Subaru FORESTER 5th Generation 2019-2024 Combination Meter and Shift Lock Function

Combination Meter and Shift Lock Function

When selected, the indicator “L” will illuminate on the combination meter. To deselect “L”, move the select lever to the “D” position.

Shift Lock Function

  • The select lever cannot be operated unless the ignition switch is in the “ON” position and the brake pedal is depressed.
  • The select lever cannot be moved from “P” before depressing the brake pedal. Depress the brake first, then operate the lever.
  • Only the “P” position allows turning the ignition from “ACC” to “LOCK”/“OFF” and removing the key.
  • If the ignition is turned to “LOCK”/“OFF” while the lever is in “N”, move it to “P” with the brake depressed soon after.

Shift Lock Release

If the select lever cannot be operated, turn the ignition back to “ON”, press the select lever button, and depress the brake to move it to “P”.

  • If the lever cannot shift from “P” to “N”: Refer to “Shift lock release using the shift lock release button” F7-30.
  • If the lever cannot shift from “N” to “R” or “P”: Within 60 seconds after placing ignition in “ACC”, press the select lever button, depress the brake, and move to “P”.

If the lever still does not move, contact a SUBARU dealer.

Shift Lock Release Using the Shift Lock Release Button

  1. Apply the parking brake and stop the engine.
  2. Wrap the tip of a flat-head screwdriver with tape or cloth and remove the shift lock cover to access the shift lock release button.
  3. While depressing the brake, insert the screwdriver into the hole, press the shift lock release button, and move the select lever.

If the lever does not move, contact a SUBARU dealer.

Driving Tips

  • If accelerator and brake are pressed simultaneously, driving torque may be restrained; this is normal.
  • Always apply the foot or parking brake when stopped in “D” or “R”.
  • Do not rely solely on transmission friction to hold the vehicle; always use the parking brake.
  • Do not hold the vehicle on an uphill using “D”; use the brake instead.
  • Engine knocking during rapid acceleration from standstill is normal.

SI-DRIVE (SUBARU Intelligent Drive)

SI-DRIVE maximizes engine performance, control, and efficiency. It consists of three modes: Intelligent (I), Sport (S), and Sport Sharp (S#). Operating the SI-DRIVE switches changes the character of the power unit.

Intelligent (I) Mode

For smooth, efficient performance driving:

  • Provides linear acceleration and smooth driveability.
  • Moderate power delivery for fuel efficiency.
  • Better control on slippery or loose surfaces.

Sport (S) Mode

For all-around performance driving:

  • Provides enhanced engine power for more spirited driving.

Sport Sharp (S#) Mode

For maximum performance driving:

  • Throttle becomes more responsive regardless of engine speed.
  • Ideal for twisting roads, merging, or overtaking.
  • Transmission shifts from variable to eight-speed in “D”.

Additional controls when in S# mode:

  • Uphill control: Prevents unnecessary shifts during ascent.
  • Cornering control: Reduces shift-up under high centrifugal force.
  • Braking control: Smooth downshifts at corners.
  • Sudden acceleration return control: Prevents shift-up on abrupt accelerator release.

SI-DRIVE Switches

  • Select Intelligent (I) mode: Press “S/I” from Sport (S) or “S#/I” from Sport Sharp (S#).
  • Select Sport (S) mode: Press “S/I” when in any mode other than Sport (S).
  • Select Sport Sharp (S#) mode: Press “S#/I” when in any mode other than S#.

NOTE:

  • Cannot change to S# while engine is cool.
  • Next engine start defaults to Intelligent (I) mode if engine was turned off in S or S# mode.
  • If CHECK ENGINE light is on, SI-DRIVE switches to Sport (S) mode automatically.
  • If engine coolant temperature rises, S# mode switches to Sport (S) for safety.
  • Blinking SI-DRIVE indicators indicate a system malfunction; contact a SUBARU dealer.

Power Steering

The vehicle is equipped with an electric power steering system. The power steering warning light varies by combination meter type.

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