Subaru Forester Manuals 2010 Forester Owner’s Manual | Page 230

7-18 Starting and operating transmission is neutral; the vehicle will roll freely, even on the slightest incline unless the parking brake or foot brake is on. Avoid coasting with the transmission in neutral. During coasting, there is no engine braking effect. NOTE If the selector 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 selector lever to the “P” position. WARNING Do not drive the vehicle with the selector lever in the “N” (neutral) position. Engine braking has no effect in this condition and the risk of an accident is consequently increased. ! D (Drive) This position is for normal driving. The transmission automatically shifts into a suitable gear from 1st to 4th according to the vehicle speed and the acceleration you require. When more acceleration is required in this position, depress the accelerator pedal fully to the floor and hold that position. The transmission will automatically downshift to 3rd, 2nd or 1st gear. When you release the pedal, the transmission will return to the original gear position. To use the “SPORT” mode, move the lever from this position into the manual gate. To use the manual mode, move the lever from this position into the manual gate then move it toward the “+” and “−” ends. ! While climbing a grade When driving up a hill, undesired upshift to 4th gear is prevented from taking place when the accelerator is released. This minimizes the chance of subsequent downshifting to a lower gear when accelerating again. This prevents repeated upshifting