Subaru WRX & WRX STI Manuals 2010 Impreza WRX & WRX STI Owner’s Manual | Page 242

7-16 Starting and operating WARNING 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 conditions and the risk of an accident is consequently increased. & Selecting reverse gear pedal, move the shift lever, and gradually let up on the clutch. If it is difficult to shift into gear, put the transmission in neutral, release the clutch pedal momentarily, and then try again. CAUTION Shift into reverse ONLY when the vehicle has completely stopped. It may cause damage to the transmission to try shifting into reverse when the vehicle is moving. Gear ! Recommended shifting speeds The best compromise between fuel economy 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 1) Slider To change gears, fully depress the clutch 15 (24) 2nd to 3rd 25 (40) 3rd to 4th 40 (64) 4th to 5th 45 (72) 5th to 6th 50 (80) mph (km/h) 1st & Shifting speeds You must raise the slider and hold it in that position before you can move the shift lever to the “R” position. ! Maximum allowable speeds The following table shows the maximum speeds that are possible with each different 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. 31 (50) 2nd 50 (81) 3rd 74 (119) 4th 99 (159) WARNING When shifting down a gear, ensure that the vehicle is not travelling at a speed exceeding the Maximum Allowable Speed for the gear which is about to be selected. Failure to observe this precaution can lead to engine over-revving and this in turn can result in engine damage.