Subaru Outback Manuals 2018 Outback Owner's Manual | Page 357

Driving tips/Winter driving tration is inappropriate, sprayed washer fluid may freeze on the windshield and obstruct your view, and the fluid may freeze in the reservoir tank. . State or local regulations on volatile organic compounds may restrict the use of methanol, a common windshield washer anti- freeze additive. Washer fluids containing non-methanol anti- freeze agents should be used only if they provide cold weather protection without damaging your vehicle’s paint, wiper blades or washer system. ! Before driving your vehicle S08AI0101 Before entering the vehicle, remove any snow or ice from your shoes because that could make the pedals slippery and driving dangerous. While warming up the vehicle before driving, check that the accelerator pedal, brake pedal, and all other controls operate smoothly. Clear away ice and snow that has accu- mulated under the fenders to avoid making steering difficult. During severe winter driving, stop when and where it is safe to do so and check under the fenders periodically. ! Parking in cold weather S08AI0102 WARNING Snow can trap dangerous exhaust gases under your vehicle. Keep snow clear of the exhaust pipe and from around your vehicle if you park the vehicle in snow with the engine running. CAUTION . Do not use the parking brake when parking for long periods in cold weather since it could freeze in that position. . When the vehicle is parked in snow or when it snows, raise the wiper blades off the glass to prevent damage to them. . Under either of the following conditions, icing may develop on the brake system, which could cause poor braking action. – When the vehicle has been left parked after use on roads heavily covered with snow 8-9 – When the vehicle has been left parked during a snowstorm Check for snow or ice buildup on the suspension, disc brakes and brake hoses underneath the ve- hicle. If there is caked snow or ice, remove it, being careful not to damage the disc brakes and brake hoses and ABS harness. When parking for long periods in cold weather, you should observe the following tips. 1. Place the select lever in the “P” position. 2. Use tire stops under the tires to prevent the vehicle from moving. ! Refueling in cold weather S08AI0103 To help prevent moisture from forming in the fuel system and the risk of its freezing, use of an antifreeze additive in the fuel tank is recommended during cold weather. Use only additives that are specifically designed for this purpose. When an anti- freeze additive is used, its effect lasts longer if the tank is refilled whenever the fuel level reaches half empty. If your SUBARU is not going to be used for an extended period, it is best to have the fuel tank filled to capacity. – CONTINUED –