2009 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 256

Driving tips 8-9 winter driving, stop when and where it is safe to do so and check under the fenders periodically. ! Parking in cold weather Do not use the parking brake when parking for long periods in cold weather since it could freeze in that position. Instead, observe the following. 1. Place the shift lever in "1" or "R" for manual transmission vehicles, and in "P" for automatic transmission vehicles. 2. Use tire stops under the tires to prevent the vehicle from moving. When the vehicle is parked in snow or when it snows, raise the wiper blades off the glass to prevent damage to them. When the vehicle has been left parked after use on roads heavily covered with snow, or has been left parked during a snowstorm, icing may develop on the brake system, which could cause poor braking action. Check for snow or ice buildup on the suspension, disc brakes and brake hoses underneath the vehicle. If there is caked snow or ice, remove it, being careful not to damage the disc brakes and brake hoses and ABS harness. WARNING Snow can trap dangerous exhaust gases under your vehicle. Keep snow clear of the exhaust pipe and from around your vehicle if you park the vehicle in snow with the engine running. ! Refueling in cold weather To help prevent moisture from forming in the fuel system and the risk of its freezing, use of an antifreeze additive in the fuel tank is recommended during cold weather. Use only additives that are specifically designed for this purpose. When an antifreeze additive is used, its effect lasts longer if the tank is refilled whenever the fuel level reaches half empty. If your SUBARU is not going to be used for an extended period, it is best to have the fuel tank filled to capacity. to avoid the need for sudden braking. To supplement the foot brake, use the engine brake effectively to control the vehicle speed. (Shift into a lower gear when necessary.) Avoid shifting down abruptly. Such behavior can cause the wheels to lock, possibly leading to loss of vehicle control. An anti-lock brake system (ABS) enhances your vehicle's braking performance on snowy and icy roads. For information on braking on slippery surfaces, refer to the "ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)" and "Vehicle Dynamics Control system" sections in chapter 7. WARNING Do not use the cruise control on slippery roads such as snowy or icy roads. This may cause loss of vehicle control. & Driving on snowy and icy roads To prevent skidding and slipping, avoid sudden braking, abrupt acceleration, highspeed driving, and sharp turning when driving on snowy or icy roads. Always maintain ample distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you - CONTINUED -