2003 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 247

Starting and operating A shift interlock function is employed in the automatic transmission system to ensure safe starting of the vehicle. To shift the selector lever from the "P" to the any other position, you have to depress the brake pedal fully when the ignition switch is in the "ON" position. This prevents the vehicle from lurching when it is started. If the shift lever does not move from the "P" position with the brake pedal depressed, refer to the "Shift lock release" section in this chapter. ! R (Reverse) This position is for backing the vehicle. To shift from the "N" to "R" position, first stop the vehicle completely then move the lever to the "R" position. ! N (Neutral) This position is for restarting a stalled engine. In this position the wheels and transmission are not locked. In this position, the transmission is neutral; the vehicle will roll freely, even on the slightest incline unless the parking brake or foot brake is on. has no effect in this condition and the risk of an accident is consequently increased. ! D (Drive) This position is for normal driving. The transmission automatically shifts into a suitable gear from 1st to 4th according to the vehicle speed and the acceleration you require. When more acceleration is required in this position, press the accelerator pedal fully to the floor and hold that position. The transmission will automatically downshift to 3rd, 2nd or 1st gear. When you release the pedal, the transmission will return to the original gear position. " While climbing a grade When driving up hill, undesired upshift to 4th gear is prevented from taking place when the accelerator pedal is released. This minimizes the chances of subsequent downshifting to a lower gear when accelerating again. This prevents repeated upshifting and downshifting resulting in a smoother operation of the vehicle. Do not drive the vehicle with the selector lever in the "N" (neutral) position. Engine braking 7-16 NOTE The transmission may downshift to 2nd or 1st