2001 Subaru Outback Owner's Manual - Page 289

D Whenever suspension components, steering components, or an axle are removed from a vehicle equipped with VDC, have an authorized SUBARU dealer perform an inspection of that system. D The following precautions should be observed in order to ensure that the VDC system is operating properly: - All four wheels should be fitted with tires of the same size, type, and brand. Furthermore, 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 temporary spare tire to replace a flat tire. When driving on slippery roads or making sudden turns to avoid obstacles in the vehicle's path, certain situations may occur where the vehicle may slip sideways or where the rear of the vehicle may swing outward. When the VDC system determines either of these circumstances is about to occur, it controls - and operates in conjunction with - the Anti-lock Brake System and the Traction Control System to suppress sudden changes in vehicle attitude and motion, thus improving directional stability during driving. D Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) function: The ABS controls the brake system electronically. It prevents locking of the wheels so that directional stability and steering wheel responsiveness can be maintained even when braking on slippery surfaces. In the unlikely event that a malfunction should occur in the ABS, it will still be possible to stop the vehicle using normal braking. D Traction Control System (TCS) function: The TCS limits spinning of the drive wheels on slippery surfaces; in this, it helps ensure that an appropriate degree of traction and steering are maintained. The VDC operation indicator light will turn on when the TCS activates. D Vehicle Dynamics Control To assist in maintaining directional stability, the VDC helps suppress sideways slipping of the vehicle when the steering wheel is turned suddenly or when cornering on a slippery surface. The VDC operation 7-26