Subaru 2004 Forester X - Manual (Page 286)

8-7
Driving tips
– CONTINUED –
safety purposes as well as to avoid damaging the
AWD system, you should keep the following tips in
mind:
An AWD vehicle is better able to climb steeper
roads under snowy or slippery conditions than a two
wheel drive vehicle. There is little difference in han-
dling, however, during extremely sharp turns or sud-
den braking. Therefore, when driving down a slope or
turning corners, be sure to reduce your speed and
maintain an ample distance from other vehicles.
When replacing a tire, make sure you use only the
same size, construction, brand, and load range as the
original tires listed on the tire placard. Using other siz-
es or construction may result in severe mechanical
damage to the drive train of your vehicle and may af-
fect ride, handling, braking, speedometer/odometer
calibration, and clearance between the body and tires.
It also may be dangerous and lead to loss of vehicle
control.
Always check the cold tire pressure before starting
to drive. The recommended tire pressure is provided
on the tire placard, which is located under the door
latch on the driver’s side.
Tire chains should always be placed on the front
wheels only.
There are some precautions that you must observe
when towing your vehicle. For detail information, see
the “Towing” section in chapter 9.
Always maintain a safe driving speed accord-
ing to the road and weather conditions in order
to avoid having an accident on a sharp turn,
during sudden braking or under other similar
conditions.
Always use the utmost care in driving – over-
confidence because you are driving an all
wheel drive vehicle could easily lead to a seri-
ous accident.