Key points
- Parking your Subaru safely and securely is essential, and the parking brake plays a crucial role in ensuring your vehicle remains stationary.
- The parking brake provides an additional layer of security and prevents the vehicle from rolling away if the transmission is accidentally shifted out of “Park.
- You can do this by engaging the parking brake on a slight incline and releasing the brake pedal to see if the vehicle remains stationary.
Parking your Subaru safely and securely is essential, and the parking brake plays a crucial role in ensuring your vehicle remains stationary. This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed instructions on how to engage your Subaru’s parking brake in various situations. By following these steps, you can ensure your vehicle is properly parked and prevent it from rolling away unintentionally.
Identifying the Parking Brake Lever
Locate the parking brake lever, typically situated between the driver’s seat and the center console. It is usually a long, thin lever with a handle or button on the end.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Engage the Parking Brake:
1. Park Your Subaru on a Level Surface
Before engaging the parking brake, ensure your Subaru is parked on a level surface to prevent it from rolling.
2. Apply Gentle Pressure to the Brake Pedal
Lightly press the brake pedal with your right foot to slow down the vehicle.
3. Pull Up the Parking Brake Lever
With your left hand, pull up the parking brake lever firmly but gradually. You should feel a slight resistance as the lever engages.
4. Ensure the Parking Brake is Fully Engaged
Check if the parking brake is fully engaged by releasing the brake pedal. If the vehicle does not roll, the parking brake is engaged.
Additional Tips for Engaging the Parking Brake:
1. Use the Parking Brake in Conjunction with the Transmission
When parking on a steep incline, engage the parking brake before shifting the transmission into “Park.” This provides an extra layer of security.
2. Release the Parking Brake Before Driving
Always remember to release the parking brake before driving. Otherwise, you may damage the transmission or parking brake components.
Disengaging the Parking Brake:
1. Depress the Brake Pedal
Press the brake pedal with your right foot to slow down the vehicle.
2. Push Down on the Parking Brake Lever
Use your left hand to push down on the parking brake lever.
3. Release the Brake Pedal
Once the parking brake lever is disengaged, release the brake pedal and drive your Subaru.
Troubleshooting Common Parking Brake Issues:
1. Parking Brake Won’t Engage
- Check if the parking brake lever is fully pulled up.
- Ensure the brake pedal is depressed.
- Consult your Subaru’s owner’s manual for specific troubleshooting instructions.
2. Parking Brake Won’t Release
- Ensure the brake pedal is fully depressed.
- Check if the parking brake lever is stuck.
- If necessary, contact a mechanic for assistance.
Summary: Mastering the Parking Brake for Safe Parking
By following these instructions and tips, you can confidently engage and disengage your Subaru’s parking brake, ensuring your vehicle remains secure and stationary when parked. Remember to practice these steps regularly to develop muscle memory and ensure you can use the parking brake effectively in any situation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I leave my Subaru in “Park” without using the parking brake?
While it is possible to leave your Subaru in “Park” without engaging the parking brake, it is not recommended. The parking brake provides an additional layer of security and prevents the vehicle from rolling away if the transmission is accidentally shifted out of “Park.”
2. How often should I check my parking brake?
It is recommended to check your parking brake periodically to ensure it is functioning properly. You can do this by engaging the parking brake on a slight incline and releasing the brake pedal to see if the vehicle remains stationary.
3. What should I do if my parking brake is not working?
If your parking brake is not working properly, do not drive your Subaru. Consult your Subaru’s owner’s manual for troubleshooting instructions. If necessary, contact a mechanic for professional assistance.