If you own or are planning to own a Subaru Crosstrek, you may be wondering how to set up and use cruise control. Cruise control is a useful feature that can make long drives more comfortable and less fatiguing. It allows you to maintain a consistent speed without having to keep your foot on the gas pedal. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to set up and use cruise control in your Subaru Crosstrek.
Understanding What Cruise Control is
Cruise control is a driver assistance feature, commonly found in modern vehicles, that allows drivers to maintain a steady speed without having to constantly press the gas pedal. The system works by automatically adjusting the throttle to keep the vehicle moving at a set speed. It can be particularly handy when driving long distances on highways or flat roads.
How to Turn on and Set the Speed of the Cruise Control
Before you start using cruise control, you need to make sure your vehicle is traveling at a stable speed. Once you are on a smooth and stable road, you can follow these steps to set up and use cruise control in your Subaru Crosstrek:
- Start by pressing the cruise control button located on the right side of the steering wheel. The button should light up to indicate that the system is activated.
- Use the "+" button on the same control to set the desired speed. Hold the button down until the speedometer on the dashboard displays the desired speed.
- Release the button once you have achieved your desired speed.
How to Cancel the Cruise Control
In some situations, you may need to cancel the cruise control - for example, if you need to slow down or stop suddenly. You can easily do this by:
- Tapping the brake pedal
- Pressing the "cancel" button located on the steering wheel
- Pressing the "off" button located on the control
How to Resume Cruise Control
If you need to resume the cruise control after canceling it, you can do so by:
- Pressing the "resume" button located on the steering wheel
- Tapping the gas pedal
How to Turn off the Cruise Control
To turn off the cruise control completely, you can follow these steps:
- Press the "off" button located on the control
- Turn off the vehicle’s engine
When to Use Cruise Control
Cruise control is best used on highways or flat roads where there is little to no stop-and-go traffic. It can help reduce driver fatigue on long drives, allowing you to maintain a consistent speed and avoid the temptation to constantly adjust your speed. However, it is important to remember that cruise control should never be used in adverse weather conditions, heavy traffic, or on winding roads.
Safety Tips When Using Cruise Control
While cruise control can make driving more comfortable and less fatiguing, it is important to remember that it is not a substitute for responsible driving. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when using cruise control in your Subaru Crosstrek:
- Always keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.
- Avoid using cruise control in adverse weather conditions.
- Do not use cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic.
- Always be prepared to brake or accelerate if necessary.
- Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you, and be prepared to adjust your speed as needed.
By following these tips, you can use cruise control safely and effectively.
Conclusion
Cruise control can be a useful feature for Subaru Crosstrek owners, making long drives more comfortable and less tiring. By following the steps outlined in this article and keeping safety tips in mind, you can set up and use cruise control in your Subaru Crosstrek safely and effectively. Remember, cruise control is not a substitute for responsible driving, so always stay alert and be prepared to adjust your speed as needed.