1999 Subaru Impreza Owner's Manual - Page 217

Starting and operating which driving surfaces a relatively level, obstruction-free and otherwise similar to on-road driving conditions. Operating it under other than those conditions could subject the vehicle to excessive stress which might result in damage not eligible for repair under warranty. If you do take your SUBARU off road, you should review the common sense precautions in the next section (applicable to the OUTBACK) for general guidance. But please keep in mind that your vehicle's off-road capabilities are more limited than those of the OUTBACK. J OUTBACK 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 all-terrain vehicle. If you do take your Subaru off-road, certain common sense precautions such as the following should be taken: D Make certain that you and all of your passengers are wearing seat belts. D Carry some emergency equipment, such as a towing rope or chain, a shovel, wheel blocks, first aid kit and portable phone or citizens band radio. D Drive carefully. Do not take unnecessary risks by driving in dangerous areas or over rough terrain. D Slow down and employ extra caution at all times. When driving offroad, you will not have the benefit of marked traffic lanes, banked curves, traffic signs and the like. D 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 when moving forward or backward. Avoid driving straight up or down slopes that are too steep. D Avoid sharp turning maneuvers, especially at higher speeds. D 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. D 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 firm- CONTINUED- 7-35