Buzz
Subaru Outbacks from the fourth and fifth generations (2011 to 2016) are equipped with steering wheel paddles that enable manual gear shifting. If you're unfamiliar with manual transmission, understanding the functionality of these paddles might raise questions. Though entirely optional, correct utilization of these paddles can mitigate vehicle wear and tear, offering enhanced control in specific driving conditions.
Procedures
Descending Hills
Consider engaging the paddle shifters while navigating extended, steep slopes to capitalize on engine braking and prevent brake overheating. This becomes particularly advantageous when trailing a vehicle that excessively applies its brakes.
Pull the left paddle towards you (downshift) until you attain a comfortable speed. You don't have to switch the car into manual mode. The car will remain in the gear you've selected until you accelerate.
Wintry or Slippery Conditions
Opt for the paddle shifters over brakes to decelerate. Downshift using the same method outlined for hill descent. This approach enables smoother deceleration and enhances vehicle control.
Achieve a seamless start on a slick surface by keeping the car in 2nd gear. Apply the brake, pull the right paddle towards you once to engage 2nd gear, and release the brake.
Trailering
For towing with paddle shifters, engage manual mode. Then, maintain the car in the lowest gear feasible by pulling the '-' paddle until it refuses to shift down further. Utilize this solely for initial movement or ascending a hill with a substantial load in tow. Also, use the '-' paddle to decelerate; this alleviates strain on the brakes when slowing down or descending a hill. On level terrain, for optimal fuel efficiency, switch to the highest gear using the '+' shift paddle. When requiring power for hill climbs or overtaking, shift down a couple of gears using the '-' paddle to gain additional power and torque for swifter movement or enhanced towing capability.
- Higher RPMs yield more pulling power but diminish fuel efficiency. Lower RPMs offer superior fuel economy but reduced towing torque.
Overtaking
Downshift just before overtaking. Lowering the car into a lower gear provides added acceleration when passing another vehicle on the highway or merging into traffic from a short ramp, eliminating the need to fully depress the accelerator.
- While cruising at a constant speed in full auto mode, Subaru's CVT system maintains low RPMs for fuel efficiency. Rapidly depressing the accelerator boosts torque, but RPMs still need to rise. Downshifting elevates RPMs, allowing for immediate acceleration without waiting for RPM buildup.
- Always visually check your blind spot before changing lanes.
Ascending
Downshift to a lower gear for increased power during climbs, similar to overtaking.
- Gear 1 is optimal for uphill journeys.
Navigating a Twisting Descent
Remember, reserve this method for prolonged, steep descents only. Employing downshifting routinely for routine turns could yield adverse outcomes, akin to downshifting for traffic lights as discussed previously.
Downshift preemptively to decelerate upon approaching a corner, prior to entering the turn. Avoid changing gears mid-turn.
Maintain a stable grip on the steering wheel to avoid losing track of the paddles. Refrain from employing hand-over-hand maneuvers. If the turn demands sharp steering and necessitates hand-over-hand steering, opt for brakes instead of paddles.
Conclude the turn before resuming manual gear adjustments.
Off-Road Adventures
Switch the lever to manual mode.
Maintain first or second gear while navigating through rugged terrain.
Efficient Driving Techniques
Accelerate gear shifts to progress through gears quicker than your car typically does.
Activate the upshift (right) paddle after releasing the gas pedal. This reduces engine braking and maximizes coasting speed. The Outback employs aggressive fuel shutoff, relying on inertia for coasting efficiency.
Key Reminders
Comprehend the functionality of the Subaru CVT transmission. An automatic transmission adjusts gear ratios based on vehicle speed (eliminating manual gear changes). While most automatic transmissions have predefined gear ranges, a CVT automatic transmission seamlessly transitions through an infinite number of gear ratios.
- The Outback offers six preset speeds in manual mode, maintaining fixed positions for the CVT pulleys.
- You can engage manual mode by shifting the lever to 'M' and using the paddle shifters, or temporarily by using the paddle shifters while driving in automatic mode (with the lever at the 'D' position). No need to apply brakes or press the lever button when shifting to 'M'.
Consider the potential long-term impact of downshifting on a CVT transmission. While brakes are cheaper to replace than a transmission, it's wise to limit manual shifting to situations where safety is improved, such as descending a long, steep hill or starting off in 2nd gear on slippery surfaces.
- Avoid downshifting instead of braking when approaching traffic lights or frequent stops. Although common, Subaru technical representatives caution that downshifting 'is only recommended when engine braking is necessary, such as during downhill descents. Typically, engine braking isn't required when coming to a stop at a light or stop sign. Since the transmission isn't designed for this, it could accelerate CVT wear.'
Know how to exit manual mode.
- To switch from manual mode to automatic mode, simply shift the lever back to 'D'.
- If you use the paddle shifters while driving in 'D', the car will revert to auto mode upon detecting a significant change in throttle position, often triggered by acceleration. Alternatively, you can shift from manual mode ('M') to auto mode ('D') and back again.
