Subaru Forester: Driving tips for AWD models

All-Wheel Drive distributes the engine power to all four wheels. AWD models 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:

- An AWD model 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.

- 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, circumference 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.

- If you use a temporary spare tire to replace a flat tire, be sure to use the original temporary spare tire stored in the vehicle. Using other sizes may result in severe mechanical damage to the drive train of your vehicle.

- 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.

- There are some precautions that you must observe when towing your vehicle.

For detail information, refer to “Towing”.

- 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.

- Always use the utmost care in driving – overconfidence because you are driving an All- Wheel Drive model could easily lead to a serious accident.

New vehicle break-in driving – the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km)

On-road and off-road driving