2011 Subaru Outback Owner's Manual - Page 261

Starting and operating 7-19 provides superior transmission efficiency for maximum fuel economy. At times, depending on varying driving conditions, a chain operating sound may be heard that is characteristic of this type of system. In this position, the transmission is mechanically locked to prevent the vehicle from rolling freely. When you park the vehicle, first apply the parking brake fully, then shift into the "P" position. Do not hold the vehicle with only the transmission. To shift the select lever from the "P" to any other position, you should depress the brake pedal fully then move the select lever. This prevents the vehicle from lurching when it is started. & Select lever transmission is neutral; the vehicle will roll freely, even on the slightest incline unless the parking brake or foot brake is applied. Avoid coasting with the transmission neutral. During coasting, there is no engine braking effect. NOTE . To protect the engine while the "N" position is selected, the engine is controlled such that the engine speed may not become too high even if the accelerator pedal is depressed hard. . If the select lever is in the "N" position when you stop the engine for parking, you may not subsequently be able to move it to the "R" and "P" positions. If this happens, turn the ignition switch to the "ON" position. You will then be able to move the select lever to the "P" position. NOTE To protect the engine while the "P" position is selected, the engine is controlled such that the engine speed may not become too high even if the accelerator pedal is depressed hard. : With the brake pedal depressed, shift while pressing the button in : Shift while pressing the button in : Shift without pressing the button ! R (Reverse) This position is for backing the vehicle. To shift from the "N" to "R" position, 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 WARNING Do not drive the vehicle with the select lever in the "N" (neutral) position. Engine braking has no effect in this condition and the risk of an accident is consequently increased. - CONTINUED - The select lever has four positions, "P", "R", "N", "D" and also has a manual gate for using the manual mode. ! P (Park) This position is for parking the vehicle and starting the engine.