1999 Subaru Legacy Owner's Manual - Page 258

Starting and operating OM-H2249 OM-H2250 On an uphill grade, when the clutch pedal 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 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. 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. J Manual release If the vehicle cannot be moved (because it is impossible to release the hill holder) due to a malfunctioning of the hill holder: 1. Apply the parking brake and stop the engine. - CONTINUED - 7-27