2009 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 228

Starting and operating 7-19 shift is not possible. . If you attempt to shift up when the vehicle speed is too low, the transmission will not respond. . You can perform a skip-shift (for example, from 4th to 2nd) by operating the selector lever twice in rapid succession. . The transmission automatically selects 1st gear when the vehicle stops moving. . If the temperature of the automatic transmission fluid becomes too high, the "AT OIL TEMP" warning light will illuminate and upshifts to 4th gear will not be possible. Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and let the engine idle until the warning light turns off. In addition, sudden application of engine braking caused by down shifting when the vehicle is travelling on a slippery surface can lead to wheel locking; as a consequence, control of the vehicle may be lost and the risk of an accident increased. The following tables show the maximum speeds that are possible with each different gear. When down shifting, it is important to confirm that the current vehicle speed is not in excess of the Maximum Allowable Speed of the gear which is about to be selected. Non-turbo models mph (km/h) Gear position 1 2 3 Manual mode "D" position Turbo models mph (km/h) Gear position 1 2 3 Manual mode 36 (58) 66 (106) 107 (172) "D" position 28 (45) 65 (105) 106 (170) NOTE In order to prevent over-revving during deceleration of the vehicle, the transmission will remain in the current gear if the speed of the vehicle is in excess of the Maximum Allowable Speed for the gear to which the selector lever has been moved. & Driving tips . On a road surface where there is a risk of wheelspin (for example, a snow- or gravel-covered road), you can pull away from a standstill (safely and easily) by first selecting the 2nd gear of the manual mode. . Always apply the foot or parking brake when the vehicle is stopped in the "D" or "R" position. . Always set the parking brake when parking your vehicle. Do not hold the vehicle with only the transmission. . Do not keep the vehicle in a stationary - CONTINUED - & Maximum speeds WARNING When down shifting, ensure that the vehicle is not travelling at a speed exceeding the Maximum Allowable Speed for the gear which is about to be selected. Failure to observe this precaution can lead to engine overrevving and this in turn can result in engine damage. 30 (48) 63 (101) 99 (160)