Subaru Forester (2019 year). Instruction

(314,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

N (Neutral)

This position is for restarting a stalled
engine. In this position, the transmission is
neutral, meaning that the wheels and
transmission are not locked. Therefore,
the vehicle will roll freely, even on the
slightest incline unless the parking brake
or foot brake is applied.

Avoid coasting with the transmission in
neutral. Engine braking has no effect in
this condition.

WARNING

Do not drive the vehicle with the
select lever in the “N” (neutral)
position. Engine braking has no
effect in this condition and the risk
of an accident is consequently in-
creased.

NOTE

If the select lever is in the “N” position
when you stop the engine for parking,
you may not subsequently be able to
move it to the “R” and “P” positions. If
this happens, turn the ignition switch to
the “ON” position. You will then be able
to move the select lever to the “P”
position.

D (Drive)

This position is for normal driving. The
transmission shifts automatically and con-
tinuously into a suitable gear according to
the vehicle speed and the acceleration you
require. Also, while driving up and down a
hill, the transmission assists and controls
the driving performance and engine brak-
ing while corresponding to the road grade.

When more acceleration is required in the
“D” position, depress the accelerator pedal
fully to the floor and hold that position. The
transmission will automatically downshift.
In this case, the transmission will operate
like a conventional automatic transmis-
sion. When you release the pedal, the
transmission will return to the original gear
position.

For models with instruction mode, if one of the
shift paddles behind the steering wheel is
operated while driving in the “D” position,

the transmission will temporarily switch to
the instruction mode. In this mode, you can
shift into any gear position using the shift
paddles. For details about the instruction
mode, refer to “Selection of manual mode”
FP312. Once the vehicle speed stabi-
lizes, the transmission will switch from the
manual mode back to the “D” position for
normal driving.

Selection of instruction mode (if
equipped)

Type A

Continuously variable transmission

312

(315,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

Type B

With the vehicle either moving or station-
ary, move the select lever from the “D”
position to the “M” position to select the
instruction mode.

Select lever/gear position indicator (type
A)
1)

Upshift indicator

Downshift indicator

Gear position indicator

Select lever/gear position indicator (type
B)
1)

Upshift indicator

Downshift indicator

Gear position indicator

When the instruction mode is selected, the
gear position indicator and upshift indica-
tor and/or downshift indicator on the
combination meter illuminate.

The gear position indicator shows the
currently selected gear in the following
range.
.

1st-to-7th-gear range

The upshift and downshift indicators show
when a gear shift is possible. When the
upshift indicator “

” illuminates, upshift-

ing is possible. When the downshift in-
dicator “

” illuminates, downshifting is

– CONTINUED –

Continuously variable transmission

313

Starting

and

operating

(316,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

possible. When both indicators illuminate,
upshifting and downshifting are both pos-
sible. When the vehicle stops (for exam-
ple, at traffic signals), the downshift in-
dicator turns off.

Gearshifts can be performed using the
shift paddle behind the steering wheel.

To upshift to the next higher gear position,
pull the shift paddle that has “+” indicated
on it. To downshift to the next lower gear
position, pull the shift paddle that has “–”
indicated on it.

To deselect the instruction mode, return the
select lever to the “D” position from the “M”
position.

CAUTION

Do not place or hang anything on the
shift paddles. Doing so may result in
accidental gear shifting.

NOTE

Please read the following points care-
fully and bear them in mind when using
the instruction mode.
.

If you attempt to shift down when the

engine speed is too high, i.e., when a
downshift would push the tachometer
needle beyond the red zone, beeps will
be emitted to warn you that the down-
shift is not possible.
.

If you attempt to shift up when the

vehicle speed is too low, the transmis-
sion will not respond.
.

You can perform a skip-shift (for

example, from 4th to 2nd) by operating
the shift paddle twice in rapid succes-
sion.
.

The transmission automatically se-

lects 1st gear when the vehicle stops
moving.
.

If the temperature of the transmis-

sion fluid becomes too high, the “AT
OIL TEMP” warning light on the combi-
nation meter will illuminate. Immedi-
ately stop the vehicle in a safe location

and let the engine idle until the warning
light turns off.
.

For models with SI-DRIVE, by select-

ing Sport Sharp (S#) mode, upshifting
will not occur automatically. According
to the road conditions, shift change
instructionly so that the tachometer needle
does not enter the red zone. Also, if the
engine revolutions reach the specified
number, the fuel supply will be cut. In
this case, perform shift up operation.

Selection of “L” (if equipped)

Type A

Continuously variable transmission

314

(317,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

Type B

“L” is for using engine braking when going
down a hill, etc. To select this mode, move
the select lever from the “D” position to the
“L” position.

When selected, the indicator “L” will

illuminate on the combination meter.

To deselect “L”, move the select lever to
the “D” position.

Shift lock function

The shift lock function helps prevent the
improper operation of the select lever.
.

The select lever cannot be operated

unless the ignition switch is turned to the
“ON” position and the brake pedal is
depressed.
.

The select lever cannot be moved from

the “P” position to any other position before
the brake pedal is depressed. Depress the
brake pedal first, and then operate the
select lever.
.

Only the “P” position allows you to turn

the ignition switch from the “ACC” position
to the “LOCK”/“OFF” position and remove
the key from the ignition switch.
.

If the ignition switch is turned to the

“LOCK”/“OFF” position while the select
lever is in the “N” position, the select lever
may not be moved to the “P” position after
a period of time. Therefore, move the
select lever to the “P” position with the
brake pedal depressed soon after the
ignition switch is turned to the “LOCK”/
“OFF” position.

Shift lock release

If the select lever cannot be operated, turn
the ignition switch back to the “ON”
position then move the select lever to the
“P” position with the select lever button
pressed and brake pedal depressed.

If the select lever does not move after
performing the above procedure, perform
the following steps.
.

When the select lever cannot be

shifted from “P” to “N”:
Refer to “Shift lock release using the shift
lock release button” FP316.
.

When the select lever cannot be

shifted from “N” to “R”, “P”:
Within 60 seconds after placing the ignition
switch in the “ACC” position, move the
select lever to the “P” position with the
select lever button pressed and brake
pedal depressed.

If you must perform the above procedure,
the shift lock system (or the vehicle control
system) may be malfunctioning. Contact a
SUBARU dealer for an inspection as soon
as possible.

If the select lever does not move after
performing the above procedure, refer to
“Shift lock release using the shift lock
release button” FP316.

– CONTINUED –

Continuously variable transmission

315

Starting

and

operating

(318,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

Shift lock release using the shift
lock release button

Perform the following procedure to release
the shift lock.
1. Apply the parking brake and stop the
engine.

2. Wrap the tip of a flat-head screwdriver
with vinyl tape or a cloth and use it to
remove the shift lock cover. The shift lock
release button is located under the shift
lock cover.

3. While depressing the brake pedal,
insert a screwdriver into the hole, press
the shift lock release button using a
screwdriver, and then move the select
lever.

If the select lever does not move after
performing the above procedure, the shift
lock system may be malfunctioning. Con-
tact a SUBARU dealer for an inspection as
soon as possible.

Driving tips

CAUTION

If the accelerator and brake pedals
are depressed at the same time,
driving torque may be restrained.
This is not a malfunction.

Always apply the foot or parking brake

when the vehicle is stopped in the “D” or
“R” position.
.

Make sure to apply the parking brake

when parking your vehicle. Do not hold the
vehicle with only the mechanical friction of
the transmission.
.

Do not keep the vehicle in a stationary

position on an uphill grade by using the “D”
position. Use the brake instead.
.

The engine may, on rare occasions,

knock when the vehicle rapidly acceler-
ates or rapidly pulls away from a standstill.
This phenomenon does not indicate a
malfunction.

Continuously variable transmission

316

(319,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

7-8. SI-DRIVE

SI-DRIVE (SUBARU Intelligent Drive)
works to maximize engine performance,
control and efficiency.
This system consists of two modes:
Intelligent (I), Sport (S), and Sport Sharp
(S#). By operating the SI-DRIVE switches,
the character of the power unit changes.

Intelligent (I) mode

For smooth, efficient performance
driving

The linear acceleration characteristic of
the Intelligent (I) mode is ideal for normal
driving usage.
The Intelligent (I) mode provides well-
balanced performance with greater fuel

efficiency and smooth driveability without
stress. Power delivery is moderate during
acceleration for maximum fuel efficiency.
This is ideal for around-town driving and
situations that do not require full power
output. It provides better control in difficult
driving conditions, such as slippery roads
or loose surfaces, due to gentler throttle
response.

Sport (S) mode

For all-around performance driving

The Sport (S) mode provides the engine
power desired by those who want to make
the driving experience their own personal
adventure.

Sport Sharp (S#) mode

For maximum performance driving

For sports-minded drivers, the Sport
Sharp (S#) mode offers an exhilarating
level of engine performance and control.
The throttle becomes more responsive
regardless of the engine speed. Delivering
maximum driving enjoyment, this mode is
ideal for tackling twisting roads and for
merging or overtaking other vehicles on
the freeway with confidence.

– CONTINUED –

SI-DRIVE

317

Starting

and

operating

(320,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

SI-DRIVE switches

Type A SI-DRIVE switches

Type B SI-DRIVE switches

To select the Intelligent (I) mode, press

the “I” switch.
.

To select the Sport (S) mode, press the

“S” switch.
.

To select the Sport Sharp (S#) mode,

press the “S#” switch.

NOTE

While the engine is cool, you cannot

change to Sport Sharp (S#) mode.
.

The next time you turn on the engine,

after you turned off the engine in the
Sport (S) mode or Sport Sharp (S#)
mode, the SI-DRIVE mode changes to
the Intelligent (I) mode.
.

While the engine is running, if the

CHECK ENGINE warning light/malfunc-
tion indicator light illuminates, the SI-
DRIVE mode changes to the Sport (S)
mode (type A) or Sport Sharp (S#) mode
(type B). In this case, it is not possible
to change to another mode.
.

If any of the SI-DRIVE indicators

blink, the SI-DRIVE system may be
malfunctioning. Contact your SUBARU
dealer.

7-9. Power steering

Power steering warning light

Power steering system fea-
tures

The vehicle is equipped with an electric
power steering system. When the ignition
switch is turned to the “ON” position, the
power steering warning light on the com-
bination meter illuminates to inform the
driver that the warning system is function-
ing properly. Then, if the engine started,
the warning light turns off to inform the
driver that the steering power assist is
operational.

Power steering

318

(321,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

CAUTION

When the power steering warning
light is illuminated, there may be
more resistance when the steering
wheel is operated. Drive carefully to
the nearest SUBARU dealer and
have the vehicle inspected immedi-
ately.

NOTE

If the steering wheel is operated in the
following ways, the power steering
control system may temporarily limit
the power assist in order to prevent the
system components, such as the con-
trol computer and drive motor, from
overheating.
.

The steering wheel is operated fre-

quently and turned sharply while the
vehicle is maneuvered at extremely low
speeds, such as while frequently turn-
ing the steering wheel during parallel
parking.
.

The steering wheel remains in the

fully turned position for a long period of
time.

At this time, there will be more resis-
tance when steering. However, this is
not a malfunction. Normal steering
force will be restored after the steering

wheel is not operated for a while and
the power steering control system has
an opportunity to cool down. However,
if the power steering is operated in a
non-standard way which causes power
assist limitation to occur too frequently,
this may result in a malfunction of the
power steering control system.

7-10. Braking

Braking tips

WARNING

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.

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.

Use of engine braking

Remember to make use of engine braking
in addition to foot braking. When descend-
ing a grade, if only the foot brake is used,
the brakes may start working improperly
because of brake fluid overheating,
caused by overheated brake pads. To help
prevent this, shift to a lower gear to get
stronger engine braking.

Braking when a tire is punctured

Do not depress the brake pedal suddenly
when a tire is punctured. This could cause

– CONTINUED –

Braking

319

Starting

and

operating

(322,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

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.

Brake system

Two separate circuits

Your vehicle has two separate circuit brake
systems. Each circuit works diagonally
across the vehicle. If one circuit of the
brake system should fail, the other half of
the system still works. If one circuit fails,
the brake pedal will go down much closer
to the floor than usual and you will need to
press it down much harder. A much longer
distance will be needed to stop the vehicle.

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. However, if this happens, you
will have to depress the pedal much harder
than during normal braking, and the brak-
ing distance will increase.

Supplemental booster function
when vacuum pressure fails

While the ignition switch is turned “ON”
and the engine is running, the supple-
mental booster function operates when the
brake booster performance is decreased
due to insufficient vacuum boost.
When the brake pedal is depressed while
the supplemental booster function is oper-
ating, an operation sound and brake pedal
vibration may be generated. This is not a
malfunction.

Brake assist system

WARNING

Do not be overconfident about the
brake assist. It is not a system that
brings more braking ability to the
vehicle beyond its braking capabil-
ity. Always use the utmost care
when driving regarding vehicle
speed and safe distance.

CAUTION

When you need to brake suddenly,
continue depressing the brake pedal
strongly to bring the effect of the
brake assist.

Brake assist is a driver assistance system.
It assists the brake power when the driver
cannot depress the brake pedal strongly
and the brake power is insufficient.
Brake assist generates the brake power
according to the speed at which the driver
depresses the brake pedal.

NOTE

When you depress the brake pedal
strongly or suddenly, the following will
occur. However, even though these
occur, they do not indicate any mal-
functions, and the brake assist system
is operating properly.
.

You might feel that the brake pedal is

applied by lighter force and generates a
greater braking force.
.

You might hear an ABS operating

noise from the engine compartment.

Braking

320

(323,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

Disc brake pad wear warning
indicators

The disc brake pad wear warning indica-
tors on the disc brakes give a warning
noise when the brake pads are worn.
If a squeaking or scraping noise is heard
from the disc brakes while braking, im-
mediately have your vehicle checked by
your SUBARU dealer.

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

The ABS prevents the lock-up of wheels
which may occur during sudden braking or
braking on slippery road surfaces. This
helps prevent the loss of steering control
and directional stability caused by wheel
lock-up.

When the ABS is operating, you may hear
a chattering noise or feel a slight vibration
in the brake pedal. This is normal when the
ABS operates.

The ABS will not operate when the vehicle
speed is below approximately 6 mph (10
km/h).

WARNING

Always use the utmost care in driv-
ing – overconfidence because you
are driving a vehicle with the ABS
could easily lead to a serious acci-
dent.

CAUTION

The ABS does not always de-

crease stopping distance. You
should always maintain a safe
following distance from other
vehicles.

When driving on badly surfaced

roads, gravel roads, icy roads, or
over deep newly fallen snow,
stopping distances may be long-
er for a vehicle with the ABS than
one without. Therefore, when
driving under these conditions,
reduce your speed and leave
ample distance from other vehi-
cles.

When tire chains are installed,

stopping distances may be long-
er for a vehicle with the ABS than
one without. Be sure to reduce
your speed and maintain a safe
distance from the vehicle in front.

When you feel the ABS operating,

you should maintain constant
brake pedal pressure. Do not
pump the brake pedal since
doing so may defeat the opera-
tion of the ABS.

– CONTINUED –

ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)

321

Starting

and

operating

(324,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

ABS self-check

Just after the vehicle is started, you may
feel on the brake pedal a vibration similar
to when the ABS operates, and you may
also hear the sound of the ABS working
from the engine compartment. This is
caused by an automatic functional test of
the ABS being carried out and does not
indicate a malfunction.

ABS warning light

Refer to “ABS warning light” FP172.

7-12. Electronic Brake Force
Distribution (EBD) system

The EBD system maximizes the effective-
ness of the brakes by allowing the rear
brakes to supply a greater proportion of the
braking force. It functions by adjusting the
distribution of braking force to the rear
wheels in accordance with the vehicle’s
loading condition and speed.
The EBD system is an integral part of the
ABS and uses some of the ABS compo-
nents to perform its function of optimizing
the distribution of braking force. If any of
the ABS components used by the EBD
system malfunction, the EBD system also
stops working.

When the EBD system is operating, you
may hear a chattering noise or feel a slight
vibration in the brake pedal. This is normal
and does not indicate a malfunction.

If EBD system malfunctions

If a malfunction occurs in the EBD system,
the system stops working and the following
warning lights illuminate simultaneously.
.

Brake system warning light

ABS warning light

Vehicle Dynamics Control warning light

If the both warning light remains on even
though the parking brake is released, the
brake fluid level may be low or there could
be a problem with the EBD system. Park
the vehicle in a safe place immediately and
contact a Subaru dealer.

Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) system

322

(325,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

WARNING

Driving with the brake system

warning light illuminated is dan-
gerous. This indicates your brake
system may not be working prop-
erly. If the light remains illumi-
nated, have the brakes inspected
by a SUBARU dealer immedi-
ately.

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.

7-13. Vehicle Dynamics Con-
trol system

Safety precautions

WARNING

Always use the utmost care in driv-
ing – overconfidence because you
are driving a vehicle with the Vehicle
Dynamics Control system could ea-
sily lead to a serious accident.

CAUTION

Even if your vehicle is equipped

with the Vehicle Dynamics Con-
trol system, winter tires should
be used when driving on snow-
covered or icy roads; in addition,
vehicle speed should be reduced
considerably. Simply having a
Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-
tem does not guarantee that the
vehicle will be able to avoid
accidents in any situation.

Activation of the Vehicle Dy-

namics Control system is an
indication that the road on which
the vehicle is traveling has a
slippery surface; since having

Vehicle Dynamics Control is no
guarantee that full vehicle control
will be maintained at all times and
under all conditions, its activa-
tion should be seen as a sign that
the speed of the vehicle should
be reduced considerably.

Whenever suspension compo-

nents, steering components, or
an axle are removed from a
vehicle, have an inspection of
that system performed by an
authorized SUBARU dealer.

The following precautions should

be observed in order to ensure
that the Vehicle Dynamics Con-
trol system is operating properly:

– All four wheels should be

fitted with tires of the same
size, type, and brand. Further-
more, the amount of wear
should be the same for all four
tires.

– Keep the tire pressure at the

proper level as shown on the
vehicle placard attached to
the driver’s side door pillar.

– Use only the specified tempor-

ary spare tire to replace a flat
tire. With a temporary spare
tire, the effectiveness of the

– CONTINUED –

Vehicle Dynamics Control system

323

Starting

and

operating

(326,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

Vehicle Dynamics Control
system is reduced and this
should be taken into account
when driving the vehicle in
such a condition.

If non-matching tires are used,

the Vehicle Dynamics Control
system may not operate cor-
rectly.

The Vehicle Dynamics Control

system helps prevent unstable
vehicle motion such as skidding
using control of the brakes and
engine power. Do not turn off the
Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-
tem unless it is absolutely neces-
sary. If you must turn off the
Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-
tem, drive very carefully accord-
ing to the road surface condi-
tions.

System features

In the event of wheelspin and/or skidding
on a slippery road surface and/or during
cornering and/or an evasive maneuver,
the Vehicle Dynamics Control system
adjusts the engine’s output and the
wheels’ respective braking forces to help
maintain traction and directional control.

Traction Control Function

The traction control function is designed to
prevent spinning of the driving wheels on
slippery road surfaces, thereby helping to
maintain traction and directional control.
Activation of this function is shown by
flashing the Vehicle Dynamics Control
operation indicator light.

Skid Suppression Function

The skid suppression function is designed
to help maintain directional stability by
suppressing the wheels’ tendency to slide
sideways during steering operations. Acti-
vation of this function is shown by flashing
the Vehicle Dynamics Control operation
indicator light.

NOTE

The Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-

tem may be considered normal when
the following conditions occur.

– Slight twitching of the brake

pedal is felt.
– The vehicle or steering wheel
shakes to a small degree.
– An operating sound from the
engine compartment is heard briefly
when starting the engine and when
driving off after starting the engine.
– The brake pedal seems to jolt
when driving off after starting the
engine.

In the circumstances shown in the

following list, the vehicle may be less
stable than it feels to the driver. The
Vehicle Dynamics Control system may
therefore operate. Such operation does
not indicate a system malfunction.

– On gravel-covered or rutted
roads
– On unfinished roads
– When the vehicle is towing a
trailer
– When the vehicle is fitted with
snow tires or winter tires.

Activation of the Vehicle Dynamics

Control system will cause operation of
the steering wheel to feel slightly
different compared to that for normal
conditions.
.

It is always important to reduce

speed when approaching a corner,
even if your vehicle is equipped with
the Vehicle Dynamics Control system.

Vehicle Dynamics Control system

324

(327,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

Always turn off the engine before

replacing a tire. Failure to do so may
render the Vehicle Dynamics Control
system unable to operate correctly.

Vehicle Dynamics Control
system monitor

Refer to “Vehicle Dynamics Control warn-
ing light/Vehicle Dynamics Control opera-
tion indicator light” FP176 and “Vehicle
Dynamics Control OFF indicator light”
FP178.

Vehicle Dynamics Control
OFF switch

Type A

Type B

Press or turn the Vehicle Dynamics Con-
trol OFF switch to deactivate the Vehicle
Dynamics Control system. Creating ade-
quate driving wheel slip by deactivating the
Vehicle Dynamics Control system may
help to recover from the loss of traction.
Use the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF
switch as necessary.
.

A standing start on a steeply sloping

road with a snowy, gravel-covered, or
otherwise slippery surface
.

Extrication of the vehicle when its

wheels are stuck in mud or deep snow

When the switch is pressed or turned
during engine operation, the Vehicle Dy-
namics Control OFF indicator light “ ” on
the combination meter illuminates. The
Vehicle Dynamics Control system will be
deactivated and the vehicle will behave
like a model not equipped with the Vehicle
Dynamics Control system. When the
switch is pressed again (type A) or turned
to the “NORMAL” side (type B) to reacti-
vate the Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-
tem, the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF
indicator light turns off.
With the Vehicle Dynamics Control system
deactivated, traction and stability en-
hancement offered by the Vehicle Dy-
namics Control system is unavailable.
Therefore, you should not deactivate the
Vehicle Dynamics Control system except

– CONTINUED –

Vehicle Dynamics Control system

325

Starting

and

operating

(328,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

under the above-mentioned situations.

NOTE

When the switch has been pressed

(type A) or turned (type B) to deactivate
the Vehicle Dynamics Control system,
the Vehicle Dynamics Control system
automatically reactivates itself the next
time the ignition switch is turned to the
“LOCK”/“OFF” position and the engine
is restarted.
.

If the switch is pressed (type A) or

turned (type B) and held for 30 seconds
or longer, the indicator light turns off,
the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is
activated, and the system ignores any
further pressing of the switch. To make
the switch usable again, turn the igni-
tion switch to the “LOCK”/“OFF” posi-
tion and restart the engine.
.

When the switch is pressed (type A)

or turned (type B) to deactivate the
Vehicle Dynamics Control system, the
vehicle’s running performance is com-
parable to that of a vehicle that does not
have a Vehicle Dynamics Control sys-
tem. Do not deactivate the Vehicle
Dynamics Control system except when
absolutely necessary.
.

Even when the Vehicle Dynamics

Control system is deactivated, compo-
nents of the brake control system may
still activate. When the brake control

system is activated, the Vehicle Dy-
namics Control operation indicator
light flashes.

7-14. X-MODE (if equipped)

WARNING

Always use the utmost care in

driving – overconfidence be-
cause you are driving a vehicle
with X-MODE could easily lead to
a serious accident.

Always use the utmost care in

driving – overconfidence be-
cause you are driving a vehicle
with hill descent control function
(if equipped) could easily lead to
a serious accident. Be especially
careful, and depress the brake
pedal if necessary when driving
on extremely steep downhill, fro-
zen, muddy or sandy roads. Fail-
ure to control the vehicle’s speed
may cause a loss of control and
result in a serious accident.

CAUTION

Even if your vehicle is equipped

with X-MODE, winter tires should
be used when driving on snow-
covered or icy roads; in addition,
vehicle speed should be reduced
considerably. Simply having X-

X-MODE

326

(329,1)

北米Model "A8240BE-B" EDITED: 2018/ 7/ 5

MODE does not guarantee that
the vehicle will be able to avoid
accidents in any situation.

Activate the X-MODE when you

encounter a very slippery surface
at low speed. However, having X-
MODE is no guarantee that full
vehicle control will be maintained
at all times and under all condi-
tions. When activating X-MODE,
the speed of the vehicle should
be reduced considerably.

Whenever suspension compo-

nents, steering components, or
an axle are removed from a
vehicle, have the system in-
s p e c t e d b y a n a u t h o r i z e d
SUBARU dealer.

Observe the following precau-

tions in order to ensure that the
X-MODE is operating properly:

– All four wheels should be

fitted with tires of the same
size, type, and brand. Further-
more, the amount of wear
should be the same for all four
tires.

– Keep the tire pressure at the

proper level as shown on the
label attached to the vehicle’s
door pillar.

– Use only the special tempor-

ary spare tire to replace a flat
tire. With a normal temporary
spare tire, the effectiveness of
the X-MODE is reduced and
this should be taken into ac-
count when driving the vehi-
cle in such a condition.

Models with hill descent control:

If the hill descent control function
has operated continuously for a
long time, the temperature of the
brake disc may increase and the
hill descent control function may
be temporarily disabled. In this
case, the hill descent control
indicator will disappear. When
the hill descent control indicator
disappears, the hill descent con-
trol function is disabled.

X-MODE is the integrated control system
of the engine, AWD and Vehicle Dynamics
Control system, etc. for driving with bad
road conditions. Using X-MODE, you can
drive more comfortably even in slippery
road conditions including uphill and down-
hill.

X-MODE has the following functions.
.

Hill descent control function (if

equipped):
Using the hill descent control function, you
can keep the vehicle at a consistent speed
driving downhill. If the vehicle speed is
likely to increase, the brake control system
will be activated to adjust the vehicle
speed.
.

Driving ability control:

This mode increases the hill-climbing
ability and driving ability as well as
enabling smooth application of torque for
easier control of the steering wheel.

To activate/deactivate the X-
MODE

X-MODE switch (type A)

– CONTINUED –

X-MODE

327

Starting

and

operating

Subaru Forester (2019 year). Instruction - part 20