert the key into
the ignition switch with the driver’s door
open.

Key interlock release (AT vehicles only)
300568

y The key is near another key that contains an immobilizer transponder.

If the key can not be turned to the “LOCK”
position even when the selector lever is in
the “P” position:
1. Take out the screwdriver.

Key reminder chime
The reminder chime sounds when the
driver’s door opens and the key is in the
“LOCK” or “ACC” positions. The chime
stops when the key is removed from the
ignition switch.

NOTE
The ignition switch light flashes when
the reminder chime sounds.

Ignition switch light (if
equipped)
For easy access to the ignition switch in
the dark, the ignition switch light comes on

300569

2. Remove the cover under the steering
column using a Phillips screwdriver.

300570

3. Turn the ignition key while pressing the
key interlock release lever.
Take your vehicle to the nearest SUBARU
dealer immediately to have the key interlock system repaired.

3-6 Instruments and controls
Hazard warning flasher

T Odometer
The odometer shows the total distance
that the vehicle has been driven.

Meters and gauges
Speedometer
The speedometer shows the vehicle
speed.

T Double trip meter
1

Odometer/Trip meter
1

2
300117

The hazard warning flasher is used to
warn other drivers when you have to park
your vehicle under emergency conditions.
The hazard warning flasher works with the
ignition switch in any position.
To turn on the hazard warning flasher,
push the hazard warning button on the instrument panel. To turn off the flasher,
push the button again.

NOTE
When the hazard warning flasher is on,
the turn signals do not work.

300572

300571

1) Trip meter
2) Odometer

This meter displays the odometer and two
trip meters when the ignition switch is in
the “ON” position.

NOTE
Even with the ignition switch in the
“OFF” or “LOCK” position, the odometer and trip meters are displayed for 10
seconds when you press the knob.

1) A trip meter
2) B trip meter

The trip meter shows the distance that the
vehicle has been driven since you last set
it to zero.
To change the mode indication, briefly
push the knob.
Each press of the knob changes the function alternately.

A trip meter

B trip meter

To set the trip meter to zero, select the A

Instruments and controls 3-7

trip or B trip meter by pushing the knob
and keep the knob pushed for more than
2 seconds.

To ensure safety, do not attempt to
change the function of the indicator
during driving, as an accident could
result.

NOTE
If the connection between the combination meter and battery is broken for
any reason such as vehicle maintenance or fuse replacement, the data recorded on the trip meter will be lost.

though the ignition switch is in the “ACC”
or “LOCK” position.
Do not operate the engine with the
pointer of the tachometer in the red
zone. In this range, fuel injection will
be cut by the engine control module
to protect the engine from overrevving. The engine will resume running normally after the engine
speed is reduced below the red
zone.

The gauge may move slightly during braking, turning or acceleration due to fuel level movement in the tank.

NOTE

Fuel gauge

Tachometer

300121

The tachometer shows the engine speed
in thousands of revolutions per minute.

You will see the “FUEL DOOR ” sign
near the fuel gauge.
This indicates that the fuel filler door
(lid) is located on the right side of the
vehicle.

1
300573

1) Low fuel warning light

The fuel gauge shows the approximate
amount of fuel remaining in the tank.
The gauge does not return to “E” even

T Low fuel warning light
The low fuel warning light comes on when
the tank is nearly empty [approximately
2.3 US gal (9.0 liters, 1.9 Imp gal)]. It only
operates when the ignition switch is in the
“ON” position.
– CONTINUED –

3-8 Instruments and controls
NOTE

switch is in the “ON” position.

This light does not go out unless the
tank is replenished up to an internal
fuel quantity of approximately 4.0 US
gal (15 liters, 3.3 Imp gal).

The coolant temperature will vary in accordance with the outside temperature
and driving conditions.

Promptly put fuel in the tank whenever the low fuel warning light
comes on. Engine misfires as a result of an empty tank could cause
damage to the engine.

We recommend that you drive moderately
until the pointer of the temperature gauge
reaches near the middle of the range. Engine operation is optimum with the engine
coolant at this temperature range and high
revving operation when the engine is not
warmed up enough should be avoided.

Outside temperature indicator

300575

Temperature gauge

If the pointer exceeds the normal
operating range, safely stop the vehicle as soon as possible.
See “In case of emergency” in chapter 9.

300574

1) Normal operating range

The temperature gauge shows engine
coolant temperature when the ignition

MT vehicles
1) U.S.-spec. models
2) Canada-spec. models

Instruments and controls 3-9

Warning and indicator lights

300576

AT vehicles
1) U.S.-spec. models
2) Canada-spec. models

Several of the warning and indicator lights
come on momentarily and then go out
when the ignition switch is initially turned
to the “ON” position. This permits checking the operation of the bulbs.
Apply the parking brake and turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position. The following lights come on:
: Seatbelt warning light
: SRS airbag system warning light

: ABS warning light

: Brake system warning light

: All-Wheel Drive warning light (AT
vehicles)
: Cruise control indicator light
: Cruise control set indicator light
If any lights fail to come on, it indicates a
burned-out bulb or a malfunction of the
corresponding system.
Consult your authorized SUBARU dealer
for repair.

The outside temperature indicator is located below the odometer/trip meter. The indicator can indicate an outside temperature ranging from –22 to 122qF (–30 to
50qC).

/
: Front passenger’s frontal airbag ON indicator light

Seatbelt warning light
and chime

/
: Front passenger’s frontal
airbag OFF indicator light

The indicator can give a false reading under any of the following conditions:
y When there is too much sun.
y During idling; while running at low
speeds in a traffic jam; when the engine is
restarted immediately following a shutdown.
y When the actual outside temperature
falls outside the specified indicator range.

: CHECK ENGINE warning light/
Malfunction indicator lamp

Your vehicle is equipped with a seatbelt
warning device at the driver’s seat, as required by current safety standards. There
is a seatbelt warning light in the combination meter.
If the driver has not yet fastened the seatbelt when the ignition switch is turned to
the “ON” position, the seatbelt warning
light will flash for 6 seconds, to warn that
the seatbelt is unfastened. If the driver’s
seatbelt is not fastened, a chime will also
sound simultaneously.
If the driver’s seatbelt is still not fastened

: Charge warning light
: Oil pressure warning light
: AT OIL temperature warning light
(AT vehicles)

– CONTINUED –

3-10 Instruments and controls
6 seconds later, the warning light will remain lit for 15 seconds. If the driver’s seatbelt is still not fastened even 15 seconds
later (21 seconds after turning ON the ignition switch), the warning lights will alternate between flashing and steady illumination at 15-second intervals, and the
chime will sound while the warning light is
flashing.
Alternate flashing and steady illumination
of the warning lights and sounding of the
chime will continue until the driver fastens
the seatbelt.

operation that follows the 6-second
warning after turning ON the ignition
switch. When the ignition switch is
turned ON next time, however, the
complete sequence of warning operation resumes. For further details about
canceling the warning operation,
please contact your SUBARU dealer.

SRS airbag system warning light
When the ignition switch is turned to the
“ON” position, the SRS airbag system
warning light will come on for approximately 6 seconds and go out. This shows
the SRS frontal airbag and SRS side airbag and seatbelt pretensioners are in normal operation.

If the warning light exhibits any of
the following conditions, there may
be a malfunction in the seatbelt pretensioners and/or SRS airbag system. Immediately take your vehicle
to your nearest SUBARU dealer to
have the system checked. Unless
checked and properly repaired, the
seatbelt pretensioners and/or SRS
airbags will operate improperly (e.g.
SRS airbags may inflate in a very minor collision or not inflate in a severe collision), which may increase
the risk of injury.
y Flashing or flickering of the warning light
y No illumination of the warning
light when the ignition switch is
first turned to the “ON” position
y Continuous illumination of the
warning light
y Illumination of the warning light
while driving

Instruments and controls 3-11

Front passenger’s frontal airbag ON and OFF indicators

100547

1) U.S.-spec. models
2) Canada-spec. models

or
or

: Front passenger’s frontal
airbag ON indicator
:Front passenger’s frontal
airbag OFF indicator

The front passenger’s frontal airbag ON
and OFF indicators show you the status of
the front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag.
The indicators are located next to the
clock in the central portion of the instrument panel.
When the ignition switch is turned to the
“ON” position, both the ON and OFF indicators illuminate for 6 seconds during
which time the system is checked. Following the system check, both indicators extinguish for 2 seconds. After this, one of
the indicators illuminates depending on
the status of the front passenger’s SRS
frontal airbag reached by the Subaru advanced frontal airbag system monitoring.
If the front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag
is activated, the passenger’s frontal airbag
ON indicator will illuminate while the OFF
indicator will remain extinguished.
If the front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag
is deactivated, the passenger’s frontal airbag ON indicator will remain extinguished
while the OFF indicator will illuminate.
With the ignition switch turned to the “ON”
position, if both the ON and OFF indicators remain lit or extinguished simultaneously even after the system check peri-

od, the system is faulty. Contact your
SUBARU dealer immediately for an inspection.

CHECK ENGINE warning light/Malfunction indicator lamp

If the CHECK ENGINE light comes
on while you are driving, have your
vehicle checked/repaired by your
SUBARU dealer as soon as possible. Continued vehicle operation
without having the emission control
system checked and repaired as
necessary could cause serious
damage, which may not be covered
by your vehicle’s warranty.
If this light comes on steadily or blinks
while the engine is running, it may indicate
that there is a problem or potential problem somewhere in the emission control
system.
T If the light comes on steadily:
If the light comes on steadily while driving
or does not go out after the engine starts,
an emission control system malfunction
has been detected.
– CONTINUED –

3-12 Instruments and controls
You should have your vehicle checked by
an authorized SUBARU dealer immediately.

ble.
y Stop towing a trailer as soon as possible.

NOTE

The CHECK ENGINE warning light may
stop blinking and come on steadily after
several driving trips. You should have
your vehicle checked by an authorized
SUBARU dealer immediately.

This light also comes on when the fuel
filler cap is not tightened until it clicks.
If you have recently refueled your vehicle,
the cause of the CHECK ENGINE warning
light/malfunction indicator lamp coming on
could be a loose or missing fuel filler cap.
Remove the cap and retighten it until it
clicks. Make sure nothing is interfering
with the sealing of the cap. Tightening the
cap will not make the CHECK ENGINE
warning light turn off immediately. It may
take several driving trips. If the light does
not go out, take your vehicle to your authorized SUBARU dealer immediately.
T If the light is blinking:
If the light is blinking while driving, an engine misfire condition has been detected
which may damage the emission control
system.
To prevent serious damage to the emission control system, you should do the following.
y Reduce vehicle speed.
y Avoid hard acceleration.
y Avoid steep uphill grades.
y Reduce the amount of cargo, if possi-

Charge warning light
If this light comes on when the engine is
running, it may indicate that the charging
system is not working properly.
If the light comes on while driving or does
not go out after the engine starts, stop the
engine at the first safe opportunity and
check the alternator belt. If the belt is
loose, broken or if the belt is in good condition but the light remains on, contact
your nearest SUBARU dealer immediately.

Oil pressure warning
light

Do not operate the engine with the
oil pressure warning light on. This
may cause serious engine damage.

If this light comes on when the engine is
running, it may indicate that the engine oil
pressure is low and the lubricating system
is not working properly.
If the light comes on while driving or does
not go out after the engine starts, stop the
engine at the first safe opportunity and
check the engine oil level. If the oil level is
low, add oil immediately. If the engine oil
is at the proper level but the light remains
on, contact your nearest SUBARU dealer
immediately.

AT OIL TEMPerature
warning light (AT vehicles)
The AT oil temperature warning light
comes on when the ignition switch is
turned to the “ON” position and goes out
after the engine has started.
If this light comes on when the engine is
running, it may indicate that the automatic
transmission fluid temperature is too hot.
If the light comes on while driving, it is unnecessary to stop the vehicle, but avoid
driving up steep grades or in stop and go
traffic.
T Automatic transmission control
system warning
If the light flashes after the engine starts,

Instruments and controls 3-13

it may indicate that the automatic transmission control system is not working
properly. Contact your nearest SUBARU
dealer for service immediately.

ABS warning light

(U.S.)
(Canada)

The ABS warning light comes on when the
ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position and goes out after approximately two
seconds.
This is an indication that the ABS system
is working properly.

If the warning light behaves as follows, the ABS system may not work
properly.
When the warning light is on, the
ABS function shuts down; however,
the conventional brake system continues to operate normally.
y The warning light does not come
on when the ignition switch is
turned to the “ON” position.

y The warning light comes on when
the ignition switch is turned to the
“ON” position, but it does not go
out even when the vehicle speed
exceeds approximately 8 mph (12
km/h).
y The warning light comes on during driving.
If any of these conditions occur,
have the ABS system repaired at the
first available opportunity by your
SUBARU dealer.
The ABS warning light comes on together
with the brake system warning light if the
EBD system becomes faulty. For further
details of the EBD system fault warning,
refer to “Brake system warning light”.

NOTE
If the warning light behavior is as described in the following, the ABS system may be considered normal.
y The warning light comes on right after the engine is started but goes out
immediately, remaining off.
y The warning light remains on after
the engine has been started, but it goes
out when the vehicle speed reaches
approximately 8 mph (12 km/h).
y The warning light comes on during
driving, but it goes out immediately

and remains off.
When driving with an insufficient battery
voltage such as when the engine is jump
started, the ABS warning light may come
on. This is due to the low battery voltage
and does not indicate a malfunction.
When the battery becomes fully charged,
the light will go out.

Brake system
warning light

(U.S.)
(Canada)

y Driving with the brake system
warning light on is dangerous.
This indicates your brake system
may not be working properly. If
the light remains on, have the
brakes inspected by a SUBARU
dealer immediately.
y 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.
This light has the following three functions:

– CONTINUED –

3-14 Instruments and controls
T Parking brake warning
The light comes on with the parking brake
applied while the ignition switch is in the
“ON” position. It goes out when the parking brake is fully released.
T Brake fluid level warning
This light comes on when the brake fluid
level has dropped to near the “MIN” level
of the brake fluid reservoir with the ignition
switch in the “ON” position and with the
parking brake fully released.
If the brake system warning light should
come on while driving (with the parking
brake fully released and with the ignition
switch positioned in “ON”), it could be an
indication of leaking of brake fluid or worn
brake pads. If this occurs, immediately
stop the vehicle at the nearest safe place
and check the brake fluid level. If the fluid
level is below the “MIN” mark in the reservoir, do not drive the vehicle. Have the vehicle towed to the nearest SUBARU dealer for repair.
T Electronic Brake Force Distribution
(EBD) system warning
The brake system warning light also illuminates if a malfunction occurs in the EBD
system. In that event, it comes on together
with the ABS warning light.
The EBD system may be malfunctioning if

the brake system warning light and ABS
warning light illuminate simultaneously
during driving.
Even if the EBD system fails, the conventional braking system will still function.
However, the rear wheels will be more
prone to locking when the brakes are applied harder than usual and the vehicle’s
motion may therefore become somewhat
harder to control.
If the brake system warning light and ABS
warning light illuminate simultaneously,
take the following steps:
1. Stop the vehicle in the nearest safe, flat
place.
2. Shut down the engine, then restart it.
3. Release the parking brake. If both
warning lights go out, the EBD system
may be faulty.
Drive carefully to the nearest SUBARU
dealer and have the system inspected.
4. If both warning lights come on again
and stay illuminated after the engine has
been restarted, shut down the engine
again, apply the parking brake, and check
the brake fluid level.
5. If the brake fluid level is not below the
“MIN” mark, the EBD system may be
faulty. Drive carefully to the nearest SUBARU dealer and have the system inspected.
6. If the brake fluid level is below the

“MIN” mark, DO NOT drive the vehicle. Instead, have the vehicle towed to the nearest SUBARU dealer for repair.

Door open warning lights
The door open warning light comes on if
any door or the rear gate is not fully
closed.
Always make sure this light is out before
you start to drive.

Low fuel warning light
The low fuel warning light comes on when
the tank is nearly empty [approximately
2.3 US gal (9.0 liters, 1.9 Imp gal)]. It only
operates when the ignition switch is in the
“ON” position.

NOTE
This light does not go out unless the
tank is replenished up to an internal
fuel quantity of approximately 4.0 US
gal (15 liters, 3.3 Imp gal).

Instruments and controls 3-15

All-Wheel Drive warning light (AT vehicles)

Shift position indicator (AT
vehicles)

This light shows that the headlights are in
the high beam mode.
This indicator light also comes on when
the headlight flasher is operated.

Continued driving with the AWD
warning light flashing can lead to
powertrain damage. If the AWD
warning light flashes, promptly park
in a safe place then check whether
all four tires are the same diameter
and whether any of the tires has a
puncture or has lost air pressure for
some other reason.
The All-Wheel Drive warning light comes
on when the ignition switch is turned to the
“ON” position and goes out after the engine has started.
This light comes on when All-Wheel Drive
is disengaged and the drive mechanism is
switched to Front Wheel Drive for maintenance or similar purposes.
This light flashes if the vehicle is driven
with tires of different diameters or with the
air pressure excessively low in any of its
tires.

High beam indicator
light

Cruise control indicator light

300124

This indicator shows the position of the
shift lever.

Turn signal indicator
lights
These lights show the operation of the
turn signal or lane change signal.
If the indicator lights do not blink or blink
rapidly, the turn signal bulb may be
burned out. Replace the bulb as soon as
possible. Refer to the “Replacing bulbs”
section in chapter 11.

The cruise control indicator light comes on
when the ignition switch is turned to the
“ON” position and goes out after approximately three seconds.
This light comes on when the “CRUISE”
main switch is pressed.

NOTE
y If you move the cruise control lever
or press the main switch button while
turning the ignition switch “ON”, the
cruise control function is deactivated
and the “CRUISE” indicator light flashes. To reactivate the cruise control
function, turn the ignition switch back
to the “ACC” or “LOCK” position, and
then turn it again to the “ON” position.
y If this indicator light and the “
”
indicator light flash simultaneously
during driving, have the vehicle
checked by your nearest SUBARU
dealer.
– CONTINUED –

3-16 Instruments and controls
Cruise control set indicator light

Clock

To set the hour, press the “H” button. To
set the minutes, press the “M” button. To
reset the minutes to “00” with a radio time
signal, push the “Reset” button.

The cruise control set indicator light
comes on when the ignition switch is
turned to the “ON” position and goes out
after approximately three seconds.
This light comes on when vehicle speed
has been set.

To ensure safety, do not attempt to
set the time while driving, as an accident from inadequate attention to
the road could result.

NOTE
300578

To adjust the clock, open the small article
storage compartment in the dashboard
with the vehicle parked in a safe place.

RESET

300579

The clock uses a liquid-crystal display.
You will find time indications hard to
see if you wear polarized glasses.

Instruments and controls 3-17

Light control switch

Headlights

High/low beam change (dimmer)

The light switch operates only when the
ignition switch is in the “ON” position.

To prevent battery discharge resulting from accidentally leaving your
lights on when your vehicle is
parked, the light switch operates
only when the ignition switch is in
the “ON” position. In any other position, the vehicle’s lights will be out.
If you park your vehicle on a roadside at night, use the hazard warning flasher to alert the other drivers.

300127

To turn on the headlights, turn the knob on
the end of the turn signal lever.
first position:
Parking lights, instrument panel illumination, front side marker lights, tail lights and
license plate light are on.
second position:
Headlights, parking lights, instrument panel illumination, front side marker lights, tail
lights, and license plate light are on.

300128

To change from low beam to high beam,
push the turn signal lever forward. When
the headlights are on high beam, the high
beam indicator light “
” on the instrument panel is also on.
To switch back to low beam, pull the lever
back to the detent position.

– CONTINUED –

3-18 Instruments and controls
Headlight flasher

Daytime running light system
T Canada-spec. 2.5XT

The parking lights, and side marker
lights are not turned on by the daytime running light system. The light
switch must always be turned to the
“
” position when it is dark outside.
300129

To flash the headlights, pull the lever toward you and then release it. The high
beam will stay on for as long as you hold
the lever. The headlight flasher works
even though the lighting switch is in the
“OFF” position.
When the headlights are on high beam,
the high beam indicator light “
” on
the instrument panel also comes on.

Do not hold the lever in the flashing
position for more than just a few
seconds.

The low beam headlights and tail lights
will automatically come on when the engine has started, under the following conditions:
y The parking brake is fully released.
y The light switch is in the “OFF” or
“
” position.
y The automatic transmission selector lever is set at other than the “P” position.

T All models except Canada-spec.
2.5XT

The tail lights, parking lights, and
side marker lights are not turned on
by the daytime running light system.
The light switch must always be
turned to the “
” position when
it is dark outside.
The low beam headlights will automatically come on at reduced brightness when
the engine has started, under the following conditions:
y The parking brake is fully released.
y The light switch is in the “OFF” or
“
” position.
y The automatic transmission selector lever is set at other than the “P” position.

Instruments and controls 3-19

Turn signal lever

turn automatically to the neutral position
when you release it.

Illumination brightness control

1
3
4
2

300601

1)
2)
3)
4)

Right turn
Left turn
Lane change for right
Lane change for left

To activate the right turn signal, push the
turn signal lever up. To activate the left
turn signal, push the turn signal lever
down. When the turn is finished, the lever
will return automatically. If the lever does
not return after cornering, return the lever
to the neutral position by hand.
To signal a lane change, push the turn signal lever up or down slightly and hold it
during the lane change. The turn signal indicator lights will flash in the direction of
the turn or lane change. The lever will re-

300131

When the headlight switch is in the
“
” or “
” position, you can adjust brightness of the instrument panel illumination for better visibility.
To brighten, turn the control dial upward.
To darken, turn the control dial downward.

3-20 Instruments and controls
Headlight beam leveler
(Canada-spec. 2.5XT)

Parking light switch

Front fog light button

300134
300133

The 2.5XT has High-Intensity Discharge
(HID) headlights on the low beam setting.
The HID headlights generate more light
than conventional halogen headlights.
Therefore a driver of an oncoming vehicle
may experience too much glare when
your headlight beam height adjustment is
high due to the vehicle carrying a heavy
load.
The headlight beam leveler can be used
to adjust beam height to avoid such a condition.
The higher the number the switch is
turned to, the lower the beam height becomes.

The parking light switch operates regardless of the ignition switch position.
By pushing the front end of this switch, following lights will come on.
– Parking lights
– Front side marker lights
– Tail lights
– License plate lights
To turn off, push the rear end of the parking light switch.
Avoid leaving these lights on for a long
time because that will run down the battery.

300135

The front fog lights operate only when the
headlights are on low beam. Push the
front fog light button to turn the front fog
lights on.
However, the front fog lights turn off when
the headlights are switched to high beam.
Press the button again to turn them off.
The indicator light located on the button
will illuminate when the front fog lights are
on.

Instruments and controls 3-21

Wiper and washer

In freezing weather, do not use the
windshield washer until the windshield is sufficiently warmed by the
defroster.
Otherwise the washer fluid can
freeze on the windshield, blocking
your view.

y Do not operate the washer continuously for more than ten seconds,
or when the washer fluid tank is
empty. This may cause overheating of the washer motor. Check
the washer fluid level frequently,
such as at fuel stops.
y Do not operate the wipers when
the windshield or rear window is
dry. This may scratch the glass,
damage the wiper blades and
cause the wiper motor to burn out.
Before operating the wiper on a
dry windshield or rear window, always use the windshield washer.

y In freezing weather, be sure that
the wiper blades are not frozen to
the windshield or rear window before switching on the wipers. Attempting to operate the wiper with
the blades frozen to the window
glass could cause not only the
wiper blades to be damaged but
also the wiper motor to burn out. If
the wiper blades are frozen to the
window glass, be sure to operate
the defroster, windshield wiper
deicer (if equipped) or rear window defogger before turning on
the wiper.
y If the wipers stop during operation because of ice or some other
obstruction on the window, the
wiper motor could burn out even if
the wiper switch is turned off. If
this occurs, promptly stop the vehicle in a safe place, turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK” position and clean the window glass
to allow proper wiper operation.

y Use clean water if windshield
washer fluid is unavailable. In areas where water freezes in winter,
use SUBARU Windshield Washer
Fluid or the equivalent. (See the
“Windshield washer fluid” section
in chapter 11.)
Also, when driving the vehicle
when there are freezing temperatures, use non-freezing type wiper
blades.
y Do not clean the wiper blades with
gasoline or a solvent, such as
paint thinner or benzene. This will
cause deterioration of the wiper
blades.

NOTE
y The wiper operates only when the ignition switch is in the “ON” or “ACC”
position.
y Clean your wiper blades and window
glass periodically with a washer solution to prevent streaking, and to remove accumulations of road salt or
road film. Keep the washer button depressed at least for 1 second so that
washer solution will be sprinkled all
over the windshield or rear window.
y Grease, wax, insects or other material on the windshield or the wiper blade
results in jerky wiper operation and
– CONTINUED –

3-22 Instruments and controls
streaking on the glass. If you cannot
remove those streaks after operating
the washer or if the wiper operation is
jerky, clean the outer surface of the
windshield or rear window and the wiper blades using a sponge or soft cloth
with a neutral detergent or mild-abrasive cleaner. After cleaning, rinse the
window glass and wiper blades with
clean water. The glass is clean if no
beads form on the glass when you
rinse with water.
y If you cannot eliminate the streaking
even after following this procedure, replace the wiper blades with new ones.
Refer to the “Replacement of wiper
blades” section (chapter 11) for replacement instructions.

Windshield wiper and washer
switches

T Wiper intermittent time control (if
equipped)

T Windshield wipers

OFF

LO
HI
300795

OFF
LO
HI

:
:
:
:

Park
Intermittent
Low speed
High speed

To turn the wipers on, push the wiper control lever down.
To turn the wipers off, return the lever to
the “OFF” position.

300138

When the wiper switch is in the “
” position, turn the dial to adjust the operating
interval of the wiper.
The operating interval can be adjusted
continuously from the shortest interval to
the longest.
Two click stop positions of the dial may
help you to aim at your desired interval.

Instruments and controls 3-23

T Mist (for a single wipe)

To wash the windshield, push the washer
button at the end of the wiper control lever. The washer fluid sprays until you release the washer button. The wipers operate while you push the button.

Rear window wiper and washer switch

300796

For a single wipe of the wipers, pull the lever toward you. The wipers operate until
you release the lever.

ON
INT
OFF

INT
REAR OFF

T Washer
300141

ON
INT
OFF

300797

: Washer (accompanied by wiper
operation)
: Normal
: Intermittent
: Park
: Washer

T Rear wiper
To turn the rear wiper on, turn the knob on
the end of the wiper control lever upward.

INT: Intermittent
ON: Normal
To turn the wiper off, return the knob on
the end of the lever to the “OFF” position.
T Washer
To wash the rear window while the rear
wiper is operating, turn the knob on the
end of the wiper control lever counterclockwise to the “
” position. The
washer fluid sprays until you release the
knob.
To wash the rear window when the rear
wiper is not in use, turn the knob on the
end of the wiper control lever clockwise to
the “
” position. The washer fluid
sprays and the wiper operates until you
release the knob.

3-24 Instruments and controls
Windshield wiper deicer (if
equipped)

To prevent the battery from being
discharged, do not operate the
windshield wiper deicer continuously for any longer than necessary.

windshield wiper deicer is operating.
The windshield wiper deicer will automatically shut off after approximately 15 minutes. If the wiper blades have been deiced
completely before that time, push the button to turn it off. It also turns off when the
ignition switch is turned to the “ACC” or
“LOCK” position. If deicing is not complete, you have to push the button to turn
the deicer on again.

Rear window defogger button

NOTE
If your vehicle is equipped with the outside mirror defogger, the outside mirror defogger operates while the windshield wiper deicer is operating.

300151

Manual climate control system

300143

The windshield wiper deicer operates only
when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position.
Before turning on the windshield wiper deicer, remove any snow from the windshield. To turn on the windshield wiper deicer, push the button. The indicator light
located on the button lights up while the

300142

Automatic climate control system

Instruments and controls 3-25

The rear window defogger operates only
when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position.
The rear window defogger button is located on the climate control panel.
To turn on the defogger, push the button.
To turn it off, push the button again.
The indicator light located on the button
lights up while the rear window defogger is
operating.
The defogger will automatically shut off after approximately 15 minutes. If the window clears before that time, push the button to turn it off. It also turns off when the
ignition switch is turned to the “ACC” or
“LOCK” position. If defrosting or defogging
is desired when you restart your vehicle,
you have to push the button to turn it on
again.
Turn on the rear window defogger if the
wiper is frozen to the glass.

y Do not use sharp instruments or
window cleaner containing abrasives to clean the inner surface of
the rear window. They may damage the conductors printed on the
window.

y To prevent the battery from being
discharged, do not operate the defogger continuously for any longer than necessary.

Mirrors
Always check that the inside and outside
mirrors are properly adjusted before you
start driving.

Inside mirror

300145

The inside mirror has a day and night position. Pull the tab at the bottom of the mirror toward you for the night position. Push
it away for the day position. The night position reduces glare from headlights.

– CONTINUED –

3-26 Instruments and controls
T Auto-dimming mirror/compass (if
equipped)

ton, the compass display is toggled on or
off. When the compass is on, an illuminated compass reading will appear in the
lower part of the mirror.

cover the sensors with stickers, or other
similar items. Periodically wipe the sensors clean using a piece of dry soft cotton
cloth or an applicator.

Even with the mirror in anti-glare mode,
the mirror surface turns bright if the transmission is shifted into reverse. This is to
ensure good rearward visibility during reversing.

V Compass calibration
1. For optimum calibration, switch off all
nonessential electrical accessories (rear
window defogger, heater/air conditioning
system, spotlight, etc.) and ensure all
doors are shut.
2. Drive to an open, level area away from
large metallic objects or structures and
make certain the ignition switch is in the
“ON” position.
3. Press and hold the left button for 3 seconds then release, and the compass will
enter the calibration mode. “CAL” and direction will be displayed.
4. Drive slowly in a circle until “CAL” disappears from the display (approximately
two or three circles).
5. The compass is now calibrated. Further calibration is not required. The compass will automatically calibrate from this
point forward.

V Photosensors
1
2

4
300517

1)
2)
3)
4)

Left button
Auto dimming indicator
Photosensor
Right button

The auto-dimming mirror/compass has an
anti-glare feature which automatically reduces glare coming from headlights of vehicles behind you. It also contains a builtin compass.
y By pressing and releasing the left button, the automatic dimming function is toggled on or off. When the automatic dimming function is on, the auto dimming indicator light (green) located to the right of
the button will illuminate.
y By pressing and releasing the right but-

300518

The mirror has a photosensor attached on
both the front and back sides. If the glare
from the headlights of vehicles behind you
strikes the mirror, these sensors detect it
and make the reflection surface of the mirror dimmer to help prevent you from being
blinded. For this reason, use care not to

Instruments and controls 3-27

V Compass zone adjustment

T Remote control mirror switch

exit the zone setting mode.

Outside mirrors

13
12

5
6

300581

300580

Compass calibration zones
300146

1. The zone setting is factory preset to
Zone 8. Refer to the “Compass calibration
zone” map shown above or one attached
to the end of this manual to verify that the
compass zone setting is correct for your
geographical location.
2. Press and hold the right button for 3
seconds then release, and the word
“ZONE” will briefly appear and then the
zone number will be displayed.
3. Press the right-hand button repeatedly
to cycle the display through all possible
zone settings. Stop cycling when the correct zone setting for your location is displayed.
4. Releasing the button for 3 seconds will

T Convex mirror (passenger side)

Objects look smaller in a convex
mirror and farther away than when
viewed in a flat mirror. Do not use
the convex mirror to judge the distance of vehicles behind you when
changing lanes. Use the inside mirror (or glance backwards) to determine the actual size and distance of
objects that you view in convex mirror.

1) Selection switch
2) Direction control switch

The remote control mirrors operate only
when the ignition switch is in the “ON” or
“ACC” position.
1. Press either end of the selection
switch, “L” for the left, “R” for the right.
2. Move the direction control switch in the
direction you want to move the mirror.
3. Return the selection switch to the neutral position to prevent unintentional operation.
The mirrors can also be adjusted manually.

– CONTINUED –

3-28 Instruments and controls
T Outside mirror defogger (if
equipped)

button again. The indicator light located
on the button lights up while the outside
mirror defogger is operating.

To prevent the battery from being
discharged, do not operate the defogger continuously for any longer
than necessary.
1

Tilt steering wheel

The defogger will automatically shut off after approximately 15 minutes. If the mirror
clears before that time, push the button to
turn it off. It also turns off when the ignition
switch is turned to the “ACC” or “LOCK”
position. If defrosting or defogging is desired when you restart your vehicle, you
have to push the button to turn it on again.

NOTE
On vehicles equipped with a windshield wiper deicer, the windshield
wiper deicer switch is also used to operate the outside mirror defogger.

300582

1) Outside mirror defogger button (if
equipped)
2) Outside mirror defogger and windshield
wiper deicer button (if equipped)

The outside mirror defogger operates only
when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position.
To turn on the outside mirror defogger,
push the button. To turn it off, push the

300149

Do not adjust the steering wheel tilt
position while driving. This may
cause loss of vehicle control and result in personal injury.
1. Adjust the seat position. Refer to the
“Front seats” section (chapter 1).
2. Push the tilt lock lever down.
3. Move the steering wheel to the desired
level.
4. Pull the lever up to lock the steering
wheel in place.
5. Make sure that the steering wheel is
securely locked by moving it up and down.

Instruments and controls 3-29

Horn

300150

To sound the horn, push the horn pad.

Climate control
Ventilator .............................................................

4-2

Air flow selection ....................................................
Center and side ventilators ....................................

4-2
4-3

Manual climate control system (if equipped) ..

4-3

Control panel ..........................................................
Heater operation .....................................................
Air conditioner operation .......................................

4-3
4-5
4-7

Automatic climate control system
(if equipped) ....................................................

4-8

Control panel ..........................................................
To use as full-automatic climate control
system ...................................................................
To use as semi-automatic climate control
system ...................................................................
Fan speed control dial ...........................................
Temperature control dial ........................................
Air flow control dial ................................................
Air inlet selection button ........................................
Air conditioner button ............................................
Temperature sensors .............................................

4-8
4-9
4-9
4-9
4-10
4-10
4-11

Operating tips for heater and air
conditioner ......................................................

4-11

Cleaning ventilation grille ......................................
Efficient cooling after parking in direct
sunlight .................................................................
Lubrication oil circulation in the refrigerant
circuit ....................................................................
Checking air conditioning system before
summer season ....................................................

4-8
4-8

4-11
4-11
4-12
4-12

Cooling and dehumidifying in high humidity and
low temperature weather conditions ..................
Air conditioner compressor shut-off when
engine is heavily loaded ......................................
Refrigerant for your climate control system ........

4-12
4-12

Air filtration system (if equipped) .....................

4-12

Replacing an air filter .............................................

4-13

4-12

4-2 Climate control
Ventilator

Climate control

Air flow selection

400138

Climate control 4-3

Center and side ventilators

T Side ventilators

Manual climate control system (if equipped)

T Center ventilators
1

Control panel
1

2
400545
400140

Move the tab up and down or right and left
to adjust the flow direction.

1) Open
2) Close
3) Thumb-wheel

Move the tab up and down or right and left
to adjust the flow direction.
To open or close the ventilator, turn the
thumb-wheel up or down.

400546

1)
2)
3)
4)

Temperature control dial
Fan speed control dial
Air flow control dial
Rear window defogger button (Refer to
the “Rear window defogger button” in
chapter 3.)
5) Air conditioner button
6) Air inlet selection button

T Temperature control dial
This dial regulates the temperature of air
flow from the air outlets over a range from
the blue side (cool) to red side (warm).

– CONTINUED –

4-4 Climate control
T Fan speed control dial
The fan operates only when the ignition
switch is turned to the “ON” position. The
fan speed control dial is used to select four
fan speeds.
T Air flow control dial
This dial has the following five positions:
: Air flows through the instrument panel
outlets.

At the same time, the air inlet selection
is automatically set to “outside air”
mode.
In this state, you cannot select “recirculation” mode by manually pressing
the air inlet selection button.
Also, you cannot stop the air conditioner compressor by pressing the air
conditioner button.
T Air conditioner button

: Air flows through the instrument panel
outlets and the foot outlets.

400145

ON position (Recirculation): Interior air
is recirculated inside the vehicle. Push the
air inlet selection button to the ON position. The indicator light will come on.
Place the air inlet selection button to the
ON position for fast cooling with the air
conditioner or when driving on a dusty
road.

: Air flows through the foot outlets and
some through the windshield defroster
outlets.
: Air flows through the windshield defroster outlets and foot outlets.
: Air flows through the windshield defroster outlets.

NOTE
When the dial is placed in the “
”
or “
” position, the air conditioner
compressor operates automatically regardless of the position of the air conditioner button to defog the windshield
quickly. However the indicator on the
air conditioner button will not come on.

T Air inlet selection button

400144

The air conditioner operates only when
the engine is running.
Push the air conditioner button while the
fan is in operation to turn on the air conditioner. The indicator light will come on.
Push it again to turn off the air conditioner.

OFF position (Outside air): Outside air is
drawn into the passenger compartment.
Push the air inlet selection button again to
the OFF position. The indicator light will
go off.
Place the air inlet selection button to the
OFF position when the interior has cooled
to a comfortable temperature and the road
is no longer dusty.

Climate control 4-5

Continued operation with the air inlet selection button in the ON position may fog up the windows.
Switch to the OFF position as soon
as the outside dusty condition
clears.

Heater operation
T Defrosting or defogging the windshield

way to the right.
3. Set the fan speed control dial to the
highest speed.
If your vehicle is equipped with an air conditioner, when the “
” or “
” position is selected, the air conditioner compressor automatically operates regardless
of the position of the air conditioner button
to defog the windshield quickly.
However, the air conditioner indicator light
does not come on at this time.

NOTE
Warm air also comes out from the right
and left air outlets. To stop warm air
flow from these outlets, turn the corresponding thumb-wheel down.
T Heating and defrosting

To direct warm air toward the floor and the
windshield:
1. Set the air flow control dial to the “
”
position.
2. Set the temperature control dial to the
most comfortable level.
3. Set the fan speed control dial to the desired speed.
If your vehicle is equipped with an air conditioner, when the “
” or “
” position is selected, the air conditioner compressor automatically operates regardless
of the position of the air conditioner button
to defog the windshield quickly.
However, the air conditioner indicator light
does not come on at this time.

NOTE
Warm air also comes out from the right
and left air outlets. To stop warm air
flow from these outlets, turn the corresponding thumb-wheel down.

400146

To direct warm air to the windshield and
front door windows:
1. Set the air flow control dial to the
“
” position.
2. Turn the temperature control dial all the

400147

– CONTINUED –

4-6 Climate control
T Heating

T Bi-level heating

outlets and the air from the foot outlets.
T Ventilation

400148

To direct warm air toward the floor:
1. Set the air inlet selection button to the
OFF position.
2. Set the air flow control dial to the
“
” position.
3. Set the temperature control dial to the
most comfortable level.
4. Set the fan speed control dial to the desired speed.

NOTE
Warm air also comes out from the right
and left air outlets. To stop warm air
flow from these outlets, turn the corresponding thumb-wheel down.

400149

This setting allows you to direct air of different temperatures from the instrument
panel and foot outlets. The air from the
foot outlets is slightly warmer than from
the instrument panel outlets.
1. Set the air inlet selection button to the
OFF position.
2. Set the air flow control dial to the
“
” position.
3. Set the temperature control dial to the
desired temperature level.
4. Set the fan speed control dial to the desired speed.
Setting the temperature control dial fully
turned to the red area or blue area decreases the temperature difference between the air from the instrument panel

400150

To force outside air through the instrument panel outlets:
1. Set the air inlet selection button to the
OFF position.
2. Set the air flow control dial to the “
”
position.
3. Set the temperature control dial all the
way left.
4. Set the fan speed control dial to the desired speed.
When driving on a dusty road, set the air
inlet selection button to the “ON” position.

Climate control 4-7

Continued operation with the air inlet selection button in the ON position may fog up the windows.
Switch to the OFF position as soon
as the outside dusty condition
clears.

Air conditioner operation

OFF position.
2. Set the air flow control dial to the “
”
position.
3. Set the air conditioner button to the
“ON” position.
4. Set the temperature control dial to the
blue side.
5. Set the fan speed control dial at the
highest speed.
T Defrosting or defogging

T Cooling or dehumidifying

400146

400547

1) ON position

For cooling and dehumidification of the
passenger compartment, performing the
following steps will allow air to flow
through the instrument panel outlets:
1. Set the air inlet selection button to the

To direct warm air to the windshield and
front door windows:
1. Set the air flow control dial to the
“
” position.
2. Set the temperature control dial to the
red side.
3. Set the fan speed control dial at the
highest speed.

The air conditioner compressor automatically operates when the air flow control
dial set in the “
” or “
” position to
provide better defogging performance.
However, the air conditioner indicator light
does not come on at this time.

4-8 Climate control
Automatic climate control
system (if equipped)
Although this climate control system can
be used as a full-automatic climate control
system, it can also, if desired, be used as
a semi-automatic climate control system.
When it is used as a full-automatic climate
control system, the outlet air temperature,
fan speed, air flow distribution, air inlet
control, and air conditioner compressor
operation are all automatically controlled
to maintain a constant, comfortable temperature inside the vehicle.

turns on the air conditioner compressor automatically and the “A/C” indicator light on the control panel comes on.

Control panel
1

To use as semi-automatic climate control system

NOTE
y Operate the automatic climate control system when the engine is running.
y When the engine coolant is cold, the
blower does not run.
y In the “AUTO” mode, when the air
temperature in the passenger compartment is sufficiently cool, the air conditioner compressor does not operate.
For efficient defogging or dehumidifying in cold weather, press the “A/C”
button to operate the air conditioner
compressor.
y Even when cooling is not necessary,
setting the temperature much lower
than the current outlet air temperature

then set the other dials and buttons as described in the following. The system’s
functions will then switch to AUTO mode
and be controlled automatically.
y Air flow control dial: AUTO position
y Fan speed control dial: AUTO position
y Air inlet selection button: Press for at
least 1 second. (Indicator will flash twice.)
y Air conditioner button: Press for at least
1 second. (Indicator will flash twice.)

4
400594

1)
2)
3)
4)

Temperature control dial
Fan speed control dial
Air flow control dial
Rear window defogger button (Refer to
the “Rear window defogger button” in
chapter 3.)
5) Air inlet selection button
6) Air conditioner button

To use as full-automatic climate control system
Place the temperature control dial in the
position for your desired temperature,

Each function can be individually set to
AUTO mode independently of the others.
Any function set to AUTO mode is controlled automatically. Any function not set
to AUTO mode can be manually adjusted
as desired.
The temperature can be set within a range
of 65 to 85qF (20 to 30qC).

Climate control 4-9

Fan speed control dial

AUTO position and the air flow control
dial in the “
”, “
”, or “
” position, the fan does not operate during
engine warm-up until the engine coolant temperature exceeds approx. 122qF
(50qC).

formance.

Air flow control dial

Temperature control dial

400154

The fan operates only with the ignition
switch in the ON position. The fan speed
control dial is used to select the AUTO
(automatic control) mode or to select the
desired fan speed. The dial’s positions
and their functions are as follows:
OFF: The fan does not operate.
AUTO: The fan speed is adjusted automatically in accordance with the air temperature inside and outside the passenger
compartment, the intensity of sunlight,
and other factors. SUBARU recommends
using the AUTO position.
Other positions: The fan speed can be
adjusted in seven steps.

NOTE
With the fan speed control dial in the

400156

400549

This dial is used to set the desired interior
temperature. With the dial set to your desired temperature, the system automatically adjusts the temperature of air supplied from the outlets such that the desired
temperature is achieved and maintained.
If the dial is turned fully counterclockwise,
the system gives maximum cooling performance. If the dial is turned fully clockwise,
the system gives maximum heating per-

This dial has the following six positions.
The outlets from which air is supplied in
each position are as follows:
AUTO: The air flow control is adjusted automatically in accordance with the air temperature inside and outside the passenger
compartment, the intensity of sunlight,
and other factors. SUBARU recommends
using the AUTO position.
: Instrument panel outlets
: Instrument panel outlets and foot outlets
: Foot outlets and windshield defroster
outlets (relatively little air from windshield
– CONTINUED –

4-10 Climate control
defroster outlets)
: Windshield defroster outlets and foot
outlets
: Windshield defroster outlets

NOTE
When the dial is placed in the “
”
or “
” position, the air conditioner
compressor operates automatically to
defog the windshield quickly. At the
same time, the air inlet selection is automatically set to “outside air” mode.

Air inlet selection button

400157

ON position (Recirculation): Interior air
is recirculated inside the vehicle. Push the
air inlet selection button to the ON position
for fast cooling with the air conditioner or

when driving on a dusty road. The indicator light will come on.
OFF position (Outside Air): Outside air
is drawn into the passenger compartment.
Push the air inlet selection button to the
OFF position when the interior has cooled
to a comfortable temperature and the road
is no longer dusty. The indicator light will
go off.
AUTO: When the air inlet selection button
is pressed for at least 1 second, the indicator flashes twice. The air inlet control is
then adjusted automatically in accordance
with the air temperature inside and outside the passenger compartment, the intensity of sunlight, and other factors.
Pressing the air inlet selection button cancels the “AUTO” mode. SUBARU recommends using the AUTO position.

Continued operation in the ON position may fog up the windows.
Switch to the OFF position as soon
as the outside dusty condition
clears.

Air conditioner button

75
65

400550

The button’s positions and their functions
are as follows:
ON: The air conditioner operates while the
fan is running.
Push the button to select this position. The
indicator light will come on.
OFF: The air conditioner does not operate.
Push the button again to select this position. The indicator light will go off.
AUTO: When the button is pressed for at
least 1 second, the indicator flashes twice.
The air conditioner compressor operation
is then adjusted automatically in accordance with the air temperature inside and
outside the passenger compartment, the
intensity of sunlight, and other factors.

Climate control 4-11

Pressing the button cancels the “AUTO”
mode. SUBARU recommends using the
AUTO position.

NOTE
The air conditioner’s compressor does
not operate with an outside temperature of 32qF (0qC) or lower.

Temperature sensors

sors, observe the following precautions:
– Do not subject the sensors to impact.
– Keep water away from the sensors.
– Do not cover the sensors.

Operating tips for heater and
air conditioner
Cleaning ventilation grille

The sensors are located as follows:
– Solar sensor: beside the windshield defroster grille.
– Interior air temperature sensor: near the
ignition switch.
– Outside temperature sensor: behind the
front grille.

2
400552

1
400551

1) Interior air temperature sensor
2) Solar sensor

The automatic climate control system employs several sensors. These sensors are
delicate. If they are not treated properly
and become damaged, the system may
not be able to control the interior temperature correctly. To avoid damaging the sen-

Always keep the front ventilation inlet
grille free of snow, leaves, or other obstructions to ensure efficient heating and
defrosting. Since the condenser is located
in front of the radiator, this area should be
kept clean because cooling performance
is impaired by any accumulation of insects
and leaves on the condenser.

Efficient cooling after parking
in direct sunlight
After parking in direct sunlight, drive with
the windows open for a few minutes to al– CONTINUED –

4-12 Climate control
low outside air to circulate into the heated
interior. This results in quicker cooling by
the air conditioner. Keep the windows
closed during the operation of the air conditioner for maximum cooling efficiency.

Lubrication oil circulation in
the refrigerant circuit
Operate the air conditioner compressor at
a low engine speed (at idle or low driving
speeds) a few minutes each month during
the off-season to circulate its oil.

Checking air conditioning
system before summer season
Check the air conditioner unit for refrigerant leaks, hose conditions, and proper operation each spring. Have your SUBARU
dealer perform this check.

Cooling and dehumidifying in
high humidity and low temperature weather conditions
Under certain weather conditions (high
relative humidity, low temperatures, etc.)
a small amount of water vapor emission
from the air outlets may be noticed. This
condition is normal and does not indicate

any problem with the air conditioning system.

Air filtration system (if
equipped)

Air conditioner compressor
shut-off when engine is
heavily loaded

If your vehicle’s air conditioning system is
equipped with an air filtration system, replace the filter element according to the
replacement schedule shown in the following. This schedule should be followed
to maintain the filter’s dust collection ability. Under extremely dusty conditions, the
filter should be replaced more frequently.
It is recommended that you have your filter checked or replaced by your SUBARU
dealer. For replacement, use only a genuine SUBARU air filter kit.

To improve acceleration and gas mileage,
the air conditioner compressor is designed to temporarily shut off during air
conditioner operation whenever the accelerator is fully depressed such as during
rapid acceleration or when driving on a
steep upgrade.

Refrigerant for your climate
control system
Your air conditioner uses ozone friendly
refrigerant HFC134a. Therefore, the
method of adding, changing or checking
the refrigerant is different from the method
for CFC12 (freon). Consult your SUBARU
dealer for service. Repairs needed as a
result of using the wrong refrigerant are
not covered under warranty.

Replacement schedule:
Every 12 months or 7,500 miles (12,000
km) whichever comes first

Contact your SUBARU dealer if the
following occurs, even if it is not yet
time to change the filter:
– Reduction of the air flow through
the vents.
– Windshield gets easily fogged or
misted.

Climate control 4-13

3. Replace the air filter element with new
one.

NOTE
The filter can influence the air conditioning, heating and defroster performance if not properly maintained.

The arrow mark on the filter must
point UP.

Replacing an air filter
0

400553

1) Air filter cover

2. Remove the air filter cover.

400680

1. Remove the glove box.
1) Open the glove box.
2) Remove the nine screws securing the
glove box.

400555

1) Air filter cover

4. Reinstall the air filter cover.

400554

1) Air filter element
2) Arrow mark

– CONTINUED –

4-14 Climate control
1) Fill out the information on the service
label (small).
2) Attach the service label to the driver
side door pillar and the caution label to
the driver side end of the instrument
panel.

400680

5. Reinstall the glove box.
6. Close the glove box.
1

400557

1) Service label
2) Caution label

7. LABEL installation

Audio
Antenna system ..................................................

5-2

FM reception ...........................................................

5-2

Installation of accessories ................................
Audio set .............................................................

5-2
5-3

Type A audio set .....................................................
Type B audio set .....................................................
In-dash 6 CD auto changer (Optional audio
unit – if equipped) ................................................

5-3
5-3
5-3

Type A audio set (if equipped) ..........................

5-4

Radio operation ......................................................
Compact disc player operation .............................
CD changer control (if optional in-dash CD
changer is connected) .........................................

5-4
5-7

Type B audio set (if equipped) ..........................

5-11

Radio operation ......................................................
Built-in CD changer control ...................................
Auxiliary unit operation ..........................................

5-11
5-15
5-20

5-9

In-dash 6 CD auto changer (if equipped) ......... 5-23
Loading and unloading compact discs ................

5-23

Precautions to observe when handling a
compact disc ...................................................

5-25

5-2 Audio
Antenna system

Audio

500011

The antenna is printed on the inner surface of the left side rear quarter window
glass.

Do not use sharp instruments or
window cleaner containing abrasives to clean the inner surface of
the window on which the antenna is
printed. Doing so may damage the
antenna printed on the window.

FM reception
Although FM is normally static free, reception can be affected by the surrounding ar-

ea, atmospheric conditions, station
strength and transmitter distance. Buildings or other obstructions may cause momentary static, flutter or station interference. If reception continues to be unsatisfactory, switch to a stronger station.

Installation of accessories
Always consult your SUBARU dealer before installing a citizen band radio or other
transmitting device in your vehicle. Such
devices may cause the electronic control
system to malfunction if they are incorrectly installed or if they are not suited for the
vehicle.

Audio 5-3

Type B audio set

Audio set
Your SUBARU may be equipped with one
of the following audio sets. See the pages
indicated in this section for operating details.

6CD CHANGER

In-dash 6 CD auto changer
(Optional audio unit – if
equipped)

C-123

LOAD

CD/AUX

FOLDER DISC

TRACK RPT RDM WMA MP3 CAT MUTE

M1
M2

SAT

123
456

CAT

FM/AM

Type A audio set

SEEK/TRACK/CAT
SCAN
RPT/RDM

DISP

1
PUSH

POWER/VOL
BRIGHT

PUSH SOUND
TUNE/FOLDER/CH

500261

y Radio operation: refer to page 5-11
y Built-in CD changer operation: refer to
page 5-15
y Auxiliary unit operation: refer to page 520
500257

y Radio operation: refer to page 5-4
y Compact disc player operation: refer to
page 5-7
y CD changer control: refer to page 5-9

500216

y Inserting and removing a disc or all
discs: refer to page 5-23

5-4 Audio
Type A audio set (if equipped)
The radio will operate only when the ignition switch is in the “ACC” or “ON” position.

Radio operation

(1)

(6)

T Power switch and volume/bass/treble/fader/balance control (PWR/
VOL)
The dial (1) is used for both power (ON/
OFF) and volume control. The radio is
turned ON and OFF by pushing the dial
and the volume is controlled by turning the
dial.

(2)

(5)

(4)

(1) Power switch, Volume control, Tone/
Fader/Balance control dial
(2) BAND button
(3) Tuning buttons
(4) Preset buttons
(5) AUDIO button
(6) SCAN button

(3)

500258

V Tone and balance control
The “VOLUME” control knob normally
function as volume control. This knob become a control for Treble, Bass, Fader or
Balance when you select the appropriate
audio mode.
Choose desired volume level for each
mode by turning the “VOLUME” control
knob. The control function returns to volume control mode after approximately 5
seconds.
To change control modes: Each brief
press of the “AUDIO” button changes control modes in the following sequence starting from volume control mode. (When the

Audio 5-5

radio is first turned on, the control mode is
in the volume control.)

Volume
(VOL)

Bass
(BAS)
Fader
(FAD)

Display

Treble
(TRE)
Balance
(BAL)

Control mode

500009

Turn counterclockwise

Turn clockwise

VOL

Volume control

For less volume

For more volume

BAS

Bass control

For less bass sound

For more bass sound

TRE

Treble control

For less treble sound

For more treble sound

BAL

Balance control

To increase left speaker volume and decrease right
speaker volume

To increase right speaker volume and decrease left
speaker volume

FAD

Fader control

To increase rear speaker volume and decrease front
speaker volume

To increase front speaker volume and decrease rear
speaker volume

– CONTINUED –

5-6 Audio
T FM/AM band selection button
(BAND)
Push the “BAND” button when the radio is
on to select FM1, FM2 or AM band reception. Each time this button is pressed, the
band will change in the following order:

FM1

FM2

The display indicates which one is currently selected.
T Stereo indicator
The stereo indicator “ST” will come on
when an FM stereo broadcast is received.
T Tuning (TUNE)
V Manual tuning (TUNE)
Push the “
” side of the tuning button
(3) to increase the tuning frequency and
press the “
” side of the button to decrease it.
Each time the button is pressed, the frequency changes 10 KHz in the AM waveband and 0.2 MHz in the FM waveband.
T Seek tuning
If the tuning button (3) is pressed for longer than half of a second, the radio will begin to automatically search for receivable

frequencies and will stop at the first one
found. This function may not be available,
however, when radio signals are weak. In
such a situation, perform manual tuning to
select the desired station.
T Automatic tuning (SCAN)
Press the “SCAN” button (6) to change the
radio to the SCAN mode. In this mode, the
radio scans through the radio band until a
station is found. The radio will stop at the
station for five seconds while displaying
the frequency, after which scanning will
continue until the entire band has been
scanned from the low end to the high end.
Press the “SCAN” button again to cancel
the SCAN mode and to stop on any displayed frequency.
When the “SCAN” button is pressed for
automatic tuning, stations are scanned in
the direction of low frequencies to high frequencies only.
Automatic tuning may not function properly if the station reception is weakened by
distance from the station or proximity to
tall buildings and hills.
T Selecting preset stations
Presetting a station with a preset button
(4) allows you to select that station in a
single operation. Up to six AM, FM1 and
FM2 stations each may be preset.

T How to preset stations
1. Press the “BAND” selection button to
select AM, FM1 or FM2 reception.
2. Press the “SCAN” button (6) or tune
the radio manually until the desired station
frequency is displayed.
3. Press one of the preset buttons (4) for
at least 2 seconds to store the frequency.
At this time, there will momentarily be no
sound from the radio. If the button is
pressed for less than 2 seconds, the preceding selection will remain in memory.

NOTE
y If the connection between the radio
and battery is broken for any reason
such as vehicle maintenance or radio
removal, all stations stored in the preset buttons are cleared. If this occurs,
it is necessary to reset the preset buttons.
y If a cell phone is placed near the radio, it may cause the radio to emit
noise when it receives calls. This noise
does not indicate a radio fault.

Audio 5-7

Compact disc player operation

(15)

(7)

(7) Disc slot
(8) CD button
(9) Eject button
(10) Fast-forwarding and track up button
(11) Fast-reversing and track down button
(12) Random button
(13) Repeat button
(14) Scan button
(15) PWR (power) switch

(8) (9)

T To play back a compact disc
V When CD is not in the player
Hold a disc with a finger in the center hole
while gripping the edge of the disc, then
insert it in to the slot (with the label side
up) and the player will automatically pull
the disc into position.
A single CD (8 cm/3 inch CD) may also be
used without any adapter.

(14)

(13)

(12)

(11)

NOTE

(10)

500259

y Make sure to always insert a disc
with the label side up. If a disc is inserted with the label side down, it might be
ejected or the player might shut off.
y After the last song finishes, the player will automatically return to track 1
(the first song on the disc).
V When CD is in the player
Press the “CD” button (8). The display will
– CONTINUED –

5-8 Audio
show “CD-IN” and the player will start
playback.

NOTE
After the last song finishes, playback
will automatically return to track 1 (the
first song on the disc).
T To stop playback of a CD
When the “PWR” button (15) is pressed
during playback of a CD, the CD stops
playing temporarily. To let the CD resume
playing, press the button again.
T To select a song from its beginning
V Forward direction
Briefly press the “
” side of the button
(10) to skip to the beginning of the next
track. Each time this side of the button is
pressed, the indicated track number will
increase.
V Backward direction
Briefly press the “
” side of the button
(11) to skip to the beginning of the current
track. Each time this side of the button is
pressed, the indicated track number will
decrease.
T Fast-forwarding and fast-reversing
V Fast-forwarding
Press the “
” side of the button (10)

continuously to fast-forward the disc.
Release the button to stop fast-forwarding.
V Fast-reversing
Press the “
” side of the button (11)
continuously to fast-reverse the disc.
Release the button to stop fast-reversing.
T Repeat playback
Briefly press the “RPT” button (13) while a
song is playing to play the song repeatedly. The “RPT” indicator will come on and
the song will be played continuously. To
cancel the repeat mode, press the button
again. Then the “RPT” indicator goes out,
and normal playback mode is restored.
T Random playback
Briefly press the “RAND” button (12) while
a disc is being played back to play all
songs on the disc in a random order. The
“RAND” indicator will come on and all
songs on the disc will be played in a random order.
To cancel the random mode, press the
button again. Then the “RAND” indicator
goes out, and normal playback mode is
restored.
T Scan
Briefly press the “SCAN” button (14), and
you can hear the first 10 seconds of each

track to search for the desired program.
To continue listening to the program,
press the “SCAN” button again. After all
tracks on the disc has been scanned, normal playback mode is restored.
T To eject a disc from the player
When a disc is being played back or when
a disc is in the player, press the eject button “
” (9). The disc will be ejected.
The disc may be removed even when the
ignition switch is in the “LOCK” position.

NOTE
Avoid driving the vehicle with a CD
sticking out, because vibration might
make it fall out.

Audio 5-9

CD changer control (if optional in-dash CD changer is connected)
An optional CD changer can be connected to this audio unit. Consult the instructions that
accompany the CD changer for operating the CD changer itself (e.g., how to load or unload CDs). See your SUBARU dealer for more information.

(16) CD button
(17) Track selection buttons
(18) RAND (Random) button
(19) RPT (Repeat) button
(20) SCAN button
T To start playback
When the “CD” button (16) is pressed, the
CD changer will start playback. The display shows the current disc number, track
number and the elapsed time during playback.

(16)

NOTE

(20)

(19)

(18)

y If a disc is in the player, the “DISC”
button is used to change from CD player operation to DISC changer operation. Each time the “DISC” button is
pressed, the operating mode will
change alternately.
y At the end of the disc, the player automatically continues with the next
disc.
y After playback on the last disc finishes, playback will automatically return
to the first disc.
y If you have loaded fewer than 6
discs, any missing disc is automatically skipped.

(17)

500260

T Selection of a desired disc
You can select a desired disc from among
– CONTINUED –

5-10 Audio
the discs contained in the CD changer
only by pressing the corresponding number on one of the disc select buttons. If
you are to listen to the 5th disc in the CD
changer, press the “5” button of the disc
select buttons. All other discs in the CD
changer can also be selected in a similar
way.

NOTE
y No disc change takes place if the
button corresponding to the storage
tray in which no disc is loaded is
pressed.
y If the disc select button corresponding to the disc now in playback is
pressed again, the disc will be replayed
from its beginning.
T To select a song from its beginning
V Forward direction
Briefly press the “
” side of the button
(17) to skip to the beginning of the next
track. Each time this side of the button is
pressed, the indicated track number will
increase.
V Backward direction
Briefly press the “
” side of the button
(17) to skip to the beginning of the current
track. Each time this side of the button is
pressed, the indicated track number will

decrease.
T Fast-forwarding and fast-reversing
V Fast-forwarding
Press the “
” side of the button (17)
continuously to fast-forward the disc.
Release the button to stop fast-forwarding.
If you continue fast-forwarding to the end
of the disc, the CD changer will automatically stop fast-forwarding and start playback beginning with the first track on the
current disc.
V Fast-reversing
Press the “
” side of the button (17)
continuously to fast-reverse the disc.
Release the button to stop fast-reversing.
If you continue fast-reversing to the beginning of the disc, the CD changer will automatically stop fast-reversing and start
playback beginning with the first track on
the current disc.
T Repeat playback
Press the “RPT” button (19) while a song
is playing to play the song repeatedly. The
“RPT” indicator will come on and the song
will be played continuously. To cancel the
repeat mode, press the button again.
Then the “RPT” indicator goes out, and
normal playback mode is restored.

T Random playback
Press the “RAND” button (18) while a disc
is being played back to play all songs on
the disc in a random order. The “RAND”
indicator will come on and all songs on the
disc will be played in a random order.
To cancel the random mode, press the
button again. Then the “RAND” indicator
goes out, and normal playback mode is
restored.
T Scan (a convenient way to become
familiar with a disc)
1. Press the “SCAN” button (20).
– The display shows “SCAN” and the
track number being scanned.
– You hear the first 10 seconds of each
track.
– The operation is automatically
cleared after playing all programs.
Then, normal playback starts.
2. Press the “SCAN” button again when
you hear a track you like.
– Normal playback resumes.
T To stop playback
To stop playback and switch over to the
radio mode, press the “BAND” button.

Audio 5-11

Type B audio set (if equipped)
The audio set will operate only when the ignition switch is in the “ACC” or “ON” position.

Radio operation
(1) (2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(1) Power switch, Volume, Brightness
control dial
(2) FM/AM selection button
(3) Seek button
(4) Scan button
(5) Sound/Tune control dial
(6) Preset buttons
T Power switch and volume/brightness control (POWER/VOL/BRIGHT)
The dial (1) is used for both power (ON/
OFF) and volume control. The radio is
turned ON and OFF by pushing the dial,
and the volume is controlled by turning the
dial.

(6)
500325

T Sound control and tune/folder select/channel control (SOUND/TUNE/
FOLDER/CH)
The dial (5) is used for selecting the sound
control mode with each brief press of the
dial, and for adjusting each level by turning it. It is also used for tuning the radio/
folder selection (only when playing MP3 or
WMA)/channel selection (satellite radio*)
when the “FM/AM”, “CD/AUX” and “SAT”
are selected.
(*: Use of satellite radio (Sirius) requires a
tuner, antenna and a service contract. For
details, please contact your SUBARU
dealer.)
– CONTINUED –

5-12 Audio
Display

Control mode

500009

Turn counterclockwise

Turn clockwise

BASS

Bass control

For less bass sound

For more bass sound

MIDDLE

Midrange control

For less midrange sound

For more midrange sound

TREBLE

Treble control

For less treble sound

For more treble sound

FADER

Fader control

To increase rear speaker volume and decrease front To increase front speaker volume and decrease rear
speaker volume
speaker volume

BALANCE

Balance control

To increase left speaker volume and decrease right To increase right speaker volume and decrease left
speaker volume
speaker volume

VOLUME

Volume control

For less volume

V Sound control
The dial (5) controls the Bass, Midrange,
Treble, Balance and Fader when you select the appropriate sound control mode.

For more volume

Choose the desired setting for each mode
by depressing the “SOUND” control dial
(5). The control function returns to last
mode after approximately 5 seconds.

To change control modes: Each brief
press of the “SOUND” button (5) changes
control modes in the following sequence
starting from bass control mode.

Audio 5-13

BASS

MIDDLE

FADER

TREBLE

BALANCE

V Display illumination dimness cancellation (BRIGHT)
The brightness of the radio display dims
when the light switch is in the “
” or
“
” position. If this makes the display
difficult to read, press the volume dial for
more than 2 seconds to return the display
to original brightness. Subsequently
pressing the volume dial again for more
than 2 seconds or if you can safely do so,
turning the light switch to the OFF position
and back to the “
” or “
” position makes the radio display dim again.
T FM/AM selection button (FM/AM)
Push the “FM/AM” button (2) when the radio is on to select FM1, FM2 or AM reception. Each time this button is pressed, the
band will change in the following order:

FM1

FM2

The display indicates which one is currently selected.

T Stereo indicator
The stereo indicator “ST” will come on
when an FM stereo broadcast is received.
T Manual tuning (TUNE)
Turn the tuning dial (5) clockwise to increase the tuning frequency and turn the
dial counterclockwise to decrease it. Each
click the dial is turned, the frequency
changes 10 kHz in the AM waveband and
0.2 MHz in the FM waveband.
T Seek tuning
When the “
” side of the “SEEK/
TRACK/CAT” button (3) is depressed, the
radio will begin to automatically seek up
for receivable frequencies and will stop at
the first one found. For the “
” side, the
radio will begin to automatically seek
down. This function may not be available,
however, when radio signals are weak. In
such a situation, perform manual tuning to
select the desired station.
T Automatic tuning (SCAN)
Press the “SCAN” button (4) to change the
radio to the SCAN mode. In this mode, the
radio scans through the radio band until a
station is found. The radio will stop at a receivable station for 5 seconds while displaying the frequency by blinking, after
which scanning will continue until the entire band has been scanned from the low

end to the high end. Press the “SCAN”
button again to cancel the SCAN mode
and to stop on any displayed frequency.
When the “SCAN” button is pressed for
automatic tuning, stations are scanned in
the direction of low frequencies to high frequencies only. Automatic tuning may not
function properly if the station reception is
weakened by distance from the station or
proximity to tall buildings and hills.
T Selecting preset stations
Presetting a station with a preset button
(6) allows you to select that station in a
single operation. Up to six AM, FM1 and
FM2 stations each may be preset.
T How to preset stations
1. Press the “FM/AM” button (2) to select
AM, FM1 or FM2 reception.
2. Press the "SCAN" button (4) or tune
the radio manually until the desired station
frequency is displayed.
3. Press one of the preset buttons (6) for
at least 2 seconds to store the frequency.
The frequency of the station will flash
once on the display at this time.

NOTE
y If the connection between the radio
and battery is broken for any reason
such as vehicle maintenance or radio
removal, all stations stored in the pre– CONTINUED –

5-14 Audio
set buttons are cleared. If this occurs,
it is necessary to reset the preset buttons.
y If a cell phone is placed near the radio, it may cause the radio to emit
noise when the phone receives calls.
This noise does not indicate a problem
with the radio.

Audio 5-15

Built-in CD changer control
(7)

(8)

(9)

(10)

(11) (12)

(13)

(14)

(7) CD button
(8) Eject button
(9) Disc slot
(10) Track selection buttons
(11) Repeat/Random button
(12) Disc number indicator
(13) Load button
(14) Folder selection dial
(15) Disc selection buttons
(16) Display button

NOTE

(16)

(15)
500323

y Make sure to always insert a disc
with the label side up. If a disc is inserted with the label side down, it might be
ejected or the player might shut off.
y If a disc is inserted during a radio
broadcast, the disc will interrupt the
broadcast.
y The player is designed to be able to
play music CD-Rs and music CD-RWs,
but it may not be able to play certain
ones.
y 8 cm/3 inch CDs are not supported,
and if inserted, they will be immediately ejected.

– CONTINUED –

5-16 Audio
T How to insert a CD(s)
V Inserting a CD
1. Briefly press the “LOAD” button (13). If
the magazine in the player has an idle position where you can insert a disc, the disc
number indicator associated with the idle
position will blink. If no indicator blinks, it
means that there is no idle position in the
magazine.
2. When “IN” is displayed, insert the disc.
Once you have inserted the disc, the disc
number indicator will stop blinking. The
disc will be then automatically drawn in,
and the player will begin to play back the
first track of the disc.
y To insert more discs in succession, repeat Steps 1 and 2. The magazine will be
loaded with discs in the ascending order
of position number. If you do not insert any
disc within 15 seconds after you have
pressed the “LOAD” button and “IN” is displayed, the player will begin to play back
the first track of the last disc you have inserted.
y While the player is in the loading mode,
if you press the “FM/AM” button (2), the
player will enter the standby mode. Press
the “CD/AUX” button (7) to start playback.

V Inserting a disc in a desired position
1. Briefly press the “LOAD” button (13). If
the magazine in the player has an idle position where you can insert a disc, the disc
number indicator (12) associated with the
idle position will blink.
2. Press the disc selection button (15) at
the position where you want to insert a
disc. The associated disc number indicator will blink.
3. If you insert a disc during the 15 second period while “IN” is displayed, the disc
will be automatically drawn in, and the
player will start playback of the disc, beginning with the first track.
y To insert more discs in succession, repeat Steps 1 and 3.
y While the player is in the loading mode,
if you press the “FM/AM” button (2), the
player will enter standby mode. Press the
“CD/AUX” button (7) to start playback.
V Loading all the magazine (Full disc
loading mode)
1. If you continue to press the “LOAD”
button (13) for more than 2 seconds, the
player will enter the full disc loading mode.
2. The disc number indicator (12) associated with the idle position will blink. The
magazine will be loaded with discs in the
ascending order of position number.
3. When the loading of a disc is complete,

the next disc number indicator (12) will
blink. Then repeat Step 2.
4. When the magazine is filled with discs
by repeating Steps 2 and 3, the player will
start playback of the discs, beginning with
the one inserted first. If you fail to insert
any disc during each 15 seconds interval,
the full disc loading mode will be canceled, and the player will start playback of
the disc inserted first.
T How to play back a CD or make a
pause
V When there is no CD inserted:
Insert a CD by referring to “How to insert a
CD(s)”.
When a CD is loaded, the player will start
playback of the CD, beginning with the
first track.
V When there are CDs loaded:
Depress the “CD/AUX” button to turn on
the CD (when the last mode of the player
is CD) and press a desired one of the disc
select buttons (15). The player will then
start playback of the selected CD, beginning with the first track.
T To select a track from its beginning
V Forward direction
Briefly press the “
” side of the button
(10) to skip to the beginning of the next

Audio 5-17

track. Each time the button is pressed, the
indicated track number will increase.

Track repeat

V Backward direction
Briefly press the “
” side of the button
(10) to skip to the beginning of the current
track. Each time the button is pressed, the
indicated track number will decrease.

Repeat OFF

T To select a folder (for MP3/WMA audio)
Turn the “TUNE/FOLDER/CH” dial (14) to
select the folder.
T Fast-forwarding and fast-reversing
V Fast-forwarding
Press the “
” side of the button (10)
continuously to fast-forward the disc. Release the button to stop fast-forwarding.
V Fast-reversing
Press the “
” side of the button (10)
continuously to fast-reverse the disc. Release the button to stop fast-reversing.
T Repeat playback
Depress the “RPT/RDM” button (11) while
a song is playing to play the song repeatedly. Each time this button is pressed, the
repeat play mode will change in the following order:

Folder repeat
(only for MP3/WMA audio)
Disc repeat

The “RPT” indicator will come on and the
song will be played continuously. When
the repeat OFF is selected, the “RPT” indicator goes out and normal playback
mode is restored.
y The repeat play mode will be cancelled if you perform any of the following steps:
y Press the “RPT/RDM” button to select the repeat OFF.
y Press the eject button.
y Press the “LOAD” button.
y Select the radio mode.
y Turn the "TUNE/FOLDER/CH" dial
(for MP3/WMA audio).
y Turn off the power of the audio
equipment.
y Turn the ignition switch to the “OFF”
position.
T Random playback
Press the “RPT/RDM” button (11) for
more than 2 seconds while a disc is being
played back to play all songs on the disc
in a random order.

Random OFF

Disc random

The “RDM” indicator will come on and all
songs on the disc will be played in a random order. When the random OFF is selected, the “RDM” indicator goes out and
normal playback mode is restored.
y The random play mode will be cancelled if you perform any of the following steps:
y Press the “RPT/RDM” button to select the random OFF.
y Press the eject button.
y Press the “LOAD” button.
y Select the radio mode.
y Turn the “TUNE/FOLDER/CH” dial
(for MP3/WMA audio).
y Turn off the power of the audio
equipment.
y Turn the ignition switch to the “OFF”
position.
T How to unload CDs from the player
V Ejecting a CD from the player
Of the discs loaded, you can select and remove only one disc.
1. Press the disc select button (15) of the
disc whose disc number indicator (12) is
ON.
2. Press the eject button (8). Then the
disc number indicator associated with the
disc you have selected will blink, and the
disc will be ejected. To remove more discs
in succession, repeat Steps 1 and 2. If you
– CONTINUED –

5-18 Audio
press the eject button after turning OFF
the ignition switch, only one disc will be
ejected.
V Ejecting all discs from the player
(All disc ejection mode)
1. If you continue to press the eject button
(8) for more than 2 seconds, the player will
enter the all disc ejection mode.
2. Remove the disc that has been ejected, the display indicates “CD ALL EJECT”
(when the ignition switch is in the “Acc” position) and disc indicator will blink. The
other discs loaded will then be ejected one
after another. If you do not remove the
ejected disc within 15 seconds, the “All
disc ejection mode” will be canceled.

NOTE
Avoid driving the vehicle with a CD
sticking out, because vibration might
make it fall out.

Do not attempt to insert two or more
discs into the slot at a time. Doing
so can cause mechanical damage to
the CD changer.

T Title display selection
If you briefly press the “DISP” button (16)
during playback, the indication will change
to the next one in the following sequence.
y For MP3/WMA:
TITLE OFF
ALBUM TITLE

FOLDER TITLE

FILE TITLE

ARTIST TITLE

TRACK TITLE

y For Satellite radio:
TITLE OFF

TRACK TITLE

ALBUM TITLE

ARTIST TITLE

The display mode that you selected will
not be changed until you select the display
mode again.
When you depress the “DISP” button for
more than 2 seconds, the title will be
scrolled so you can see all of it. You will
see 12 characters at a time.
y The page scroll mode will be cancelled if you perform any of the following steps:
y When you do not operate any button
within 10 seconds.
y Press any button to select another
play mode.
y Press the eject button.
y Press the disc selection button.
y Select the radio mode.

y Press the “
” or “
” button.
y Turn off the power of the audio
equipment.
y Turn the ignition switch to the “OFF”
position.

NOTE
When the disc has no title, the display
indicates “NO TITLE”.
T When the following messages are
displayed
If one of the following messages is displayed while operating the CD player, determine the cause based on the following
information. If you cannot clear those
messages, please contact your SUBARU
dealer.
V When “PUSH EJECT” is displayed
This message means that there is a mechanical error. Depress the eject button to
unload the disc. Check the disc for damage or deformation, and also check that
the correct disc is inserted. Do not try to
unload the disc forcibly. 8 cm/3 inch CDs
are not supported, and if inserted, they will
be immediately ejected and this error
message will be displayed. If the disc cannot be unloaded or the error message remains displayed, please contact your
SUBARU dealer.

Audio 5-19

V When “CHECK DISC” is displayed
Press the eject button to unload the discs.
Check that the disc is not damaged or
scratched, and also check that the disc is
inserted correctly. Some CD-RW discs
may be causing this error message to appear. Check that the disc type (i.e., 8 cm/
3 inch CDs are not supported) and data
format are correct. This player can only
play MP3 and WMA data formats. If the
disc cannot be unloaded or the error message remains displayed, please contact
your SUBARU dealer.

– CONTINUED –

5-20 Audio
Auxiliary unit operation
(17)

(18)

(19)

(20)

(17) AUX button
(18) Category button
(19) Scan button
(20) Satellite radio* button
(21) Category selection button
(22) Preset buttons
(23) Channel selection dial

(21)

(*: Use of satellite radio (Sirius) requires a
tuner, antenna and a service contract. For
details, please contact your SUBARU
dealer.)
“Satellite Radio mode” and “AUX mode”
are available as well as the CD changer
mode when the unit is in the Auxiliary unit
mode.

NOTE

(22)

(23)
500324

y For use of the In-dash CD changer,
refer to the section of “In-dash 6 CD
auto changer (if equipped)” in this
chapter.
y Use of satellite radio (Sirius) requires
a tuner, antenna and a service contract. For details, please contact your
SUBARU dealer.
y The “AUX mode” can be used when
the appropriate device is connected to
the AUX terminal.
y The output sound of the portable audio player is not loud, and the sound
via the vehicle’s speakers that are con-

Audio 5-21

nected to the vehicle audio set is very
quiet. If you turn up the volume of the
audio set, the volume becomes louder.
However, when you change the audio
to the radio mode or to a CD player, the
sound becomes a lot louder. Remember to turn down the volume when you
change between them.

T AUX audio jack (if equipped)
The AUX (auxiliary) audio jack is located
behind the lid under the climate controls.
Push gently on the lid to open it.

T Satellite Radio mode (if equipped)
Press the “SAT” button (20) to select the
“Satellite radio mode” (when the SR-BB is
connected).

NOTE
Use of satellite radio (Sirius) requires a
tuner, antenna and a service contract.
For details, please contact your
SUBARU dealer.
or
Visit
Sirius Satellite Radio at
sirius.com or call 1-888-539-SIRIUS
(7474) for more information. Sirius, the
Sirius dog logo, channel names and
logos are trademarks of SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc.

AUX

500277

V Satellite radio reception
Satellite radio signals are best received in
areas with a clear view of the open sky. In
areas where there are tall buildings, trees,
tunnels or other structures that may obstruct the signal of the satellites, there
may be signal interruptions. Other circumstances that may result in signal loss include driving near a wall, steep cliff or hill,
or driving on the lower level of a multitiered road or inside a parking garage.
To help reduce this condition, satellite radio providers have installed ground-based
repeaters in heavily populated areas.
– CONTINUED –

5-22 Audio
However, you may still experience reception problems in some areas.
V Displaying Sirius ID of tuner
When you activate Sirius, you should
have your Sirius tuner ID ready because
each tuner is identified by its unique Sirius
tuner ID.
The Sirius ID will be needed when you activate Sirius and receive Sirius customer
support.
The Sirius ID can be found on the audio
display by tuning the channel to “0”.
Turn the “TUNE/FOLDER/CH” dial (23) to
select the satellite radio channel.
V Channel selection
Turn the “TUNE/FOLDER/CH” dial (23) to
select the radio channel. Turn the tuning
dial clockwise to change the channel upward and turn the dial counterclockwise to
change the channel downward with each
click of the dial.
V Category selection
Press the “SEEK/TRACK/CAT” button
(18) to select the category of radio channel. Press the “
” side of the button
(18) to change the category upward and
the “
” side of the button to downward
with each press of the button.

V Channel preset
Presetting a channel with a preset button
(22) allows you to select that station in a
single operation. Up to six SR1, SR2 and
SR3 channels each may be preset.
Press one of the preset buttons for at
least 2 seconds to store the channel. The
number of the channel will flash once on
the display, and the unit produces a beep
sound at this time.
V Channel scan
Press the “SCAN” button (19) to change
the radio to the SCAN mode. In this mode,
the radio scans through the channel until
a station is found. The radio will stop at the
station for 5 seconds while displaying the
channel number, after which scanning will
continue until the entire channel has been
scanned from the low end to the high end.
Press the “SCAN” button (19) again to
cancel the SCAN mode and to stop on any
displayed station.
When the “SCAN” button is pressed for
automatic tuning, stations are only
scanned in an upward direction.
V Category mode
Press the “CAT” button (21) for at least 2
seconds to turn the category mode on. In
this mode, the radio operations (channel
selection, channel scan) are performed

only in the selected category. To cancel
the category mode, press the “CAT” button (21) for at least 2 seconds again.
V Band selection
Push the “SAT” button (20) when the radio
is on to select SR1, SR2 or SR3 reception.
Each time this button is pressed, the band
will change in the following order:

SR1

SR2

SR3

T AUX mode
Press the “CD/AUX” button (17) to select
the “AUX mode” (when the AUX unit is
connected to the AUX terminal).

Audio 5-23

In-dash 6 CD auto changer (if equipped)

(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)

Loading and unloading compact discs

(5)

(4)

(1)

Disc slot
Disc indicators (disc No.1 to 6)
Disc select buttons (disc No.1 to 6)
Eject button
Disc slot indicator

(2)

(3)
500222

– CONTINUED –

5-24 Audio

y Do not attempt to insert two or
more discs into the slot at a time.
Doing so can cause mechanical
damage to the CD changer.
y Use only music CDs identified by
a
mark.
y Do not use CDs listed in the following which could cause damage to the CD player.
– 3 inch (8 cm) compact disc
– Any disc with a peel-off or seal
on it
– Bent disc
– Cleaning disc
– CD accessory (E.g., 3 inch (8
cm) disc adapter)
y Do not insert or remove any disc
when the automatic transmission
selector lever is in the park position; the selector lever in that position can interfere with disc insertion or removal, causing
scratches on the disc surface (for
AT vehicles).
T To insert a disc
1. Press one of the disc select buttons (3)

(numbered from 1 to 6) for which the disc
indicator light (2) is “OFF”.
The disc indicator lights are located directly above the corresponding disc select
buttons.
2. The indicator will begin blinking. The
blinking will last for 15 seconds.
During this period, insert a desired disc,
and the disc will begin to play. (If any disc
is not inserted during this period, the “Disc
slot” (1) door will close. Repeat Step 1.)
Be sure to hold a disc with the label side
(the side where titles are printed) up.
3. To insert another disc, repeat Steps 1
and 2 choosing a different disc select button.
T To insert six discs at a time
1. Press and hold the disc select button
number 1 until all disc indicators begin
blinking (approximately 1.5 seconds).
2. The indicators will blink for 15 seconds.
During this period, insert desired six discs.
3. When all discs are loaded, the first disc
will begin to play. (If no disc is inserted
within this 15 seconds, the entire disc load
sequence will be canceled.)
T To remove a disc
1. Press the desired one of the disc select
buttons (3) (numbered from 1 to 6) for
which the disc indicator light is on.
2. Press the eject button (4). The selected

disc will be ejected and the indicator light
will begin blinking.
3. To remove another disc, repeat Steps
1 and 2 choosing a different disc select
button.
(To remove discs when the ignition switch
is in the “Lock” position, press the eject
button, and the first disc will be ejected.
Press the eject button again, and the next
disc will be ejected and so on. At this time,
the disc select buttons are disabled.)
T To remove all discs at one time
1. Press and hold the eject button (4) until
all “Disc” indicators begin blinking (approximately 1.5 seconds), and the first
disc will be ejected.
2. When the disc is removed, the next
one will be ejected, and so on.
T To replace a playing disc with another
Simply press the desired one of disc select buttons (3) (numbered from 1 to 6) or
press the disc select button on the radio
unit to select the desired disc, and the disc
will begin to play.
T Disc indicators
Lit: when the corresponding storage tray
is occupied by a disc.
Blinking: Disc player is either in loading,
eject or changing mode.

Audio 5-25

OFF: No disc is loaded or the ignition
switch is in the “LOCK” position.
V Open/Closed disc slot indicator
When the disc slot is open, the disc indicators on both sides of the slot illuminate.

Precautions to observe when
handling a compact disc
Use only compact discs (CDs) that have
the mark shown in the following illustration.

T Function control
Refer to CD changer control operating instructions described in the “Type A audio
set (if equipped)” section.
500010

500033
TM

You may also use compact discs (CD-Rs
and CD-RWs) that have the following
marks, but you may not use some discs if
they were produced using writing methods
not compatible with your vehicle’s audio
system.

DualDisc
500396

y You cannot use a DualDisc in the CD
player. If you insert a DualDisc into the
player, the disc may not come out again,
possibly causing the player to malfunction.
y In cold and/or rainy weather, dew can
– CONTINUED –

5-26 Audio
form inside the CD player, preventing normal operation. If this happens, eject the
CD and wait for the player to dry out.
y Skipping may occur when the CD player
is subjected to severe vibration (for example, when the vehicle is driven on a rough
surface).
y To remove a disc from the case, press
the center of the case and hold both edges of the disc. If the disc surface is
touched directly, contamination could
cause poor tone quality. Do not touch the
disc surface.
y Use a clean disc whenever possible. If
there are deposits, wipe the disc surface
from the center outward with a dry, soft
cloth. Be sure not to use a hard cloth, thinner, benzene, alcohol, etc.
y Do not use any disc that is scratched,
deformed, or cracked. Also, do not use
any disc that has a non-standard shape
(for example, a heart shape). Malfunctions
or problems might result.
y A disc is vulnerable to heat. Never keep
it either in places exposed to direct sunlight, near heaters or in vehicles parked in
the sun or on hot days.

500034

Interior equipment
Interior lights ......................................................

6-2

Dome light ...............................................................
Cargo area light .....................................................

6-2
6-2

Map lights ...........................................................
Sun visors ...........................................................

6-3
6-3

Vanity mirror ...........................................................

6-3

Storage compartments ......................................

6-4

Glove box ................................................................
Center console ........................................................
Overhead console ..................................................
Dashboard storage compartment .........................
Convenience net .....................................................
Pocket (if equipped) ...............................................

6-4
6-4
6-6
6-6
6-6
6-7

Cup holders ........................................................

6-7

Front passenger’s cup holder ...............................
Rear passenger’s cup holder ................................

6-8
6-8

Accessory power outlets ...................................

6-8

Use with a cigarette lighter
(Canada only, if equipped) ..................................

6-10

Ashtray (Canada only, if equipped) ..................
Floor mat .............................................................
Coat hook ............................................................
Cargo area cover (if equipped) .........................

6-11
6-12
6-12
6-13

Using the cover .......................................................
To remove the cover housing ................................
Stowage of the cover .............................................
To install the cover housing ..................................

6-13
6-13
6-13
6-13

Shopping bag hook ............................................

6-14

Cargo tie-down hooks ........................................
Cargo area bars ..................................................
Under-floor storage compartment ....................

6-14
6-14
6-15

6-2 Interior equipment
Interior lights

Interior equipment

When leaving your vehicle, make sure the
light goes out to avoid battery discharge.

Dome light

about 30 minutes later and then the
light is turned off automatically.
The light also can be turned on by use of
the keyless entry transmitter. See the “Remote keyless entry system” section in
chapter 2 for detailed information.
OFF: The light stays off.

Cargo area light
ON

ON
DOOR

OFF

DOOR

600078

The dome light switch has three positions:
ON: The light stays on continuously.
DOOR (middle position): The dome light
comes on when any of the doors or the
rear gate is opened. The light remains on
for several seconds and gradually goes
out after all doors and the rear gate are
closed.

NOTE
If a door or the rear gate is left open,
the light flashes and a chime sounds

600079

The cargo area light switch has three positions:
ON: The light stays on continuously.
OFF: The light stays off.
DOOR: The light comes on only when the
rear gate is opened.

NOTE
If a door or the rear gate is left open,
the light flashes and a chime sounds
about 30 minutes later and then the
light is turned off automatically.
The light also can be turned on by use of
the keyless entry transmitter. See the “Remote keyless entry system” section in
chapter 2 for detailed information.

Interior equipment 6-3

Map lights

Vanity mirror

Sun visors

600080

To turn on the map light, push the switch.
To turn it off, push the switch again.
When leaving the vehicle, make sure the
light is turned off to avoid battery discharge.

600081

To block out glare, swing down the visors.
To use the sun visor at a side window,
swing it down and move it sideways.

600082

To use the vanity mirror, swing down the
sun visor and open the vanity mirror cover.

6-4 Interior equipment
Storage compartments

close it, push the lid firmly upward.
To lock the glove box, insert the key and
turn it clockwise.

y Always keep the storage compartment closed while driving to reduce the risk of injury in the event
of sudden stops or an accident.
y Do not store spray cans, containers with flammable or corrosive
liquids or any other dangerous
items in the storage compartment.

Center console
The center console box provides a storage space. In addition, the top of the console can be used as an armrest and as a
rear passenger’s cup holder.
To use as armrest:
600473

Glove box

2
1

600471

1) Lock
2) Unlock

To open the glove box, pull the handle. To

600519

1. Tip the console top forward from its
vertical position.

2. Push the armrest part of the console
top forward to the desired position while
pulling up the knob at the front end of the
armrest and lock it in position by releasing
the knob. Adjust the position of the armrest to suit your driving position. Make
sure the armrest is securely retained.
When you slide the armrest back to its
original position, pull the knob upward as
you do so.
To return the console top to the vertical
position, pull upward the knob at the front
end of the armrest while raising the console top until it emits a click.

Interior equipment 6-5

To use as storage space:
Do not step or sit on the armrest,
and do not place heavy objects on it.
The armrest could break, and you
could get hurt.
To use as rear passenger’s cup holder:

y To switch from using the console
top as an armrest to using it as a
rear passenger’s cup holder, raise
the console top to the vertical position before tipping it toward the
rear seat. Otherwise the console
top may break.
y Do not place any object weighing
more than 4.4 lbs (2 kg) on the table.
y Do not have hot drinks or other
objects on the table while driving.
During hard braking or negotiation of a curve, they could fall
from the table and cause a burn or
other injury.

600520

600475

Raise the console top to the vertical position or tip it toward the rear seat. Then, pull
up the lock button of the console box and
open the lid.
When closed, the lid can be used as a tray
for placing small items in it.

With the console top tipped toward the
rear seat, it can be used as a cup holder.
y Before opening the lid of the console box, raise the console top
completely to the vertical position
or tip it toward the rear seat. Otherwise, the lid may be damaged
and an injury may occur.

– CONTINUED –

6-6 Interior equipment
y Be careful not to trap your hands
between the console top and console box when raising and tipping
the console top.
y When there is an object on the
console box lid, do not tip the console top forward. Otherwise, the
console top or lid could be damaged, and an injury could occur.

When your vehicle is in the sun or
on a warm day, the inside of the
overhead console heats up. Avoid
storing plastic or other heat-vulnerable or flammable articles such as a
lighter in the overhead console.

Dashboard storage compartment

Overhead console

Convenience net

600087
600085

To open the console, push on the console
lid lightly and the lid will automatically
open.

600086

To open the dashboard compartment,
push the button on the lid and the lid will
automatically open. Be sure to close the
compartment fully before driving.

A net for storing small articles is provided
at the front passenger’s foot-well.

Interior equipment 6-7

Pocket (if equipped)

Cup holders

600561

Do not use the pocket as an ashtray
or leave a lighted cigarette in the
pocket. This could cause a fire.
To use the pocket, push lightly on the lid
below the climate controls.

y When not in use, always keep the
cup holder stored while driving to
reduce the risk of injury in the
event of a sudden stop or an accident.
y Do not pick up a cup from the cup
holder or put a cup in the holder
while you are driving, as this may
distract you and lead to an accident.
y Take care to avoid spills. Beverages, if hot, might burn you or your
passengers. Spilled beverages
may also damage upholstery or
carpets.

T In front door trim

600608

The door pockets can be used to hold
beverage bottles and other items.

When placing a beverage in a door
pocket, make sure it is capped. Otherwise, the beverage could spill
when opening/closing the door or
while driving and, if the beverage is
hot, it could scald you.

– CONTINUED –

6-8 Interior equipment
Front passenger’s cup holder

Accessory power outlets

600092
600476

A dual cup holder is built in the center console, beside the parking brake lever.

Rear passenger’s cup holder

To use the rear passenger’s cup holder located on the reverse side of the console
top, refer to “Center console” in the “Storage compartments” part of this chapter for
details.

600559

Power outlet beside front pocket

There are rear passenger’s cup holders at
the back of the center console as well as
on the reverse side of the console top.
To use the rear passenger’s cup holder located at the back of the center console,
open the lid by pulling its upper edge.

600477

Power outlet in center console

Interior equipment 6-9

or more outlets simultaneously, the total
power consumed by them must not exceed 120W.

600094

Power outlet in cargo area

Accessory power outlets are provided beside the front pocket, in the center console
and in the cargo area. Electrical power
(12V DC) from the battery is available at
any of the outlets when the ignition switch
is in either the “ACC” or “ON” position.
You can use an in-car electrical appliance
by connecting it to an outlet.
The maximum power rating of an appliance that can be connected varies among
outlets as shown in the following. Do not
use an appliance which exceeds the indicated wattage for each outlet.
Outlet beside front pocket: 80W or less
Outlets in center console and cargo area:
120W or less
When using appliances connected to two

When using appliances connected to two or more outlets simultaneously, the total power consumed by them must not exceed
120W. Overloading the accessory
power outlet can cause a short
circuit. Do not use double adapters or more than one electrical appliance.

y Do not attempt to use a cigarette
lighter in the center console and
cargo area power outlets.
y Do not place any foreign objects,
especially metal ones such as
coins or aluminum foil, into the
accessory power outlet. That
could cause a short circuit. Always put the cap on the accessory power outlet when it is not in
use.
y Use only electrical appliances
which are designed for 12V DC.

y If the plug on your electric appliance is either too loose or too
tight for the accessory power outlet, this can result in a poor contact or cause the plug to get stuck.
Only use plugs that fit properly.

The maximum power rating of an
appliance that can be connected
varies among outlets as shown in
the following. Do not use an appliance which exceeds the indicated
wattage for each outlet.
Outlet beside front pocket: 80W or
less
Outlets in center console and cargo area: 120W or less

y Before driving your vehicle, make
sure that the plug and the cord on
your electrical appliance will not
interfere with your shifting gears
and operating the accelerator and
brake pedals. If they do, do not
use the electrical appliance while
driving.

y Use of an electric appliance in the
accessory power outlet for a long
period of time while the engine is
not running can cause battery discharge.

– CONTINUED –

6-10 Interior equipment
Use with a cigarette lighter
(Canada only, if equipped)
To avoid being burned, never grasp
the lighter by the end with the heating element. Doing so could result
in injury and could also damage the
heating element.

600478

NOTE
When the lid of the center console is
closed, an opening remains between
the center console and the lid to allow
the power outlet in the center console
to be used. Pass the electrical appliance’s cord through this opening.

600095

To use the accessory power outlet beside
the front pocket as a cigarette lighter socket, purchase the cigarette lighter plug,
which is an optional accessory.
A cigarette lighter plug is available from
your SUBARU dealer.
The cigarette lighter operates only when
the ignition switch is in the “ON” and
“ACC” positions.
To use the cigarette lighter, push in the
knob and wait a few moments. It will automatically spring up when ready for use.

y Do not hold the lighter pushed in,
because it will overheat.
y The electrical power socket located on the lower part of the instrument panel is originally designed
to use a genuine SUBARU cigarette lighter plug. Do not use nongenuine cigarette lighter plugs in
the socket. Doing so may cause a
short-circuit and overheating, resulting in a fire.

Interior equipment 6-11

y If the socket is ever used for a
plug-in accessory such as a cell
phone, that may damage the portion of the socket’s internal mechanism that causes a cigarette
lighter plug to “pop out” after its
lighter element is heated. Therefore, do not place a cigarette lighter plug in a socket that has been
used, even once, to power a plugin accessory. Doing so may cause
the plug to stick and overheat,
creating a potential fire hazard.

Ashtray (Canada only, if
equipped)

the right and left sides of the ashtray and
pull it out.

NOTE
Do not use ashtrays as waste receptacles or leave a lighted cigarette in
an ashtray. This could cause a fire.

600097

600096

It is possible to install on ashtray, which is
an optional accessory, in the front pocket.
The ashtray is available from your SUBARU dealer.
To open the ashtray, push lightly on the lid
below the climate controls.
Fully close the lid after using it to help reduce residual smoke.
To remove the ashtray for cleaning, hold

Particles of ash and tobacco will accumulate around the hinges of the ashtray’s inner lid. Clean them off using a
toothbrush or other narrow-ended implement.

6-12 Interior equipment
Floor mat

Coat hook

600481
600480

A retaining pin is located on the driver’s
side of the vehicle next to the fuel filler
door release.
The floor mat is secured using the built-in
grommet, by placing the grommet over the
pin and pushing downward.

600098

Make sure the driver’s floor mat is
placed back in its proper location
and correctly secured on its retaining pin. If the floor mat slips forward
and interferes with the movement of
the pedals during driving, it could
cause an accident.

The coat hook is attached to the rear left
passenger’s hand grip.

Never hang anything on the coat
hook that might obstruct the driver’s view or that could cause injury
in sudden stops or in a collision.
And do not hang items on the coat
hook that weigh 2.2 lbs (1 kg) or
more.

Interior equipment 6-13

Stowage of the cover

Cargo area cover (if
equipped)
The cargo area cover is provided for covering the cargo area and to protect its contents from direct sunlight. This cover is detachable to make room for additional cargo.

Using the cover

Do not place anything on the extended cover. Putting excessive
weight on the extended cover can
break it and an object on the cover
could tumble forward in the event of
a sudden stop or collision. This
could cause serious injury.

To remove the cover housing
600101

On models having a temporary spare tire,
the cargo area cover can be stowed under
the cargo floor.

To install the cover housing
To install the cover, insert both ends of the
cover housing into the retainers.
600099
600100

To extend the cover, pull the end of the
cover out of the housing, then insert its
hooks into the catches as shown. To rewind it, unhook it from the catches and it
will rewind automatically. You should hold
on to the cover and guide it back into the
cover housing while it is rewinding.

1. Rewind the cover.
2. To take the cover housing off the retainer, lift it out.
3. Store the cover housing in the cargo
area.

6-14 Interior equipment
Shopping bag hook

Cargo tie-down hooks

Do not hang items on the shopping
bag hook that weigh 6.6 lbs (3 kg) or
more.
In the cargo area, there are two retractable shopping bag hooks (one on each
side) and four non-retractable shopping
bag hooks (two on each side).

Cargo area bars

The cargo tie-down hooks are designed only for securing light cargo.
Never try to secure cargo that exceeds the capacity of the hooks. The
maximum load capacity is 44 lbs (20
kg) per a hook.

Do not place objects with a total
weight exceeding 6.6 lbs (3 kg) on a
net attached to the cargo area bars.

1
600493

1) Cargo area bar
600103
600492

To use either of the retractable hooks, pull
the lower portion out.

The cargo area is equipped with four tiedown hooks so that cargo can be secured
with a cargo net or ropes.
When using the hooks, raise them. When
not in use, lower the hooks.

In the cargo area, there are two bars (one
on each side) to which a net can be attached.

Interior equipment 6-15

Under-floor storage compartment

y Always keep the lids closed while
driving to reduce the risk of injury
in the event of sudden stop or an
accident.
y Do not store spray cans, containers with flammable or corrosive
liquids or any other dangerous
items in the storage compartment.

600657

There are five trays in the storage compartment underneath the floor of the cargo
area. They can be used to store small
items.
– CONTINUED –

6-16 Interior equipment
T Front, left and right side storage compartment

T Center storage compartment (Storage bucket)

600106

To open the lid, pull the handle up.
Canada-spec. non-turbo models:
The storage bucket is put on the spare
tire.
Except Canada-spec. non-turbo models:
Storage tray is placed on the spare tire.

600105

To open the lid, raise the cargo tie-down hooks and pull the tab up. The jack and jack
handle are stored in the left side storage compartment.

Interior equipment 6-17

600108

NOTE
When storing a flat tire, put the storage
tray in the luggage compartment (Except Canada-spec. non-turbo models).

Starting and operating
Fuel ......................................................................

7-2

Fuel requirements ..................................................
Fuel filler lid and cap ..............................................

7-2
7-3

State emission testing (U.S. only) ....................
Preparing to drive ..............................................
Starting the engine .............................................

7-5
7-6
7-7

Manual transmission vehicle .................................
Automatic transmission vehicle ............................

7-7
7-7

Stopping the engine ...........................................
Manual transmission .........................................

7-8
7-9

Shifting speeds .......................................................
Driving tips ..............................................................

7-9
7-10

Automatic transmission ....................................

7-10

Selector lever for automatic transmission ...........
Shift lock release ....................................................

7-11
7-14

Rear viscous limited slip differential (LSD) (if
equipped) .........................................................
Power steering ...................................................
Braking ................................................................

7-15
7-15
7-15

Braking tips .............................................................
Brake system ..........................................................
Disc brake pad wear warning indicators ..............

7-15
7-16
7-16

ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) ..........................

7-16

ABS system self-check ..........................................
ABS warning light ...................................................

7-17
7-17

Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
system .............................................................

7-18

Steps to take if EBD system fails ..........................

7-18

Parking your vehicle .......................................... 7-19
Parking brake ..........................................................
Parking tips .............................................................

7-20
7-20

Hill holder (Manual transmission –
if equipped) ...................................................... 7-21
Cruise control ..................................................... 7-22
To set cruise control ..............................................
To temporarily cancel the cruise control .............
To turn off the cruise control .................................
To change the cruising speed ...............................

7-22
7-23
7-23
7-23

Self-leveling rear suspension (if equipped) .....

7-25

7-2 Starting and operating
Fuel

Starting and operating

Use of a fuel which is low in quality
or use of an inappropriate fuel additive may cause engine damage.

Fuel requirements
T Non-turbo models
The 2.5-liter non-turbo engine is designed
to operate using unleaded gasoline with
an octane rating of 87 AKI or higher.
T Turbo models
The 2.5-liter turbo engine is designed to
operate using premium unleaded gasoline
with an octane rating of 91 AKI or higher.
If premium unleaded gasoline is not available, regular unleaded gasoline with an
octane rating of 87 AKI or higher may be
temporarily used. For optimum engine
performance and driveability, it is required
that you use premium grade unleaded
gasoline.

NOTE
Be sure to use premium unleaded gasoline of 91 AKI or higher for a 2.5-liter
turbo engine model. If other gasoline
(lower than 91 AKI) is used, knocking,

reduced output and poor accelerator
response will result.
T Fuel octane rating
This octane rating is the average of the
Research Octane and Motor Octane numbers and is commonly referred to as the
Anti Knock Index (AKI).
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. See your
dealer or a qualified service technician if
you use a fuel with the specified octane
rating and your vehicle knocks heavily or
persistently.
T 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.
T Gasoline for California-certified LEV
Your vehicle was certified to California’s
low emission vehicle (LEV) standards as
indicated on the underhood tune-up label,
it is designed to optimize engine and
emission performance with gasoline that

meets the clean burning low-sulfur California gasoline specifications. If you live in
any other state than California, your vehicle will operate on gasoline meeting Federal specifications. Gasoline sold outside
California is permitted to have higher sulfur levels, which may affect the performance of your vehicle’s catalytic converter and may produce a sulfur exhaust odor
or smell. SUBARU recommends that you
try a different brand of unleaded gasoline
having lower sulfur to determine if the
problem is fuel related before returning
your vehicle to an authorized dealer for
service.
T MMT
Some gasoline contains an octane-enhancing additive called MMT (Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl). If
you use such fuels, your emission control
system performance may deteriorate and
the CHECK ENGINE warning light/Malfunction indicator lamp may turn on. If this
happens, return to your authorized
SUBARU Dealer for service. If it is determined that the condition is caused by the
type of fuel used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty.

Starting and operating 7-3

T Gasoline for cleaner air

Do not let fuel spill on the exterior
surfaces of the vehicle. Fuels containing alcohol may cause paint
damage, which is not covered under
the SUBARU Limited Warranty.
Your use of gasoline with detergent additives 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.
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 MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl ether) or ethanol (ethyl
or grain alcohol) may be used in your vehicle, but should contain no more than
15% MTBE or 10% ethanol for the proper
operation of your SUBARU.
In addition, some gasoline suppliers are

now producing reformulated gasolines,
which are designed to reduce vehicle
emissions. SUBARU approves the use of
reformulated gasoline.
If you are not sure what the fuel contains,
you should ask your service station operators if their gasolines contain detergents
and oxygenates and if they have been reformulated to reduce vehicle emissions.
As additional guidance, only use fuels
suited for your vehicle as explained in the
following.
y Fuel should be unleaded and have an
octane rating no lower than that specified
in this manual.
y Methanol (methyl or wood alcohol) is
sometimes mixed with unleaded gasoline.
Methanol can be used in your vehicle
ONLY if it does not exceed 5% of the fuel
mixture AND if it is accompanied by sufficient quantities of the proper cosolvents
and corrosion inhibitors required to prevent damage to the fuel system. Do not
use fuel containing methanol EXCEPT under these conditions.
y 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
SUBARU dealer.
y Fuel system damage or driveability

problems which result from the use of improper fuel are not covered under the
SUBARU Limited Warranty.

Fuel filler lid and cap
T Refueling
0

700029

– CONTINUED –

7-4 Starting and operating
2. Remove the fuel filler cap by turning it
slowly counterclockwise.

NOTE

y Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. Before refueling, always first
stop the engine and make sure
that there are no lighted cigarettes, open flames or electrical
sparks in the adjacent area.
700030

1. To open the fuel filler lid, pull the lid release lever. The lever is on the floor at the
left of the driver’s seat.

700330

1) Open
2) Close

y When opening the cap, do not remove the cap quickly. Fuel may be
under pressure and spray out of
the fuel filler neck especially in
hot weather, which may cause injury.
3. Stop filling the tank after the fuel filler
pump automatically stops. Do not add any
more fuel.
4. Put the cap back on, turn it clockwise
until you hear a clicking noise. Be certain
not to catch the tether under the cap while
tightening.
5. Close the fuel filler lid completely.
If you spill any fuel on the painted surface,
rinse it off immediately. Otherwise, the
painted surface could be damaged.

300121

y 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.
y If the fuel filler cap is not tightened
until it clicks or if the tether is caught
under the cap, the CHECK ENGINE
warning light may come on. Refer to
the “Warning and indicator lights” section located in chapter 3.
(Turbo model only) Promptly put fuel in
the tank whenever the low fuel warning
light comes on. Engine misfires as a result of an empty tank could cause damage to the engine.

Starting and operating 7-5

y Never add any cleaning agents to
the fuel tank. The addition of a
cleaning agent may cause damage to the fuel system.
y Make sure that the cap is tightened until it clicks to prevent fuel
spillage in the event of an accident.
y Do not let fuel spill on the exterior
surfaces of the vehicle. Fuels containing alcohol may cause paint
damage, which is not covered under the SUBARU Limited Warranty.
y Always use a genuine SUBARU
fuel filler cap. If you use the wrong
cap, it may not fit or have proper
venting, and your fuel tank and
emission control system might be
damaged.

State emission testing (U.S.
only)

Testing of an All-Wheel Drive vehicle must NEVER be performed on a
single two-wheel dynamometer. Attempting to do so will result in uncontrolled vehicle movement and
may cause an accident or injuries to
persons nearby.

Resultant vehicle damage due to improper testing is not covered under
the SUBARU Limited Warranty and
is the responsibility of the state inspection program or its contractors
or licensees.

der federal law to implement stricter vehicle emission standards to reduce air pollution from cars. A dynamometer is a treadmill or roller-like testing device that allows
your vehicle’s wheels to turn while the vehicle remains in one place. Depending on
the severity of a state’s air pollution problems, the states must adopt either a “basic” or “enhanced” vehicle emission inspection test. Normally, a portion of the
basic emission test consists of an emission inspector inserting an analyzer probe
into the exhaust pipe of an idling vehicle
for a short period of time. States with more
severe air pollution problems are required
to adopt an enhanced vehicle emission
test. This test simulates actual driving
conditions on a dynamometer and permits
more accurate measurement of tailpipe
emitted pollution than the basic emission
test.

At state inspection time, remember to
tell your inspection or service station
in advance not to place your SUBARU
AWD vehicle on a two-wheel dynamometer. Otherwise, serious transmission damage will result.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and states using two-wheel dynamometers in their emission testing programs have EXEMPTED SUBARU AWD
vehicles from the portion of the testing
program that involves a two-wheel dynamometer.

Some states have started using dynamometers in their state inspection programs in order to meet their obligation un-

There are some states that use four-wheel
dynamometers in their testing programs.
When properly used, that equipment will
– CONTINUED –

7-6 Starting and operating
not damage an AWD SUBARU vehicle.
Under no circumstances should the rear
wheels be jacked off the ground, nor
should the driveshaft be disconnected for
state emission testing.
The EPA has issued regulations for inspecting the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD)
system as part of the state emissions inspection. The OBD system is designed to
detect engine and transmission problems
that might cause vehicle emissions to exceed allowable limits. These inspections
apply to all 1996 model year and newer
passenger cars and light trucks. Over 30
states plus the District of Columbia have
implemented the OBD system inspection.
y The inspection of the OBD system consists of a visual operational check of the
“CHECK ENGINE” warning light/malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and an examination of the OBD system with an
electronic scan tool while the engine is
running
y A vehicle passes the OBD system inspection if proper the “CHECK ENGINE”
warning light/MIL illumination is observed,
there is no stored diagnostic trouble
codes, and the OBD system readiness
monitors are complete.
y A vehicle fails the OBD inspection if the

“CHECK ENGINE” warning light/MIL is
not properly operating or there is one or
more diagnostic trouble codes stored in
vehicle’s computer with the “CHECK ENGINE” warning light/MIL illuminated.
y A state emission inspection may reject
(not pass or fail) a vehicle if the number of
OBD system readiness monitors “Not
Ready” is greater than one. Under this
condition, the vehicle operator should be
instructed to drive his/her vehicle for a few
days to set the monitors and return for an
emission re-inspection.
y Owners of rejected or failing vehicles
should contact their SUBARU Dealer for
service.

Preparing to drive
You should perform the following checks
and adjustments every day before you
start driving.
1. Check that all windows, mirrors, and
lights are clean and unobstructed.
2. Check the appearance and condition of
the tires. Also check tires for proper inflation.
3. Look under the vehicle for any sign of
leaks.
4. Check that the hood and rear gate are
fully closed.
5. Check the adjustment of the seat.
6. Check the adjustment of the inside and
outside mirrors.
7. Fasten your seatbelt. Check that your
passengers have fastened their seatbelts.
8. Check the operation of the warning and
indicator lights when the ignition switch is
turned to the “ON” position.
9. Check the gauges, indicator and warning lights after starting the engine.

NOTE
Engine oil, engine coolant, brake fluid,
washer fluid and other fluid levels
should be checked daily, weekly or at
fuel stops.

Starting and operating 7-7

Starting the engine

Do not operate the starter motor
continuously for more than ten seconds. If the engine fails to start after
operating the starter for five to ten
seconds, wait for ten seconds or
more before trying again.

Manual transmission vehicle
1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Turn off unnecessary lights and accessories.
3. Press the clutch pedal to the floor and
shift the shift lever into neutral. Hold the
clutch pedal to the floor while starting the
engine.
The starter motor will only operate when
the clutch pedal is pressed fully to the
floor.
4. Turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position and check the operation of the warning and indicator lights. Refer to the
“Warning and indicator lights” section
(chapter 3).
5. Turn the ignition switch to the “START”
position without depressing the accelerator pedal. Release the key immediately after the engine has started.

If the engine does not start, try the following.
1) Turn the ignition switch to the “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 depressing the accelerator pedal slightly
(about a quarter of the full stroke). Release the accelerator pedal as soon as
the engine starts.
2) If this fails to start the engine, turn the
ignition switch back to the “OFF” position and wait for at least 10 seconds.
Then fully depress the accelerator pedal and turn the ignition switch to the
“START” position. If the engine starts,
quickly release the accelerator pedal.
3) If this fails to start the engine, turn the
ignition switch again to the “OFF” position. After waiting for 10 seconds or
longer, turn the ignition switch to the
“START” position without depressing
the accelerator pedal.
4) If the engine still refuses to start, contact your nearest SUBARU dealer for
assistance.
6. Confirm that all warning and indicator
lights have gone off after the engine has
started. The fuel injection system automatically lowers the idle speed as the engine warms up.

NOTE
The engine may be difficult to start
when the battery has been disconnected and reconnected (for maintenance
or other purposes). This difficulty 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.

Automatic transmission vehicle
1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Turn off unnecessary lights and accessories.
3. Shift the selector lever to the “P” or “N”
position (preferably “P” position).
The starter motor will only operate when
the select lever is at the “P” or “N” position.
4. Turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position and check the operation of the warning and indicator lights. Refer to the
“Warning and indicator lights” section
(chapter 3).
5. Turn the ignition switch to the “START”
position without depressing the accelerator pedal. Release the key immediately after the engine has started.
If the engine does not start, try the following.
– CONTINUED –

7-8 Starting and operating
1) Turn the ignition switch to the “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 depressing the accelerator pedal slightly
(about a quarter of the full stroke). Release the accelerator pedal as soon as
the engine starts.
2) If this fails to start the engine, turn the
ignition switch back to the “OFF” position and wait for at least 10 seconds.
Then fully depress the accelerator pedal and turn the ignition switch to the
“START” position. If the engine starts,
quickly release the accelerator pedal.
3) If this fails to start the engine, turn the
ignition switch again to the “OFF” position. After waiting for 10 seconds or
longer, turn the ignition switch to the
“START” position without depressing
the accelerator pedal.
4) If the engine still refuses to start, contact your nearest SUBARU dealer for
assistance.
6. Confirm that all warning and indicator
lights have gone out after the engine has
started. The fuel injection system automatically lowers the idle speed as the engine warms up.
While the engine is warming up, make
sure that the selector lever is at the “P” or

“N” position and that the parking brake is
applied.

If you restart the engine while the
vehicle is moving, shift the selector
lever into the “N” position. Do not
attempt to place the selector lever of
a moving vehicle into the “P” position.

Stopping the engine

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 steering
and braking more difficult. It could
also result in accidental activation
of the “LOCK” position on the ignition switch, causing the steering
wheel to lock.
The ignition switch should be turned off
only when the vehicle is stopped and the
engine is idling.

Starting and operating 7-9

Manual transmission

speeds listed in the following table.
1 3 5
2 4 R

Do not drive the vehicle with the
clutch disengaged (i.e., when the
clutch pedal is depressed) or with
the shift lever in the neutral position. Engine braking has no effect in
either of these conditions and the
risk of an accident is consequently
increased.

Shift into reverse ONLY when the
vehicle has completely stopped. It
may cause damage to the transmission to try shifting into reverse
when the vehicle is moving.
The manual transmission is a fully synchromeshed, 5-forward-speed and 1-reverse-speed transmission.

700386

The shift pattern is shown on the shift lever knob. When shifting from 5th gear to
reverse gear, first return the shift lever to
the neutral position then shift into reverse
gear.
To change gears, fully depress the clutch
pedal, move the shift lever, and gradually
let up on the clutch pedal.
If it is difficult to shift into gear, put the
transmission in neutral, release the clutch
pedal momentarily, and then try again.

Shifting speeds
T Recommended shifting speeds
The best compromise between fuel economy and vehicle performance during normal driving is ensured by shifting up at the

Shift up

mph (km/h)

1st to 2nd

15 (24)

2nd to 3rd

25 (40)

3rd to 4th

40 (65)

4th to 5th

45 (73)

T Maximum allowable speeds

When shifting down a gear, ensure
that the vehicle is not traveling at a
speed exceeding the Maximum Allowable Speed for the gear which is
about to be selected. Failure to observe this precaution can lead to engine over-revving and this in turn
can result in engine damage.
In addition, sudden application of
engine brakes when the vehicle is
travelling on a slippery surface can
lead to wheel locking; as a consequence, control of the vehicle may
be lost and the risk of an accident increased.
The following table shows the maximum
– CONTINUED –

7-10 Starting and operating
speeds that are possible with each different gear.
Never exceed the speed limit below for
each gear position except for brief acceleration in an emergency. The tachometer’s needle will enter the red area if these
speeds are exceeded. Failure to observe
this precaution can lead to excessive engine wear and poor fuel economy.
mph (km/h)
Non-turbo
models

Turbo models

1st

30 (49)

28 (46)

2nd

51 (82)

52 (83)

3rd

73 (117)

73 (118)

Driving tips
Do not drive with your foot resting on the
clutch pedal and do not use the clutch to
hold your vehicle at a standstill on an upgrade. Either of those actions may cause
clutch damage.
Do not drive with your hand resting on the
shift lever. This may cause wear on the
transmission components.
When it is necessary to reduce vehicle
speed due to slow traffic, turning corners,

or driving up steep hills, downshift to a
lower gear before the engine starts to labor.
On steep downgrades, downshift the
transmission to 4th, 3rd or 2nd gear as
necessary; this helps to maintain a safe
speed and to extend brake pad life.
In this way, the engine provides a braking
effect. Remember, if you “ride” (over use)
the brakes while descending a hill, they
may overheat and not work properly.

Automatic transmission
The automatic transmission is electronically controlled and provides 4 forward
speeds and 1 reverse speed.

Do not shift from the “P” or “N” position into the “D”, “3”, “2”, “1” or
“R” position while depressing the
accelerator pedal. This may cause
the vehicle to jump forward or backward.

y Shift into the “P” or “R” position
only after the vehicle is completely stopped. Shifting while the vehicle is moving may cause damage to the transmission.
y Do not race the engine for more
than five seconds in any position
except the “N” or “P” position
when the brake is set or when
chocks are used in the wheels.
This may cause the automatic
transmission fluid to overheat.

Starting and operating 7-11

y Avoid shifting from one of the forward driving positions into the
“R” position or vice versa until the
vehicle has completely stopped.
Such shifting may cause damage
to the transmission.

will be restored as the vehicle continues to be driven for a while.

Selector lever for automatic
transmission

y When parking the vehicle, first securely apply the parking brake
and then place the selector lever
in the “P” position.

NOTE
y When the engine coolant temperature is still low, your vehicle’s automatic transmission will up-shift at higher
engine speeds than when the coolant
temperature is sufficiently high in order to shorten the warm-up time and
improve driveability. The gearshift timing will automatically shift to the normal timing after the engine has warmed
up.
y Immediately after ATF (automatic
transmission fluid) is replaced, you
may feel that the automatic transmission operation is somewhat unusual.
This results from invalidation of data
the on-board computer has collected
and stored in memory to allow the
transmission to shift at the most appropriate times for the current condition of your vehicle. Optimized shifting

700332

R
N
D
3
2
1

: With the brake pedal depressed,
move the lever along the gate.
: Move the lever along the gate.
700034

The selector lever has seven positions.
T 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.
When you park the vehicle, first set the
parking brake fully, then shift into the “P”
position. Do not hold the vehicle with only
the transmission.
A shift interlock function is employed in
the automatic transmission system to en– CONTINUED –

7-12 Starting and operating
sure safe starting of the vehicle.
To shift the selector lever from the “P” to
the any other position, you have to depress the brake pedal fully when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position. This
prevents the vehicle from lurching when it
is started.
If the shift lever does not move from the
“P” position with the brake pedal depressed, refer to the “Shift lock release”
section in this chapter.
T R (Reverse)
This position is for backing the vehicle.
To shift from the “N” to “R” position, first
stop the vehicle completely then move the
lever to the “R” position.
T N (Neutral)
This position is for restarting a stalled engine.
In this position the wheels and transmission are not locked. In this position, the
transmission is neutral; the vehicle will roll
freely, even on the slightest incline unless
the parking brake or foot brake is on.
Avoid coasting with the transmission neutral.
During coasting, there is no engine braking effect.

NOTE

the original gear position.

If you stop the engine with the selector
lever in the “N” position, move the selector lever to the “P” position immediately. Otherwise, you may find that the
selector lever soon cannot be moved
to the “P” position. If you find that the
selector lever cannot be moved from
the “N” position to the “P” position,
turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position and try again.

V While climbing a grade
When driving up hill, undesired upshift to
4th gear is prevented from taking place
when the accelerator pedal is released.
This minimizes the chances of subsequent downshifting to a lower gear when
accelerating again. This prevents repeated upshifting and downshifting resulting in
a smoother operation of the vehicle.

NOTE
Do not drive the vehicle with the selector lever in the “N” (neutral) position. Engine braking has no effect in
this condition and the risk of an accident is consequently increased.
T D (Drive)
This position is for normal driving.
The transmission automatically shifts into
a suitable gear from 1st to 4th according to
the vehicle speed and the acceleration
you require.
When more acceleration is required in this
position, press the accelerator pedal fully
to the floor and hold that position. The
transmission will automatically downshift
to 3rd, 2nd or 1st gear. When you release
the pedal, the transmission will return to

The transmission may downshift to
2nd or 1st gear, depending on the way
the accelerator pedal is pressed to accelerate the vehicle again.
V While going down a hill
When descending a steep hill, depressing
the brake pedal will cause the transmission to downshift to 3rd gear, thus applying engine braking. Reacceleration for a
short time will cause the transmission to
upshift normally.

NOTE
In some cases, depressing the brake
pedal on a downhill grade does not result in an automatic downshift to 3rd
gear. This can happen when the automatic transmission fluid temperature is
very low, for example, during driving

Starting and operating 7-13

shortly after the vehicle has been
parked for an extended period of time.
When the ATF temperature has risen to
a certain level, automatic downshift
normally takes place. In the meantime,
downshift manually for engine braking
as required.
Also, downshifting when braking
downhill will not occur at speeds
above approximately 48 mph (78 km/h).
T 3 (Third)
This position is for using engine braking
when going down a hill or for climbing a
grade.
The transmission automatically shifts into
a suitable gear from 1st to 3rd according
to the vehicle speed and the acceleration
you require.
When more acceleration is required in this
position, press the accelerator pedal fully
to the floor and hold that position. The
transmission will automatically downshift
to 2nd or 1st gear. When you release the
pedal, the transmission will return to the
original gear position.
T 2 (Second)
This position is for using engine braking
when going down a hill or for climbing a
steep grade.
In this position, the transmission holds in

the 2nd gear.
Use this position when starting off from a
standstill on slippery road surfaces such
as mud or snow. It will ensure greater traction.
T 1 (First)
This position is for driving up or down very
steep grades, or driving through mud or
sand, or on slippery surfaces. In this position, the transmission holds in the 1st
gear.
T Maximum speeds

When shifting down a gear, ensure
that the vehicle is not travelling at a
speed exceeding the Maximum Allowable Speed for the gear which is
about to be selected. Failure to observe this precaution can lead to engine over-revving and this in turn
can result in engine damage.
In addition, sudden application of
engine brakes when the vehicle is
travelling on a slippery surface can
lead to wheel locking; as a consequence, control of the vehicle may
be lost and the risk of an accident increased.

The following tables show the maximum
speeds that are possible with each different gear.
When shifting down a gear, it is important
to confirm that the current vehicle speed is
not in excess of the Maximum Allowable
Speed of the gear which is about to be selected.
mph (km/h)
Non-turbo
models

Turbo models

1st

28 (45)

2nd

63 (100)

65 (104)

3rd

98 (156)

104 (167)

NOTE
In order to prevent over-revving during
deceleration of the vehicle, the transmission will remain in the current gear
if the speed of the vehicle is in excess
of the Maximum Allowable Speed for
the gear to which the selector lever has
been moved.
T Driving tips
y Always apply the foot or parking brake
when the vehicle is stopped in the “D”, “3”,
“2”, “1” or “R” position.
– CONTINUED –

7-14 Starting and operating
y Always set the parking brake when
parking your vehicle. Do not hold the vehicle with only the transmission.
y Do not keep the vehicle in a stationary
position on an uphill grade by using the
“D”, “3”, “2”, or “1” position. Use the brake
instead.

gine.
Take your vehicle to the nearest SUBARU
dealer immediately to have the system repaired.

Shift lock release
If the selector lever does not move from
the “P” position with the brake pedal depressed and the ignition switch in the “ON”
position, perform the following steps:

700059

To override the shift lock:
1. Set the parking brake and stop the engine.
2. Take out the screwdriver.
3. Remove the cover by prying on the
edge with the screwdriver.

700060

4. Insert the screwdriver into the hole.
5. Push down on the screwdriver and
move the selector lever from the “P” to the
“N” position.
6. Remove the screwdriver from the hole.
Depress the brake pedal and start the en-

Starting and operating 7-15

Rear viscous limited slip differential (LSD) (if equipped)

y Never start the engine while a tire
on one side is jacked up, as the
vehicle may move.
y If one rear tire is spinning in mud,
avoid continued spinning at high
speed as this could adversely affect the LSD.
y If a different size rear tire is temporarily used (as in an emergency), it will adversely affect the
LSD. Always replace it with a regular size tire as soon as possible.
The LSD provides optimum distribution of
power according to the difference in revolutions between the right and left rear
wheels that may be caused by certain
driving conditions, thereby improving driving stability on snow-covered, muddy or
other slippery roads.

Power steering

Braking
Braking tips

Do not hold the steering wheel at the
fully locked position left or right for
more than five seconds. This may
damage the power steering pump.
The power steering system operates only
when the engine is running.
If you lose power steering assist because
the engine stops or the system fails to
function, you can steer but it will take
much more effort.

NOTE
Right after the engine has been started
and before it has warmed up, you may
hear a noise coming from areas adjacent to the power steering pump which
is located at the right-front area of the
engine compartment. This noise is normal. It does not indicate power steering
system trouble.

Never rest your foot on the brake
pedal while driving. This can cause
dangerous overheating of the
brakes and needless wear on the
brake pads and linings.
T 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.
T Use of engine braking
Remember to make use of engine braking
in addition to foot braking. When descending a grade, if only the foot brake is used,
the brakes may start working improperly
because of brake fluid overheating,
caused by overheated brake pads. To
help prevent this, shift into a lower gear to
get stronger engine braking.
T Braking when a tire is punctured
Do not depress the brake pedal suddenly
– CONTINUED –

7-16 Starting and operating
when a tire is punctured. This could cause
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.

Disc brake pad wear warning
indicators

Always use the utmost care in driving – overconfidence because you
are driving with an ABS equipped
vehicle could easily lead to a serious accident.

Brake system
T 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. And a much
longer distance will be needed to stop the
vehicle.
T Brake booster
The brake booster uses engine manifold
vacuum to assist braking force. Do not
turn off the engine while driving because
that will turn off the brake booster, resulting in poor braking power.
The brakes will continue to work even
when the brake booster completely stops
functioning. If this happens, however, you
will have to push the pedal much harder
than normal and the braking distance will
increase.

ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)

700040

The disc brake pad wear warning indicators on the disc brakes give a warning
noise when the brake pads are worn.
If a squeaking or scraping noise is heard
from the disc brakes while braking, immediately have your vehicle checked by your
SUBARU dealer.

y The ABS system does not always
decrease stopping distance. You
should always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.
y When driving on badly surfaced
roads, gravel roads, icy roads, or
over deep newly fallen snow,
stopping distances may be longer
for a vehicle with the ABS system
than one without. When driving
under these conditions, therefore,
reduce your speed and leave ample distance from other vehicles.

Starting and operating 7-17

y When you feel the ABS system
operating, you should maintain
constant brake pedal pressure.
Do not pump the brake pedal
since doing so may defeat the operation of the ABS system.

ABS warning light
If the warning light behaves as follows, the ABS system may not be
working properly.
When the warning light is on, the
ABS function shuts down; however,
the conventional brake system continues to operate normally.

1
2

The ABS system 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 the ABS system is operating, you
may hear a chattering noise or feel a slight
vibration in the brake pedal. This is normal
when the ABS operates.
The ABS system will not operate when the
vehicle speed is below approximately 6
mph (10 km/h).

ABS system self-check
You may feel a slight shock in the brake
pedal and hear the operating sound of
ABS from the engine compartment just after the vehicle is started. This is caused by
an automatic functional test of the ABS
system being carried out and does not indicate any abnormal condition.

y The warning light does not come
on when the ignition switch is
turned to the “ON” position.
700333

1) U.S.-spec. models
2) Canada-spec. models

The ABS warning light comes on when the
ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position and goes out after approximately two
seconds.
This is an indication that the ABS system
is working properly.
When driving with an insufficient battery
voltage such as when the engine is jump
started, the ABS warning light may come
on. This is due to the low battery voltage
and does not indicate a malfunction.
When the battery becomes fully charged,
the light will go out.

7-18 Starting and operating
immediately, remaining off.
y The warning light remains on after
the engine has been started, but it goes
out when the vehicle speed reaches
approximately 8 mph (12 km/h).
y The warning light comes on during
driving, but it goes out immediately
and remains off.

Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) system
The EBD system maximizes the effectiveness 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 system and uses some of the ABS
system’s components to perform its function of optimizing the distribution of braking force. If any of the ABS components
used by the EBD function fails, the EBD
system also stops working.
When the EBD system is operating, you
may hear a chattering noise or feel a slight
vibration in the brake pedal. This is normal
and does not indicate a malfunction.

Steps to take if EBD system
fails
1
2

1
2

700334

1) U.S.-spec. models
2) Canada-spec. models

If a malfunction occurs in the EBD system,
the system stops working and the brake
system warning light and ABS warning
light come on simultaneously.
The EBD system may be faulty if the brake
system warning light and ABS warning
light illuminate simultaneously during driving.
Even if the EBD system fails, the conventional braking system will still function.
However, the rear wheels will be more
prone to locking when the brakes are applied harder than usual and the vehicle’s

Starting and operating 7-19

motion may therefore become somewhat
harder to control.
If the brake system warning light and ABS
warning light illuminate simultaneously,
take the following steps:
1. Stop the vehicle in the nearest safe, flat
place.
2. Shut down the engine, then restart it.
3. Release the parking brake. If both
warning lights go out, the EBD system
may be faulty.
Drive carefully to the nearest SUBARU
dealer and have the system inspected.
4. If both warning lights come on again
and stay illuminated after the engine has
been restarted, shut down the engine
again, apply the parking brake, and check
the brake fluid level.
5. If the brake fluid level is not below the
“MIN” mark, the EBD system may be
faulty. Drive carefully to the nearest
SUBARU dealer and have the system inspected.
6. If the brake fluid level is below the
“MIN” mark, DO NOT drive the vehicle. Instead, have the vehicle towed to the nearest SUBARU dealer for repair.

Parking your vehicle
y Driving with the brake system
warning light on is dangerous.
This indicates your brake system
may not be working properly. If
the light remains on, have the
brakes inspected by a SUBARU
dealer immediately.
y 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.

y Never leave unattended children
or pets in the vehicle. They could
accidentally injure themselves or
others through inadvertent operation of the vehicle. Also, on hot or
sunny days, the temperature in a
closed vehicle could quickly become high enough to cause severe or possibly fatal injuries to
people.
y Do not park the vehicle over flammable materials such as dry
grass, waste paper or rags, as
they may burn easily if they come
near hot engine or exhaust system parts.
y Be sure to stop the engine if you
take a nap in the vehicle. If engine
exhaust gas enters the passenger
compartment, occupants in the
vehicle could die from carbon
monoxide (CO) contained in the
exhaust gas.

– CONTINUED –

7-20 Starting and operating

Never drive while the parking brake
is set because this will cause unnecessary wear on the brake linings.
Before starting to drive, always
make sure that the parking brake
has been fully released.

Parking brake
To set the parking brake, press the brake
pedal firmly and hold it down while fully
pulling up the parking brake lever.

engine is running, the parking brake warning light comes on. After starting the vehicle, be sure that the warning light has
gone out before the vehicle is driven. Refer to the “Warning and indicator lights”
section (chapter 3).

Parking tips
When parking your vehicle, always set the
parking brake firmly and put the shift lever
in the “1” (1st) for an upgrade or “R” (Reverse) for a downgrade for manual transmission vehicles, or in the “P” (Park) position for automatic transmission vehicles.
Always set the parking brake firmly when
parking your vehicle. Never rely on the
transmission alone to hold the vehicle.

700336

To release the parking brake, pull the lever up slightly, press the release button,
then lower the lever while keeping the button pressed.
When the parking brake is set while the

steering wheel. When the vehicle is headed up the hill, the front wheels should be
turned away from the curb.

700044

When parking on a hill, always turn the

700045

When facing downhill, the front wheels
should be turned into the curb.

Starting and operating 7-21

Hill holder (Manual transmission – if equipped)

The Hill Holder 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 clutch pedal is released.

is depressed while the brake pedal is also
depressed, braking power is maintained
temporarily by the Hill holder when the
brake pedal is released. The driver is
therefore able to start the vehicle the
same way as on a level grade, just using
the clutch and accelerator pedal.

The Hill holder is a device to make starting
on an uphill grade easier.
700047

The Hill holder does not operate when the
vehicle is facing downhill. And the Hill
holder may not operate on slight grades.
When starting in reverse and using the Hill
holder, a braking effect may be felt even
after the brake pedal has been released.
However, this braking effect should disappear once the clutch pedal is released.
700046

On an uphill grade, when the clutch pedal

A slight jolt may be felt when the vehicle
begins to move forward after being reversed.

If the braking power of the Hill holder is insufficient after the brake pedal is released,
apply more braking power by pressing the
brake pedal again.

7-22 Starting and operating
Cruise control

To set cruise control

vehicle reaches the desired speed.
0

Do not use the cruise control under
any of the following conditions. This
may cause loss of vehicle control:
y driving up or down a steep grade
y driving on slippery or winding
roads
y driving in heavy traffic
Cruise control enables you to maintain a
constant vehicle speed without holding
your foot on the accelerator pedal and it is
operative when the vehicle speed is 25
mph (40 km/h) or more. Make sure the
main switch is turned “OFF” when the
cruise control is not in use to avoid unintentionally setting the cruise control.

300332

300333

3. Push the control lever downward in the
“SET/COAST” direction and release it.
Then release the accelerator pedal.

1. Push the main switch button.

NOTE
If you move the cruise control lever or
press the main switch button while
turning the ignition switch “ON”, the
cruise control function is deactivated
and the “CRUISE” indicator light flashes. To reactivate the cruise control
function, turn the ignition switch back
to the “ACC” or “LOCK” position, and
then turn it again to the “ON” position.

700049

The “
” indicator light on the combination meter will come on.
2. Depress the accelerator pedal until the

700051

At this time, the “
” indicator light is illuminated in the combination meter.

Starting and operating 7-23

The vehicle will maintain the desired
speed.
Vehicle speed can be temporarily increased while driving with the cruise control activated. Simply depress the accelerator pedal to accelerate the vehicle. When
the accelerator pedal is released, the vehicle will return to and maintain the previous cruising speed.

To temporarily cancel the
cruise control
There are five ways to cancel the cruise
control temporarily:

700161

y Pull the control lever in the “CANCEL”
direction.
y Depress the brake pedal.

y Depress the clutch pedal (manual transmission vehicles only).
y Shift the selector lever into the “N” position (automatic transmission vehicles
only).
y Shift the shift lever into neutral (manual
transmission vehicles only).

To change the cruising speed
T To increase the speed (by control lever)

The “
” indicator light in the combination meter goes off when the cruise control
is cancelled.
To resume the cruise control after it has
been temporarily canceled and with vehicle speed of approximately 20 mph (32
km/h) or more, push the control lever upward in the “RES/ACC” direction to return
to the original cruising speed automatically.
The “
” indicator light in the combination meter will automatically come on at
this time.

300334

To turn off the cruise control

Push the control lever upward in the
“RES/ACC” direction and hold it until the
vehicle reaches the desired speed. Then,
release the control lever. The vehicle
speed at that moment will be memorized
and treated as the new set speed.

There are two ways to turn off the cruise
control:
y Push the main switch again.
y Turn the ignition switch to the “ACC” or
“LOCK” position (but only when the vehicle is completely stopped).

When the difference between the actual
vehicle speed and the set speed is less
than 4 mph (6.8 km/h), the set speed can
be increased 1 mph (1.6 km/h) each time
by pressing the control lever upward in the
“RES/ACC” direction quickly.

– CONTINUED –

7-24 Starting and operating
T To increase the speed (by accelerator pedal)
1. Depress the accelerator pedal to accelerate the vehicle to the desired speed.
2. Push the control lever downward in the
“SET/COAST” direction once. Now the
desired speed is set and the vehicle will
keep running at that speed without depressing the accelerator pedal.

T To decrease the speed (by control
lever)

NOTE
If the difference between the actual vehicle speed when the control lever is
pushed downward and the speed last
time you set is less than 4 mph (6.8 km/
h), the vehicle speed will be lowered by
1 mph (1.6 km/h). This occurs because
the cruise control system unit regards
this lever operation as that intended to
decrease the vehicle speed.

300333

Push the control lever downward in the
“SET/COAST” direction and hold it until
the vehicle reaches the desired speed.
Then, release the control lever. The vehicle speed at that moment will be memorized and treated as the new set speed.
When the difference between the actual
vehicle speed and the set speed is less
than 4 mph (6.8 km/h), the set speed can
be lowered 1 mph (1.6 km/h) each time by
pressing the control lever downward in the
“SET/COAST” direction quickly.

T To decrease the speed (by brake
pedal)
1. Depress the brake pedal to release
cruise control temporarily.
2. When the speed decreases to the desired speed, press the control lever downward in the “SET/COAST” direction once.
Now the desired speed is set and the vehicle will keep running at that speed without depressing the accelerator pedal.

Starting and operating 7-25

Self-leveling rear suspension
(if equipped)
The self-leveling suspension adjusts the
vehicle body position automatically to
keep it level at all times irrespective of the
number of occupants and the amount of
cargo.

700055

Owing to the self-leveling suspension, the
vehicle body is adjusted to the proper position after several drive trips, even if the
rear of the vehicle is lowered by loaded
cargos or a coupled trailer.
700054

The self-leveling system is incorporated in
the rear suspension shock absorber and
operates only when the vehicle is in motion.

If cargos are unloaded all at once, the vehicle height may become higher than the
normal level. This is because that the hydraulic pressure in the self-leveling suspension was increased for leveling the
body when the cargos were loaded. In
such a case, the vehicle height will return
to the original level after several driving
trips.

NOTE
If the rear axle is loaded excessively,
the vehicle body may not be adjusted
to the proper position.

Driving tips
New vehicle break-in driving – the first
1,000 miles (1,600 km) ....................................
Fuel economy hints ...........................................
Engine exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ........
Catalytic converter .............................................
Periodic inspections ..........................................
Driving in foreign countries ..............................
Driving tips for AWD vehicles ...........................
Off road driving ..................................................
Winter driving .....................................................

8-2
8-2
8-2
8-3
8-4
8-4
8-5
8-6
8-7

Operation during cold weather ..............................
Driving on snowy and icy roads ............................
Corrosion protection ..............................................
Snow tires ...............................................................
Tire chains ...............................................................
Rocking the vehicle ................................................

8-7
8-9
8-10
8-10
8-10
8-11

Loading your vehicle .........................................

8-11

Vehicle capacity weight .........................................
GVWR and GAWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
and Gross Axle Weight Rating) ...........................
Roof rail and crossbar (if equipped) .....................

8-12

Trailer hitch (if equipped) ..................................

8-16

Connecting a trailer ................................................
When you do not tow a trailer ...............................

8-16
8-17

Trailer towing ......................................................

8-18

Warranties and maintenance .................................
Maximum load limits ..............................................

8-18
8-18

8-12
8-13

Trailer hitches .........................................................
Connecting a trailer ................................................
Trailer towing tips ...................................................

8-21
8-22
8-23

8-2 Driving tips
New vehicle break-in driving
– the first 1,000 miles (1,600
km)

Fuel economy hints

The performance and long life of your vehicle are dependent on how you handle
and care for your vehicle while it is new.
Follow these instructions during the first
1,000 miles (1,600 km):
y Do not race the engine. And do not allow engine speed to exceed 4,000 rpm except in an emergency.
y Do not drive at one constant engine or
vehicle speed for a long time, either fast or
slow.
y Avoid starting suddenly and rapid acceleration, except in an emergency.
y Avoid hard braking, except in an emergency.

y Select the proper gear position for the
speed and road conditions.
y Avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration. Always accelerate gently until you
reach the desired speed. Then try to maintain that speed for as long as possible.
y Do not pump the accelerator and avoid
racing the engine.
y Avoid unnecessary engine idling.
y Keep the engine properly tuned.
y Keep the tires inflated to the correct
pressure shown on the tire placard, which
is located under the door latch on the driver’s side. Low pressure will increase tire
wear and fuel consumption.
y Use the air conditioner only when necessary.
y Keep the front and rear wheels in proper alignment.
y Avoid carrying unnecessary cargo.

Driving tips

The same break-in procedures should be
applied to an overhauled engine, newly
mounted engine or when brake pads or
brake linings are replaced with new ones.

The following suggestions will help to
save your fuel.

Engine exhaust gas (Carbon
monoxide)

Driving tips 8-3

NOTE
Due to the expansion and contraction
of the metals used in the manufacture
of the exhaust system, you may hear a
crackling sound coming from the exhaust system for a short time after the
engine has been shut off. This sound is
normal.

Catalytic converter

y Avoid fire hazards. Do not drive or
park the vehicle anywhere near
flammable materials (e.g. grass,
paper, rags or leaves), because
the catalytic converter operates at
very high temperatures.
y Keep everyone and flammable
materials away from the exhaust
pipe while the engine is running.
The exhaust gas is very hot.

800218

Non-turbo model

The catalytic converter is installed in the
exhaust system. It serves as catalyst to
reduce HC, CO and NOx in exhaust gases, thus providing cleaner exhaust.

800232

Turbo model

To avoid damage to the catalytic converter:
y Use only unleaded fuel. Even a small
amount of leaded fuel will damage the catalytic converter.
y Never start the engine by pushing or
pulling the vehicle.
y Avoid racing the engine.
y Never turn off the ignition switch while
the vehicle is moving.
y Keep your engine tuned-up. If you feel
the engine running rough (misfiring, backfiring or incomplete combustion), have
– CONTINUED –

8-4 Driving tips
your vehicle checked and repaired by an
authorized SUBARU dealer.
y Do not apply undercoating or rust prevention treatment to the heat shield of catalytic converter and the exhaust system.

Periodic inspections

Driving in foreign countries

To keep your vehicle in the best condition
at all times, always have the recommended maintenance services listed in the
maintenance schedule in the “Warranty
and Maintenance Booklet” performed at
the specified time or mileage intervals.

When planning to use your vehicle in another country:
y Confirm the availability of the correct fuel. (Refer to the “Fuel requirements” section in chapter 7.)
y Comply with all regulations and requirements of each country.

Driving tips 8-5

Driving tips for AWD vehicles

800004

All-Wheel Drive distributes the engine
power to all four wheels. AWD vehicles

provide better traction when driving on
slippery, wet or snow-covered roads and
when moving out of mud, dirt and sand. By
shifting power between the front and rear
wheels, SUBARU AWD can also provide
added traction during acceleration and
added engine braking force during deceleration.
Therefore, your SUBARU AWD vehicle
may handle differently than an ordinary
two wheel drive vehicle and it contains
some features unique to AWD. For safety
purposes as well as to avoid damaging
the AWD system, you should keep the following tips in mind:
y An AWD vehicle is better able to climb
steeper roads under snowy or slippery
conditions than a two wheel drive vehicle.
There is little difference in handling, however, during extremely sharp turns or sudden braking. Therefore, when driving
down a slope or turning corners, be sure
to reduce your speed and maintain an ample distance from other vehicles.
y When replacing a tire, make sure you
use only the same size, construction,
brand, and load range as the original tires
listed on the tire placard. Using other sizes
or construction may result in severe mechanical damage to the drive train of your
vehicle and may affect ride, handling,

braking, speedometer/odometer calibration, and clearance between the body and
tires. It also may be dangerous and lead to
loss of vehicle control.
y Always check the cold tire pressure before starting to drive. The recommended
tire pressure is provided on the tire placard, which is located under the door latch
on the driver’s side.
y Tire chains should always be placed on
the front wheels only.
y There are some precautions that you
must observe when towing your vehicle.
For detail information, see the “Towing”
section in chapter 9.

8-6 Driving tips
Off road driving

y Always maintain a safe driving
speed according to the road and
weather conditions in order to
avoid having an accident on a
sharp turn, during sudden braking
or under other similar conditions.
y Always use the utmost care in
driving – overconfidence because
you are driving an All-Wheel Drive
vehicle could easily lead to a serious accident.
Because of the AWD feature and higher
ground clearance, your SUBARU can be
driven on ordinary roads or off-road. But
please keep in mind that an AWD SUBARU is a passenger car and is neither a
conventional off-road vehicle nor an allterrain vehicle. If you do take your SUBARU off-road, certain common sense precautions such as the following should be
taken:
y Make certain that you and all of your
passengers are wearing seatbelts.
y Carry some emergency equipment,
such as a towing rope or chain, a shovel,
wheel blocks, first aid kit and cell phone or

citizens band radio.
y Drive carefully. Do not take unnecessary risks by driving in dangerous areas or
over rough terrain.
y Slow down and employ extra caution at
all times. When driving off-road, you will
not have the benefit of marked traffic
lanes, banked curves, traffic signs and the
like.
y Do not drive across steep slopes. Instead, drive either straight up or straight
down the slopes. A vehicle can much
more easily tip over sideways than it can
end over end. Avoid driving straight up or
down slopes that are too steep.
y Avoid sharp turning maneuvers, especially at higher speeds.
y Do not grip the inside or spokes of the
steering wheel. A bad bump could jerk the
wheel and injure your hands. Instead drive
with your fingers and thumbs on the outside of the rim.
y If driving through water, such as when
crossing shallow streams, first check the
depth of the water and the bottom of the
stream bed for firmness and ensure that
the bed of the stream is flat. Drive slowly
and completely through the stream. The
water should be shallow enough that it
does not reach the vehicle’s undercarriage. Water entering the engine air intake
or the exhaust pipe or water splashing

onto electrical parts may damage your vehicle and may cause it to stall. Never attempt to drive through rushing water; regardless of its depth, it can wash away the
ground from under your tires, resulting in
possible loss of traction and even vehicle
rollover.
y Always check your brakes for effectiveness immediately after driving in sand,
mud or water. Do this by driving slowly
and stepping on the brake pedal. Repeat
that process several times to dry out the
brake discs and brake pads.
y Do not drive or park over or near flammable materials such as dry grass or fallen leaves, as they may burn easily. The
exhaust system is very hot while the engine is running and right after the engine
stops. This could create a fire hazard.
y After driving through tall grass, mud,
rocks, sand, rivers, etc., check that there
is no grass, bush, paper, rags, stones,
sand, etc. adhering to or trapped on the
underbody. Clear off any such matter from
the underbody. If the vehicle is used with
these materials trapped or adhering to the
underbody, a mechanical breakdown or
fire could occur.
y Secure all cargo carried inside the vehicle and make certain that it is not piled
higher than the seatbacks. During sudden
stops or jolts, unsecured cargo could be

Driving tips 8-7

thrown around in the vehicle and cause injury. Do not pile heavy loads on the roof.
Those loads raise the vehicle’s center of
gravity and make it more prone to tip over.
y If you must rock the vehicle to free it
from sand or mud, depress the accelerator pedal slightly and move the selector lever back and forth between “D” and “R” repeatedly. Do not race the engine. For the
best possible traction, avoid spinning the
wheels when trying to free the vehicle.
When the road surface is extremely slippery, you can obtain better traction by
starting the vehicle with the transmission
in 2nd than 1st (both for MT and AT).
y Never equip your vehicle with tires larger than those specified in this manual.
y Frequent driving of an AWD vehicle under hard-driving conditions such as rough
roads or off roads will necessitate more
frequent replacement of engine oil, brake
fluid and transmission oil than that specified in the maintenance schedule described in the “Warranty and Maintenance
Booklet”.
Remember that damage done to your
SUBARU while operating it off-road and
not using common sense precautions
such as those listed above is not eligible
for warranty coverage.
y Wash the vehicle’s underbody after offroad driving. Suspension components are

particularly prone to dirt buildup, so they
need to be washed thoroughly.

Winter driving

800219

Operation during cold weather
Carry some emergency equipment, such
as tire chains, a window scraper, a bag of
sand, flares, a small shovel, and jumper
cables.
Check the battery and cables. Cold temperatures reduce battery capacity. The
battery must be in good condition to provide enough power for cold winter starts.
Use an engine oil of proper grade and viscosity for cold weather. Heavy summer oil
will cause harder starting.
Keep the door locks from freezing by
– CONTINUED –

8-8 Driving tips
squirting them with deicer or glycerin.
Forcing a frozen door open may damage
or separate the rubber weather strips
around the door. If the door is frozen, use
hot water to melt the ice, and afterwards
thoroughly wipe the water away.
Use a windshield washer fluid that contains an antifreeze solution. Do not use
engine antifreeze or other substitutes because they may damage the paint of the
vehicle.
SUBARU Windshield Washer Fluid contains 58.5% methyl alcohol and 41.5%
surfactant, by volume. Its freezing temperature varies according to how much it is diluted, as indicated in the following table.
Washer Fluid Concentration

Freezing Temperature

30%

10.4qF (–12qC)

50%

–4qF (–20qC)

100%

–49qF (–45qC)

In order to prevent freezing of washer fluid, check the freezing temperatures in the
table above when adjusting the fluid concentration to the outside temperature.
If you fill the reservoir tank with a fluid with
a different concentration from the one
used previously, purge the old fluid from

the piping between the reservoir tank and
washer nozzles by operating the washer
for a certain period of time. Otherwise, if
the concentration of the fluid remaining in
the piping is too low for the outside temperature, it may freeze and block the nozzles.

Adjust the washer fluid concentration appropriately for the outside
temperature. If the concentration is
inappropriate, sprayed washer fluid
may freeze on the windshield and
obstruct your view, and the fluid
may freeze in the reservoir tank.
T Before driving your vehicle
Before entering the vehicle, remove any
snow or ice from your shoes because that
could make the pedals slippery and dangerous.
While warming up the vehicle before driving, check that the accelerator pedal,
brake pedal, and all other controls operate
smoothly.
Clear away ice and snow that has accumulated under the fenders to avoid making steering difficult. During severe winter
driving, stop when and where it is safe to

do so and check under the fenders periodically.
T Parking in cold weather

Snow can trap dangerous exhaust
gases under your vehicle. Keep
snow clear of the exhaust pipe and
from around your vehicle if you park
the vehicle in snow with the engine
running.
Do not use the parking brake when parking for long periods in cold weather since
it could freeze in that position. Instead, observe the following.
1. Place the shift lever in “1” or “R” for
manual transmission vehicles, and in “P”
for automatic transmission vehicles.
2. Use tire stops under the tires to prevent
the vehicle from moving.
When the vehicle is parked in snow or
when it snows, raise the wiper blades off
the glass to prevent damage to them.
When the vehicle has been left parked after use on roads heavily covered with
snow, or has been left parked during a
snowstorm, icing may develop on the
brake system, which could cause poor
braking action. Check for snow or ice

Driving tips 8-9

buildup on the suspension, disc brakes
and brake hoses underneath the vehicle.
If there is caked snow or ice, remove it,
being careful not to damage the disc
brakes and brake hoses and ABS harness.
T Refueling in cold weather
To help prevent moisture from forming in
the fuel system and the risk of its freezing,
use of an antifreeze additive in the fuel
tank is recommended during cold weather.
Use only additives that are specifically designed for this purpose. When an antifreeze additive is used, its effect lasts
longer if the tank is refilled whenever the
fuel level reaches half empty.
If your SUBARU is not going to be used for
an extended period, it is best to have the
fuel tank filled to capacity.

Driving on snowy and icy
roads

Do not use the cruise control on
slippery roads such as snowy or icy
roads. This may cause loss of vehicle control.

Avoid prolonged continuous driving
in snowstorms. Snow will enter the
engine’s intake system and may
hinder the air flow, which could result in engine shutdown or even
breakdown.
To prevent skidding and slipping, avoid
sudden braking, abrupt acceleration, highspeed driving, and sharp turning when
driving on snowy or icy roads.
Always maintain ample distance between
your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you
to avoid the need for sudden braking.
To supplement the foot brake, use the engine brake effectively to control the vehicle speed. (Shift into a lower gear when
necessary.)
Avoid shifting down abruptly. Such behavior can cause the wheels to lock, possibly
leading to loss of vehicle control.
An anti-lock brake system (ABS) enhances your vehicle’s braking performance on
snowy and icy roads. Refer to the “ABS
(Anti-lock Brake System)” section in chapter 7 for information on braking on slippery
surfaces.
T Wiper operation when snowing
Before driving in cold weather, make sure

the wiper blades are not frozen to the
windshield or rear window. If the wiper
blades are frozen to the windshield or rear
window, use the defroster with the airflow
control button/dial in the “
” position
and the temperature control dial set for
maximum warmth until the wiper blades
are completely thawed out. If your vehicle
is equipped with a wiper deicer, it is helpful
to thaw the windshield wiper blades. To
thaw out the rear wiper blade, use the rear
window defogger.
When driving in snow, if frozen snow
starts to stick on the surface of the windshield despite wiper operation, use the defroster with the airflow control button/dial
in “
” and the temperature control dial
set for maximum warmth. After the windshield gets warmed enough to melt the
frozen snow on it, wash it away using the
windshield washer.
Snow stuck on the wiper arm prevents the
wiper from working effectively. If snow is
stuck on the wiper arm, pull off the road to
a safe place, then remove it. If you stop
the vehicle at road side, use the hazard
warning flasher to alert other drivers.
We recommend use of non-freezing type
wiper blades (winter blades) during the
seasons you could have snow and sub– CONTINUED –

8-10 Driving tips
zero temperatures. Blades of this type
give superior wiping performance in
snowy conditions. Be sure to use blades
that are suitable for your vehicle.

During high-speed driving, nonfreezing type wiper blades may not
perform as well as standard wiper
blades. If this happens, reduce the
vehicle speed.

NOTE
When the season requiring non-freezing type wiper blades is over, replace
them with standard wiper blades.

Corrosion protection
Refer to the “Corrosion protection” section
(chapter 10).

Snow tires

y When replacing original tires with
winter (snow) tires, make sure you
use only the same size, construction and load range as the original
tires listed on the tire placard. Using other sizes and construction
may affect speedometer/odometer calibration and clearance between the body and tires. It also
may be dangerous and lead to
loss of vehicle control.
y You must install four winter tires
that are of the same size, construction, brand, and load range.
Mixing other sizes or constructions may result in severe mechanical damage to the drive train
of your vehicle and may affect
ride, handling, braking and speedometer/odometer calibration. It
also may be dangerous and lead
to loss of vehicle control.
y Do not use a combination of radial, belted bias or bias tires since it
may cause dangerous handling
characteristics and lead to an accident.

Your vehicle is equipped with “all season
tires” as original equipment, which are designed to provide an adequate measure of
traction, handling and braking performance in year-round driving. In winter, it
may be possible to enhance performance
through use of tires designed specifically
for winter driving conditions.
When you choose to install winter tires on
your vehicle, be sure to use the correct tire
size and type. You must install four winter
tires that are of the same size, construction, brand and load range and you should
never mix radial, belted bias or bias tires
since this may result in dangerous handling characteristics. When you choose a
tire, make sure that there is enough clearance between the tire and vehicle body.
Remember to drive with care at all times
regardless of the type of tires on your vehicle.

Tire chains
Driving on snowy grades or icy roads may
require the use of tire chains, in which
case put the chains on the front wheels
only. Use only SAE class S type chains
that are of the correct size for your tires so
as not to damage the vehicle body or suspension.
When driving with tire chains, drive at

Driving tips 8-11

speeds below 19 mph (30 km/h).
Always use the utmost care when driving
with tire chains – overconfidence because
you are driving with tire chains could easily lead to a serious accident.

Rocking the vehicle
If you must rock the vehicle to free it from
snow, sand, or mud, depress the accelerator pedal slightly and move the selector
lever back and forth between “D” and “R”
repeatedly. Do not race the engine. For
the best possible traction, avoid spinning
the wheels when trying to free the vehicle.

Loading your vehicle

y Never allow passengers to ride on
a folded rear seatback or in the
cargo area. Doing so may result in
serious injury.
y Never stack luggage or other cargo higher than the top of the seatback because it could tumble forward and injure passengers in the
event of a sudden stop or accident. Keep luggage or cargo low,
as close to the floor as possible.

When the road surface is extremely slippery, you can obtain better traction by
starting the vehicle with the transmission
in 2nd than 1st (both for MT and AT).
Refer to the “Automatic transmission” section in chapter 7 for information on holding
the transmission in 2nd position.

100094

y When you carry something inside
the vehicle, secure it whenever
you can to prevent it from being
thrown around inside the vehicle
during sudden stops, sharp turns
or in an accident.
y Do not pile heavy loads on the
roof. These loads raise the vehicle’s center of gravity and make it
more prone to tip over.
y Secure lengthy items properly to
prevent them from shooting forward and causing serious injury
during a sudden stop.
y Never exceed the maximum load
limit. If you do, some parts on
your vehicle can break, or it can
change the way your vehicle handles. This could result in loss of
control and cause personal injury.
Also, overloading can shorten the
life of your vehicle.
y Do not place anything on the extended cargo area cover. Such
items could tumble forward in the
event of a sudden stop or a collision. This could cause serious injury.
– CONTINUED –

8-12 Driving tips
GVWR and GAWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and
Gross Axle Weight Rating)

Do not carry spray cans, containers
with flammable or corrosive liquids
or any other dangerous items inside
the vehicle.

NOTE
For better fuel economy, do not carry
unneeded cargo.

Vehicle capacity weight

800221

The load capacity of your vehicle is determined by weight, not by available cargo
space. The maximum load you can carry
in your vehicle is shown on the vehicle
placard attached to the driver’s side door
pillar. It includes the total weight of the
driver and all passengers and their belongings, any optional equipment such as
a trailer hitch, roof rack or bike carrier,
etc., and the tongue load of a trailer.
800220

D00000

The certification plate attached to the driver’s side door jamb shows GVWR (Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating) and GAWR
(Gross Axle Weight Rating).
The GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) must
never exceed the GVWR. GVW is the
combined total of weight of the vehicle, fuel, driver, all passengers, luggage, any
optional equipment and trailer tongue
load. Therefore, the GVW changes depending on the situation. The GVWR
equals Curb Weight (actual weight of your
vehicle – including standard equipment,
fluids, emergency tools and spare tire assembly) plus the vehicle capacity weight.

Driving tips 8-13

In addition, the total weight applied to
each axle (GAW) must never exceed the
GAWR. The front and rear GAWs can be
adjusted by relocating luggage inside the
vehicle.
Even if the total weight of your luggage is
lower than the vehicle capacity weight, either front or rear GAW may exceed the
GAWR, depending on the distribution of
the luggage.
When possible, the load should be evenly
distributed throughout the vehicle.
If you carry heavy loads in the vehicle, you
should confirm that GVW and front and
rear GAWs are within the GVWR and
GAWR by putting your vehicle on a vehicle scale, found at a commercial weighing
station.
Do not use replacement tires with a lower
load range than the originals because
they may lower the GVWR and GAWR
limitations. Replacement tires with a higher load range than the originals do not increase the GVWR and GAWR limitations.

Roof rail and crossbar (if
equipped)

y For cargo carrying purposes, the
roof rail must be used together
with a roof crossbar kit and the
appropriate carrying attachment.
The roof rail must never be used
alone to carry cargo. Otherwise,
damage to the roof or paint or a
dangerous road hazard due to
loss of cargo could result.
y When using the roof crossbar kit,
make sure that the total weight of
the crossbars, carrying attachment and cargo does not exceed
the maximum load limit. Overloading may cause damage to the vehicle and create a safety hazard.
The roof rail is not designed to carry cargo
by itself. Cargo can be carried after securing the roof crossbar kit to the roof rail and
installing the appropriate carrying attachment. When installing the roof crossbar
kit, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
When you carry cargo on the roof using
the roof crossbar kit and a carrying attachment, never exceed the maximum load

limit explained in the following. You should
also be careful that your vehicle does not
exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
(GVWR) and front and rear Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR). See the “Loading
your vehicle” section in this chapter for information on loading cargo into or onto
your vehicle. The maximum load limit of
the cargo, crossbars and carrying attachment must not exceed 150 lbs (68 kg).
Place the heaviest load at the bottom,
nearest the roof, and evenly distribute the
cargo. Always properly secure all cargo.
T Installing carrying attachments on
the crossbars
When installing any carrying attachment
such as a bike carrier, ski carrier, kayak
carrier, cargo basket, etc. on the crossbars, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure that the attachment is
securely fixed to the crossbars. Use only
attachments designed specifically for the
crossbars. A set of crossbars is designed
to carry loads (cargo and attachment) of
not more than 150 lbs (68 kg). Before operating the vehicle, make sure that the
cargo is properly secured on the attachment.

NOTE
Remember that the vehicle’s center of
gravity is altered with the weight of the
– CONTINUED –

8-14 Driving tips
load on the roof, thus affecting the
driving characteristics.
Drive carefully. Avoid rapid starts, hard
cornering and abrupt stops. Crosswind
effects will be increased.

the roof rail.
1

T Removal and installation of the
crossbars
The crossbars can be removed when you
do not use the roof to carry cargo.
V To remove the crossbar

2
0

800222
800223

3. Carefully raise the crossbar from roof
rails.

NOTE
It may be necessary to move the Front
crossbar rearward, near the center of
the roof rail for easier removal. Use
care not to cross-thread the screw in
the insert if it has been removed.

2
800222

1) Crossbar end support
2) T-30 torx® head screw

1. Loosen and remove the T-30 torx®
head screw from the top of each crossbar
end support.
2. Move the end support and inner clamp
to unhook each side of the crossbar from

V To install the crossbar
Front crossbar:
Front crossbar has 150 LBS. Load Label
on right-hand side.

1) Crossbar end support
2) T-30 torx® head screw

1. Before placing the crossbar on the roof
rails, make sure that the T-30 torx® head
screw is fully loosened from each end
support.
2. Spread the inner clamp and the end
support as far apart as possible.

Driving tips 8-15

NOTE
100 LBS. EVENLY DISTRIBUTED

FRONT

3
800224

1) Load label
2) Direction arrow label
3) 6 in (150 mm)

3. With the front direction arrow label on
the top right side of the crossbar pointing
toward the front of the vehicle, carefully
place the crossbar across the top of the
vehicle so that the crossbar end supports
rest on the top of the roof rails approximately 6 inches (150 mm) rearward in the
front radius of the roof rail.
4. Move the end support and inner clamp
to hook under the end of the roof rail on
both sides and loosely assemble the T-30
torx® head screw with the tool provided
into the threaded insert in the inner clamp
on each end of the crossbar.

5. Adjust the alignment of the crossbar on
the roof rails, and if available, use a T-30
torx® bit and torque wrench and tighten
the T-30 torx® head screws to 30 to 35
lbf·in (3.4 to 4.0 N·m, 0.35 to 0.41 kgf·m)
of torque (or tighten securely with the
torx® wrench provided).
Rear crossbar:

NOTE
The rear crossbar should be positioned 6 inches (150 mm) forward of
the rear radius in the roof rail.

Do not carry cargo on the roof when
the crossbars are removed. Luggage on the roof will be thrown forward or backward in sudden stops
or rapid accelerations, resulting in a
dangerous road hazard.

NOTE
2
FRONT

MAXIMUM LOAD

It may be necessary to start the inner
clamp and end support at the center of
the roof rail for easier installation, then
move the crossbar forward. Use care
not to cross-thread the screw in the insert if it has been removed.

Install the rear crossbar in the same manner as the front crossbar.

3
1) T-30 torx® head screw
2) Front arrow label
3) 6 in (150 mm)

800225

Before each use of the roof crossbar,
make sure the four T-30 crossbar
clamp screws have been checked, and
retightened if necessary to 30 to 35
lbf·in (3.4 to 4.0 N·m, 0.35 to 0.41 kgf·m),
as outlined in Step #5 above.

8-16 Driving tips
Trailer hitch (if equipped)

y Never exceed the maximum
weight specified for the trailer
hitch. Exceeding the maximum
weight could cause an accident
resulting in serious personal injuries. Permissible trailer weight
changes depending on the situation. Refer to the next section
“Trailer towing” for possible recommendations and limitations.
y Trailer brakes are required when
the towing load exceeds 1,000 lbs
(453 kg). Be sure your trailer has
safety chains and that each chain
will hold the trailer’s maximum
gross weight. Towing trailers
without safety chains could create
a traffic safety hazard if the trailer
separates from the hitch due to
coupling damage or hitch ball
damage.

y Be sure to check the hitch pin and
safety pin for positive locking
placement before towing a trailer.
If the ball mount comes off the
hitch receiver, the trailer could get
loose and create a traffic safety
hazard.
y Use only the ball mount supplied
with this hitch. Use the hitch only
as a weight carrying hitch. Do not
use with any type of weight distributing hitch.
The trailer hitch is designed to tow a Class
1 rated load.
When you tow a trailer, follow the instructions in the next section “Trailer towing”.

800226

2. Insert the hitch pin into the hole on the
hitch receiver tube so that the pin passes
through the ball mount.

Connecting a trailer
1. Remove the receiver cover from the
hitch receiver tube. Then insert the ball
mount into the hitch receiver tube.

800227

3. Insert the safety pin securely into the
hitch pin.
4. Pull the ball mount to make sure it does

Driving tips 8-17

When you do not tow a trailer

not come off the hitch receiver.
Do not connect safety chains to part
of the vehicle other than the safety
chain hooks.

800228

1) Hitch ball installation point
2) Hooks for safety chains

5. Use only a hitch ball that is appropriate
for the ball mount and your trailer. The
hitch ball must be securely installed on the
ball mount.
6. Connect your trailer to the hitch ball.
7. Connect the trailer and the hitch with
safety chains that will hold the trailer’s
maximum gross weight. The chains
should cross under the trailer tongue to
prevent the tongue from dropping onto the
ground in case it should disconnect from
the hitch ball. Allow sufficient slack in the
chains taking tight-turn situations into account; however, be careful not to let them
drag on the ground.

800210

Hitch harness connector

8. Connect the hitch wire harness’s black
four-pin wire connector to the towing trailer’s wire harness
9. Confirm proper function of the hitch
wire harness by individually activating the
brake, right turn signal, left turn signal,
stop, and parking lights on the trailer.

NOTE
Always disconnect the trailer wire harness before launching or retrieving a
watercraft.

y Remove the ball mount from the hitch
receiver tube and insert the receiver cover
onto the hitch receiver tube.
y Place the dust cap over the fou-pin connector of the hitch wire harness to protect
against possible damage.
y Occasionally lubricate terminals of the
four-pin connector using terminal grease.

8-18 Driving tips
Trailer towing
Your vehicle is designed and intended to
be used primarily as a passenger-carrying
vehicle. Towing a trailer puts additional
loads on your vehicle’s engine, drivetrain,
brakes, tires and suspension and has an
adverse effect on fuel economy.
If you do decide to tow a trailer, your safety and satisfaction depend upon proper
use of correct equipment and cautious operation of your vehicle. Seek the advice of
your SUBARU dealer to assist you in purchasing a hitch and other necessary towing equipment appropriate for your vehicle. In addition, be sure to follow the instructions on correct installation and use
provided by the trailer and other towing
equipment manufacturers.
SUBARU assumes no responsibility for injuries or vehicle damage that result from
trailer towing equipment, or from any errors or omissions in the instructions accompanying such equipment or for your
failure to follow the proper instructions.

Warranties and maintenance
SUBARU warranties do not apply to vehicle damage or malfunction caused by trailer towing. If you use your vehicle to tow a
trailer, more frequent maintenance will be

required due to the additional load. (Refer
to “Maintenance schedule under severe
driving conditions” in the “Warranty and
Maintenance Booklet”.)
Under no circumstances should a trailer
be towed with a new vehicle or a vehicle
with any new powertrain component (engine, transmission, differential, wheel
bearings, etc.) for the first 1,000 miles
(1,600 km) of driving.

y Before towing a trailer, check the
trailer total weight, GVW, GAWs
and tongue load. Make sure the
load and its distribution in your
vehicle and trailer are acceptable.
T Total trailer weight

Maximum load limits

Never exceed the maximum load
limits explained in the following. Exceeding the maximum load limits
could cause personal injury and/or
vehicle damage.

800211

Total trailer weight

y Adequate size trailer brakes are
required when the trailer and its
cargo exceed 1,000 lbs (453 kg)
total weight.

The total trailer weight (trailer weight plus
its cargo load) must never exceed the
maximum weight shown in the following
table.

Driving tips 8-19

Model

MT models

AT models

Conditions

Maximum
total trailer
weight

When towing a
trailer without
brakes.

1,000 lbs
(453 kg)

When towing a
trailer with
brakes.

2,400 lbs
(1,087 kg)

When towing a
trailer without
brakes.

1,000 lbs
(453 kg)

When towing a
trailer with
brakes.

2,400 lbs
(1,087 kg)

When towing a
trailer on a long
uphill grade continuously for over
5 miles (8 km)
with an outside
temperature of
104qF (40qC) or
above.

1,000 lbs
(453 kg)

T Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) and
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
(GVWR)

D00000

Certification plate
800009

Gross Vehicle Weight

GVWR is shown on the certification plate
located on the driver’s side door jamb.

The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) must
never exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating (GVWR).
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is the combined total of the weight of the vehicle,
driver, passengers, luggage, trailer hitch,
trailer tongue load and any other optional
equipment installed on your vehicle.
Therefore, the GVW changes depending
on the situation. Determine the GVW each
time before going on a trip by putting your
vehicle and trailer on a vehicle scale.

– CONTINUED –

8-20 Driving tips
T Gross Axle Weight (GAW) and
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

while driving.
T Tongue load

800230
800229

Gross Axle Weight

The total weight applied to each axle
(GAW) must never exceed the Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR). The front and
rear GAWs can be adjusted by relocating
passengers and luggage inside the vehicle. The front and rear GAWR are also
shown on the certification plate.
To check both GVWR and GAWR and to
confirm that the total weight and weight
distribution are within safe driving limits,
you should have your vehicle and trailer
weighed at a commercial weighing station.
Be sure that all cargo is firmly secured to
prevent a change in weight distribution

800214

Tongue load

Ensure that the trailer tongue load is from
8 to 11 percent of the total trailer weight
and does not exceed the maximum value
of 200 lbs (90 kg).

1) Jack
2) Bathroom scale

The tongue load can be weighed with a
bathroom scale as shown in the illustration above. When weighing the tongue
load, be sure to position the towing coupler at the height at which it would be during actual towing, using a jack as shown.

Driving tips 8-21

F
60%

40%

50% 50%

If the trailer is loaded with more
weight in the back of trailer’s axle
than in the front, the load is taken off
the rear axle of the towing vehicle.
This may cause the rear wheels to
skid, especially during braking or
when vehicle speed is reduced during cornering, resulting in oversteer, spin out and/or jackknifing.

800216

F: Front of vehicle

The tongue load can be adjusted by proper distribution of the load in the trailer.
Never load the trailer with more weight in
the back than in the front; approximately
60 percent of the trailer load should be in
the front and approximately 40 percent in
the rear. Also, distribute the load as evenly as possible on both the left and right
sides.
Be sure that all cargo is firmly secured to
prevent a change in weight distribution
while driving.

Trailer hitches

Never drill the frame or under-body
of your vehicle to install a commercial trailer hitch. If you do, dangerous exhaust gas, water or mud may
enter the passenger compartment
through the drilled hole. Exhaust
gas contains carbon monoxide, a
colorless and odorless gas which is
dangerous, or even lethal, if inhaled.
Also, drilling the frame or underbody of your vehicle could cause
deterioration of strength of your vehicle and cause corrosion around
the drilled hole.

y Do not modify the vehicle exhaust
system, brake system, or other
systems when installing a hitch or
other trailer towing equipment.
y Do not use axle-mounted hitches
as they can cause damage to the
axle housing, wheel bearings,
wheels or tires.
Choose a proper hitch for your vehicle and
trailer.
The use of a genuine SUBARU trailer
hitch is recommended. A genuine SUBARU hitch is available from your SUBARU
dealer.
If use of a non-genuine hitch is unavoidable, be sure the hitch is suited to your vehicle and trailer. Consult with a professional hitch supplier to assist you in
choosing an appropriate hitch for your vehicle. Be sure to follow all of the hitch manufacturer’s instructions for installation and
use.
Never use a hitch that mounts only to the
rear bumper. The bumper is not designed
to handle that type of load.
For all types of hitches, regularly check
that the hitch mounting bolts and nuts are
tight.
– CONTINUED –

8-22 Driving tips
Connecting a trailer

T Trailer safety chains

T Side mirrors

T Trailer brakes

y Adequate size trailer brakes are
required when the trailer and its
cargo exceed 1,000 lbs (453 kg)
total weight.
y Do not directly connect your trailer’s hydraulic brake system to the
hydraulic brake system in your
vehicle. Direct connection would
cause the vehicle’s brake performance to deteriorate and could
lead to an accident.
If your trailer’s total weight (trailer weight
plus its cargo weight) exceeds 1,000 lbs
(453 kg), the trailer is required to be
equipped with its own brake system. Electric brakes or surge brakes are recommended, and must be installed properly.
Check that your trailer’s brakes conform
with Federal, state/province and/or other
applicable regulations. Your SUBARU’s
brake system is not designed to be tapped
into the trailer’s hydraulic brake system.
Please ask your SUBARU dealer and professional trailer supplier for more information about the trailer’s brake system.

Always use safety chains between
your vehicle and the trailer. Towing
a trailer without safety chains could
create a traffic safety hazard if the
trailer separates from the hitch due
to coupling damage or hitch ball
damage.
In case the trailer hitch connector or hitch
ball should break or become disconnected, the trailer could get loose and create a
traffic safety hazard.
For safety, always connect the towing vehicle and trailer with trailer safety chains.
Pass the chains crossing each other under the trailer tongue to prevent the trailer
from dropping onto the ground in case the
trailer tongue should disconnect from the
hitch ball. Allow sufficient slack in the
chains taking tight-turn situations into account; however, be careful not to let them
drag on the ground.
For more information about the safety
chain connection, refer to the instructions
for your hitch and trailer.

800007

After hitching a trailer to your vehicle,
check that the standard side mirrors provide a good rearward field of view without
significant blind spots. If significant blind
spots occur with the vehicle’s standard
side mirrors, use towing mirrors that conform with Federal, state/province and/or
other applicable regulations.
T Trailer lights

Direct splicing or other improper
connection of trailer lights may
damage your vehicle’s electrical
system and cause a malfunction of
your vehicle’s lighting system.

Driving tips 8-23

Connection of trailer lights to your vehicle’s electrical system requires modifications to the vehicle’s lighting circuit to increase its capacity and accommodate wiring changes. To ensure the trailer lights
are connected properly, please consult
your SUBARU dealer. Check for proper
operation of the turn signals, the brake
lights and parking lights each time you
hitch up.
T Tires

Never tow a trailer when the temporary spare tire is used. The temporary spare tire is not designed to
sustain the towing load. Use of the
temporary spare tire when towing
can result in failure of the spare tire
and/or less stability of the vehicle.
Make sure that all the tires on your vehicle
are properly inflated to the pressure specified on the tire placard located on the driver’s side center pillar.
Trailer tire condition, size, load rating and
proper inflation pressure should be in accordance with the trailer manufacturer’s
specifications.

Trailer towing tips

y Never exceed 45 mph (72 km/h)
when towing a trailer in hilly country on hot days.
y When towing a trailer, steering,
stability, stopping distance and
braking performance will be different from normal operation. For
safety’s sake, you should employ
extra caution when towing a trailer and you should never speed.
You should also keep the following tips in mind:
T Before starting out on a trip
y Check that the vehicle and vehicle-tohitch mounting are in good condition. If
any problems are apparent, do not tow the
trailer.
y Check that the vehicle sits horizontally
with the trailer attached. If the vehicle is
tipped sharply up at the front and down at
the rear, check the total trailer weight,
GVW, GAWs and tongue load again, then
confirm that the load and its distribution
are acceptable.
y Check that the tire pressures are correct.
y Check that the vehicle and trailer are

connected properly. Confirm that
– the trailer tongue is connected properly to the hitch ball.
– the trailer lights connector is connected properly and trailer’s brake lights illuminate when the vehicle’s brake pedal
is pressed, and that the trailer’s turn signal lights flash when the vehicle’s turn
signal lever is operated.
– the safety chains are connected properly.
– all cargo in the trailer is secured safety in position.
– the side mirrors provide a good rearward field of view without a significant
blind spot.
y Sufficient time should be taken to learn
the “feel” of the vehicle/trailer combination
before starting out on a trip. In an area free
of traffic, practice turning, stopping and
backing up.
T Driving with a trailer
y You should allow for considerably more
stopping distance when towing a trailer.
Avoid sudden braking because it may result in skidding or jackknifing and loss of
control.
y Avoid abrupt starts and sudden accelerations. If your vehicle has a manual transmission, always start out in first gear and
release the clutch at moderate engine rev– CONTINUED –

8-24 Driving tips
olution.
y Avoid uneven steering, sharp turns and
rapid lane changes.
y Slow down before turning. Make a longer than normal turning radius because the
trailer wheels will be closer than the vehicle wheels to the inside of the turn. In a
tight turn, the trailer could hit your vehicle.
y Crosswinds will adversely affect the
handling of your vehicle and trailer, causing sway. Crosswinds can be due to
weather conditions or the passing of large
trucks or buses. If swaying occurs, firmly
grip the steering wheel and slow down immediately but gradually.
y When passing other vehicles, considerable distance is required because of the
added weight and length caused by attaching the trailer to your vehicle.

800231

1) Left turn
2) Right turn

y Backing up with a trailer is difficult and
takes practice. When backing up with a
trailer, never accelerate or steer rapidly.
When turning back, grip the bottom of the
steering wheel with one hand and turn it to
the left for a left turn, and turn it to the right
for a right turn.
y If the ABS warning light illuminates
while the vehicle is in motion, stop towing
the trailer and have repairs performed immediately by the nearest SUBARU dealer.
T Driving on grades
y Before going down a steep hill, slow
down and shift into lower gear (if necessary, use 1st gear) in order to utilize the
engine braking effect and prevent over-

heating of your vehicle’s brakes. Do not
make sudden downshifts.
y When driving uphill in hot weather, the
air conditioner may turn off automatically
to protect the engine from overheating.
y When driving uphill in hot weather, pay
attention to the water temperature gauge
pointer (for all vehicles) and AT OIL TEMP
warning light (for AT vehicles) since the
engine and transmission are relatively
prone to overheating under these conditions. If the water temperature gauge
pointer approaches the OVERHEAT zone
or the AT OIL TEMP warning light illuminates, immediately switch off the air conditioner and stop the vehicle at the nearest
safe place. Refer to the “Engine overheating” section in chapter 9, and “Warning
and indicator lights” section in chapter 3.
y If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, avoid using the accelerator pedal
to stay stationary on an uphill slope instead of using the parking brake or foot
brake. That may cause the transmission
fluid to overheat.
y If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, place the selector lever as follows:
Uphill slopes: “D” position
Downhill slopes: A low-speed gear position to use engine braking

Driving tips 8-25

T Parking on a grade
Always block the wheels under both vehicle and trailer when parking. Apply the
parking brake firmly. You should not park
on a hill or slope. But if parking on a hill or
slope cannot be avoided, you should take
the following steps:
1. Apply the brakes and hold the pedal
down.
2. Have someone place wheel blocks under both the vehicle and trailer wheels.
3. When the wheel blocks are in place, release the regular brakes slowly until the
blocks absorb the load.
4. Apply the regular brakes and then apply the parking brake; slowly release the
regular brakes.
5. Shift into 1st or reverse gear (manual
transmission) or “P” (automatic transmission) and shut off the engine.

In case of emergency
If you park your vehicle in case of
an emergency ..................................................
Temporary spare tire (if equipped) ...................
Flat tires ..............................................................

9-2
9-2
9-3

Changing a flat tire .................................................

9-3

Jump starting ......................................................

9-7

How to jump start ...................................................

9-8

Engine overheating ............................................

9-10

If steam is coming from the engine
compartment .........................................................
If no steam is coming from the engine
compartment .........................................................

9-10
9-10

Towing .................................................................

9-10

Towing and tie-down hooks ..................................
Using a flat-bed truck .............................................
Towing with all wheels on the ground ..................

9-11
9-12
9-12

Rear gate – if the rear gate cannot be
unlocked ..........................................................
Moonroof – if the moonroof cannot be
closed ...............................................................
Maintenance tools ..............................................

9-13
9-14

Jack and jack handle ..............................................

9-14

9-13

9-2 In case of emergency
If you park your vehicle in
case of an emergency

In case of emergency

the turn signals do not work.

Temporary spare tire (if
equipped)

The hazard warning flasher should be
used in day or night to warn other drivers
when you have to park your vehicle under
emergency conditions.
Avoid stopping on the road. It is best to
safely pull off the road if a problem occurs.
The hazard warning flasher can be activated regardless of the ignition switch position.
Turn on the hazard warning by pushing
the hazard warning flasher switch. Turn it
off by pushing the switch again.

NOTE
When the hazard warning flasher is on,

Never use any temporary spare tire
other than the original. Using other
sizes may result in severe mechanical damage to the drive train of your
vehicle.
The temporary spare tire is smaller and
lighter than a conventional tire and is designed for emergency use only. Remove
the temporary spare tire and re-install the
conventional tire as soon as possible because the spare tire is designed only for
temporary use.
Check the inflation pressure of the temporary spare tire periodically to keep the tire

In case of emergency 9-3

Flat tires

ready for use. The correct pressure is 60
psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kg/cm2).
When using the temporary spare tire, note
the following.
y Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).
y Do not put a tire chain on the temporary
spare tire. Because of the smaller tire
size, a tire chain will not fit properly.
y Do not use two or more temporary
spare tires at the same time.
y Do not drive over obstacles. This tire
has a smaller diameter, so road clearance
is reduced.

1
2

900231

1) Tread wear indicator bar
2) Indicator location mark

y When the wear indicator appears on the
tread, replace the tire.

If you have a flat tire while driving, never
brake suddenly; keep driving straight
ahead while gradually reducing speed.
Then slowly pull off the road to a safe
place.

Changing a flat tire
600435

1) Spare fuse
2) FWD connector

NOTE
(All AWD AT models) Before driving
your vehicle with the temporary spare
tire, put a spare fuse inside the FWD
connector in the main fuse box located
in the engine compartment and confirm that the Front-wheel drive warning
light “AWD” in the combination meter
comes on. The all wheel drive capability of the vehicle has now deactivated.
After re-installing the conventional tire,
remove the spare fuse from the FWD
connector in order to reactivate all
wheel drive.

y Do not jack up the vehicle on an
incline or a loose road surface.
The jack can come out of the jacking point or sink into the ground
and this can result in a severe accident.
y Use only the jack provided with
your vehicle. The jack supplied
with the vehicle is designed only
for changing a tire. Never get under the vehicle while supporting
the vehicle with this jack.

– CONTINUED –

9-4 In case of emergency
y Always turn off the engine before
raising the flat tire off the ground
using the jack. Never swing or
push the vehicle supported with
the jack. The jack can come out of
the jacking point due to a jolt and
this can result in a severe accident.
1. Park on a hard, level surface, whenever possible, then stop the engine.
2. Set the parking brake securely and
shift a manual transmission vehicle in reverse or an automatic transmission vehicle in the “P” (Park) position.
3. Turn on the hazard warning flasher and
have everyone get out of the vehicle.

1
3

2
900237

1) Jack
2) Jack handle
3) Spare tire

900293

2. Remove the storage compartment
bucket (Canada spec. non-turbo models).

5. Take out the spare tire, jack, and wheel
nut wrench.
The spare tire is stored under the floor of
the cargo area.
To remove the spare tire:
1. Open the lid and remove it.

900232
900000

4. Put wheel blocks at the front and rear
of the tire diagonally opposite the flat tire.

3. Remove the storage compartment tray
(Except Canada spec. non-turbo models).
4. Turn the attaching bolt counterclockwise, then take spare tire out.

In case of emergency 9-5

5. The jack is stored under the left side of
the cargo floor.

900004

900003

To take out the jack:
Pull the tab to open the lid, turn the jack
screw counterclockwise to loosen it, then
remove the jack.

900006

To take out the jack handle:
Open the rear-left and center lids in the
cargo area by pulling their tabs.

900007

900005

6. Loosen the wheel nuts using the wheel
nut wrench but do not remove the nuts.

7. Place the jack under the side sill at the
front or rear jack-up point closest to the flat
tire.
Turn the jackscrew by hand until the jack
head engages firmly into the jack-up point.
– CONTINUED –

9-6 In case of emergency

1
3

900008

8. Insert the jack handle into the jackscrew, and turn the handle until the tire
clears the ground. Do not raise the vehicle
higher than necessary.
9. Remove the wheel nuts and the flat
tire.

900010

10.Before putting the spare tire on, clean
the mounting surface of the wheel and
hub with a cloth.
11.Put on the spare tire. Replace the
wheel nuts. Tighten them by hand.

Do not use oil or grease on the
wheel studs or nuts when the spare
tire is installed. This could cause the
nuts to become loose and lead to an
accident.
12.Turn the jack handle counterclockwise
to lower the vehicle.

900009

4
2
5

900011

13.Use the wheel nut wrench to securely
tighten the wheel nuts to the specified
torque, following the tightening order in
the illustration.
The torque for tightening the nuts is 58 to
72 lbf·ft (80 to 100 N·m, 8 to 10 kgf·m).
This torque is equivalent to applying about
88 to 110 lbs (40 to 50 kg) at the top of the
wheel nut wrench. Never use your foot on
the wheel nut wrench or a pipe extension
on the wrench because you may exceed
the specified torque. Have the wheel nut
torque checked at the nearest automotive
service facility.

In case of emergency 9-7

Jump starting

900012

14.Store the flat tire in the spare tire compartment.
Put the spacer and tighten the attaching
bolt firmly.
Also store the jack and wheel nut wrench
in their storage locations.

Never place a tire or tire changing
tools in the passenger compartment
after changing wheels. In a sudden
stop or collisions, loose equipment
could strike occupants and cause
injury. Store the tire and all tools in
the proper place.

y Battery fluid is SULFURIC ACID.
Do not let it come in contact with
the eyes, skin, clothing or the vehicle.
If battery fluid gets on you, thoroughly flush the exposed area
with water immediately. Get medical help if the fluid has entered
your eyes.
If battery fluid is accidentally
swallowed, immediately drink a
large amount of milk or water, and
obtain immediate medical help.
Keep everyone including children
away from the battery.
y The gas generated by a battery explodes if a flame or spark is
brought near it. Do not smoke or
light a match while jump starting.
y Never attempt jump starting if the
discharged battery is frozen. It
could cause the battery to burst or
explode.

y Whenever working on or around a
battery, always wear suitable eye
protectors, and remove metal objects such as rings, bands or other metal jewelry.
y Be sure the jumper cables and
clamps on them do not have loose
or missing insulation.
Do not jump start unless cables in
suitable condition are available.
y A running engine can be dangerous. Keep your fingers, hands,
clothing, hair and tools away from
the cooling fan, belts and any other moving engine parts. Removing rings, watches and ties is advisable.
y Jump starting is dangerous if it is
done incorrectly. If you are unsure
about the proper procedure for
jump starting, consult a competent mechanic.
When your vehicle does not start due to a
run down (discharged) battery, the vehicle
may be jump started by connecting your
battery to another battery (called the
booster battery) with jumper cables.

– CONTINUED –

9-8 In case of emergency
How to jump start
1. Make sure the booster battery is 12
volts and the negative terminal is grounded.
2. If the booster battery is in another vehicle, do not let the two vehicles touch.
3. Turn off all unnecessary lights and accessories.
4. Connect the jumper cables exactly in
the sequence illustrated.

In case of emergency 9-9

1) Connect one jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal on the discharged battery.
2) Connect the other end of the jumper
cable to the positive (+) terminal of the
booster battery.
3) Connect one end of the other cable to
the negative (–) terminal of the booster
battery.
4) Connect the other end of the cable to
the engine lifting bracket.

Make sure that the cables are not near
any moving parts and that the cable
clamps are not in contact with any other
metal.
5. Start the engine of the vehicle with the
booster battery and run it at moderate
speed. Then start the engine of the vehicle that has the discharged battery.
6. When finished, carefully disconnect
the cables in exactly the reverse order.

2
1) Booster battery
2) Engine lifting bracket

900239

9-10 In case of emergency
Engine overheating

Never attempt to remove the radiator cap until the engine has been
shut off and has fully cooled down.
When the engine is hot, the coolant
is under pressure. Removing the
cap while the engine is still hot
could release a spray of boiling hot
coolant, which could burn you very
seriously.
If the engine overheats, safely pull off the
road and stop the vehicle in a safe place.

If steam is coming from the
engine compartment
Turn off the engine and get everyone
away from the vehicle until it cools down.

If no steam is coming from
the engine compartment
1. Keep the engine running at idling
speed.
2. Open the hood to ventilate the engine
compartment.
Confirm that the cooling fan is turning. If
the fan is not turning, immediately turn off

the engine and contact your authorized
dealer for repair.
3. After the engine coolant temperature
has dropped, turn off the engine.
If the temperature gauge stays at the
overheated zone, turn off the engine.
4. After the engine has fully cooled down,
check the coolant level in the reserve
tank.
If the coolant level is below the “LOW”
mark, add coolant up to the “FULL” mark.
5. If there is no coolant in the reserve
tank, add coolant to the reserve tank.
Then remove the radiator cap and fill the
radiator with coolant.

Towing

Never tow AWD vehicles (both AT
and MT) with the front wheels raised
off the ground while the rear wheels
are on the ground, or with the rear
wheels raised off the ground while
the front wheels are on the ground.
This will cause the vehicle to spin
away due to the operation or deterioration of the center differential.

If you remove the radiator cap from a hot
radiator, first wrap a thick cloth around the
radiator cap, then turn the cap counterclockwise slowly without pressing down
until it stops. Release the pressure from
the radiator. After the pressure has been
fully released, remove the cap by pressing
down and turning it.

900014

If towing is necessary, it is best done by
your SUBARU dealer or a commercial
towing service. Observe the following procedures for safety.

In case of emergency 9-11

Towing and tie-down hooks

Front towing hook:

Tie-down hooks:

The towing hooks should be used only in
an emergency (e.g., to free a stuck vehicle
from mud, sand or snow).
1

y Use only the specified towing
hooks and tie-down hooks. Never
use suspension parts or other
parts of the body for towing or tiedown purposes.
y Never use the tie-down hook closest to the muffler under the vehicle for towing purposes.

600441

Rear towing hook:

y To prevent deformation to the
bumper and the towing hook, do
not apply excessive lateral load to
the towing hooks.
2

1
900238
900234

1) Tie-down hooks
2) Towing and tie-down hooks

– CONTINUED –

9-12 In case of emergency
Using a flat-bed truck

Towing with all wheels on the
ground

900018

This is the best way to transport your vehicle. Use the following procedures to ensure safe transportation.
1. Shift the selector lever into the “P” position for automatic transmission vehicles
or “1st” for manual transmission vehicles.
2. Pull up the parking brake lever firmly.
3. Secure the vehicle onto the carrier
properly with safety chains. Each safety
chain should be equally tightened and
care must be taken not to pull the chains
so tightly that the suspension bottoms out.

900019

y Never turn the ignition switch to
the “LOCK” position while the vehicle is being towed because the
steering wheel and the direction
of the wheels will be locked.
y Remember that the brake booster
and power steering do not function when the engine is not running. Because the engine is
turned off, it will take greater effort to operate the brake pedal and
steering wheel.

y If transmission failure occurs,
transport your vehicle on a flatbed truck.
y Do not run the engine while being
towed using this method. Transmission damage could result if
the vehicle is towed with the engine running.
y For vehicles with automatic transmission, the traveling speed must
be limited to less than 20 mph (30
km/h) and the traveling distance
to less than 31 miles (50 km). For
greater speeds and distances,
transport your vehicle on a flatbed truck.
1. Check the transmission and differential
oil levels and add oil to bring it to the upper
level if necessary.
2. Release the parking brake and put the
transmission in neutral.
3. The ignition switch should be in the
“ACC” position while the vehicle is being
towed.
4. Take up slack in the towline slowly to
prevent damage to the vehicle.

In case of emergency 9-13

Rear gate – if the rear gate
cannot be unlocked

Moonroof – if the moonroof
cannot be closed

In the event that you cannot unlock the
rear gate by operating the power door
locking switches or the remote keyless entry system, you can unlock it from inside
the cargo area.

If the moonroof cannot be closed with the
moonroof switch, you can close the moonroof manually.

900021

2. Locate the rear gate lock release lever
behind the rear gate trim panel.
3. Unlock the rear gate by pressing the lever inside the trim upward.
4. Open the rear gate from outside by
raising the rear gate handle.
900020

1. Remove the access cover at the bottom-center of the rear gate trim.

900235

1. Remove the plug on the roof trim located to the rear of the moonroof by inserting
the end of the flat-head screwdriver between the roof and plug and prying it off.

– CONTINUED –

9-14 In case of emergency
Jack and jack handle

Maintenance tools

900236

2. Insert a hex-headed wrench in the end
of the motor shaft.
To close the moonroof, turn the wrench
counterclockwise.
Have your vehicle checked and repaired
by an authorized SUBARU dealer.

900003
900265

Your vehicle is equipped with the following
maintenance tools:

The jack is stored under the left side of the
cargo floor.

Screwdriver
Wheel nut wrench
Hex-head wrench (for vehicle with
moonroof)

900004

The jack handle is stowed under the rearleft and center lids in the cargo area.

In case of emergency 9-15

For how to use the jack, refer to the “Flat
tires” section in this chapter.

Appearance care
Exterior care ....................................................... 10-2
Washing ...................................................................
Waxing and polishing .............................................
Cleaning aluminum wheels ....................................

10-2
10-3
10-3

Corrosion protection .......................................... 10-3
Most common causes of corrosion ......................
To help prevent corrosion .....................................

10-3
10-4

Cleaning the interior .......................................... 10-4
Seat fabric ...............................................................
Leather seat materials ............................................
Synthetic leather upholstery .................................
Ashtray (Canada only, if equipped) ......................
Climate control panel, audio panel, instrument
panel, console panel, switches, combination
meter, and other plastic surfaces .......................

10-4
10-5
10-5
10-5
10-5

10-2 Appearance care
Exterior care

Appearance care

Washing

y When washing the vehicle, the
brakes may get wet. As a result,
the brake stopping distance will
be longer. To dry the brakes, drive
the vehicle at a safe speed while
lightly pressing the brake pedal to
heat up the brakes.
y Do not wash the engine compartment and area adjacent to it. If water enters the engine air intake,
electrical parts or the power steering fluid reservoir, it will cause engine trouble or faulty power steering respectively.
y Since your vehicle is equipped
with a rear wiper, automatic carwash brushes could become tangled around it, damaging the wiper arm and other components.
Ask the automatic car-wash operator not to let the brushes touch
the wiper arm or to fix the wiper
arm on the rear window glass with
adhesive tape before operating
the machine.

NOTE
When having your vehicle washed in
an automatic car wash, make sure beforehand that the car wash is of suitable type.
The best way to preserve your vehicle’s
beauty is frequent washing. Wash the vehicle at least once a month to avoid contamination by road grime.
Wash dirt off with a wet sponge and plenty
of lukewarm or cold water. Do not wash
the vehicle with hot water and in direct
sunlight.
Salt, chemicals, insects, tar, soot, tree sap
and bird droppings should be washed off
by using a light detergent, as required. If
you use a light detergent, make certain
that it is a neutral detergent. Do not use
strong soap or chemical detergents. All
cleaning agents should be promptly
flushed from the surface and not allowed
to dry there. Rinse the vehicle thoroughly
with plenty of lukewarm water. Wipe the
remaining water off with a chamois or soft
cloth.
T Washing the underbody
Chemicals, salts and gravel used for deicing road surfaces are extremely corrosive,
accelerating the corrosion of underbody

components, such as the exhaust system,
fuel and brake lines, brake cables, floor
pan and fenders, and suspension.
Thoroughly flush the underbody and inside of the fenders with lukewarm or cold
water at frequent intervals to reduce the
harmful effects of such agents.
Mud and sand adhering to the underbody
components may accelerate their corrosion.
After driving off-road or muddy or sandy
roads, wash the mud and sand off the underbody.
Carefully flush the suspension and axle
parts, as they are particularly prone to
mud and sand buildup. Do not use a
sharp-edged tool to remove caked mud.

NOTE
Be careful not to damage brake hoses,
sensor harnesses, and other parts
when washing suspension components.
T Using a warm water washer
y Keep a good distance of 12 in (30 cm)
or more between the washer nozzle and
the vehicle.
y Do not wash the same area continuously.
y If a stain will not come out easily, wash
by hand. Some warm water washers are

Appearance care 10-3

of the high temperature, high pressure
type, and they can damage or deform the
resin parts such as mouldings, or cause
water to leak into the vehicle.

Waxing and polishing
Always wash and dry the vehicle before
waxing and polishing.
Use a good quality polish and wax and apply them according to the manufacturer’s
instructions. Wax or polish when the painted surface is cool.
Be sure to polish and wax the chrome trim,
as well as the painted surfaces. Loss of
wax on a painted surface leads to loss of
the original luster and also quickens the
deterioration of the surface. It is recommended that a coat of wax be applied at
least once a month, or whenever the surface no longer repels water.
If the appearance of the paint has diminished to the point where the luster or tone
cannot be restored, lightly polish the surface with a fine-grained compound. Never
polish just the affected area, but include
the surrounding area as well. Always polish in only one direction. A No. 2000 grain
compound is recommended. Never use a
coarse-grained
compound.
Coarser
grained compounds have a smaller grain-

size number and could damage the paint.
After polishing with a compound, coat with
wax to restore the original luster. Frequent
polishing with a compound or an incorrect
polishing technique will result in removing
the paint layer and exposing the undercoat. When in doubt, it is always best to
contact your SUBARU dealer or an auto
paint specialist.

Corrosion protection

NOTE

Most common causes of corrosion

Be careful not to block the windshield
washer nozzles with wax when waxing
the vehicle.

Cleaning aluminum wheels
y Promptly wipe the aluminum wheels
clean of any kind of grime or agent. If dirt
is left on too long, it may be difficult to
clean off.
y Do not use soap containing grit to clean
the wheels. Be sure to use a neutral cleaning agent, and later rinse thoroughly with
water. Do not clean the wheels with a stiff
brush or expose them to a high-speed
washing device.
y Clean the vehicle (including the aluminum wheels) with water as soon as possible when it has been splashed with sea
water, exposed to sea breezes, or driven
on roads treated with salt or other agents.

Your SUBARU has been designed and
built to resist corrosion. Special materials
and protective finishes have been used on
most parts of the vehicle to help maintain
fine appearance, strength, and reliable
operation.

The most common causes of corrosion
are:
1. The accumulation of moisture retaining
dirt and debris in body panel sections,
cavities, and other areas.
2. Damage to paint and other protective
coatings caused by gravel and stone
chips or minor accidents.
Corrosion is accelerated on the vehicle
when:
1. It is exposed to road salt or dust control
chemicals, or used in coastal areas where
there is more salt in the air, or in areas
where there is considerable industrial pollution.
2. It is driven in areas of high humidity, especially when temperatures range just
above freezing.
3. Dampness in certain parts of the vehicle remains for a long time, even though
– CONTINUED –

10-4 Appearance care
other parts of the vehicle may be dry.
4. High temperatures will cause corrosion
to parts of the vehicle which cannot dry
quickly due to lack of proper ventilation.

To help prevent corrosion
Wash the vehicle regularly to prevent corrosion of the body and suspension components. Also, wash the vehicle promptly
after driving on any of the following surfaces:
y roads that have been salted to prevent
them from freezing in winter
y mud, sand, or gravel
y coastal roads
After the winter has ended, it is recommended that the underbody be given a
very thorough washing.
Before the beginning of winter, check the
condition of underbody components, such
as the exhaust system, fuel and brake
lines, brake cables, suspension, steering
system, floor pan, and fenders. If any of
them are found to be rusted, they should
be given an appropriate rust prevention
treatment or should be replaced. Contact
your SUBARU dealer to perform this kind
of maintenance and treatment if you need
assistance.
Repair chips and scratches in the paint as

soon as you find them.
Check the interior of the vehicle for water
and dirt accumulation under the floor mats
because that could cause corrosion. Occasionally check under the mats to make
sure the area is dry.
Keep your garage dry. Do not park your
vehicle in a damp, poorly ventilated garage. In such a garage, corrosion can be
caused by dampness. If you wash the vehicle in the garage or put the vehicle into
the garage when wet or covered with
snow, that can cause dampness.
If your vehicle is operated in cold weather
and/or in areas where road salts and other
corrosive materials are used, the door
hinges and locks, trunk lid lock, and hood
latch should be inspected and lubricated
periodically.

Cleaning the interior
Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the climate
control panel, audio equipment, instrument panel, center console, combination
meter panel, and switches. (Do not use organic solvents.)

Seat fabric
Remove loose dirt, dust or debris with a
vacuum cleaner. If the dirt is caked on the
fabric or hard to remove with a vacuum
cleaner, use a soft blush then vacuum it.
Wipe the fabric surface with a tightly
wrung cloth and dry the seat fabric thoroughly. If the fabric is still dirty, wipe using
a solution of mild soap and lukewarm water then dry thoroughly.
If the stain does not come out, try a commercially-available fabric cleaner. Use the
cleaner on a hidden place and make sure
it does not affect the fabric adversely. Use
the cleaner according to its instructions.

NOTE
When cleaning the seat, do not use
benzine, paint thinner, or any similar
materials.

Appearance care 10-5

Leather seat materials
The leather used by SUBARU is a high
quality natural product which will retain its
distinctive appearance and feel for many
years with proper care.
Allowing dust or road dirt to build up on the
surface can cause the material to become
brittle and to wear prematurely. Regular
cleaning with a soft, moist, natural fiber
cloth should be performed monthly, taking
care not to soak the leather or allow water
to penetrate the stitched seams.
A mild detergent suitable for cleaning
woolen fabrics may be used to remove difficult dirt spots, rubbing with a soft, dry
cloth afterwards to restore the luster. If
your SUBARU is to be parked for a long
time in bright sunlight, it is recommended
that the seats and headrests be covered,
or the windows shaded, to prevent fading
or shrinkage.
Minor surface blemishes or bald patches
may be treated with a commercial leather
spray lacquer. You will discover that each
leather seat section will develop soft folds
or wrinkles, which is characteristic of genuine leather.

Synthetic leather upholstery
The synthetic leather material used on the
SUBARU may be cleaned using mild soap

or detergent and water, after first vacuuming or brushing away loose dirt. Allow the
soap to soak in for a few minutes and wipe
off with a clean, damp cloth. Commercial
foam-type cleaners suitable for synthetic
leather materials may be used when necessary.

NOTE
Strong cleaning agents such as solvents, paint thinners, window cleaner
or gasoline must never be used on
leather or synthetic interior materials.

Ashtray (Canada only, if
equipped)

ner lid. Clean them off using a toothbrush
or other narrow-ended implement.

Climate control panel, audio
panel, instrument panel, console panel, switches, combination meter, and other plastic surfaces
Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the climate
control panel, audio equipment, instrument panel, center console, combination
meter panel, and switches. (Do not use organic solvents.)

NOTE
Do not use organic solvents such as
paint thinners or gasoline, or strong
cleaning agents that contain those solvents.

600097

Particles of ash and tobacco will accumulate around the hinges of the ashtray’s in-

Maintenance and service
Maintenance schedule .......................................
Maintenance precautions ..................................
Before checking or servicing in the engine
compartment ........................................................
When you do checking or servicing in the
engine compartment while the engine is
running ..................................................................

Recommended grade and viscosity ..................... 11-19

11-3
11-3

Automatic transmission fluid ............................ 11-20

11-4

Checking the fluid level .......................................... 11-20
Recommended fluid ............................................... 11-21

Front differential gear oil (AT vehicles) ............ 11-21
11-4

Checking the oil level ............................................. 11-21
Recommended grade and viscosity ..................... 11-22

Engine hood .......................................................
Engine compartment overview .........................

11-4
11-6

Rear differential gear oil .................................... 11-22

Non-turbo models ...................................................
Turbo models ..........................................................

11-6
11-7

Engine oil ............................................................

11-8

Checking the oil level ............................................. 11-8
Changing the oil and oil filter ................................ 11-8
Recommended grade and viscosity ..................... 11-10
Recommended grade and viscosity under
severe driving conditions .................................... 11-11
Synthetic oil ............................................................ 11-11

Cooling system .................................................. 11-11
Cooling fan, hose and connections ...................... 11-12
Engine coolant ........................................................ 11-12

Air cleaner element ............................................ 11-15
Replacing the air cleaner element ......................... 11-15

Spark plugs ......................................................... 11-17
Recommended spark plugs ................................... 11-17

Drive belts ........................................................... 11-18
Manual transmission oil .................................... 11-18
Checking the oil level ............................................. 11-18

Checking the gear oil level .................................... 11-22
Recommended grade and viscosity ..................... 11-23

Power steering fluid ........................................... 11-23
Checking the fluid level .......................................... 11-23
Recommended fluid ............................................... 11-24

Brake fluid ........................................................... 11-25
Checking the fluid level .......................................... 11-25
Recommended brake fluid ..................................... 11-25

Clutch fluid (MT vehicles) .................................. 11-26
Checking the fluid level .......................................... 11-26
Recommended clutch fluid .................................... 11-26

Brake booster ..................................................... 11-27
Brake pedal ......................................................... 11-27
Checking the brake pedal free play ...................... 11-27
Checking the brake pedal reserve distance ......... 11-27

Clutch pedal (MT vehicles) ................................ 11-28
Checking the clutch function ................................ 11-28
Checking the clutch pedal free play ..................... 11-28

Hill holder (MT vehicles – if equipped) ............. 11-28

Maintenance and service

Replacement of brake pad and lining ............... 11-29
Breaking-in of new brake pads and linings ......... 11-29

Parking brake stroke .......................................... 11-30
Tires and wheels ................................................ 11-30
Types of tires ..........................................................
Tire inspection ........................................................
Tire pressures and wear ........................................
Wheel balance ........................................................
Wear indicators .......................................................
Tire rotation direction mark ...................................
Tire rotation .............................................................
Tire replacement .....................................................
Wheel replacement .................................................

11-30
11-30
11-31
11-32
11-33
11-33
11-33
11-34
11-35

Aluminum wheels (if equipped) ........................ 11-35
Windshield washer fluid .................................... 11-35
Replacement of wiper blades ............................ 11-37
Windshield wiper blades ........................................ 11-37
Rear window wiper blade ....................................... 11-38

Battery .................................................................
Fuses ...................................................................
Main fuse .............................................................
Installation of accessories ................................
Replacing bulbs ..................................................

11-40
11-41
11-42
11-43
11-44

Headlights (Canada-spec. 2.5XT) ..........................
Headlights (Except Canada-spec. 2.5XT) .............
Rear combination lights .........................................
License plate light ..................................................
Dome light and map light .......................................
High mount stop light ............................................

11-45
11-46
11-47
11-48
11-48
11-49

Maintenance and service 11-3

Maintenance schedule

Maintenance and service

The scheduled maintenance items required to be serviced at regular intervals
are shown in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”.
For details of your maintenance schedule,
read the separate “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”.

Maintenance precautions
When maintenance and service are required, it is recommended that all work be
done by an authorized SUBARU dealer.
If you perform maintenance and service
by yourself, you should familiarize yourself with the information provided in this
section on general maintenance and service for your SUBARU.
Incorrect or incomplete service could
cause improper or unsafe vehicle operation. Any problems caused by improper
maintenance and service performed by
you are not eligible for warranty coverage.

y Testing of an All-Wheel Drive vehicle must NEVER be performed
on a single two-wheel dynamometer or similar apparatus. Attempting to do so will result in transmission damage and in uncontrolled
vehicle movement and may cause
an accident or injuries to persons
nearby.
y Always select a safe area when
performing maintenance on your
vehicle.

y Always be very careful to avoid injury when working on the vehicle.
Remember that some of the materials in the vehicle may be hazardous if improperly used or handled,
for example, battery acid.
y Your vehicle should only be serviced by persons fully competent
to do so. Serious personal injury
may result to persons not experienced in servicing vehicles.
y Always use the proper tools and
make certain that they are well
maintained.
y Never get under the vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use
a safety stands to support the vehicle.
y Never keep the engine running in
a poorly ventilated area, such as a
garage or other closed areas.
y Do not smoke or allow open
flames around the fuel or battery.
This will cause a fire.
y Because the fuel system is under
pressure, replacement of the fuel
filter should be performed only by
your SUBARU dealer.

– CONTINUED –

11-4 Maintenance and service
y Wear adequate eye protection to
guard against getting oil or fluids
in your eyes. If something does
get in your eyes, thoroughly wash
them out with clean water.
y Do not tamper with the wiring of
the SRS airbag system or seatbelt
pretensioner system, or attempt
to take its connectors apart, as
that may activate the system or it
can render it inoperative. The wiring and connectors of these systems are yellow for easy identification. NEVER use a circuit tester
for these wiring.
If your SRS airbag or seatbelt pretensioner needs service, consult
your nearest SUBARU dealer.

Before checking or servicing
in the engine compartment

y Always stop the engine and set
the parking brake firmly to prevent the vehicle from moving.

y Always let the engine cool down.
Engine parts become very hot
when the engine is running and
remain hot for some time after the
engine is stopped.
y Do not spill engine oil, engine
coolant, brake fluid or any other
fluid on hot engine components.
This may cause a fire.
y Always remove the key from the
ignition switch. When the ignition
switch is in the “ON” position, the
cooling fan may operate suddenly
even when the engine is stopped.

When you do checking or servicing in the engine compartment while the engine is running

A running engine can be dangerous.
Keep your fingers, hands, clothing,
hair and tools away from the cooling
fan, belts and any other moving engine parts. Removing rings, watches and ties is advisable.

Engine hood
0

B00002

To open the hood:
1. If the wiper blades are lifted off the
windshield, return them to their original
positions.
2. Pull the hood release knob under the
instrument panel.

Maintenance and service 11-5

To close the hood:
1. Lift the hood slightly and remove the
hood prop from the slot in the hood and return the prop to its retainer.
2. Lower the hood until it approaches approximately 12 in (30 cm) from the closed
position and let it drop.
After closing the hood, be sure the hood is
securely locked.
200747

3. Release the secondary hood release
located under the front grille by moving
the lever toward the left.

If this does not close the hood, release it
from a slightly higher position. Do not
push the hood forcibly to close it. It could
deform the metal.

Always check that the hood is properly locked before you start driving.
If it is not, it might fly open while the
vehicle is moving and block your
view, which may cause an accident
and serious bodily injury.

200748

Lift up the hood, release the hood prop
from its retainer and put the end of the
hood prop into the slot in the hood.

11-6 Maintenance and service
Engine compartment overview

1)
2)

Non-turbo models
1

3)
4)

5)
6)
7)
8)
9)
10)
11)
12)
13)

B00357

Air cleaner element (page 11-15)
Manual transmission oil level gauge
(MT) (page 11-18) or Differential gear
oil level gauge (AT) (page 11-21)
Clutch fluid reservoir (page 11-26)
Automatic transmission fluid level
gauge (page 11-20)
Brake fluid reservoir (page 11-25)
Fuse box (page 11-41)
Battery (page 11-40)
Windshield washer tank (page 11-35)
Engine coolant reservoir (page 1111)
Engine oil level gauge (page 11-8)
Engine oil filler cap (page 11-8)
Radiator cap (page 11-11)
Power steering fluid reservoir (page
11-23)

Maintenance and service 11-7

Turbo models

1)
2)

4 5

3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
9)
10)
11)
12)
13)

7
B00358

11-8 Maintenance and service
Engine oil
Checking the oil level

Check the engine oil level at each fuel
stop.
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and
stop the engine.

B00418

1) Notch
2) Upper level
3) Lower level

B00359

2. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and
insert it again.
3. Be sure the dipstick is correctly inserted until it stops with the graphic symbol
“
” on its top appearing as shown in
the illustration.

4. Pull out the dipstick again and check
the oil level on it. If it is below the lower
level, add oil to bring the level up to the upper level.

y Use only engine oil with the recommended grade and viscosity.
y Be careful not to spill engine oil
when adding it. If oil touches the
exhaust pipe, it may cause a bad
smell, smoke, and/or a fire. If engine oil gets on the exhaust pipe,
be sure to wipe it off.

If you check the oil level just after stopping
the engine, wait a few minutes for the oil to
drain back into the oil pan before checking
the level.
Just after driving or while the engine is
warm, the engine oil level reading may be
in a range between the upper level and
the notch mark. This is caused by thermal
expansion of the engine oil.
To prevent overfilling the engine oil, do not
add any additional oil above the upper level when the engine is cold.

Changing the oil and oil filter
Change the oil and oil filter according to
the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”.
The engine oil and oil filter must be
changed more frequently than listed in the
maintenance schedule when driving on
dusty roads, when short trips are frequently made, when towing a trailer, or when
driving in extremely cold weather.
1. Warm up the engine by letting the engine idle for approximately 10 minutes to
ease draining the engine oil.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and
stop the engine.
3. Remove the oil filler cap.

Maintenance and service 11-9

the drain plug while the engine is still
warm. The used oil should be drained into
an appropriate container and disposed of
properly.

Be careful not to burn yourself with
hot engine oil.

B00392

6. Wipe the seating surface of the drain
plug with a clean cloth and tighten it securely with a new sealing washer after the
oil has completely drained out.

4. Open the access cover by removing
the eight clips and turning the access cover counterclockwise. The drain plug will be
exposed.

the bottom of engine and install the oil filter by hand turning. Be careful not to twist
or damage the seal.
10.Tighten the oil filter by the amount indicated in the following table after the seal
makes contact with the bottom of engine.
Oil filter color

Part number

Amount of
rotation

Black

15208AA100

1 rotation

White

15208AA09A

2/3 – 3/4
rotation

y Never over tighten the oil filter because that can result in an oil leak.
y Thoroughly wipe off any engine
oil that has spilled over the exhaust pipe and/or under-cover. If
left unremoved, the oil could
catch fire.
B00405

B00404

5. Drain out the engine oil by removing

7. Remove the oil filter with an oil filter
wrench.
8. Before installing a new oil filter, apply a
thin coat of engine oil to the seal.
9. Clean the rubber seal seating area of

11.Close the access cover by turning it
clockwise and reinstall the eight clips in
their original positions.
12.Pour engine oil through the filler neck.
Oil quantity (guideline):
4.2 US qt (4.0 liters, 3.5 Imp qt)
– CONTINUED –

11-10 Maintenance and service

ILSAC GF-4, which can be identified
with the ILSAC certification mark
(Starburst mark)
or API classification SM with the
words “ENERGY CONSERVING”

These recommended oil grades can be
identified by looking for either or both of
the following marks displayed on the oil
container.

Oil grade:

SERVICE S
I
P

SAE
5W-30

Recommended grade and
viscosity

The oil quantity indicated above is only a
guideline. The necessary quantity of oil
depends on the quantity of oil that has
been drained. The quantity of drained oil
differs slightly depending on the temperature of the oil and the time the oil is left
flowing out. After pouring oil into the engine, therefore, you must use the dipstick
to confirm that the level is correct.
13.Start the engine and make sure that no
oil leaks appear around the filter’s rubber
seal.
14.Run the engine until it reaches the normal operating temperature. Then stop the
engine and wait a few minutes to allow the
oil drain back. Check the oil level again
and if necessary, add more engine oil.

C ONSE

B00446

API Service label
1) Indicates the oil quality by API designations
2) Indicates the SAE oil viscosity grade
3) Indicates that the oil has fuel saving capabilities

B00014

ILSAC Certification Mark (Starburst
Mark)

In choosing an oil, you want the proper
quality and viscosity, as well as one that
will add to fuel economy. The following table lists the recommended viscosities and
applicable temperatures.
When adding oil, different brands may be
used together as long as they are the
same API classification and SAE viscosity
as those recommended by SUBARU.

Maintenance and service 11-11

-30 -20 -10
-20

10 20 30 40
60

100

eas with very high temperatures, or used
for heavy-duty applications such as towing a trailer, use of oil with the following
grade and viscosities is recommended.
API classification SM (or SL):
SAE viscosity No.:
30, 40, 10W-50, 20W-40, 20W-50

5W-30*
10W-30, 10W-40

Synthetic oil
B00549

SAE viscosity number and applicable
temperature
*: 5W-30 is recommended.

Engine oil viscosity (thickness) affects fuel
economy. Oils of lower viscosity provide
better fuel economy. However, in hot
weather, oil of higher viscosity is required
to properly lubricate the engine.

Use only engine oil with the recommended grade and viscosity.

Recommended grade and
viscosity under severe driving conditions

You can use synthetic engine oil that
meets the same requirements given for
conventional engine oil. When using synthetic oil, you must use oil of the same
classification, viscosity and grade shown
in this Owner’s Manual, and must follow
the oil and filter changing intervals shown
in the maintenance schedule.

Cooling system

Never attempt to remove the radiator cap until the engine has been
shut off and has cooled down completely. Since the coolant is under
pressure, you may suffer serious
burns from a spray of boiling hot
coolant when the cap is removed.

The cooling system has been filled
at the factory with a high quality,
corrosion-inhibiting,
year-around
coolant which provides protection
against freezing down to –33qF
(–36qC). For adding, use genuine
SUBARU coolant or an equivalent: a
mixture of 50% soft water (or clear
and drinkable water) and 50% phosphate or non-amine type coolant.
Use of improper coolants may result
in corrosion in the cooling system. It
is important to maintain protection
against freezing and corrosion,
even if freezing temperatures are
not expected. Never mix different
kinds of coolant.

If the vehicle is used in desert areas, in ar– CONTINUED –

11-12 Maintenance and service
Cooling fan, hose and connections
Your vehicle employs an electric cooling
fan which is thermostatically controlled to
operate when the engine coolant reaches
a specific temperature.
If the radiator cooling fan does not operate
even when the engine coolant temperature gauge exceeds the normal operating
range, the cooling fan circuit may be defective. Check the fuse and replace it if
necessary. If the fuse is not blown, have
the cooling system checked by your SUBARU dealer.
If frequent addition of coolant is necessary, there may be a leak in the engine
cooling system. It is recommended that
the cooling system and connections be
checked for leaks, damage, or looseness.

Engine coolant
T Checking the coolant level

FULL

LOW

1
2

B00018

600442

1) “FULL” level mark
2) “LOW” level mark

Check the coolant level at each fuel stop.
1. Check the coolant level on the outside
of the reservoir while the engine is cool.
2. If the level is close to or lower than the
“LOW” level mark, add coolant up to the
“FULL” level mark. If the reserve tank is
empty, remove the radiator cap and refill
as required.

3. After refilling the reserve tank and the
radiator, reinstall the caps and check that
the rubber gaskets inside the radiator cap
are in the proper position.

y Be careful not to spill engine coolant when adding it. If coolant
touches the exhaust pipe, it may
cause a bad smell, smoke, and/or
a fire. If engine coolant gets on the
exhaust pipe, be sure to wipe it
off.
y Do not splash the engine coolant
over painted parts. The alcohol
contained in the engine coolant
may damage the paint surface.

Maintenance and service 11-13

T Changing the coolant

4. Install the under cover.

B00394
B00019

Always add genuine Subaru cooling system conditioner whenever the coolant is
replaced.
Change the engine coolant and add genuine Subaru cooling system conditioner
using the following procedures according
to the maintenance schedule.
1. Remove the under cover.
2. Place a proper container under the
drain plug and loosen the drain plug.
3. Loosen the radiator cap to drain the
coolant from the radiator. Then drain the
coolant from the reserve tank. Tighten the
drain plug securely.

2
B00360

Non-turbo models
1) Filler neck
2) Fill up to this level

Turbo models
1) Filler neck
2) Fill up to this level

5. Slowly pour the coolant and fill up to
just below the filler neck, allowing enough
room to add genuine Subaru cooling system conditioner in the radiator. Add genuine Subaru cooling system conditioner until the coolant level reaches the filler neck.
Do not pour the coolant too quickly, as this
may lead to insufficient air bleeding and
trapped air in the system.

– CONTINUED –

11-14 Maintenance and service
Guideline of coolant quantity (including coolant in reservoir tank):
Non-turbo models:
MT. 7.3 US qt (6.9 liters, 6.1 Imp qt)
AT. 7.2 US qt (6.8 liters, 6.0 Imp qt)
Turbo models:
MT. 7.8 US qt (7.4 liters, 6.5 Imp qt)
AT. 7.7 US qt (7.3 liters, 6.4 Imp qt)

FULL

LOW

1
2

600442

1) “FULL” level mark
2) “LOW” level mark

6. Pour the coolant and fill to the reservoir
tank’s “FULL” level mark.

B00018

7. Put the radiator cap back on and tighten firmly. At this time, make sure that the
rubber gasket in the radiator cap is correctly in place.
8. Start and run the engine for more than

five minutes at 2,000 to 3,000 rpm.
9. Stop the engine and wait until the coolant cools down (122 to 140qF [50 to
60qC]). If there is any loss of coolant, add
coolant to the radiator’s filler neck and to
the reserve tank’s “FULL” level.
10.Put the radiator cap and reservoir cap
back on and tighten firmly.

Maintenance and service 11-15

T Non-turbo models

Air cleaner element

Do not operate the engine with the
air cleaner element removed. The air
cleaner element not only filters intake air but also stops flames if the
engine backfires. If the air cleaner
element is not installed when the engine backfires, you could be burned.
The air cleaner element functions as a filter screen. When the element is perforated or removed, engine wear will be excessive and engine life shortened.
The air cleaner element has a viscous
type and a dry type.
Be sure to use the appropriate type of air
cleaner element, which depends on the
vehicle type.
If there is the embossed requirement "Use
of genuine dry air cleaner element is required" on the air cleaner case cover,
which is shown in the following figure, use
the dry type air cleaner element.
For vehicles without the requirement on
the air cleaner case cover, use the viscous type air cleaner element.

B00548

1) Embossed requirement

Replacing the air cleaner element

B00361

1. Unsnap the two clamps holding the air
cleaner case cover.

Replace the air cleaner element according
to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”. Under
extremely dusty conditions, replace it
more frequently. It is recommended that
you always use genuine SUBARU parts.

B00362

2. Push the air cleaner case cover in the
direction of the arrow shown in the draw– CONTINUED –

11-16 Maintenance and service
T Turbo models

ing.

B00364
B00363

1) Air cleaner case cover
2) Viscous air cleaner element
Dry air cleaner element (if required)

3. Open the air cleaner case cover and
remove the air cleaner element.
4. Clean the inside of the air cleaner cover and case with a damp cloth and install
a new air cleaner element.

5. To install the air cleaner case cover, insert the three projections on the air cleaner case into the slits on the air cleaner
case cover and then snap the two clamps
on the air cleaner case cover.

B00024

1. Unsnap the two clamps holding the air
cleaner case cover.

B00025

2. Open the air cleaner case cover and
remove the air cleaner element.

Maintenance and service 11-17

3. Clean the inside of the air cleaner cover and case with a damp cloth and install
a new air cleaner element.

Recommended spark plugs

Spark plugs

Non-turbo models:
FR5AP-11 (NGK)

y When disconnecting the spark
plug cables, always grasp the
spark plug cap, not the cables.
y Make sure the cables are replaced
in the correct order.

B00026

4. To install the air cleaner case cover, insert the two projections on the air cleaner
case cover into the slits on the air cleaner
case and then snap the two clamps on the
air cleaner case cover.
B00027

It may be difficult to replace the spark
plugs. It is recommended that you have
the spark plugs replaced by your
SUBARU dealer.
The spark plugs should be replaced according to the maintenance schedule in
the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”.

Turbo models:
ILFR6B (NGK)

11-18 Maintenance and service
Drive belts

in (mm)

Manual transmission oil

Deflection
New belt

Used belt

0.28 – 0.35
(7.0 – 9.0)

0.35 – 0.43
(9.0 – 11.0)

0.30 – 0.33
(7.5 – 8.5)

0.35 – 0.40
(9.0 – 10.0)

1
B

Checking the oil level
1

B00365

1) Power steering pump pulley
2) Air conditioner compressor pulley
3) Crank pulley

The alternator, power steering pump, and
air conditioner compressor depend on
drive belts. Satisfactory performance requires that belt tension be correct.
To check belt tension, place a straightedge (ruler) across two adjacent pulleys
and apply a force of 22 lbs (98 N, 10 kg)
midway between the pulleys by using a
spring scale. Belt deflection should be the
amount specified. If a belt is loose,
cracked, or worn, contact your SUBARU
dealer.

B00366

Non-turbo models:
1) Yellow handle

Maintenance and service 11-19

Recommended grade and
viscosity

Each oil manufacturer has its own base
oils and additives. Never use different
brands together.
1
L

Oil grade:
API classification GL-5

-30 -20 -10

B00367

Turbo models

Check the oil level monthly.
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and
stop the engine.
2. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and
insert it again.

B00368

-20

10
40

20
60

1) Upper level
2) Lower level

3. Pull out the dipstick again and check
the oil level on it. If it is below the lower
level, add oil through the dipstick hole to
bring the level up to the upper level.

30
80

40
100

90
85W

80W
75W/90

B00032

Be careful not to spill manual transmission oil when adding it. If oil
touches the exhaust pipe, it may
cause a bad smell, smoke, and/or a
fire. If oil gets on the exhaust pipe,
be sure to wipe it off.

SAE viscosity No. and applicable temperature

11-20 Maintenance and service
Automatic transmission fluid

4. Pull out the dipstick and check the fluid
level on the gauge. If it is below the lower
level on the “HOT” range, add the recommended automatic transmission fluid up to
the upper level.

Checking the fluid level
The automatic transmission fluid expands
largely as its temperature rises; the fluid
level differs according to fluid temperature. Therefore, there are two different
scales for checking the level of hot fluid
and cold fluid on the dipstick.
Though the fluid level can be checked
without warming up the fluid on the
“COLD” range, we recommend checking
the fluid level when the fluid is at operating
temperature.

B00369

1) Yellow handle

T Checking the fluid level when the
fluid is hot
Check the fluid level monthly.
1. Drive the vehicle several miles to raise
the temperature of the transmission fluid
up to normal operating temperature; 154
to 176qF (70 to 80qC) is normal.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and
set the parking brake.
3. First shift the selector lever in each position. Then shift it in the “P” position, and
run the engine at idling speed.

Be careful not to spill automatic
transmission fluid when adding it. If
automatic transmission fluid touches the exhaust pipe, it may cause a
bad smell, smoke, and/or a fire. If automatic transmission fluid gets on
the exhaust pipe, be sure to wipe it
off.

3
4

1)
2)
3)
4)

HOT range
COLD range
Upper level
Lower level

3
4

T Checking the fluid level when the
fluid is cold
When the fluid level has to be checked
without time to warm up the automatic
transmission, check to see that the fluid
level is between the lower level and upper
level on the “COLD” range. If it is below
that range, add fluid up to the upper level.
Be careful not to overfill.

B00370

Maintenance and service 11-21

Recommended fluid
Use one of the following types of automatic transmission fluid.
Genuine Subaru Automatic Transmission Fluid Type-HP
IDEMITSU ATF HP
Castrol Transmax J
Pennzoil ATF-J*
* Available only in the USA (except
Alaska and Hawaii)

Front differential gear oil (AT
vehicles)
Checking the oil level
1

1
2
B00372

NOTE
For optimum transmission performance, only use the automatic transmission fluid that is recommended and
provided by Subaru.
If the recommended automatic transmission fluid is unavailable, Dexron III
may be temporarily used. If the Dexron
III is used continuously there will be a
noticeable increase in the vibration
and noise from the automatic transmission.

1) Upper level
2) Lower level
B00371

1) Yellow handle

Check the differential oil level monthly.
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and
stop the engine.
2. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and
insert it again.

3. Pull out the dipstick again and check
the oil level on it. If it is below the lower
level, add oil to bring the level up to the upper level.

Be careful not to spill front differential gear oil when adding it. If oil
touches the exhaust pipe, it may
cause a bad smell, smoke, and/or a
fire. If oil gets on the exhaust pipe,
be sure to wipe it off.

– CONTINUED –

11-22 Maintenance and service
Recommended grade and
viscosity
Each oil manufacturer has its own base
oils and additives. Never use different
brands together.
Oil grade:
API classification GL-5

-30 -20 -10
-20

10
40

20
60

30
80

Rear differential gear oil
Checking the gear oil level
Your vehicle may be equipped with a rear
differential protector. The differential protector provides protection to the rear differential assembly during off-road use.
Removal of the rear differential protector
is not required when checking the oil level.

B00374

100

1) Filler hole
2) Drain hole
3) Oil level

90
85W

80W
75W/90

B00032

SAE viscosity No. and applicable temperature

2
1) Filler plug
2) Drain plug

B00373

Remove the plug from the filler hole and
check the oil level. The oil level should be
kept even with the bottom of the filler hole.
If the oil level is below the bottom edge of
the hole, add oil through the filler hole to
raise the level.

Maintenance and service 11-23

-30 -20 -10

y Be careful not to spill rear differential gear oil when adding it. If
rear differential gear oil touches
the exhaust pipe, it may cause a
bad smell, smoke, and/or a fire. If
rear differential gear oil gets on
the exhaust pipe, be sure to wipe
it off.
y If the vehicle requires frequent refilling, there may be an oil leak. If
you suspect a problem, have the
vehicle checked at your SUBARU
dealer.

Recommended grade and
viscosity
Each oil manufacturer has its own base
oils and additives. Never use different
brands together.

-20

10
40

20
60

30
80

Power steering fluid

Checking the fluid level

100

90
85W

80W
75W/90

B00032

SAE viscosity No. and applicable temperature
B00375

1) Reservoir tank

Be careful not to burn yourself because the fluid may be hot.

Oil grade:
API classification GL-5

y When power steering fluid is being added, use only clean fluid,
and be careful not to allow any dirt
into the tank. And never use different brands together.

– CONTINUED –

11-24 Maintenance and service
y Avoid spilling fluid when adding it
in the tank.
y Be careful not to spill power steering fluid when adding it. If power
steering fluid touches the exhaust
pipe, it may cause a bad smell,
smoke, and/or a fire. If power
steering fluid gets on the exhaust
pipe, be sure to wipe it off.
The power steering fluid expands greatly
as its temperature rises; the fluid level differs according to fluid temperature. Therefore, the reservoir tank has two different
checking ranges for hot and cold fluids.
Check the power steering fluid level
monthly.
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface, and
stop the engine.

Recommended fluid
“Dexron III” Type Automatic Transmission Fluid

B00376

1) Specified range

2. Check the fluid level of the reservoir
tank.
When the fluid is hot after the vehicle has
been run: Check that the oil level is between “HOT MIN” and “HOT MAX” on the
surface of the reservoir tank.
When the fluid is cool before the vehicle is
run: Check that the oil level is between
“COLD MIN” and “COLD MAX” on the surface of the reservoir tank.
3. If the fluid level is lower than the applicable “MIN” line, add the recommended
fluid as necessary to bring the level between the “MIN” and “MAX” line.
If the fluid level is extreme low, it may indicate possible leakage. Consult your SUBARU dealer for an inspection.

Maintenance and service 11-25

Brake fluid
Checking the fluid level

y Never let brake fluid contact your
eyes because brake fluid can be
harmful to your eyes. If brake fluid
gets in your eyes, immediately
flush them thoroughly with clean
water. For safety, when performing this work, wearing eye protection is advisable.
y Brake fluid absorbs moisture from
the air. Any absorbed moisture
can cause a dangerous loss of
braking performance.

y When adding brake fluid, be careful not to allow any dirt into the
reservoir.
y Never splash the brake fluid over
painted surfaces or rubber parts.
Alcohol contained in the brake fluid may damage them.
y Be careful not to spill brake fluid
when adding it. If brake fluid
touches the exhaust pipe, it may
cause a bad smell, smoke, and/or
a fire. If brake fluid gets on the exhaust pipe, be sure to wipe it off.

y If the vehicle requires frequent refilling, there may be a leak. If you
suspect a problem, have the vehicle checked at your SUBARU
dealer.

y Never use different brands of
brake fluid together. Also, avoid
mixing DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluids even if they are of the same
brand.

B00125

Check the fluid level monthly.
Check the fluid level on the outside of the
reservoir. If the level is below “MIN”, add
the recommended brake fluid to “MAX”.

Use only brake fluid from a sealed container.

Recommended brake fluid
FMVSS No. 116, fresh DOT 3 or DOT 4
brake fluid

11-26 Maintenance and service
Clutch fluid (MT vehicles)
Checking the fluid level

Never let clutch fluid contact your
eyes because clutch fluid can be
harmful to your eyes. If clutch fluid
gets in your eyes, immediately flush
them thoroughly with clean water.
For safety, when performing this
work, wearing eye protection is advisable.

y Never splash the clutch fluid over
painted surfaces or rubber parts.
Alcohol contained in the clutch
fluid may damage them.
y Be careful not to spill clutch fluid
when adding it. If clutch fluid
touches the exhaust pipe, it may
cause a bad smell, smoke, and/or
a fire. If clutch fluid gets on the exhaust pipe, be sure to wipe it off.

y Clutch fluid absorbs moisture
from the air. Any absorbed moisture can cause improper clutch
operation.
y If the vehicle requires frequent refilling, there may be a leak. If you
suspect a problem, have the vehicle checked at your SUBARU
dealer.
y Never use different brands of
clutch fluid together.
y When clutch fluid is added, be
careful not to allow any dirt into
the tank.

B00126

Check the fluid level on the outside of the
reservoir. If the level is below “MIN” level
mark, add the recommended clutch fluid
to “MAX” level mark.
Use only clutch fluid from a sealed container.

Recommended clutch fluid
FMVSS No. 116, fresh DOT 3 or DOT 4
brake fluid

Avoid mixing DOT 3 and DOT 4
brake fluids even if they are of the
same brand.

Maintenance and service 11-27

Checking the brake pedal reserve distance

Brake booster

Brake pedal

If the brake booster does not operate as
described in the following, have it checked
by your SUBARU dealer.
1. With the engine off, depress the brake
pedal several times, applying the same
pedal force each time. The distance the
pedal travels should not vary.
2. With the brake pedal depressed, start
the engine. The pedal should move slightly down to the floor.
3. With the brake pedal depressed, stop
the engine and keep the pedal depressed
for 30 seconds. The pedal height should
not change.
4. Start the engine again and run for approximately one minute then turn it off.
Depress the brake pedal several times to
check the brake booster. The brake booster operates properly if the pedal stroke decreases with each depression.

Check the brake pedal free play and reserve distance according to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and
Maintenance Booklet”.

Checking the brake pedal free
play

B00378

1) More than 2.56 in (65 mm)

B00377

1) 0.02 – 0.08 in (0.5 – 2.0 mm)

Stop the engine and firmly depress the
brake pedal several times. Lightly press
the brake pedal down with one finger to
check the free play with a force of less
than 2 lbs (10 N, 1 kg).
If the free play is not within proper specification, contact your SUBARU dealer.

Depress the pedal with a force of approximately 66 lbs (294 N, 30 kg) and measure
the distance between the upper surface of
the pedal pad and the floor.
When the measurement is smaller than
the specification, or when the pedal does
not operate smoothly, contact with your
SUBARU dealer.

11-28 Maintenance and service
Clutch pedal (MT vehicles)

Checking the clutch pedal
free play

Check the clutch pedal free play and reserve distance according to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and
Maintenance Booklet”.

Checking the clutch function
Check the clutch engagement and disengagement.
1. With the engine idling, check that there
are no abnormal noises when the clutch
pedal is depressed, and that shifting into
1st or reverse feels smooth.
2. Start the vehicle by releasing the pedal
slowly to check that the engine and transmission smoothly couple without any sign
of slippage.

B00377

1) 0.15 – 0.44 in (4 – 11 mm)

Lightly press the clutch pedal down with
your finger until you feel resistance, and
check the free play.
If the free play is not within proper specification, contact your SUBARU dealer.

Hill holder (MT vehicles – if
equipped)
Ensure that the hill holder operates properly under the following circumstances:
1. Stop the vehicle on an uphill grade by
depressing the brake pedal and clutch
pedal, with the engine running.
2. Make sure that the vehicle does not
move backward even after the brake pedal is released.
3. Then make sure the vehicle starts
climbing the grade by following the normal
starting procedures.
If the hill holder does not operate as described above, contact with your SUBARU
dealer.

Maintenance and service 11-29

Replacement of brake pad
and lining

If you continue to drive despite the
scraping noise from the audible
brake pad wear indicator, it will result in the need for costly brake rotor repair or replacement.

you apply the brake pedal, have the brake
pads serviced by your SUBARU dealer as
soon as possible.

Breaking-in of new brake
pads and linings
When replacing the brake pad or lining,
use only genuine SUBARU parts. After replacement, the new parts must be broken
in as follows:
T Brake pad and lining
While maintaining a speed of 30 to 40 mph
(50 to 65 km/h), step on the brake pedal
lightly. Repeat this five or more times.
T Parking brake lining

imately 22 mph (35 km/h).
2. With the parking brake release button
pushed in, pull the parking brake lever
SLOWLY and GENTLY. (Pulling with a
force of approximately 33 lbs [147 N, 15
kg].)
3. Drive the vehicle for approximately 220
yards (200 meters) in this condition.
4. Wait 5 to 10 minutes for the parking
brake to cool down. Repeat this procedure.
5. Check the parking brake stroke. If the
parking brake stroke is out of the specified
range, adjust it by turning the adjusting nut
located on the parking brake lever.
Parking brake stroke:
7 – 8 notches / 44 lbs (196 N, 20 kg)

A safe location and situation should
be selected for break-in driving.
700040

The right front disc brake and the right rear
disc brake have audible wear indicators
on the brake pads. If the brake pads wear
close to their service limit, the wear indicator makes a very audible scraping noise
when the brake pedal is applied.
If you hear this scraping noise each time

Pulling the parking brake lever too
forcefully may cause the rear
wheels to lock. To avoid this, be certain to pull the lever up slowly and
gently.
1. Drive the vehicle at a speed of approx-

11-30 Maintenance and service
Parking brake stroke

Tires and wheels
Types of tires
You should be familiar with type of tires
present on your vehicle.

B00379

Check the parking brake stroke according
to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”. When
the parking brake is properly adjusted,
braking power is fully applied by pulling
the lever up seven to eight notches gently
but firmly (approximately 44 lbs, 196 N, 20
kg). If the parking brake lever stroke is not
within the specified range, have the brake
system checked and adjusted at your
SUBARU dealer.

T All season tires
The factory-installed tires on your new vehicle are all season tires.
All season tires are designed to provide
an adequate measure of traction, handling
and braking performance in year-round
driving including snowy and icy road conditions. However all season tires do not offer as much traction performance as winter (snow) tires in heavy or loose snow or
on icy roads.
All season tires are identified by “ALL
SEASON” and/or “M+S” (Mud & Snow) on
the tire sidewall.
T Summer tires
Summer tires are high-speed capability
tires best suited for highway driving under
dry conditions.
Summer tires are inadequate for driving
on slippery roads such as on snow-covered or icy roads.
If you drive your vehicle on snow-covered
or icy roads, we strongly recommend the
use of winter (snow) tires.
When installing winter tires, be sure to re-

place all four tires.
T Winter (snow) tires
Winter tires are best suited for driving on
snow-covered and icy roads. However
winter tires do not perform as well as summer tires and all season tires on roads other than snow-covered and icy roads.

Tire inspection
Check on a daily basis that the tires are
free from serious damage, nails, and
stones. At the same time, check the tires
for abnormal wear.
Contact your SUBARU dealer immediately if you find any problem.

NOTE
y When the wheels and tires strike
curbs or are subjected to harsh treatment as when the vehicle is driven on a
rough surface, they can suffer damage
that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
This type of damage does not become
evident until time has passed. Try not
to drive over curbs, potholes or on other rough surfaces. If doing so is unavoidable, keep the vehicle’s speed
down to a walking pace or less, and approach the curbs as squarely as possible. Also, make sure the tires are not
pressed against the curb when you

Maintenance and service 11-31

park the vehicle.
y If you feel unusual vibration while
driving or find it difficult to steer the vehicle in a straight line, one of the tires
and/or wheels may be damaged. Drive
slowly to the nearest authorized SUBARU dealer and have the vehicle inspected.

Tire pressures and wear
Maintaining the correct tire pressures
helps to maximize the tires’ service lives
and is essential for good running performance. Check and, if necessary, adjust
the pressure of each tire (including the
spare) at least once a month (for example,
during a fuel stop) and before any long
journey.

Check the tire pressures when the tires
are cold. Use a pressure gauge to adjust
the tire pressures to the values shown on
the tire placard. The tire placard is located
on the door pillar on the driver’s side.

y Correct tire pressure (tread worn
evenly)

Driving even a short distance warms up
the tires and increases the tire pressures.
Also, the tire pressures are affected by the
outside temperature. It is best to check tire
pressure outdoors before driving the vehicle.
When a tire becomes warm, the air inside
it expands, causing the tire pressure to increase. Be careful not to mistakenly release air from a warm tire to reduce its
pressure.

NOTE
y The air pressure in a tire increases
by approximately 4.3 psi (30 kPa, 0.3
kgf/cm2) when the tire becomes warm.
y The tires are considered cold when
the vehicle has been parked for at least
three hours or has been driven less
than one mile (1.6 km).

800221

Incorrect tire pressures detract from controllability and ride comfort, and they
cause the tires to wear abnormally.

B00050

Roadholding is good, and steering is responsive. Rolling resistance is low, so fuel
consumption is also lower.

Do not let air out of warm tires to adjust pressure. Doing so will result in
low tire pressure.
– CONTINUED –

11-32 Maintenance and service
y Abnormally low tire pressure (tread
worn at shoulders)

y Abnormally high tire pressure (tread
worn in center)
Driving at high speeds with excessively low tire pressures can cause
the tires to deform severely and to
rapidly become hot. A sharp increase in temperature could cause
tread separation, and destruction of
the tires. The resulting loss of vehicle control could lead to an accident.

Wheel balance
B00051

Rolling resistance is high, so fuel consumption is also higher.

B00052

Ride comfort is poor. Also, the tire magnifies the effects of road-surface bumps and
dips, possibly resulting in vehicle damage.
If the tire placard shows tire pressures for
the vehicle when fully loaded and for the
vehicle when towing a trailer, adjust the
tire pressures to the values that match
current loading conditions.

Each wheel was correctly balanced when
your vehicle was new, but the wheels will
become unbalanced as the tires become
worn during use. Wheel imbalance causes the steering wheel to vibrate slightly at
certain vehicle speeds and detracts from
the vehicle’s straight-line stability. It can
also cause steering and suspension system problems and abnormal tire wear. If
you suspect that the wheels are not correctly balanced, have them checked and
adjusted by your SUBARU dealer. Also
have them adjusted after tire repairs and
after tire rotation.

NOTE
Loss of correct wheel alignment* causes the tires to wear on one side and reduces the vehicle’s running stability.

Maintenance and service 11-33

Tire rotation direction mark

Contact your SUBARU dealer if you notice abnormal tire wear.
*: The suspension system is designed to hold
each wheel at a certain alignment (relative to
the other wheels and to the road) for optimum
straight-line stability and cornering performance.

Wear indicators
1

When a tire’s tread wear indicator
becomes visible, the tire is worn beyond the acceptable limit and must
be replaced immediately. With a tire
in this condition, driving at high
speeds in wet weather can cause
the vehicle to hydroplane. The resulting loss of vehicle control can
lead to an accident.

NOTE
For safety, inspect tire tread regularly
and replace the tires before their tread
wear indicators become visible.

ROTATION

B00550

Example of tire rotation direction mark
1) Front

If the tire has the rotation direction specification, the tire rotation direction mark is
placed on its sidewall.
B00327

1) New tread
2) Worn tread
3) Tread wear indicator

When you install a tire that has the tire rotation direction mark, install the tire with
the direction mark facing forward.

Each tire incorporates a tread wear indicator, which becomes visible when the depth
of the tread grooves decreases to 0.063 in
(1.6 mm). A tire must be replaced when
the tread wear indicator appears as a solid
band across the tread.
– CONTINUED –

11-34 Maintenance and service
Tire rotation

Tire wear varies from wheel to wheel. To
maximize the life of each tire and ensure
that the tires wear uniformly, it is best to
rotate the tires every 7,500 miles (12,500
km). Move the tires to the positions shown
in the illustration each time they are rotated.
Replace any damaged or unevenly worn
tire at the time of rotation. After tire rotation, adjust the tire pressures and make
sure the wheel nuts are correctly tightened.

B00545

Vehicles equipped with unidirectional tires
1) Front

After driving approximately 600 miles
(1,000 km), check the wheel nuts again
and retighten any nut that has become
loose.

Using tires of a non-specified size detracts
from controllability, ride comfort, braking
performance, speedometer accuracy and
odometer accuracy. It also creates incorrect body-to-tire clearances and inappropriately changes the vehicle’s ground
clearance.
All four tires must be the same in terms of
manufacturer, brand (tread pattern), construction, and size. You are advised to replace the tires with new ones that are
identical to those fitted as standard equipment.
For safe vehicle operation, SUBARU recommends replacing all four tires at the
same time.

Tire replacement

B00546

Vehicles equipped with 4 non-unidirectional tires
1) Front

The wheels and tires are important and integral parts of your vehicle’s design; they
cannot be changed arbitrarily. The tires fitted as standard equipment are optimally
matched to the characteristics of the vehicle and were selected to give the best possible combination of running performance,
ride comfort, and service life. It is essential
for every tire to have a size and construction matching those shown on the tire
placard and to have a speed symbol and
load index matching those shown on the
tire placard.

y All four tires must be the same in
terms of manufacturer, brand
(tread pattern), construction, degree of wear, speed symbol, load
index and size. Mixing tires of different types, sizes or degrees of
wear can result in damage to vehicle’s power train. Use of different
types or sizes of tires can also
dangerously reduce controllability and braking performance and
can lead to an accident.

Maintenance and service 11-35

y Use only radial tires. Do not use
radial tires together with belted
bias tires and/or bias-ply tires. Doing so can dangerously reduce
controllability, resulting in an accident.

Wheel replacement
When replacing wheels due, for example,
to damage, make sure the replacement
wheels match the specifications of the
wheels that are fitted as standard equipment. Replacement wheels are available
from SUBARU dealers.

Use only those wheels that are
specified for your vehicle. Wheels
not meeting specifications could interfere with brake caliper operation
and may cause the tires to rub
against the wheel well housing during turns. The resulting loss of vehicle control could lead to an accident.

Aluminum wheels
(if equipped)
Aluminum wheels can be scratched and
damaged easily. Handle them carefully to
maintain their appearance, performance,
and safety.
y When any of the wheels is removed and
replaced for tire rotation or to change a
flat, always check the tightness of the
wheel nuts after driving approximately 600
miles (1,000 km). If any nut is loose, tighten it to the specified torque.
y Never apply oil to the threaded parts,
wheel nuts, or tapered surface of the
wheel.
y Never let the wheel rub against sharp
protrusions or curbs.
y Be sure to fit tire chains on uniformly
and completely around the tire, otherwise
the chains may scratch the wheel.
y When wheel nuts, balance weights, or
the center cap is replaced, be sure to replace them with genuine SUBARU parts
designed for aluminum wheels.

Windshield washer fluid

Never use engine coolant as washer
fluid because it could cause paint
damage.

300523

If you spray washer fluid on the windshield
but the supply of washer fluid appears to
diminish, check the level of washer fluid in
the tank.

– CONTINUED –

11-36 Maintenance and service

Low
300172

Washer fluid level gauge

id until it reaches the “Hi” level on the level
gauge or the “Full” mark on the tank.
Use windshield washer fluid. If windshield
washer fluid is unavailable use clean water.
In areas where water freezes in winter,
use an anti-freeze type windshield washer
fluid. SUBARU Windshield Washer Fluid
contains 58.5% methyl alcohol and 41.5%
surfactant, by volume. Its freezing temperature varies according to how much it is diluted, as indicated in the following table.
Washer Fluid
Concentration

Freezing
Temperature

30%

10.4qF (–12qC)

50%

–4qF (–20qC)

100%

–49qF (–45qC)

FULL

Never use engine coolant as washer
fluid because it could cause paint
damage.
300524

Remove the washer tank filler cap, then
check the fluid level indicated by the level
gauge (attached to the inside of the cap).
If the level is near the “Low” mark, add flu-

used previously, purge the old fluid from
the piping between the reservoir tank and
washer nozzles by operating the washer
for a certain period of time. Otherwise, if
the concentration of the fluid remaining in
the piping is too low for the outside temperature, it may freeze and block the nozzles.

Maintenance and service 11-37

Replacement of wiper blades
Grease, wax, insects, or other material on
the windshield or the wiper blade results in
jerky wiper operation and streaking on the
glass. If you cannot remove the streaks after operating the windshield washer or if
the wiper operation is jerky, clean the outer surface of the windshield (or rear window) and the wiper blades using a sponge
or soft cloth with a neutral detergent or
mild-abrasive cleaner. After cleaning,
rinse the windshield and wiper blades with
clean water. The windshield is clean if
beads do not form when you rinse the
windshield with water.

B00380

1) Stopper

2. Remove the wiper blade assembly by
holding its pivot area and pushing it in the
direction shown by the arrow while depressing the wiper blade stopper.

B00330

1) Metal support

3. Grasp the locked end of the blade rubber assembly and pull it firmly until the
stoppers on the rubber are free of the metal support.

Do not clean the wiper blades with
gasoline or a solvent, such as paint
thinner or benzene. This will cause
deterioration of the wiper blades.
If you cannot eliminate the streaking even
after following this method, replace the
wiper blades using the following procedures:

Windshield wiper blades
1. Raise the wiper arm off the windshield.
– CONTINUED –

11-38 Maintenance and service
5. Align the claws of the metal support
with the grooves in the rubber and slide
the blade rubber assembly into the metal
support until it locks.

B00331

B00061

1) Metal spines

2. Turn the wiper blade assembly counterclockwise.

4. If the new blade rubber is not provided
with two metal spines, remove the metal
spines from the old blade rubber and install them in the new blade rubber.

B00332

1) Stopper

Be sure to position the claws at the end of
the metal support between the stoppers
on the rubber as shown. If the rubber is
not retained properly, the wiper blade may
scratch the windshield.
6. Install the wiper blade assembly to the
wiper arm. Make sure that it locks in place.
7. Lower the wiper arm.
B00062

Rear window wiper blade
B00059

1. Raise the wiper arm off the rear window.

3. Having turned the wiper blade assembly to the angle shown in the illustration,
pull it in the direction of the arrow to remove it from the wiper arm.

Maintenance and service 11-39

the plastic support.
1

1
B00381

B00066
B00333

1) Plastic support

4. Pull out the end of the blade rubber assembly to unlock it from the plastic support.

B00064

5. Pull the blade rubber assembly out of

1) Metal spines

6. If the new blade rubber is not provided
with two metal spines, remove the metal
spines from the old blade rubber and install them in the new blade rubber.

7. Align the claws of the plastic support
with the grooves in the blade rubber assembly, then slide the blade rubber assembly into place.

B00067

Securely lock the end of the plastic support as shown in the illustration. If the rub– CONTINUED –

11-40 Maintenance and service
ber is not retained properly, the wiper may
scratch the rear window glass.
8. Install the wiper blade assembly to the
wiper arm. Make sure that it locks in place.
9. Lower the wiper arm.

Battery

y Before beginning work on or near
any battery, be sure to extinguish
all cigarettes, matches, and lighters. Never expose a battery to an
open flame or electric sparks. Batteries give off a gas which is highly flammable and explosive.
y For safety, in case an explosion
does occur, wear eye protection
or shield your eyes when working
near any battery. Never lean over
a battery.
y Do not let battery fluid contact
eyes, skin, fabrics, or paint because battery fluid is a corrosive
acid. If battery fluid gets on your
skin or in your eyes, immediately
flush the area with water thoroughly. Seek medical help immediately if acid has entered the
eyes.
If battery fluid is accidentally
swallowed, immediately drink a
large amount of milk or water, and
seek medical attention immediately.

y To lessen the risk of sparks, remove rings, metal watchbands,
and other metal jewelry. Never allow metal tools to contact the positive battery terminal and anything
connected to it WHILE you are at
the same time in contact with any
other metallic portion of the vehicle because a short circuit will result.
y Keep everyone including children
away from the battery.
y Charge the battery in a well-ventilated area.
y Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and
lead
compounds,
chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer and reproductive
harm. Batteries also contain other
chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer. Wash
hands after handling.

Never use more than 10 amperes
when charging the battery because
it will shorten battery life.

Maintenance and service 11-41

Fuses

1
UP

RL
EV

B00382

Never replace a fuse with one having a higher rating or with material
other than a fuse because serious
damage or a fire could result.
The fuses are designed to melt during an
overload to prevent damage to the wiring
harness and electrical equipment. The
fuses are located in two fuse boxes.

600444

The other one is housed in the engine
compartment.

1) Cap
2) Upper level
3) Lower level

It is unnecessary to periodically check the
battery fluid level or periodically refill with
distilled water.
However, if the battery fluid level is below
the lower level, remove the cap. Fill to the
upper level with distilled water.

B00069

One is located under the instrument panel
behind the cover on the driver’s seat side.
To remove the cover, pull it out.

B00383

1) Fuse puller
2) Spare fuse

The fuse puller and spare fuses are stored
– CONTINUED –

11-42 Maintenance and service
Main fuse

in the main fuse box cover in the engine
compartment.
1

600160
B00338

1) Good
2) Blown

If any lights, accessories or other electrical controls do not operate, inspect the
corresponding fuse. If a fuse has blown,
replace it.
1. Turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK”
position and turn off all electrical accessories.
2. Remove the cover.
3. Determine which fuse may be blown.
The back side of each fuse box cover and
the “Fuses and circuits” section in chapter
12 in this manual show the circuit for each
fuse.

4. Pull out the fuse with the fuse puller.
5. Inspect the fuse. If it has blown, replace it with a spare fuse of the same rating.
6. If the same fuse blows again, this indicates that its system has a problem. Contact your SUBARU dealer for repairs.

600444

Main fuse box

The main fuses are designed to melt during an overload to prevent damage to the
wiring harness and electrical equipment.
Check the main fuses if any electrical
component fails to operate (except the
starter motor) and other fuses are good. A
melted main fuse must be replaced. Use
only replacements with the same specified rating as the melted main fuse. If a
main fuse blows after it is replaced, have
the electrical system checked by your
nearest SUBARU dealer.

Maintenance and service 11-43

Installation of accessories
Always consult your SUBARU dealer before installing fog lights or any other electrical equipment in your vehicle. Such accessories may cause the electronic system to malfunction if they are incorrectly
installed or if they are not suited for the vehicle.

11-44 Maintenance and service
Replacing bulbs
1 2 3

9 10

11
12
8 7

B00384

Maintenance and service 11-45

1)
2)

3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
9)
10)
11)
12)
13)
14)
15)

High beam headlight
Low beam headlight
Canada-spec. 2.5XT
All except Canada-spec.
2.5XT
Front turn signal light
Map light
Dome light
Side marker light (Front)
Front fog light
Parking light
High mount stop light
Cargo area light
Tail/stop light
Backup light
Rear turn signal light
Tail/stop light
License plate light

Wattage

Bulb No.

12V-60W

9005 (HB3)

12V-35W
12V-55W

D2R
H1

12V-21W (Amber)
12V-8W
12V-8W
12V-5W
12V-51W
12V-5W
12V-13W
12V-5W
12V-21/5W
12V-16W
12V-21W (Amber)
12V-21/5W
12V-5W

1474
–
–
168
9006 (HB4)
168
912
–
7443
921
1474
7443
168

Replace any bulb only with a new
bulb of the specified wattage. Using
a bulb of different wattage could result in a fire.

Headlights (Canada-spec.
2.5XT)

High-intensity-discharge (HID) bulbs
are used for the low beams of the
headlights on the Canada-spec.
2.5XT. These HID bulbs use an extremely high voltage. To avoid the
risk of an electric shock and resulting serious injury, you should not attempt to replace them. Neither
should you attempt to replace the
high-beam bulbs, remove/refit the
headlight assemblies, or remove any
headlight-assembly
components.
For replacement of the headlight
bulbs (low-beam and high-beam), removal and installation of the headlight assemblies, and removal of
headlight-assembly
components,
contact your SUBARU dealer.

– CONTINUED –

11-46 Maintenance and service
Headlights (Except Canadaspec. 2.5XT)

Halogen headlight bulbs become
very hot while in use. If you touch
the bulb surface with bare hands or
greasy gloves, finger prints or
grease on the bulb surface will develop into hot spots and cause the
bulb to break. If there are finger
prints or grease on the bulb surface,
wipe them away with a soft cloth
moistened with alcohol.

NOTE
y If headlight aiming is required, consult your SUBARU dealer for proper
adjustment of the headlight aim.
y It may be difficult to replace the
bulbs. Have your SUBARU dealer replace the bulbs if necessary.

T Low beam light bulbs

B00393

Before replacing the left-hand (batteryside) low- or high-beam light bulb, remove
the screw that retains the windshield
washer nozzle and tip the windshield
washer nozzle sideways.

B00385

1. Remove the bulb cover, by turning it
counterclockwise.

B00386

2. Remove the retainer spring, then pull
out the bulb and electrical connector unit.

Maintenance and service 11-47

T High beam light bulbs

3. Replace the bulb with new one.
4. Reconnect the electrical connector. At
this time, use care not to touch the bulb
surface.
5. To install the bulb to the headlight assembly, turn it clockwise until it clicks.

Rear combination lights

B00387

3. Disconnect the electrical connector
from the bulb.
4. Install a new bulb into the electrical
connector, then set the retainer spring securely.
5. Install the bulb cover.

700093

1. Disconnect the electrical connector
from the bulb.

B00389

1. Remove the upper and lower screws.
Then, slide the rear combination lamp assembly to the rear and remove it from the
vehicle.

B00388

2. Remove the bulb from the headlight
assembly by turning it counterclockwise.
– CONTINUED –

11-48 Maintenance and service
License plate light

Dome light and map light
0

1
2
3
4
1)
2)
3)
4)

B00390

Tail/stop light
Backup light
Rear turn signal light
Tail/stop light

2. Remove the bulb holder from the rear
combination light assembly by turning it
counterclockwise.
3. Pull the bulb from the holder. Install a
new bulb.
4. Set the bulb holder into the rear combination light assembly and turn it clockwise
until it locks.
5. Reinstall the rear combination light assembly.

B00391

1. Remove the mounting screws using a
Phillips screwdriver.
2. Remove the cover and lens.
3. Pull the bulb out of the socket. Install a
new bulb.
4. Reinstall the lens and cover.
5. Tighten the mounting screws.

B00090

Dome light

B00091

Map light

1. Remove the lens by prying the edge of

Maintenance and service 11-49

the lens with a flat-head screwdriver.
2. Pull the bulb out of the socket. Install a
new bulb.
3. Reinstall the lens.

High mount stop light
0

B00547

1. Remove the mounting screws using a
Phillips screwdriver and then remove the
high mount stop light cover.
2. Pull the bulb from the socket. Install a
new bulb.
3. Reinstall the cover.
4. Tighten the mounting screws then reinstall the covers.

NOTE
Other bulbs may be difficult to replace.
Have your SUBARU dealer replace

these bulbs if necessary.

Specifications
Specifications .....................................................

12-2

Dimensions .............................................................
Engine ......................................................................
Electrical system ....................................................
Capacities ................................................................
Tires .........................................................................
Wheel alignment .....................................................

12-2
12-3
12-3
12-4
12-5
12-5

Fuses and circuits ..............................................

12-6

Fuse panel located behind the instrument
panel ........................................................................
Fuse panel located in the engine
compartment ...........................................................

12-6
12-8

Bulb chart ............................................................ 12-9
Vehicle identification ......................................... 12-10

12-2 Specifications
Specifications

Specifications

These specifications are subject to change without notice.

Dimensions
in (mm)
Item

2.5-liter non-turbo models

Drive system

2.5-liter turbo models
AWD

Transmission type

Overall length

176.6 (4,485)

Overall width

68.3 (1,735)

Overall height

62.6 (1,590)

Wheel base
Tread

62.4 (1,585)
99.4 (2,525)

Front

58.9 (1,495)

Rear

58.5 (1,485)

Ground clearance*1
*1: Measured with vehicle empty
AT: Automatic transmission
MT: Manual transmission

8.07 (205)

7.87 (200)

Specifications 12-3

Engine
Engine model
Engine type

EJ253 (2.5-liter, SOHC, non-turbo)

EJ255 (2.5-liter, DOHC, turbo)

Horizontally opposed, liquid cooled 4 cylinder, 4-stroke gasoline engine

Displacement cc (cu-in)

2,457 (150)

Bore u Stroke in (mm)

3.92 u 3.11 (99.5 u 79.0)

Compression ratio

10.0 : 1

Firing order

8.4 : 1
1–3–2–4

Electrical system
Battery type and capacity (5HR)
Alternator
Spark plugs

Manual transmission

12V-48AH (55D23L)

Automatic transmission

12V-52AH (75D23L)

2.5-liter turbo models

12V-110A

2.5-liter non-turbo models

12V-90A

2.5-liter non-turbo models

FR5AP-11 (NGK)

2.5-liter turbo models

ILFR6B (NGK)

– CONTINUED –

12-4 Specifications
Capacities
Fuel tank

15.9 US gal (60 liters, 13.2 Imp gal)

Engine oil

4.2 US qt (4.0 liters, 3.5 Imp qt)

Transmission oil

3.7 US qt (3.5 liters, 3.1 Imp qt)

9.8 US qt (9.3 liters, 8.2 Imp qt)

Front differential gear oil (AT)

1.3 US qt (1.2 liter, 1.1 Imp qt)

Rear differential gear oil

0.8 US qt (0.8 liter, 0.7 Imp qt)

Power steering fluid

0.7 US qt (0.7 liter, 0.6 Imp qt)

Engine coolant

2.5-liter non-turbo models
2.5-liter turbo models

AT: Automatic transmission
MT: Manual transmission

7.3 US qt (6.9 liters, 6.1 Imp qt)

7.2 US qt (6.8 liters, 6.0 Imp qt)

7.8 US qt (7.4 liters, 6.5 Imp qt)

7.7 US qt (7.3 liters, 6.4 Imp qt)

Specifications 12-5

Tires
Tire size

P215/60R16 94H
16 u

Wheel size
Pressure

Front
Rear

Temporary spare tire

61/

JJ or 16 u

61/

P215/55R17 93H
2

17 u 7 JJ

Light load

29 psi (200 kPa, 2.0 kgf/cm2)

32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2)

Full load

29 psi (200 kPa, 2.0 kgf/cm2)

32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2)

Light load

28 psi (190 kPa, 1.9 kgf/cm2)

30 psi (210 kPa, 2.1 kgf/cm2)

Full load

36 psi (250 kPa, 2.5 kgf/cm2)

32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2)

Trailer towing

41 psi (280 kPa, 2.8 kgf/cm2)

36 psi (250 kPa, 2.5 kgf/cm2)

Size

T135/80D16
60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2)

Pressure

NOTE
For the Canada specification non-turbo models, there is a conventional tire installed under the floor of the cargo area.

Wheel alignment
Item

2.5-liter non-turbo models

Drive system
Toe
Camber

2.5-liter turbo models
AWD

Front

0 r 0.12 in (0 r 3 mm)

Rear

0.079 r 0.12 in (2 r 3 mm)

Front

–0q25’ r 45’

Rear

–0q50’ r 45’

–0q55’ r 45’

12-6 Specifications
Fuses and circuits
Fuse panel located behind the instrument panel

13 14

20 21 22 23

Fuse panel

Fuse rating

15A

y Heater fan

15A

y Heater fan

15A

y Power door lock
y Remote keyless entry

15A

y Power outlet (front)
y Remote controlled rear view mirrors

10A

y Tail light
y Parking light

15A

y SRS airbag

15A

y Fog light

30A

y ABS

15A

y Radio

10A

—

15A

y Engine ignition system
y SRS airbag
y AT control system

10A

y Illumination brightness control

20A

y Wiper deicer
y Outside mirror defogger

10A

y Meter

C00000

Circuit

Specifications 12-7

Fuse panel

Fuse rating

Circuit

30A

y Windshield wiper and washer

20A

y Brake light

15A

y Air conditioner

15A

y Backup light
y Cruise control

15A

y Power outlet (cargo)

15A

y Rear window wiper and washer

15A

y Ignition coil (Non-turbo model only)

15A

y Seat heater

Empty

– CONTINUED –

12-8 Specifications
Fuse panel located in the engine compartment

10 11 12 13

Fuse panel

Fuse rating

Circuit

30A

y Radiator cooling fan (Main)

30A

y Radiator cooling fan (Sub)

30A

y ABS motor

30A

y Engine sensor (Non-turbo models
only)

6
5

B
4
1 2

20A

y Rear window defogger

15A

y Hazard warning flasher
y Horn

15A

y Turn signal lights

10A

y Automatic transmission control unit

10A

y Alternator

15A

y Headlight (right side)

15A

y Headlight (left side)

20A

y Lighting switch

15A

y Clock
y Interior light

10A

y Secondary air combination valve

C00105

A) FWD socket
B) Main fuse

(Turbo models only)

Specifications 12-9

Bulb chart
Description
Headlight
High beam
Low beam
Canada-spec. 2.5XT
All except Canadaspec. 2.5XT
Front fog light
Front turn signal light
Parking light
Side marker light (Front)
Rear combination light
Tail/stop light
Turn signal light
Tail/stop light
Backup light
High mount stop light
License plate light
Cargo area light
Dome light
Map light

Wattage

Bulb type

12V-60W

9005 (HB3)

12V-35W
12V-55W

D2R
H1

12V-51W
12V-21W
12V-5W
12V-5W

9006 (HB4)
1474
168
168

12V-21/5W
12V-21W (Amber)
12V-21/5W
12V-16W
12V-13W
12V-5W
12V-15W
12V-8W
12V-8W

7443
1474
7443
921
912
168
–
–
–

12-10 Specifications
Vehicle identification
2

1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
9)

5
6

9
8

C00112

Vehicle identification number
Emission control label
Vehicle identification number plate
Tire inflation pressure plate
Certification plate
Bar cord label (U.S. only)
Model number plate
Radio noise label (Canada only)
Fuel label

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects
Tire information ..................................................

13-2

Tire labeling ............................................................. 13-2
Recommended tire inflation pressure .................. 13-5
Glossary of tire terminology .................................. 13-6
Tire care – maintenance and safety practices ..... 13-7
Vehicle load limit – how to determine ................... 13-8
Determining compatibility of tire and vehicle
load capacities ...................................................... 13-10
Adverse safety consequences of overloading
on handling and stopping and on tires .............. 13-11
Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit ........... 13-11

Uniform tire quality grading standards ............ 13-12
Treadwear ................................................................ 13-12
Traction AA, A, B, C ................................................ 13-12
Temperature A, B, C ............................................... 13-12

Reporting safety defects (USA) ......................... 13-13

13-2 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects
For U.S.A.
The following information has been compiled according to Code of Federal Regulations “Title 49, Part 575”.
Consumer information and Reporting safety defects

Tire information
Tire labeling
Many markings (e.g. Tire size, Tire
Identification Number or TIN) are
placed on the sidewall of a tire by tire
manufacturers. These marking can
provide you with useful information on
the tire.
T Tire size

Your vehicle comes equipped with PMetric tire size. It is important to understand the sizing system in selecting the proper tire for your vehicles.
Here is a brief review of the tire sizing
system with a breakdown of its individual elements.
V P Metric

With the P-Metric system, Section
Width is measured in millimeters. To
convert millimeters into inches, divide
by 25.4. The Aspect Ratio (Section
Height divided by Section Width)
helps provide more dimensional information about the tire size.

Example:

(1)

215 / 60 R 16
(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(1) P = Certain tire type used on light
duty vehicles such as passenger cars
(2) Section Width in millimeters
(3) Aspect Ratio (= section height y
section width).
(4) R = Radial Construction
(5) Rim diameter in inches
V Load and Speed Rating Descrip-

tions
The load and speed rating descriptions will appear following the size
designation.
They provide two important facts
about the tire. First, the number designation is its load index. Second, the
letter designation indicates the tire’s
speed rating.
Example:

215 / 60 R 16 94 H
Size designation

(6) (7)

(6) Load Index: A numerical code

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-3

which specifies the maximum load a
tire can carry at the speed indicated
by its speed symbol, at maximum inflation pressure.
For example, “94” means 1,477 lbs
(670 kg).

Load indices apply only to the
tire, not to the vehicle. Putting a
load rated tire on any vehicle
does not mean the vehicle can
be loaded up to the tire’s rated
load.
(7) Speed Rating: An alphabetical
system describing a tire’s capability to
travel at established and predetermined speeds.
For example, “H” means 130 mph
(210 km/h)

y Speed ratings apply only to

the tire, not to the vehicle. Putting a speed rated tire on any
vehicle does not mean the vehicle can be operated at the
tire’s rated speed.
y The speed rating is void if the
tires are worn out, damaged,
repaired, retreaded, or otherwise altered from their original
condition. If tires are repaired,
retreaded, or otherwise altered, they may not be suitable
for original equipment tire designed loads and speeds.
T Tire Identification Number (TIN)

Tire Identification Number (TIN) is
marked on the intended outboard
sidewall. The TIN is composed of four
groups. Here is a brief review of the
TIN with a breakdown of its individual
elements.

DOT XX XX XXX XXXX
(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(1) Manufacturer’s
Identification
Mark
(2) Tire Size
(3) Tire Type Code
(4) Date of Manufacture
The first two figures identify the week,
starting with “01” to represent the first
full week of the calendar year; the
second two figures represent the
year. For example, 0101 means the
1st week of 2001.
T Other markings

The following makings are also
placed on the sidewall.
V Maximum permissible inflation

pressure
The maximum cold inflation pressure
to which this tire may be inflated. For
example, “300 kpa (44 PSI) MAX.
PRESS”
V Maximum load rating

The load rating at the maximum permissible weight load for this tire. For
example, “MAX. LOAD 670 kg (1477
LBS) @ 300 kpa (44 PSI) MAX.
PRESS.”
– CONTINUED –

13-4 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects

Maximum load rating applies
only to the tire, not to the vehicle. Putting a load rated tire on
any vehicle does not mean the
vehicle can be loaded up to the
tire’s rated load.
V Construction type

Applicable construction of this tire.
For example, “TUBELESS STEEL
BELTED RADIAL”
V Construction

The generic name of each cord material used in the plies (both sidewall
and tread area) of this tire.
For example, “PLIES: SIDEWALL
POLYESTER 1 TREAD POLYESTER 1 + STEEL 2 + NYLON 1”
V Uniform Tire Quality Grading

(UTQG)
For details, refer to “Uniform tire quality grading standards” in this chapter.

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-5

Recommended tire inflation pressure
T Recommended cold tire inflation pressure

Recommended cold tire inflation pressure for your vehicle’s tires is as follows,
Tire size

P215/60R16 94H

P215/55R17 93H

16 u 61/2 JJ or 16 u 61/2 J

17 u 7 JJ

Light load

29 psi (200 kPa, 2.0 kgf/cm2)

32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2)

Full load

29 psi (200 kPa, 2.0 kgf/cm2)

32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2)

Light load

28 psi (190 kPa, 1.9 kgf/cm2)

30 psi (210 kPa, 2.1 kgf/cm2)

Full load

36 psi (250 kPa, 2.5 kgf/cm2)

32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2)

Trailer towing

41 psi (280 kPa, 2.8 kgf/cm2)

36 psi (250 kPa, 2.5 kgf/cm2)

Wheel size
Pressure

Front
Rear

Temporary spare tire

Size
Pressure

T135/80D16
60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2)

– CONTINUED –

13-6 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects
T Vehicle placard

The vehicle placard shows original
tire size, recommended cold tire inflation pressure on each tire at maximum loaded vehicle weight, seating
capacity and loading information.
T Adverse safety consequences

800221

The vehicle placard is affixed to the
driver’s side door pillar.
Example:

of under-inflation
Driving at high speeds with excessively low tire pressures can cause
the tires to flex severely and to rapidly
become hot. A sharp increase in temperature could cause tread separation, and failure of the tire(s). Possible
resulting loss of vehicle control could
lead to an accident.
T Measuring and adjusting air

D00115

pressure to achieve proper inflation
Check and, if necessary, adjust the
pressure of each tire (including the
spare) at least once a month and before any long journey. Check the tire
pressures when the tires are cold.
Use a pressure gauge to adjust the
tire pressures to the specific values.
Driving even a short distance warms
up the tires and increases the tire
pressures. Also, the tire pressures

are affected by the outside temperature. It is best to check tire pressure
outdoors before driving the vehicle.
When a tire becomes warm, the air inside it expands, causing the tire pressure to increase. Be careful not to
mistakenly release air from a warm
tire to reduce its pressure.

Glossary of tire terminology
y Cold tire pressure

The pressure in a tire that has been
driven less than 1 mile or has been
standing for three hours or more.
y Maximum inflation pressure
The maximum cold inflation pressure
to which a tire may be inflated.
y Recommended inflation pressure
The cold inflation pressure recommended by a vehicle manufacturer.
y Intended outboard sidewall
1)The sidewall that contains a
whitewall, bears white lettering or
bears manufacturer, brand, and/or
model name molding that is higher
or deeper than the same molding
on the other sidewall of the tire, or
2)The outward facing sidewall of an

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-7

asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that must always face outward when mounting on a vehicle.
y Accessory weight
The combined weight (in excess of
those standard items which may be
replaced) of floor mats, leather seats
and cross bars to the extent that these
items are available as factory-installed equipment (whether installed
or not).
y Curb weight
The weight of a motor vehicle with
standard equipment including the
maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and
coolant and air conditioning.
y Maximum loaded vehicle weight
The sum of curb weight, accessory
weight, vehicle capacity weight and
production options weight.
y Normal occupant weight
150 lbs (68 kg) times the number of
occupants (3 occupants).
y Occupant distribution
Distribution of occupants in a vehicle,
2 in front, 1 in rear seat.
y Production options weight
The combined weight of those installed regular production options

weighing over 5.1 lbs (2.3 kg) in excess of those standards items which
they replace, not previously considered in curb weight or accessory
weight.
y Vehicle capacity weight
The total weight of cargo, luggage
and occupants that can be added to
the vehicle.
y Vehicle maximum load on a tire
Load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its
share of the maximum loaded vehicle
weight and dividing by two.
y Vehicle normal load on a tire
Load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its
share of the curb weight, accessory
weight, and normal occupant weight
and dividing by two.

Tire care – maintenance and
safety practices
y Check on a daily basis that the tires

are free from serious damage, nails,
and stones. At the same time, check
the tires for abnormal wear.
y Inspect the tire tread regularly and
replace the tires before their tread

wear indicators become visible. When
a tire’s tread wear indicator becomes
visible, the tire is worn beyond the acceptable limit and must be replaced
immediately. With a tire in this condition, driving at even low speeds in wet
weather can cause the vehicle to hydroplane. Possible resulting loss of
vehicle control can lead to an accident.
y To maximize the life of each tire and
ensure that the tires wear uniformly, it
is best to rotate the tires every 7,500
miles (12,500 km). Rotating the tires
involves switching the front and rear
tires on the right-hand side of the vehicle and similarly switching the front
and rear tires on the left-hand side of
the vehicle. (Each tire must be kept on
its original side of the vehicle.) Replace any damaged or unevenly worn
tire at the time of rotation. After tire rotation, adjust the tire pressures and
make sure the wheel nuts are correctly tightened. A tightening torque specification and a tightening sequence
specification for the wheel nuts can be
found “Flat tires” in Chapter 9.
– CONTINUED –

13-8 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects
Vehicle load limit – how to determine
The load capacity of your vehicle is
determined by weight, not by available cargo space. The load limit of
your vehicle is shown on the vehicle
placard attached to the driver’s side
B-pillar. Locate the statement “The
combined weight of occupants and
cargo should never exceed XXX kg or
XXX lbs” on your vehicle’s placard.
The vehicle placard also shows seating capacity of your vehicle.
The total load capacity includes the
total weight of driver and all passengers and their belongings, any cargo,
any optional equipment such as a
trailer hitch, roof rack or bike carrier,
etc., and the tongue load of a trailer.
Therefore cargo capacity can be calculated by the following method.
Cargo capacity = Load limit – (total
weight of occupants + total weight of
optional equipment + tongue load of a
trailer (if applicable))
For towing capacity information and
weight limits, refer to “Trailer towing”
in Chapter 8.

T Calculating total and load capac-

ities varying seating configurations
Calculate the available load capacity
as shown in the following examples:
Example 1A

1. Calculate the total weight.

Total weight
= 154 lbs (70 kg) + 662 lbs (300 kg)
(Occupant)
(Cargo)
= 816 lbs (370 kg)
2. Calculate the available load capacity by subtracting the total weight from
the vehicle capacity weight of 900 lbs
(408 kg).

D00106

Vehicle capacity weight of the vehicle
is 900 lbs (408 kg), which is indicated
on the vehicle placard with the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed
900 lbs or 408 kg”.
For example, if the vehicle has one
occupant weighing 154 lbs (70 kg)
plus cargo weighing 662 lbs (300 kg).

3. The result of step 2 shows that a
further 84 lbs (38 kg) of cargo can be
carried.

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-9

2. Calculate the available load capacity.

Example 1B

D00107

For example, if a person weighing 176
lbs (80 kg) now enters the same vehicle (bringing the number of occupants
to two), the calculations are as follows:

3. The total weight now exceeds the
capacity weight by 92 lbs (42 kg), so
the cargo weight must be reduced by
92 lbs (42 kg) or more.

For example, the vehicle has one occupant weighing 165 lbs (75 kg) plus
cargo weighing 375 lbs (170 kg). In
addition, the vehicle is fitted with a
trailer hitch weighing 22 lbs (10 kg), to
which is attached a trailer weighing
1,764 lbs (800 kg). 10% of the trailer
weight is applied to the trailer tongue
(i.e. Tongue load = 176 lbs (80 kg)).

Example 2A

1. Calculate the total weight.

Total weight
= 165 lbs (75 kg) + 375 lbs (170 kg)
(Occupant)
(Cargo)

1. Calculate the total weight.

+ 22 lbs (10 kg) + 176 lbs (80 kg)
(Tongue load)
(Trailer hitch)

Total weight
= 154 lbs (70 kg) + 176 lbs (80 kg)
(Occupant)
+ 662 lbs (300 kg)
(Cargo)
= 992 lbs (450 kg)

on the vehicle placard with the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed
408 kg or 900 lbs”.

= 738 lbs (335 kg)
D00108

2. Calculate the available load capacity.

Vehicle capacity weight of the vehicle
is 900 lbs (408 kg), which is indicated
– CONTINUED –

13-10 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects
the vehicle for the child to use, the calculations are as follows:
1. Calculate the total weight.

3. The result of step 2 shows that a
further 162 lbs (73 kg) of cargo can be
carried.
Example 2B

Total weight
= 165 lbs (75 kg) + 143 lbs (65 kg)
(Occupant)
+ 40 lbs (18 kg)
(Occupant)
+ 11 lbs (5 kg) + 375 lbs (170 kg)
(Child restraint)
(Cargo)
+ 22 lbs (10 kg) + 176 lbs (80 kg)
(Trailer hitch)
(Tongue load)
= 932 lbs (423 kg)
2. Calculate the available load capacity.

D00109

For example, if a person weighing 143
lbs (65 kg) and a child weighing 40 lbs
(18 kg) now enter the same vehicle
(bringing the number of occupants to
three), and a child restraint system
weighing 11 lbs (5 kg) is installed in

3. The total weight now exceeds the

capacity weight by 32 lbs (15 kg), so
the cargo weight must be reduced by
32 lbs (15 kg) or more.

Determining compatibility of
tire and vehicle load capacities
The sum of four tires’ maximum load
ratings must exceed the maximum
loaded vehicle weight (“GVWR”). In
addition, sum of the maximum load
ratings of two front tires and of two
rear tires must exceed each axle’s
maximum loaded capacity (“GAWR”).
Original equipment tires are designed
to fulfill those conditions.
The maximum loaded vehicle weight
is referred to Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating (GVWR). And each axle’s
maximum loaded capacity is referred
to Gross Axle Weight Rating
(GAWR). The GVWR and each axle’s
GAWR are shown on the vehicle certification label affixed to the driver’s
door.
The GVWR and front and rear
GAWRs are determined by not only
the maximum load rating of tires but
also loaded capacities of the vehicle’s

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-11

suspension, axles and other parts of
the body.
Therefore, this means that the vehicle
cannot necessarily be loaded up to
the tire’s maximum load rating on the
tire sidewall.

Adverse safety consequences of overloading on handling
and stopping and on tires
Overloading could affect vehicle handling, stopping distance, vehicle and
tire as shown in the following. This
could lead to an accident and possibly
result in severe personal injury.
y Vehicle stability will deteriorate.
y Heavy and/or high-mounted loads
could increase the risk of rollover.
y Stopping distance will increase.
y Brakes could overheat and fail.
y Suspension, bearings, axles and
other parts of the body could break or
experience accelerated wear that will
shorten vehicle life.
y Tires could fail.
y Tread separation could occur.
y Tire could separate from its rim.

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit
1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo
should never exceed XXX pounds” on
your vehicle’s placard.
2. Determine the combined weight of
the driver and passengers that will be
riding in your vehicle.
3. Subtract the combined weight of
the driver and passengers from XXX
kilograms or XXX pounds.
4. The resulting figure equals the
available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if
the “XXX” amount equals 1,400 lbs
(635kg). and there will be five- 150 lbs
(68 kg) passengers in your vehicle,
the amount of available cargo and
luggage load capacity is 650 lbs.
(1,400 – 750 (5 u 150) = 650 lbs)
5. Determine the combined weight of
luggage and cargo being loaded on
the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step
4.
6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be trans-

ferred to your vehicle. Consult this
manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage
load capacity of your vehicle.

13-12 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects
Uniform tire quality grading
standards
This information indicates the relative
performance of passenger car tires in
the area of treadwear, traction, and
temperature resistance. This is to aid
the consumer in making an informed
choice in the purchase of tires.
Quality grades can be found where
applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum
section width. For example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A
The quality grades apply to new pneumatic tires for use on passenger cars.
However, they do not apply to deep
tread, winter type snow tires, spacesaver or temporary use spare tires,
tires with nominal rim diameters of 12
inches or less, or to some limited production tires.
All passenger car tires must confirm
to Federal Safety Requirements in
addition to these grades.

Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative
rating based on the wear rate of the
tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test
course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would
wear one and one-half (1-1/2) times
as well on the government course as
a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however,
and may depart significantly from the
norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences
in road characteristics and climate.

Traction AA, A, B, C
The traction grades, from highest to
lowest, are AA, A, B and C. Those
grades represent the tire’s ability to
stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.

The traction grade assigned to
this tire is based on straightahead braking traction tests,
and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or
peak traction characteristics.

Temperature A, B, C
The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B, and C, representing the
tire’s resistance to the generation of
heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire
to degenerate and reduce tire life, and
excessive temperature can lead to
sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance
which all passenger car tires must
meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle
Safety Standards No. 109. Grades B
and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel
than the minimum required by law.

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-13

The temperature grade for this
tire is established for a tire that
is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading,
either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and
possible tire failure.

Reporting safety defects
(USA)
If you believe that your vehicle has
a defect which could cause a
crash or could cause injury or
death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA) in
addition to notifying Subaru of
America, Inc.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it
may order a recall and remedy
campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual
problems between you, your dealer, or Subaru of America, Inc. To
contact NHTSA, you may call the
Vehicle Safety Hotline toll-free at
1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-4249153); go to
http://www.safercar.gov; or write
to: Administrator, NHTSA, 400
Seventh Street, SW., Washington,

DC 20590. You can also obtain
other information about motor vehicle safety from
http://www.safercar.gov.

Index

14-2 Index
A
ABS .................................................................................. 7-16
Warning light ....................................................... 3-13, 7-17
Accessory power outlets .................................................... 6-8
Active head restraint ........................................................... 1-6
Air cleaner element ........................................................ 11-15
Air filtration system ........................................................... 4-12
Alarm system .................................................................... 2-12
All-Wheel Drive warning light (AT vehicles) ..................... 3-15
Aluminum wheel ............................................................. 11-35
Aluminum wheel cleaning ................................................. 10-3
Antenna system ................................................................. 5-2
Anti-lock brake system warning light (ABS) ............ 3-13, 7-16
Arming the system ............................................................ 2-13
Armrest ...................................................................... 1-10, 6-4
Ashtray (Canada only, if equipped) ......................... 6-11, 10-5
Audio set ............................................................................ 5-3
Auto-dimming mirror/compass ......................................... 3-26
Automatic climate control system ....................................... 4-8
Automatic transmission .................................................... 7-10
Capacities .................................................................... 12-4
Fluid ........................................................................... 11-20
Selector lever ............................................................... 7-11
Shift lock release ......................................................... 7-14
Temperature warning (AT OIL TEMP) ......................... 3-12
Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor (A/ELR) ........... 1-12
B
Battery ............................................................................ 11-40
Jump starting ................................................................. 9-7
Replacing (remote keyless entry) .................................. 2-8

Brake
Booster ...................................................................... 11-27
Fluid ........................................................................... 11-25
Pad and lining ............................................................ 11-29
Parking ....................................................................... 11-30
Pedal .......................................................................... 11-27
System ......................................................................... 7-16
Warning light ................................................................ 3-13
Brake pedal .................................................................... 11-27
Free play .................................................................... 11-27
Reserve distance ....................................................... 11-27
Braking ............................................................................. 7-15
Braking tips ....................................................................... 7-15
Breaking-in of new brake pads and linings ..................... 11-29
Bulb
Chart ............................................................................ 12-9
Replacing ................................................................... 11-44
C
Capacities ......................................................................... 12-4
Cargo area cover (if equipped) ......................................... 6-13
Cargo area light .................................................................. 6-2
Cargo tie-down hooks ....................................................... 6-14
Center console ................................................................... 6-4
Charge warning light ......................................................... 3-12
CHECK ENGINE warning light/Malfunction indicator lamp 3-11
Child restraint systems ..................................................... 1-24
Installation with seatbelt ............................................... 1-27
Top tether anchorages ................................................. 1-34
Child safety ............................................................................ 5
Child safety locks .............................................................. 2-17

Index 14-3

Chime
Key ................................................................................ 3-5
Seatbelt ................................................................ 1-12, 3-9
Clock ................................................................................ 3-16
Clutch (MT)
Fluid ........................................................................... 11-26
Pedal ......................................................................... 11-28
Coat hook ......................................................................... 6-12
Coolant ........................................................................... 11-12
Cooling system ............................................................... 11-11
Corrosion protection ................................................ 8-10, 10-3
Cruise control ................................................................... 7-22
Cruise control indicator light ............................................. 3-15
Cup holders ........................................................................ 6-7
D
Dashboard storage compartment ....................................... 6-6
Daytime running light system ........................................... 3-18
Differential gear oil
Front (AT vehicles) .................................................... 11-21
Rear ........................................................................... 11-22
Dimensions ....................................................................... 12-2
Disarming the system ....................................................... 2-14
Disc brake pad wear warning indicators ........................... 7-16
Dome light .......................................................................... 6-2
Door locks .......................................................................... 2-4
Door open warning light ................................................... 3-14
Drive belt ........................................................................ 11-18
Driving
Car phone/cell phone ....................................................... 7
Drinking ............................................................................ 6
Drugs ................................................................................ 6

Foreign countries ........................................................... 8-4
Pets ................................................................................... 7
Snowy and icy roads ...................................................... 8-9
Tired or sleepy .................................................................. 7
Driving tips ................................................................. 7-10, 8-5
E
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) system ........... 7-18
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) ................................ 1-11
Engine
Compartment overview ................................................ 11-6
Coolant ....................................................................... 11-12
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ................................... 8-2
Hood ............................................................................ 11-4
Oil ................................................................................. 11-8
Overheating ................................................................. 9-10
Starting ........................................................................... 7-7
Stopping ......................................................................... 7-8
Exterior care ..................................................................... 10-2
F
Flat tires .............................................................................. 9-3
Floor mat ........................................................................... 6-12
Fluid level
Automatic transmission .............................................. 11-20
Brake .......................................................................... 11-25
Clutch (MT vehicles) .................................................. 11-26
Power steering ........................................................... 11-23
Front differential gear oil (AT vehicles) ........................... 11-21
Front fog light button ......................................................... 3-20
Front seatbelt pretensioners ............................................. 1-21

14-4 Index
Front seats ......................................................................... 1-2
Fore and aft adjustment .......................................... 1-3, 1-4
Reclining ................................................................. 1-3, 1-5
Fuel .................................................................................... 7-2
Economy hints ............................................................... 8-2
Filler lid and cap ............................................................ 7-3
Requirements ................................................................ 7-2
Fuses ............................................................................. 11-41
Fuses and circuits ............................................................ 12-6
G
GAWR .............................................................................. 8-12
Glove box ........................................................................... 6-4
Gross Axle Weight Rating ................................................ 8-12
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating ........................................... 8-12
GVWR .............................................................................. 8-12
H
Hazard warning flasher ...................................................... 3-6
Head restraint adjustment .................................................. 1-6
Headlight
Beam leveler ................................................................ 3-20
Flasher ........................................................................ 3-18
Headlights ........................................................................ 3-17
Heater operation ................................................................ 4-5
High beam indicator light .................................................. 3-15
Hill holder .............................................................. 7-21, 11-28
Horn ................................................................................. 3-29

I
Ignition switch ..................................................................... 3-3
Illuminated entry ................................................................. 2-8
Illumination brightness control .......................................... 3-19
Immobilizer indicator light ................................................... 2-3
Indicator light ...................................................................... 3-9
Inside mirror ...................................................................... 3-25
Interior lights ....................................................................... 6-2
J
Jack and jack handle ........................................................ 9-14
Jump starting ...................................................................... 9-7
K
Key
Number ..........................................................................
Reminder chime .............................................................
Key interlock release (AT vehicles) ....................................
Keys ....................................................................................

2-2
3-5
3-5
2-2

L
Leather seat materials ...................................................... 10-5
Light control switch ........................................................... 3-17
Limited slip differential (LSD) ............................................ 7-15
Loading your vehicle ......................................................... 8-11
Low fuel warning light ....................................................... 3-14
Lower and tether anchorages ........................................... 1-32
LSD (Limited slip differential) ............................................ 7-15
Lumbar support (Drivers seat only) .................................... 1-5

Index 14-5

M
Main fuse ........................................................................ 11-42
Maintenance
Precautions .................................................................. 11-3
Schedule ...................................................................... 11-3
Seatbelt ....................................................................... 1-19
Tools ............................................................................ 9-14
Malfunction indicator lamp ................................................ 3-11
Manual
Climate control system .................................................. 4-3
Seat ............................................................................... 1-3
Transmission ................................................................. 7-9
Transmission oil ......................................................... 11-18
Map lights ........................................................................... 6-3
Maximum load limits ......................................................... 8-18
Meters and gauges ............................................................. 3-6
Mirrors .............................................................................. 3-25
Moonroof ................................................................. 2-21, 9-13
N
New vehicle break-in driving ............................................... 8-2
O
Odometer/Trip meter .......................................................... 3-6
Off road driving ................................................................... 8-6
Oil filter ............................................................................. 11-8
Oil level
Engine ......................................................................... 11-8
Manual transmission .................................................. 11-18
Rear differential ......................................................... 11-22
Oil pressure warning light ................................................. 3-12

Outside mirrors ................................................................. 3-27
Outside temperature indicator ............................................ 3-8
Overhead console ............................................................... 6-6
P
Parking brake ......................................................... 7-20, 11-30
Stroke ......................................................................... 11-30
Parking light switch ........................................................... 3-20
Parking your vehicle ......................................................... 7-19
Periodic inspections ............................................................ 8-4
Pocket ................................................................................. 6-7
Power
Door locking switches .................................................... 2-6
Seat ................................................................................ 1-4
Steering ........................................................................ 7-15
Steering fluid level ...................................................... 11-23
Windows ...................................................................... 2-18
R
Rear
Combination lights ..................................................... 11-47
Differential gear oil level ............................................. 11-22
Gate .................................................................... 2-20, 9-13
Seats .............................................................................. 1-7
Viscous limited slip differential (LSD) ........................... 7-15
Rear window
Defogger button ........................................................... 3-24
Wiper and washer switch ............................................. 3-23
Wiper blade ................................................................ 11-38
Remote keyless entry system ............................................. 2-6

14-6 Index
Replacing
Air cleaner element .................................................... 11-15
Battery (remote keyless entry) ....................................... 2-8
Bulbs ......................................................................... 11-44
Transmitters ................................................................... 2-9
Rocking the vehicle .......................................................... 8-11
Roof rail and crossbar ...................................................... 8-13
S
Safety
Precautions when driving .................................................. 4
Symbol .............................................................................. 2
Warnings ........................................................................... 2
Seat height adjustment (drivers seat) ................................. 1-4
Seatbelt .................................................................................. 4
Extender ...................................................................... 1-20
Maintenance ................................................................ 1-19
Pretensioners .............................................................. 1-21
Safety tips .................................................................... 1-10
Warning light and chime ....................................... 1-12, 3-9
Seatbelts .......................................................................... 1-10
Seats
Fabric .......................................................................... 10-4
Heater ............................................................................ 1-7
Selector lever (AT vehicles) ............................................. 7-11
Self-leveling rear suspension ........................................... 7-25
Shift lock release .............................................................. 7-14
Shift position indicator ...................................................... 3-15
Shopping bag hook .......................................................... 6-14
Snow tires ........................................................................ 8-10
Snowy and icy roads .......................................................... 8-9
Spark plugs .................................................................... 11-17

Specifications ................................................................... 12-2
Speedometer ...................................................................... 3-6
SRS
Airbag system warning light ......................................... 3-10
Frontal airbag ............................................................... 1-40
Side airbag ................................................................... 1-52
SRS airbag (Supplemental Restraint System airbag) ... 4, 1-36
Steering wheel
Power ........................................................................... 7-15
Tilt wheel ...................................................................... 3-28
Storage compartments ....................................................... 6-4
Sun visors ........................................................................... 6-3
Supplemental Restraint System airbag ............................ 1-36
Synthetic leather upholstery ............................................. 10-5
T
Tachometer ........................................................................ 3-7
Temperature gauge ............................................................ 3-8
Temperature warning (AT OIL TEMP) .............................. 3-12
Tie-down hooks ................................................................ 9-11
Tilt steering wheel ............................................................. 3-28
Tire
Chains .......................................................................... 8-10
Inspection .................................................................. 11-30
Pressures and wear ................................................... 11-31
Replacement .............................................................. 11-34
Rotation ..................................................................... 11-34
Types ......................................................................... 11-30
Top tether anchorages ..................................................... 1-34
Towing .............................................................................. 9-10
All wheels on the ground ............................................. 9-12
Flat-bed truck ............................................................... 9-12

Index 14-7

Trailer
Connecting .................................................................. 8-16
Hitch ................................................................... 8-16, 8-21
Towing ......................................................................... 8-18
Towing tips .................................................................. 8-23
Turn signal indicator lights ................................................ 3-15
Turn signal lever ............................................................... 3-19
U
Under-floor storage compartment ..................................... 6-15
V
Valet mode ....................................................................... 2-15
Vanity mirror ....................................................................... 6-3
Vehicle
Capacity weight ........................................................... 8-12
Identification .............................................................. 12-10
Symbols ............................................................................ 3
Ventilator ............................................................................ 4-2
W
Warning and indicator lights ............................................... 3-9
Warning lights
ABS ............................................................................. 3-13
All-Wheel Drive ............................................................ 3-15
Anti-lock Brake system ................................................ 3-13
AT OIL TEMPerature ................................................... 3-12
Brake system ............................................................... 3-13
Charge ......................................................................... 3-12
CHECK ENGINE ......................................................... 3-11
Door open .................................................................... 3-14

Low fuel ........................................................................ 3-14
Oil pressure .................................................................. 3-12
Seatbelt ................................................................. 1-12, 3-9
SRS airbag system ...................................................... 3-10
Warranties and maintenance ............................................ 8-18
Washing ............................................................................ 10-2
Waxing and polishing ........................................................ 10-3
Wear indicators ............................................................... 11-33
Wheel
Alignment ..................................................................... 12-5
Aluminum ................................................................... 11-35
Balance ...................................................................... 11-32
Replacement .............................................................. 11-35
Windows ........................................................................... 2-18
Windshield
Washer fluid ............................................................... 11-35
Wiper and washer switches ......................................... 3-22
Wiper deicer ................................................................. 3-24
Windshield wiper blades
Replacement .............................................................. 11-37
Winter driving ...................................................................... 8-7
Wiper and washer ............................................................. 3-21

13
12

9
000134

GAS STATION REFERENCE
Fuel:

(AKI). Refer to “Fuel” section in this manual.

T Non-turbo models
Use only unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 AKI or
higher.

Fuel capacity:

T Turbo models
Use premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 AKI or
higher. If premium unleaded gasoline is not available, regular unleaded gasoline with octane rating of 87 AKI or higher may be temporarily used. For optimum engine performance and driveability, it
is required that you use premium grade unleaded gasoline.

Engine oil:

Fuel octane rating
This octane rating is the average of the Research Octane and Motor numbers and is commonly referred to as the Anti Knock Index

15.9 US gal (60 liters, 13.2 Imp gal)

Use only API classification SM with the words “ENERGY CONSERVING” and the ILSAC certification mark (starburst mark) displayed on the container (ILSAC GF-4).

Engine oil capacity:
4.2 US qt (4.0 liters, 3.5 Imp qt)

Cold tire pressure:
Tire size

P215/60R16 94H
16 u

Wheel size
Pressure

Front
Rear

Temporary spare tire

Size
Pressure

61/

JJ or 16 u

61/

P215/55R17 93H
2

17 u 7 JJ

Light load

29 psi (200 kPa, 2.0 kgf/cm2)

32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2)

Full load

29 psi (200 kPa, 2.0 kgf/cm2)

32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2)

Light load

28 psi (190 kPa, 1.9 kgf/cm2)

30 psi (210 kPa, 2.1 kgf/cm2)

Full load

36 psi (250 kPa, 2.5 kgf/cm2)

32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2)

Trailer towing

41 psi (280 kPa, 2.8 kgf/cm2)

36 psi (250 kPa, 2.5 kgf/cm2)

T135/80D16
60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2)

NOTE
For the Canada specification non-turbo models, there is a conventional tire installed under the floor of the cargo area.

Source Exif Data:

File Type                       : PDF
File Type Extension             : pdf
MIME Type                       : application/pdf
PDF Version                     : 1.6
Linearized                      : Yes
Create Date                     : 2013:05:16 16:23:27-04:00
Modify Date                     : 2013:05:16 16:23:27-04:00
XMP Toolkit                     : Adobe XMP Core 5.2-c001 63.139439, 2010/09/27-13:37:26
Metadata Date                   : 2013:05:16 16:23:27-04:00
Format                          : application/pdf
Document ID                     : uuid:f41666ac-98ec-4083-a1f3-c7b6c45d624d
Instance ID                     : uuid:5dc78e2e-fb82-4a42-9402-5edecd10eb1c
Page Count                      : 356

EXIF Metadata provided by EXIF.tools

Subaru 2007 Forester 2 5X Owners Manual

Navigation menu

Versions of this User Manual:

Views

Navigation