2008 Subaru Outback Owner's Manual - Page 293

8-2 Driving tips New vehicle break-in driving - the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) The performance and long life of your vehicle are dependent on how you handle and care for your vehicle while it is new. Follow these instructions during the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km): . Do not race the engine. And do not allow engine speed to exceed 4,000 rpm except in an emergency. . Do not drive at one constant engine or vehicle speed for a long time, either fast or slow. . Avoid starting suddenly and rapid acceleration, except in an emergency. . Avoid hard braking, except in an emergency. The same break-in procedures should be applied to a newly installed or overhauled engine or when brake pads or brake linings are replaced with new ones. Fuel economy hints The following suggestions will help to save your fuel. . Select the proper gear position for the speed and road conditions. . Avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration. Always accelerate gently until you reach the desired speed. Then try to maintain that speed for as long as possible. . Do not pump the accelerator and avoid racing the engine. . Avoid unnecessary engine idling. . Keep the engine properly tuned. . Keep the tires inflated to the correct pressure shown on the tire placard, which is located under the door latch on the driver's side. Low pressure will increase tire wear and fuel consumption. . Use the air conditioner only when necessary. . Keep the front and rear wheels in proper alignment. . Avoid carrying unnecessary luggage or cargo. . For the turbo and 3.0-liter models, the indication of the ECO gauge shows a reference for saving fuel. Refer to "ECO gauge" in the Meter and gauges (Turbo and 3.0-liter models) section in chapter 3 for details.