2004 Subaru Outback Owner's Manual - Page 309

Starting and operating driving off where the brake pedal seems to exhibit a jolting motion. This too is a consequence of the VDC operational check and is normal. In the circumstances listed below, the vehicle may be more unstable than it feels to the driver. The Vehicle Dynamics Control System may therefore operate. Such operation does not indicate a system fault. on gravel-covered or rutted roads on unfinished roads when the vehicle is towing a trailer when the vehicle is fitted with snow tires or winter tires Activation of the VDC system will cause operation of the steering wheel to feel slightly different compared to that for normal conditions. Even if the vehicle is equipped with a VDC system, it is important that winter tires be used when driving on snow-covered or icy roads. (All four wheels should be fitted with tires of the same size and brand). It is always important to reduce speed when approaching a corner, even if the vehicle is equipped with VDC. 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. If these precautions are not observed and non-matching tires are used, it is quite possible that the VDC system will be unable to operate correctly as intended. Always turn off the engine before replacing a tire as failure to do so may render the VDC system unable to operate correctly. VDC system monitor UB4010FA VDC OFF indicator light The VDC OFF indicator light turns on initially when the ignition key is turned to the ON position; it subsequently turns off 6 seconds after the engine is started. 7-36