Subaru Crosstrek Owners Manual: Driving on grades

Subaru Crosstrek Owners Manual / Driving tips / Trailer towing / Trailer towing tips / Driving on grades

Before going down a steep hill, slow down and shift into lower gear (if necessary, use 1st gear) in order to utilize the engine braking effect and prevent overheating of your vehicle's brakes. Do not make sudden downshifts.
When driving uphill in hot weather, the air conditioner may turn off automatically to protect the engine from overheating.
When driving uphill in hot weather, pay attention to the following indicators because the engine and transmission are relatively prone to overheating.

Coolant temperature high warning light

AT OIL TEMP warning light (CVT models)

If the coolant temperature high warning light and/or the AT OILTEMP warning light illuminates, immediately turn off the air conditioner and stop the vehicle in the nearest safe location. For further instructions and additional information, refer to the following sections.

"If you park your vehicle in case of an emergency" F9-2
"Engine overheating" F9-12
"Coolant temperature low indicator light/Coolant temperature high warning light" F3-17

"AT OIL TEMP warning light (CVT models)" F3-19

For CVT models, avoid using the accelerator pedal to stay stationary on an uphill slope instead of using the parking brake or foot brake. That may cause the transmission fluid to overheat.

Driving with a trailer

You should allow for considerably more stopping distance when towing a trailer. Avoid sudden braking because it may result in skidding or jackknifing and loss of control. Avoid abrupt s ...

Parking on a grade

Always block the wheels under both vehicle and trailer when parking. Apply the parking brake firmly. You should not park on a hill or slope. If parking on a hill or slope cannot be avoided, you sh ...

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Continuously variable transmission features
The continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the Subaru Ascent is an advanced electronically managed system designed to deliver seamless acceleration, optimal efficiency, and smooth driving dynamics. Unlike traditional gearboxes, it offers an infinite range of forward gear ratios along with ...

Id code box Note
SECURITY AND LOCKS > ID Code BoxNOTENOTE:• Equipped on C5 model with keyless access with push button start.• The ID code box is located at the place of security control module.Refer to “Security Control Module” for operation procedures on ID code box. Security Control Mod ...

Preparing to drive
Before operating the Subaru Ascent, it is essential to carry out a series of routine checks and adjustments each day. These simple steps help ensure safety, reliability, and optimal performance while driving. 1. Inspect all windows, mirrors, and exterior lights of the Subaru Ascent to confirm ...