Subaru Ascent 2018-2026 Owner's Manual: Vehicle Dynamics Control system

WARNING

Even when driving a Subaru Ascent equipped with the Vehicle Dynamics Control system, always remain attentive and cautious. Relying too heavily on electronic assistance systems can lead to dangerous situations and potentially serious accidents.

CAUTION

• Although the Subaru Ascent is equipped with an advanced Vehicle Dynamics Control system, appropriate tires must still be used in winter conditions.

  When driving on snow or ice, install proper winter tires and significantly reduce vehicle speed. The system alone cannot guarantee accident prevention under all conditions.

• When the Vehicle Dynamics Control system activates in the Subaru Ascent, it indicates reduced traction on the road surface.

  This should be treated as a warning to slow down immediately and drive more carefully.

• If suspension, steering, or axle components are removed or serviced on the Subaru Ascent, the Vehicle Dynamics Control system must be inspected by an authorized SUBARU dealer to ensure correct operation.
• To maintain proper functionality of the Subaru Ascent Vehicle Dynamics Control system, follow these guidelines.
  • Always use tires of identical size, type, and brand on all four wheels. Uneven wear between tires can negatively affect system performance.
  • Maintain correct tire pressure as specified on the Subaru Ascent vehicle information label located on the driver’s door pillar.
  • When using a temporary spare tire, ensure it meets Subaru specifications.

    Keep in mind that even with a proper spare tire, the effectiveness of the Vehicle Dynamics Control system will be reduced.

• Using mismatched tires on the Subaru Ascent may prevent the Vehicle Dynamics Control system from operating correctly and can compromise driving safety.

During conditions such as wheel spin, skidding, sharp cornering, or sudden evasive maneuvers, the Subaru Ascent Vehicle Dynamics Control system automatically adjusts engine power and applies braking force to individual wheels. This helps maintain traction and directional stability, improving overall vehicle control.

• Traction Control Function

The traction control function in the Subaru Ascent is specifically designed to prevent excessive wheel spin on slippery surfaces. By managing engine output and braking force, it helps maintain grip and ensures that the vehicle continues moving in the intended direction.

When this function is active, the Vehicle Dynamics Control indicator light will flash on the instrument panel.

• Skid Suppression Function

The skid suppression function works to stabilize the Subaru Ascent during steering maneuvers by reducing sideways sliding of the wheels. This enhances control when cornering or making sudden directional changes, especially on low-traction surfaces.

Activation of this function is also indicated by the flashing Vehicle Dynamics Control indicator light.

NOTE

• The following sensations may occur in the Subaru Ascent and are considered normal during operation of the Vehicle Dynamics Control system.
  • A slight pulsation or twitching felt through the brake pedal.
  • Minor vibrations or shaking in the steering wheel or vehicle body.
  • Brief mechanical or electronic sounds from the engine compartment, especially during startup or initial movement.
  • A slight jolt in the brake pedal when driving off after starting the engine.
• Under certain road conditions, the Subaru Ascent may feel stable even when traction is reduced. In such cases, the Vehicle Dynamics Control system may activate without warning.

  This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

  • Driving on gravel or uneven surfaces
  • Traveling on unfinished or rough roads
  • Towing a trailer with the Subaru Ascent
  • Using winter or snow tires
• When the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is active, the steering feel of the Subaru Ascent may change slightly compared to normal driving conditions.
• Always reduce speed when approaching curves, even when the Subaru Ascent is equipped with Vehicle Dynamics Control.
• Before replacing any tire, ensure the engine of the Subaru Ascent is turned off to avoid interference with system calibration and operation.

The Subaru Ascent Vehicle Dynamics Control system enhances driving confidence by supporting stability and traction, but it should always be used in combination with responsible driving habits and proper vehicle maintenance.

Vehicle Dynamics Control system monitor

For detailed information regarding the Subaru Ascent Vehicle Dynamics Control system indicators, refer to the sections covering the Vehicle Dynamics Control warning light, the operation indicator light, and the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF indicator light. These indicators provide essential real-time feedback about the system status and help the driver understand when the system is actively assisting or has been deactivated.

To turn on/off the Vehicle Dynamics Control system

In the Subaru Ascent, activation or deactivation of the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is managed through the center information display. Access the appropriate menu within the vehicle settings interface to control this feature. For step-by-step guidance, refer to the "Car settings" section.

In certain specific driving conditions, temporarily disabling the Subaru Ascent Vehicle Dynamics Control system may allow a controlled amount of wheel slip, which can be beneficial for freeing the vehicle. This function should only be used when absolutely necessary.

• Starting the Subaru Ascent on a steep incline covered with snow, gravel, or other low-traction surfaces
• Recovering the Subaru Ascent when it becomes stuck in mud, sand, or deep snow

When the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is turned off while the Subaru Ascent engine is running, the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF indicator light will illuminate on the instrument cluster, confirming that the system is no longer active.

Once the "Vehicle Dynamics Control" option is selected again to reactivate the system, the indicator light will turn off, and full system functionality will be restored.

Under normal driving conditions, it is strongly recommended to keep the Subaru Ascent Vehicle Dynamics Control system enabled at all times. Deactivation should only be performed in the limited scenarios described above.

CAUTION

The Vehicle Dynamics Control system in the Subaru Ascent plays a crucial role in maintaining vehicle stability by automatically adjusting braking force and engine output to counteract skidding or loss of traction.

Avoid turning off this system unless it is absolutely necessary. If the system is deactivated, operate the Subaru Ascent with increased caution and adapt your driving to current road and weather conditions.

NOTE

• If the Vehicle Dynamics Control system in the Subaru Ascent is manually turned off, it will automatically reactivate the next time the ignition is switched to the "LOCK"/"OFF" position and the engine is restarted.
• When the system is disabled, the Subaru Ascent will behave similarly to a vehicle without electronic stability control. This may significantly affect handling and traction, particularly on slippery roads.
• Even when the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is turned off, certain brake-related control functions may still engage.

  In such cases, the Vehicle Dynamics Control operation indicator light may flash, indicating that underlying safety systems are still providing limited assistance.

The Subaru Ascent Vehicle Dynamics Control system is an essential safety feature that enhances stability and control in challenging driving conditions, but it should always be complemented by attentive driving and appropriate speed management.