Subaru Ascent 2018-2026 Owner's Manual: Automatic Braking function operation

Object close behind warning

Automatic braking warning

1. Warning message

When the Subaru Ascent determines that there is a high probability of collision while reversing, the system escalates its response. Audible alerts may intensify into continuous warning tones, and the system will automatically intervene by applying braking force or reducing engine output to help prevent impact.

Simultaneously, a warning message is displayed on the combination meter (color LCD), ensuring the driver receives both visual and audible cues.

Depress brake pedal warning

1. Warning message

After the Subaru Ascent has been brought to a stop by automatic braking, the driver must press the brake pedal to maintain control. Until the brake pedal is pressed, the system will continue to display a warning message and emit a continuous alert tone.

This ensures the driver remains actively engaged and aware of the situation.

NOTE

The Sonar Audible Alarm and Automatic Braking systems in the Subaru Ascent operate under different conditions. In certain situations, only one of these systems may activate, depending on sensor input and driving circumstances.

WARNING

Always press the brake pedal immediately after the vehicle has been stopped by the automatic braking system. Depending on road surface conditions, tire grip, or slope, the vehicle may not remain fully stationary, which could result in an accident.

After the vehicle is stopped by the system

Once the brake pedal is applied, the RAB OFF indicator will illuminate, and the Reverse Automatic Braking system will temporarily deactivate.

The system will automatically reset and become active again the next time the Subaru Ascent is shifted into the "R" (Reverse) position.

NOTE

• In certain conditions, after the Subaru Ascent has been stopped by the Reverse Automatic Braking system, the system may release brake control and automatically engage the electronic parking brake. This may occur:
  • After approximately 2 minutes of inactivity
  • If any door is opened
• The Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system may temporarily stop functioning, and the RAB OFF indicator will illuminate under the following conditions:
  • Accumulation of snow, ice, or dirt on sonar sensors or the rear bumper
  • Objects located extremely close to the rear bumper when shifting into reverse
  • Interference from sounds with similar frequencies to sonar signals
  • Vehicle Dynamics Control system is turned OFF

Canceling the Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) system operation

The Reverse Automatic Braking system in the Subaru Ascent can be manually overridden when necessary by performing any of the following actions.

• Press the brake pedal while the system has stopped the vehicle
• Press the accelerator pedal while the system has stopped the vehicle
• Hold the accelerator pedal continuously to override limited acceleration and continue reversing
• Shift the select lever out of the "R" position

NOTE

The system will automatically cancel its operation once the detected object is no longer within the sensor range.

Additional tip: In real-world driving with the Subaru Ascent, always combine electronic assistance systems like RAB with direct visual checks using mirrors and rearview cameras to ensure maximum safety, especially in complex parking environments.