2003 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 274

Driving tips the "Towing" section in chapter 9. Off road driving 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: " Make certain that you and all of your passengers are wearing seat belts. " 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. " Drive carefully. Do not take unnecessary risks by driving in dangerous areas or over rough terrain. " Slow down and employ extra caution at all times. When driving off-road, you will not have the benefit of marked traffic lanes, banked curves, traffic signs and the like. " 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 end over end. Avoid driving straight up or down slopes that are too steep. " Avoid sharp turning maneuvers, especially at higher speeds. - CONTINUED - " 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 vehicle could easily lead to a serious accident. 8-7