Demystifying the All-Wheel Drive Button on the Subaru Outback

Are you the proud owner of a Subaru Outback, but still unsure of how to use its all-wheel drive system? Fear not, as this guide will provide you with all the information you need to understand and utilize this feature to its fullest potential.

Key Takeaways

  • The all-wheel drive system on the Subaru Outback provides excellent traction and stability on various terrains.
  • The all-wheel drive button is located on the center console and has three different modes: automatic, manual, and X-MODE.
  • The automatic mode is best for everyday driving, while the manual mode allows the driver to select which wheels receive power.
  • X-MODE is designed for off-road driving and provides better traction on steep inclines and rough terrain.

How Does All-Wheel Drive Work?

All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that powers all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously. Unlike two-wheel drive vehicles that only power either the front or rear wheels, AWD provides better traction and stability on various terrains.

The Subaru Outback’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is designed to provide power to all four wheels evenly, resulting in excellent stability and traction. This system also provides better handling and control in various weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and ice.

See also  Can You Flat Tow a CJ5 Subaru Outback?

The Three Modes of the All-Wheel Drive Button

The Subaru Outback’s all-wheel drive button is located on the center console and has three different modes: automatic, manual, and X-MODE.

Automatic Mode

The automatic mode is the default setting for the all-wheel drive system, and it is best for everyday driving. This mode distributes power to all four wheels evenly, providing better traction and stability on various terrains.

Manual Mode

The manual mode allows the driver to select which wheels receive power, giving them more control. This mode is best for driving in challenging weather or road conditions, as it allows the driver to adjust the power distribution to suit their needs.

X-MODE

X-MODE is designed for off-road driving and provides better traction on steep inclines and rough terrain. This mode optimizes the all-wheel drive system to deliver the maximum amount of traction and stability, making it easier to navigate challenging off-road conditions.

Where to Find the All-Wheel Drive Button

The all-wheel drive button is located on the center console, near the gear shifter. It is labeled with the letters "AWD" and has three different modes that can be selected by pressing the button.

How to Use the All-Wheel Drive Button

Using the all-wheel drive button on the Subaru Outback is simple and straightforward. To engage the all-wheel drive system, follow these steps:

  1. Locate the all-wheel drive button on the center console.
  2. Press the button to cycle through the different modes: automatic, manual, and X-MODE.
  3. Select the mode that best suits your driving conditions.
  4. Drive as you normally would, and the all-wheel drive system will provide you with better traction and stability on various terrains.
See also  How to Set the Clock on a 2018 Subaru Outback

Advantages of All-Wheel Drive

The all-wheel drive system on the Subaru Outback provides several advantages, including:

  • Better traction and stability on various road and weather conditions.
  • Improved handling and control.
  • Increased safety, especially in challenging driving conditions.
  • Better resale value, as all-wheel drive is a desirable feature in many regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive?

All-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are both drivetrain systems that power all four wheels simultaneously. However, all-wheel drive systems are typically designed for on-road use, while four-wheel drive systems are designed for off-road use.

Can you use all-wheel drive all the time?

Yes, you can use all-wheel drive all the time on the Subaru Outback. The automatic mode is designed to provide power to all four wheels evenly, making it ideal for everyday driving.

How does X-MODE work?

X-MODE is designed to provide better traction and stability on steep inclines and rough terrain. It optimizes the all-wheel drive system to deliver the maximum amount of power to the wheels that need it most.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the all-wheel drive system on the Subaru Outback is a valuable feature that provides better traction, stability, and control on various terrains. The all-wheel drive button is easy to find and use, and it has three different modes that can be selected to suit your driving needs.

By understanding how the all-wheel drive system works and how to use the all-wheel drive button, you can maximize the benefits of this feature and enjoy a safer and more comfortable driving experience.

See also  How to Set HD2 Radio Stations on 2015 Subaru Outback
Avatar photo

Davis Bellew

As a Subaru owner and enthusiast, Davis has a deep understanding of the needs and concerns of Subaru drivers. He specializes in writing informative and engaging content about Subaru maintenance and repair, and his articles are always well-researched and easy to understand. When he's not writing, he enjoys hiking and photography.

Recommended Articles