2003 Subaru Outback Owner's Manual - Page 290

The following situations could indicate a malfunction of the VDC system; if any should occur, have an authorized SUBARU dealer carry out an inspection of the system at the first available opportunity. D The VDC warning light does not turn on when the ignition key is turned to the ON position. D The VDC warning light does not turn off either when the engine is started or when the vehicle reaches a speed of approximately 8 mph (12 km/h). D The VDC warning light turns on while the vehicle is being driven. D When a malfunction has occurred in the VDC electrical system, only the VDC warning light will turn on. In such an event, the ABS will still be operating normally. D The VDC warning light will also turn on when a problem occurs with the ABS or VDC electronic control systems. Because the VDC system controls each brake through the ABS, whenever the ABS stops operating due to a malfunction in that electrical system, the VDC will also become unable to control all four brakes. Thus VDC system operation halts and the VDC warning light turns on. Although both the VDC system and the ABS will be inoperable in this situation, it will still be possible to stop the vehicle using normal braking. The VDC system and the ABS do not adversely affect operation of the vehicle in any way when they are inoperable; however should such a situation occur, drive with care and have an authorized SUBARU dealer carry out an inspection of those systems at the first available opportunity. NOTE When the VDC warning light turns on and off in the following way, it indicates that the VDC system is operating normally. D Although turning on after the engine has been started, the warning light quickly turns off and stays off. D The warning light turns on after the engine is started and does not turn off until the vehicle reaches a speed of 8 mph (12 km/h). D The warning light turns on when the vehicle is being driven; it then turns off and stays off. 7-40