2007 Subaru Outback Owner's Manual - Page 262

Starting and operating 7-29 the selector lever or a steering-wheel switch 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 come on and upshifts to 5th gear will not be possible. If the light comes on while driving, it is unnecessary to stop the vehicle, but avoid driving up steep grades or in stop-and-go traffic. & 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. 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. Position 1 2 3 2.5-liter turbo models 26 (42) 50 (81) 87 (140) mph (km/h) 3.0-liter models 27 (43) 61 (98) 96 (154) Never exceed posted speed limits. & 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 position on an uphill grade by using the "D" position. Use the brake instead. . The engine may, on rare occasions, knock when the vehicle rapidly accelerates or rapidly pulls away from a standstill. This phenomenon does not indicate a fault. . A slight reduction in output torque may occur in the models with a 3.0-liter or 2.5- CONTINUED -