Subaru Forester Manuals 2018 Forester Owner's Manual | Page 429

Starting and operating/Manual transmission WARNING 1) Slider 3. To shift into the “R” position, hold up the slider, move the lever to the “R” position, and then release the slider. 4. Gradually release the clutch pedal. If it is difficult to shift into gear, put the transmission in neutral, release the clutch pedal momentarily, and then try again. . Do not drive the vehicle with the clutch disengaged (i.e., when the clutch pedal is depressed) or with the shift lever in the neutral position. Engine braking has no effect in either of these condi- tions and the risk of an accident is consequently increased. . Do not engage the clutch (i.e., release the clutch pedal) sud- denly when starting the vehicle. By doing so the vehicle might unexpectedly accelerate or the transmission could malfunction. CAUTION Shift into reverse ONLY when the vehicle has completely stopped. It may cause damage to the transmis- sion to try shifting into reverse when the vehicle is moving. 7-23 & Shifting speeds ! Recommended shifting speeds The best compromise between fuel econ- omy and vehicle performance during normal driving is ensured by shifting up at the speeds listed in the following table. Shift up mph (km/h) 1st to 2nd 15 (24) 2nd to 3rd 25 (40) 3rd to 4th 40 (64) 4th to 5th 45 (72) 5th to 6th 50 (80) ! Maximum allowable speeds The following table shows the maximum speeds that are possible with each differ- ent gear. The tachometer’s needle will enter the red area if these speeds are exceeded. With the exception of cases where sudden acceleration is required, the vehicle should not be driven with the tachometer’s needle inside the red area. Failure to observe this precaution can lead to excessive engine wear and poor fuel economy. – CONTINUED –