Quick summary
- It’s a system that allows your Subaru Forester to automatically maintain a set speed, relieving you of the need to constantly press the accelerator pedal.
- While cruise control can help you maintain a steady speed, it’s still important to pay attention to the road and other vehicles.
- This system not only maintains your set speed, but also automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
Cruising down the highway, letting the Subaru Forester take the wheel – a dream for many drivers. But how do you actually utilize this fantastic feature called cruise control? This blog post will guide you through the process, step-by-step, so you can relax and enjoy the ride.
Getting Started: Understanding the Basics
Before you hit the open road, let’s understand what cruise control actually is. It’s a system that allows your Subaru Forester to automatically maintain a set speed, relieving you of the need to constantly press the accelerator pedal. This not only eases your workload, but also helps improve fuel efficiency and makes long drives more comfortable.
Locating the Cruise Control Buttons
Your Subaru Forester‘s cruise control system is conveniently located on the steering wheel, making it easily accessible while driving. Look for the following buttons:
- SET/COAST: This button is used to set your desired speed and also to temporarily disengage cruise control.
- RES/ACCEL: This button allows you to increase your set speed without having to manually press the accelerator pedal.
- CANCEL: This button completely disengages the cruise control system.
Engaging Cruise Control: A Simple Process
Now, let’s get you cruising:
1. Ensure you’re on a level road and have reached your desired speed. Cruise control works best in situations where the road is relatively flat and your speed is consistent.
2. Press the SET/COAST button. This will activate cruise control, and your current speed will be set as your cruising speed.
3. The cruise control indicator light on your dashboard will illuminate. This confirms that cruise control is engaged.
Adjusting Your Speed: The RES/ACCEL Button
Once cruise control is engaged, you can adjust your speed without having to manually press the accelerator pedal. Here’s how:
1. To increase your speed, tap the RES/ACCEL button. Each tap will increase your speed by a predetermined increment.
2. To decrease your speed, press and hold the RES/ACCEL button. This will gradually reduce your speed until you release the button.
Disengaging Cruise Control: A Matter of Safety
While cruise control is a fantastic feature, there are times when you’ll need to disengage it. Here are the most common scenarios:
- Approaching a curve or a change in road conditions. Cruise control is designed for straight roads and may not be suitable for navigating curves or sudden changes in elevation.
- Entering a town or city. Cruise control is not generally recommended in areas with heavy traffic or stop signs.
- Encountering adverse weather conditions. Heavy rain, snow, or fog can significantly impact road conditions, making it necessary to disengage cruise control.
To disengage cruise control, simply press the CANCEL button.
Cruise Control Tips for a Smoother Ride
- Use cruise control in conjunction with your brakes. If you need to slow down, don’t rely solely on cruise control. Use your brakes to help maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
- Be aware of your surroundings. While cruise control can help you maintain a steady speed, it’s still important to pay attention to the road and other vehicles.
- Don’t rely on cruise control to maintain a safe distance. Always use your own judgment and maintain a safe following distance.
Beyond the Basics: Adaptive Cruise Control
The Subaru Forester offers an advanced feature called Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). This system not only maintains your set speed, but also automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
To activate ACC, simply follow the same steps as engaging regular cruise control. However, you’ll also need to select the desired distance setting using the buttons on your steering wheel.
The Road Ahead: Embracing Cruise Control
Cruise control is a convenient and helpful feature that can make your driving experience more enjoyable. By understanding how to use it properly and following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can maximize its benefits and enjoy a smoother, more relaxing driving experience.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Can I use cruise control in heavy traffic?
A: While cruise control can be helpful in light traffic, it’s not recommended in heavy traffic where frequent braking and acceleration are required.
Q: What happens if I hit the brakes while cruise control is engaged?
A: When you press the brakes, cruise control will automatically disengage.
Q: Can I use cruise control on uphill or downhill roads?
A: Cruise control can be used on inclines and declines, but it may need to adjust your speed to maintain your set speed.
Q: Is it safe to use cruise control on a highway?
A: Cruise control can be safe on highways if used correctly and with caution. Always be aware of your surroundings and be prepared to disengage cruise control as needed.
Q: What are the benefits of using cruise control?
A: Cruise control offers several benefits, including:
- Reduced driver fatigue: It allows you to relax your foot and take a break from constantly pressing the accelerator pedal.
- Improved fuel efficiency: By maintaining a steady speed, cruise control can help you save on fuel.
- Enhanced safety: It can help you maintain a consistent speed and avoid sudden acceleration or braking.