Master the Art of Driving a Subaru Forester in Snow: Essential Tips You Need to Know

The Subaru Forester is renowned for its all-wheel drive capabilities, making it a popular choice for drivers who frequently encounter snowy conditions. But while the Forester is built for snowy adventures, simply having AWD doesn’t guarantee a smooth and safe ride. Mastering the art of driving a Subaru Forester in snow requires understanding the vehicle’s capabilities, implementing proper driving techniques, and being prepared for the unexpected.

Pre-Trip Preparation: Setting the Stage for a Safe Journey

Before embarking on your snow-covered journey, it’s crucial to prepare your Subaru Forester for the elements. This involves a few essential steps:

1. Check Your Tire Pressure: Cold weather can affect tire pressure, so ensure your tires are inflated to the correct pressure as indicated in your owner’s manual.

2. Install Winter Tires: If you live in a region with frequent snowfall, consider investing in a set of winter tires. These tires have a special tread pattern and rubber compound designed for optimal grip on snow and ice.

3. Top Off Fluids: Check your windshield washer fluid, coolant, and engine oil levels. Make sure you have enough windshield washer fluid specifically formulated for winter conditions to prevent freezing.

4. Pack an Emergency Kit: Be prepared for unexpected situations by packing a winter emergency kit in your vehicle. This kit should include items like a blanket, extra clothing, a flashlight, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and a shovel.

5. Familiarize Yourself with Your Vehicle’s Features: Take some time to review your Subaru Forester‘s owner’s manual, particularly sections related to all-wheel drive operation and winter driving tips.

Driving Strategies for Snow-Covered Roads

Once you’ve prepared your vehicle, it’s time to put your driving skills to the test on snowy roads. Here’s how to navigate the winter wonderland safely:

1. Slow Down: This is perhaps the most crucial tip. Snow and ice significantly reduce traction, making it easy to lose control at higher speeds. Drive at a slower pace than you would on dry pavement, leaving ample stopping distance.

2. Anticipate and Plan: Look ahead constantly and anticipate potential hazards like icy patches, snowdrifts, and other vehicles. Plan your route in advance, considering road conditions and potential closures.

3. Use Gentle Acceleration and Braking: Avoid sudden acceleration or braking, as these actions can easily cause wheel spin and loss of control. Accelerate and brake smoothly and gradually.

4. Use the Right Gear: In snowy conditions, engage a lower gear to provide more engine braking and control. This is especially helpful when descending hills.

5. Avoid Cruise Control: Cruise control can be dangerous in snow as it can cause the vehicle to lose traction and accelerate uncontrollably.

Navigating Specific Snow Challenges

1. Driving on Icy Patches: Ice is particularly treacherous, as it offers minimal friction. If you encounter an icy patch, maintain a light touch on the steering wheel and avoid sudden movements. If your vehicle starts to skid, gently steer in the direction you want to go.

2. Ascending and Descending Hills: Approach hills with caution. If you start to lose traction while ascending, try shifting to a lower gear and gently accelerating. When descending, avoid braking hard, as this can lock the wheels and cause a skid. Use the engine braking to slow down.

3. Driving in Deep Snow: Deep snow can make driving challenging. If you encounter deep snow, drive slowly and carefully. Avoid abrupt turns and maintain a consistent speed.

Essential Tips for Staying Safe

1. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay close attention to your surroundings, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and road conditions.

2. Maintain a Safe Distance: Leave ample space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. This will provide you with more time to react to unexpected situations.

3. Use Headlights: Even during daylight hours, use your headlights to increase visibility.

4. Avoid Distractions: Focus on driving and avoid distractions like cell phones, loud music, or passengers.

5. Listen to Weather Reports: Stay informed about weather conditions and road closures.

The Subaru Forester’s All-Wheel Drive Advantage

The Subaru Forester‘s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system is a major asset in snow. Here’s how it works:

• Continuous AWD: The Forester’s AWD system is always engaged, meaning power is constantly being sent to all four wheels. This provides superior traction and stability on slippery surfaces.
• Active Torque Split: The system intelligently distributes power to the wheels that need it most, ensuring optimal grip in various conditions.
• X-MODE: The Forester’s X-MODE system enhances its off-road capabilities, providing additional traction control and hill descent control for challenging snowy terrain.

Beyond the Basics: Mastering Winter Driving Techniques

While the Forester’s AWD system is a significant advantage, it’s essential to develop your winter driving skills to maximize safety. Here are some advanced techniques:

1. The “Snow Plow” Technique: This technique involves driving slowly and using the weight of the vehicle to push snow out of the way. It’s particularly helpful in deep snow or when encountering drifts.

2. The “Track Stand” Technique: This technique involves gently applying the brakes to slow down and maintain a controlled skid. It can be helpful in situations where you need to slow down quickly without losing control.

3. The “Counter-Steering” Technique: This technique involves steering in the opposite direction of the skid to regain control. It requires practice and should be used cautiously.

Embrace the Winter Wonderland with Confidence

Driving a Subaru Forester in snow can be an enjoyable experience, but it requires preparation, awareness, and proper techniques. By following these tips, you can confidently navigate snowy roads and enjoy the winter wonderland safely.

Top Questions Asked

1. What is the best way to brake in snow?

The best way to brake in snow is to brake gently and progressively. Avoid hard braking, as this can cause the wheels to lock up and result in a skid.

2. What is the difference between AWD and 4WD?

AWD systems are typically engaged all the time, while 4WD systems can be switched on and off. AWD systems are designed for everyday driving, while 4WD systems are primarily intended for off-road use.

3. How do I know if my Forester is equipped with X-MODE?

You can check if your Forester has X-MODE by looking for a button labeled “X-MODE” on the center console. If you don’t see this button, your vehicle may not be equipped with X-MODE.

4. Should I use my parking brake in snow?

It’s generally a good idea to avoid using the parking brake in snowy conditions, as it can cause the wheels to lock up and make it difficult to move the vehicle.