2004 Subaru Legacy Owner's Manual - Page 308
2004 Subaru Legacy Manual
Page 308 highlights
Starting and operating 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. 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 placard attached to the vehicle's door pillar. - Use only the special temporary spare tire to replace a flat tire. With a temporary spare tire, the effectiveness of the VDC system is reduced and this should be taken into account when driving with vehicle. In the event of wheelspin and/or skidding on a slippery road surface and/or during cornering and/or an evasive maneuver, the VDC system adjusts the engine's output and the wheels' respective braking forces to help maintain traction and directional control. Traction Control Function The traction control function is designed to prevent spinning of the driving wheels on slippery road surfaces, thereby helping to maintain traction and directional control. Activation of this function is shown by steady illumination of the VDC operation indicator light. Skid Suppression Function The skid suppression function is designed to help maintain directional stability by suppressing the wheels' tendency to slide sideways during steering operations. Activation of this function is shown by flashing of the VDC operation indicator light. NOTE Slight twitching of the brake pedal may be felt when the VDC-system operates; a small degree of vehicle or steering wheel shaking may also be noticed in this situation. These are normal characteristics of VDC operation and are no cause for alarm. When driving off immediately after starting the engine, a short-lived operation noise may be noticed coming from the engine compartment. This noise is generated as a result of a check being performed on the VDC system and is normal. Depending on the timing of activation of the brakes, certain situations may occur just after - CONTINUED - 7-35