Driving Tips - Subaru 2008 Outback Owner's Manual

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
! Recommended shifting speeds
The best compromise between fuel econ-
omy and vehicle performance during
normal driving is ensured by shifting up
at the speeds listed in the following table.
Shift up mph (km/h)
1st to 2nd 15 (24)
2nd to 3rd 25 (40)
3rd to 4th 35 (56)
45 (73)
4th to 5th
! Maximum allowable speeds
WARNING
When shifting down a gear, ensure
that the vehicle is not travelling at a
speed exceeding the Maximum Al-
lowable 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 conse-
quence, control of the vehicle may
be lost and the risk of an accident
increased.
The following table shows the maximum
speeds that are possible with each differ-
ent gear.
Never exceed the speed limit below for
Starting and operating
each gear position except for brief accel-
eration in an emergency. The tach-
ometer'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.
Non-turbo models
Gear
Except
OUTBACK
1st 30 (48)
2nd 50 (81)
3rd 71 (116)
Turbo models
Gear
Except
OUTBACK
1st 32 (52)
2nd 54 (88)
3rd 80 (129)
NOTE
Never exceed posted speed limits.
& 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
– CONTINUED –
7-15
mph (km/h)
OUTBACK
30 (48)
52 (82)
71 (116)
mph (km/h)
OUTBACK
32 (52)
54 (88)
78 (127)