2004 Subaru Impreza Owners Manual

Foreword

Congratulations on choosing a SUBARU vehicle. This Owner’s Man- ual has all the information necessary to keep your SUBARU in excel- lent condition and to properly maintain the emission control system for minimizing emission pollutants. We urge you to read this manual carefully so that you may understand your vehicle and its operation. For information not found in this Owner’s Manual, such as details concerning repairs or adjustments, please contact the dealer from whom you purchased your SUBARU or the nearest SUBARU dealer. The information, specifications and illustrations found in this manual are those in effect at the time of printing. FUJI HEAVY INDUSTRIES LTD. reserves the right to change specifications and designs at any time without prior notice and without incurring any obligation to make the same or similar changes on vehicles previously sold. This Owner’s Manual applies to all models and covers all equipment, in- cluding factory installed options. Some explanations, therefore may be for equipment not installed in your vehicle. Please leave this manual in the vehicle at the time of resale. The next owner will need the information found herein.

FUJI HEAVY INDUSTRIES LTD., TOKYO, JAPAN

and

are registered trademarks of FUJI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.

© copyright 2002 FUJI HEAVY INDUSTRIES LTD.

This manual describes the following vehicle types.

Sedan

Wagon and OUTBACK SPORT

UGF053AA

UGF055AA

Warranties ! Warranties for U.S.A. All SUBARU vehicles distributed by Subaru of Ameri- ca, Inc. and sold at retail by an authorized SUBARU dealer in the United States come with the following warranties: " SUBARU Limited Warranty " Emission Control Systems Warranty " Emissions Performance Warranty All warranty information, including details of coverage and exclusions, is in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”. Please read these warranties carefully.

! Warranties for Canada All SUBARU vehicles distributed by Subaru Canada, Inc. and sold at retail by an authorized SUBARU deal- er in Canada come with the following warranties: " SUBARU Limited Warranty " Anti-Corrosion Warranty " Emission Control Warranty All warranty information, including details of coverage and exclusions, is in the Warranty and Service Book- let. Please read these warranties carefully.

! WRX-STi (U.S. model only)

WRX-STi models are equipped with High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights that contain mercury. For that reason, it is necessary to remove HID headlights before vehicle disposal. Once re- moved, please reuse, recycle or dispose of the HID headlights as hazardous waste.

! All models except U.S. model WRX-STi

This vehicle does not contain mercury devices or parts.

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How to use this owner’s manual ! Using your Owner’s manual Before you operate your vehicle, carefully read this manual. To protect yourself and extend the service life of your vehicle, follow the instructions in this manual. Failure to observe these instructions may result in se- rious injury and damage to your vehicle. This manual is composed of fourteen chapters. Each chapter begins with a brief table of contents, so you can usually tell at a glance if that chapter contains the information you want. Chapter 1: Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags This chapter informs you how to use the seat and seat- belt and contains precautions for the SRS airbags. Chapter 2: Keys and doors This chapter informs you how to operate the keys, locks and windows. Chapter 3: Instruments and controls This chapter informs you about the operation of instru- ment panel indicators and how to use the instruments and other switches. Chapter 4: Climate Control This chapter informs you how to operate the climate control. Chapter 5: Audio

This chapter informs you how to operate your audio system. Chapter 6: Interior equipment This chapter informs you how to operate interior equipment. Chapter 7: Starting and operating This chapter informs you how to start and operate your SUBARU. Chapter 8: Driving tips This chapter informs you how to drive your SUBARU in various conditions and explains some safety tips on driving. Chapter 9: In case of emergency This chapter informs you what to do if you have a prob- lem while driving, such as a flat tire or engine over- heating. Chapter 10: Appearance care This chapter informs you how to keep your SUBARU looking good. Chapter 11: Maintenance and service This chapter informs you when you need to take your SUBARU to the dealer for scheduled maintenance and informs you how to keep your SUBARU running properly. Chapter 12: Specifications This chapter informs you about dimension and capac- ities of your SUBARU.

Chapter 13: Consumer information and Reporting safety defects This chapter informs you about Uniform tire quality grading standards and Reporting safety defects. Chapter 14: Index This is an alphabetical listing of all that’s in this manu- al. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.

! Safety warnings You will find a number of WARNINGs, CAUTIONs and NOTEs in this manual. These safety warnings alert you to potential hazards that could result in injury to you or others. Please read these safety warnings as well as all other portions of this manual carefully in order to gain a bet- ter understanding of how to use your SUBARU vehicle safely.

A WARNING indicates a situation in which seri- ous injury or death could result if the warning is ignored.

A CAUTION indicates a situation in which injury or damage to your vehicle, or both, could result if the caution is ignored.

NOTE A NOTE gives information or suggestions how to make better use of your vehicle.

! Safety symbol

HSF019AA

You will find a circle with a slash through it in this man- – CONTINUED –

ual. This symbol means “Do not”, “Do not do this”, or “Do not let this happen”, depending upon the context.

Vehicle symbols There are some of the symbols you may see on your vehicle.

Mark

Name

CAUTION

Power door lock and unlock

Passenger’s windows lock and un- lock

Fuel

Front fog lights

Parking lights

Hazard warning flasher

Cigarette lighter

Mark

Name

Mark

Name

Engine hood

Trunk lid (Sedan)

Seat heater

Rear window wiper and washer

Lights

Parking lights, tail lights, license plate light and instrument panel illumination

Child restraint top tether anchorages

Head lights

Child restraint lower anchorages

Illumination brightness

Horn

Windshield wiper deicer

Wiper intermittent

Windshield wiper and washer

Fan speed

Instrument panel outlets

Instrument panel outlets and foot out- lets

Foot outlets

Windshield defroster and foot outlets

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Mark

Name

Windshield defroster

Rear window defogger/Outside mirror defogger

Air recirculation

Outside air

Engine oil

Washer

Safety precautions when driving ! Seatbelt and SRS airbag

" All persons in the vehicle should fasten their seatbelts BEFORE the vehicle starts to move. Otherwise, the possibility of serious injury be- comes greater in the event of a sudden stop or accident. " To obtain maximum protection in the event of an accident, the driver and all passengers in the vehicle should always wear seatbelts when the vehicle is moving. The SRS (Supplemental Re- straint System) airbag does not do away with the need to fasten seatbelts. In combination with the seatbelts, it offers the best combined protection in case of a serious accident. Not wearing a seatbelt increases the chance of severe injury or death in a crash even when the car has the SRS airbag. " The SRS airbags deploy with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are out of proper position when the SRS airbag deploys could suffer very serious injuries. Because the SRS airbag needs enough space for deploy-

ment, the driver should always sit upright and well back in the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full ve- hicle control and the front passenger should move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in the seat.

Carefully read the sections “Seatbelts” and “*SRS air- bag (Supplemental Restraint System airbag)” in chap- ter 1 of this owner’s manual for instructions and pre- cautions concerning the seatbelt system and SRS air- bag system.

! Child safety

" Never hold a child on your lap or in your arms while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from injury in a colli- sion, because the child will be caught between the passenger and objects inside the vehicle. " While riding in the vehicle, infants and small children should always be placed in the REAR seat in an infant or child restraint system which is appropriate for the child’s age, height and

weight. If a child is too big for a child restraint system, the child should sit in the REAR seat and be restrained using the seatbelts. Accord- ing to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating po- sitions than in the front seating positions. Nev- er allow a child to stand up or kneel on the seat. " Put children aged 12 and under in the REAR seat properly restrained at all times in a child restraint device or in a seatbelt. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, especially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or improperly restrained. Because children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk being injured from deployment is greater. " NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG. " Always use the child safety locks whenever a child rides in the rear seat. Serious injury could result if a child accidentally opened the door and fell out. Refer to the “Child safety locks” section in chapter 2.

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" Always lock the passenger’s windows using the lock switch when children are riding in the vehicle. Failure to follow this procedure could result in injury to a child operating the power window. Refer to the “Windows” section in chapter 2. " Never leave unattended children in the vehi- cle. They could accidentally injure themselves or others through inadvertent operation of the vehicle. Also, on hot or sunny days, tempera- ture in a closed vehicle could quickly become high enough to cause severe or possibly fatal injuries to them. " Help prevent young children from locking themselves in the trunk. When leaving the vehi- cle, either close all windows and lock all doors or cancel the inside trunk lid release. Also make certain that the trunk is closed. On hot or sunny days, the temperature in a trunk could quickly become high enough to cause death or serious heat-related injuries including brain damage, particularly for small children.

Carefully read the sections “Child restraint systems”, “*SRS airbag (Supplemental Restraint System air- bag)”, and “Seatbelts” in chapter 1 of this owner’s manual for instructions and precautions concerning

the child restraint system, seatbelt system and SRS airbag system.

! Engine exhaust gas (carbon monox-

ide)

" Never inhale engine exhaust gas. Engine ex- haust gas contains carbon monoxide, a color- less and odorless gas which is dangerous, or even lethal, if inhaled. " Always properly maintain the engine exhaust system to prevent engine exhaust gas from en- tering the vehicle. " Never run the engine in a closed space, such as a garage, except for the brief time needed to drive the vehicle in or out of it. " Avoid remaining in a parked vehicle for a lengthy time while the engine is running. If that is unavoidable, then use the ventilation fan to force fresh air into the vehicle. " Always keep the front ventilator inlet grille free from snow, leaves or other obstructions to ensure that the ventilation system always works properly. " If at any time you suspect that exhaust fumes

are entering the vehicle, have the problem checked and corrected as soon as possible. If you must drive under these conditions, drive only with all windows fully open. " Keep the trunk lid or rear gate closed while driving to prevent exhaust gas from entering the vehicle.

accidents. Since alcohol affects all people differently, you may have consumed too much alcohol to drive safely even if the level of alcohol in your blood is below the legal limit. The safest thing you can do is never drink and drive. However if you have no choice but to drive, stop drinking and sober up completely before getting behind the wheel.

! Drinking and driving

! Drugs and driving

Drinking and then driving is very dangerous. Alcohol in the bloodstream delays your reac- tion and impairs your perception, judgment and attentiveness. If you drive after drinking – even if you drink just a little – it will increase the risk of being involved in a serious or fatal accident, injuring or killing yourself, your passengers and others. In addition, if you are injured in the accident, alcohol may increase the severity of that injury. Please don’t drink and drive.

Drunken driving is one of the most frequent causes of

There are some drugs (over the counter and prescription) that can delay your reaction time and impair your perception, judgment and at- tentiveness. If you drive after taking them, it may increase your, your passengers’ and other persons’ risk of being involved in a serious or fatal accident.

If you are taking any drugs, check with your doctor or pharmacist or read the literature that accompanies the medication to determine if the drug you are taking can impair your driving ability. Do not drive after taking any medications that can make you drowsy or otherwise affect your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. If

– CONTINUED –

you have a medical condition that requires you to take drugs, please consult with your doctor. Never drive if you are under the influence of any illicit mind-altering drugs. For your own health and well-be- ing, we urge you not to take illegal drugs in the first place and to seek treatment if you are addicted to those drugs.

! Driving when tired or sleepy

When you are tired or sleepy, your reaction will be delayed and your perception, judgment and attentiveness will be impaired. If you drive when tired or sleepy, your, your passengers’ and other persons’ chances of being involved in a serious accident may increase.

Please do not continue to drive but instead find a safe place to rest if you are tired or sleepy. On long trips, you should make periodic rest stops to refresh your- self before continuing on your journey. When possible, you should share the driving with others.

10

! Modification of your vehicle

Your vehicle should not be modified. Modifica- tion could affect its performance, safety or du- rability, and may even violate governmental regulations. In addition, damage or perfor- mance problems resulting from modification may not be covered under warranties.

! Mobile phones and driving

Do not use a hand-held phone while driving; it may distract your attention from driving and can lead to an accident. If you use a hand-held phone, pull off the road and park in the safe place before using your phone. In some States/ Provindes, only hands-free phones may legally be used while driving.

! Driving with pets Unrestrained pets can interfere with your driving and distract your attention from driving. In a collision or sudden stop, unrestrained pets or cages can be thrown around inside the vehicle and hurt you or your passengers. Besides, the pets can be hurt under these situations. It is also for their own safety that pets should be properly restrained in your vehicle. Restrain a pet with a special traveling harness which can be se- cured to the rear seat with a seatbelt or use a pet car- rier which can be secured to the rear seat by routing a seatbelt through the carrier’s handle. Never restrain pets or pet carriers in the front passenger’s seat. For further information, consult your veterinarian, local an- imal protection society or pet shop.

! Tire pressures Check and, if necessary, adjust the pressure of each tire (including the spare) at least once a month and be- fore any long journey. Check the tire pressure when the tires are cold. Use a pressure gauge to adjust the tire pressures to the val- ues shown on the tire placard. Refer to the “Tires and wheels” section in chapter 11
for detailed information.

Driving at high speeds with excessively low tire pressures can cause the tires to deform severe- ly and to rapidly become hot. A sharp increase in temperature could cause tread separation, and destruction of the tires. The resulting loss of vehicle control could lead to an accident.

! California proposition 65 warning

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other repro- ductive harm. In addition, certain fluids in vehi- cles and certain components of product wear contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

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Table of contents Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Keys and doors

Instruments and controls

Climate control

Audio

Interior equipment

Starting and operating

Driving tips

In case of emergency

Appearance care

Maintenance and service

Specifications

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects

Index

10
11
12
13
14

1) Engine hood (page 11-5) 2) Headlight switch (page 3-29) 3) Replacing bulbs (page 11-64) 4) Wiper switch (page 3-37) 5) Moonroof (page 2-31) 6) Door locks (page 2-3) 7) Tire pressure (page 11-45) 8) Flat tires (page 9-5) 9) Tire chains (page 8-16) 10) Front fog light switch (page 3-

35)

11) Tie-down hooks (page 9-17) 12) Towing hooks (page 9-17)

Illustrated index

! Exterior

12

11

10

8 7

UGF054BB

14

1

2 3

UGF502BB

1) Rear window defogger switch

(page 3-40)

2) Fuel filler lid and cap (page 7-4) 3) Child safety locks (page 2-21) 4) Tie-down/Towing hook (page 9-

18)

5) Trunk lid (page 2-25) 6) Rear gate (page 2-29) 7) Roof rail (page 8-21)

– CONTINUED – 15

1)

Lower anchorage for child re- straint system (page 1-42)

2) Seatbelt (page 1-13) 3) Parking brake lever (page 7-34) 4) Front seat (page 1-2) 5) Rear seat (page 1-8)

! Interior ! Passenger compartment area

UGF506BB

16

1

1) Cup holder (page 6-7) 2) Center console (page 6-6) 3) Glove box (page 6-6) 4) Cigarette lighter (page 6-10) 5) Ashtray (page 6-12)

UGF507BB

– CONTINUED – 17

! Instrument panel

16

15

14

13

12

11

10

UGF056BB

18

1) Door locks (page 2-3) 2) Light control lever (page 3-29) 3) Combination meter (page 3-15) 4) Wiper control lever (page 3-35) 5) Hazard warning flasher switch

(page 3-6)

6) Audio (page 5-1) 7) Gear shift lever (MT) (page 7-

15)/Selector lever (AT) (page 7- 21)

8) Outside mirror switch (page 3-

48)

9) Climate control (page 4-1) 10) Cruise control (page 7-37) 11) Horn (page 3-50) 12) SRS airbag (page 1-52) 13) Tilt steering (page 3-49) 14) Fuse box (page 11-60) 15) Hood lock release (page 11-5) 16) Power window (page 2-22)

! Light control and wiper control levers/switches

12

10

11

34

HSF025BB

1) Parking light switch (page 3-34) 2) Windshield wiper (page 3-37) 3) Mist (page 3-38) 4) Windshield washer (page 3-38) 5) Rear window wiper and washer

switch (page 3-39)

6) Wiper control lever (page 3-37) 7) Illumination brightness control (page 3-32) 8) Light control lever (page 3-29) 9) Headlight ON/OFF (page 3-29) 10) Headlight flasher High/Low

beam change (page 3-29)

11) Turn signal (for lane change)

(page 3-31)

12) Turn signal (page 3-31)

– CONTINUED – 19

1) Fuel gauge (page 3-16) 2) Selector lever position indicator

(page 3-26)

3) Temperature gauge (page 3-17) 4) Tachometer (page 3-16) 5) Speedometer (page 3-15) 6) Odometer and trip meter (page

3-15)

7) Trip meter A/B selection and trip

meter reset knob (page 3-15) Low fuel warning light (page 3- 17)

! Combination meter ! WRX

8)

UGF050BB

20

! WRX-STi version

1 2

1) Fuel gauge (page 3-9) 2) DCCD indicator (page 3-27) 3) Temperature gauge (page 3-10) 4) Tachometer (page 3-9) 5) REV indicator (page 3-12) 6) Speedometer (page 3-7) 7) Odometer and trip meter (page

3-8)

8) Trip meter A/B selection and trip

meter reset knob (page 3-8)

9) Ambient temperature indicator

10) Low fuel warning light (page 3-

(page 3-11)

10)

10

UGF051BB

– CONTINUED – 21

1) Fuel gauge (page 3-16) 2) Selector lever position indicator

(page 3-26)

3) Temperature gauge (page 3-17) 4) Speedometer (page 3-15) 5) Tachometer (page 3-16) 6) Trip meter A/B selection and trip

meter reset knob (page 3-15)

7) Odometer and trip meter (page

3-15)

8) Outside temperature indicator

(page 3-18) Low fuel warning light (page 3- 17)

! Except turbo models

9)

UGF052BB

22

! Warning and indicator light

Mark

Name

Seatbelt warning light

SRS airbag system warning light

CHECK ENGINE warning light/ Malfunction indicator lamp

Charge warning light

Oil pressure warning light

AT OIL temperature warning light (if equipped)

ABS warning light

Brake system warning light

Door open warning light

Front-wheel drive warning light (if equipped)

or

or

Page

3-19

3-20

3-20

3-21

3-21

3-22

3-23

3-24

3-25

3-25

Mark

Name

Page

Turn signal indicator lights

High beam indicator light

Security system indicator light (if equipped)

Intercooler water spray warn- ing light (if equipped)

Light indicator light (if equipped)

Cruise control indicator light (if equipped)

Cruise control set indicator light

REV indicator light (if equipped)

Rear differential oil tempera- ture warning light (if equipped)

Electronic driver’s control cen- ter differential auto indicator (if equipped)

3-26

3-26

2-14

3-25

3-27

3-26

3-26

3-27

3-22

3-26

– CONTINUED – 23

! Tire changing tools

Jack (page 9-24) Jack handle (page 9-24)

1) 2) 3) Spare tire (page 9-24)

24

UGF512BB

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Front seats .................................................... Fore and aft adjustment ................................... Reclining the seatback ..................................... Seat cushion height adjustment (driver’s seat) Head restraint adjustment (if equipped) ......... Active head restraint (if equipped) .................. Seat heater (if equipped) .............................. Rear seats ..................................................... Armrest (if equipped) ........................................ Headrest adjustment – Wagon ........................ Folding down the rear seat – Wagon .............. Seatbelts ....................................................... Seatbelt safety tips ........................................... Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) .............. Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor (A/ELR) ............................................................ Seatbelt warning light and chime ............... Fastening the seatbelt ...................................... Seatbelt maintenance ....................................... Front seatbelt pretensioners ....................... System monitors ............................................... System servicing .............................................. Precautions against vehicle modification ...... Child restraint systems ................................ Where to place a child restraint system ......... Choosing a child restraint system .................. Installing child restraint systems with A/ELR seatbelt ............................................................ Installing a booster seat ................................... Installation of child restraint systems by

1-2
1-3
1-4
1-5
1-5
1-6
1-7
1-8
1-9
1-11
1-12
1-13
1-13
1-14
1-15
1-15
1-15
1-27
1-27
1-29
1-29
1-30
1-31
1-33
1-34
1-35
1-40
use of lower and tether anchorages (LATCH) 1-42

SRS airbag

Top tether anchorages ..................................... (Supplemental Restraint System airbag) Vehicle with driver’s and front passenger’s SRS airbags and lap/shoulder restraints ..... SRS frontal airbag ............................................ SRS side airbag (if equipped) .......................... SRS airbag system monitors ........................... SRS airbag system servicing .......................... Precautions against vehicle modification ......

1-46
1-52
1-52
1-56
1-64
1-72
1-73
1-74

1-1

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Front seats

" Never adjust the seat while driving to avoid the possibility of loss of vehicle control and of personal injury. " Before adjusting the seat, make sure the hands and feet of rear seat passengers are clear of the adjusting mechanism. " Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. To reduce the risk of sliding under the seatbelt in a collision, the front seatbacks should be always used in the upright position while the vehicle is running. If the front seat- backs are not used in the upright position in a collision, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious in- ternal injury or death.

1-2

HS1034BA

Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly restrained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, especially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or improperly restrained. Because children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deployment is greater. For that reason, we strongly recom- mend that ALL children (including those in child seats and those that have outgrown child restraint devices) sit in the REAR seat properly

restrained at all times in a child restraint device or in a seatbelt, whichever is appropriate for the child’s age, height and weight. Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (including for- ward facing child seat) in the REAR seats at all times. NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seat- ing positions than in the front seating posi- tions. For instructions and precautions con- cerning child restraint systems, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chapter.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

! Fore and aft adjustment

UG1501BA

Pull the lever upward and slide the seat to the desired position. Then release the lever and move the seat back and forth to make sure that it is securely locked into place.

– CONTINUED – 1-3

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

! Reclining the seatback

UG1502BA

Pull the reclining lever up and adjust the seatback to the desired position. Then release the lever and make sure the seatback is securely locked into place. The seatback placed in a reclined position can spring back upward with force when released. When operat- ing the reclining lever to return the seatback, hold it lightly so that it may be raised back gradually.

HS1037BA

To prevent the passenger from sliding under the seatbelt in the event of a collision, always put the seatback in the upright position while the vehicle is in motion. Also, do not place ob- jects such as cushions between the passenger and the seatback. If you do so, the risk of slid- ing under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.

1-4

! Seat cushion height adjustment (driv-

er’s seat)

! Head restraint adjustment (if

equipped)

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UG1503BB

HS1039BA

1) When the lever is pushed down, the seat is lowered. 2) When the lever is pulled up, the seat rises. The height of the seat can be adjusted by moving the seat cushion adjustment lever up and down.

To raise the head restraint, pull it up. To lower it, push the head restraint down while press- ing the release button on the top of the seatback. The head restraint should be adjusted so that the cen- ter of the head restraint is closest to the top of the oc- cupant’s ears. NOTE If the seatback is reclined rearward to the same level as the rear seat cushion with the head re- straint removed, a wide flat bed is made available.

– CONTINUED – 1-5

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1040BA

1. Slide the front seat forward as far as possible. 2. Pull off the head restraint while pressing the re- lease button. 3. Recline the seatback rearward up to the lowest po- sition. Remember to reinstall the head restraint when- ever the seatback is raised back.

" Never drive your car with the seats converted in a flat bed position. If you do so, occupants will have a greater chance of being injured even during simple deceleration, acceleration and cornering since no firm restraint will be avail-

1-6

able for them. " Before you lie on the flat bed to take a rest, read the description “Parking your vehicle” in Chapter 7 carefully and follow the instructions.

! Active head restraint (if equipped)

HS1105BA The front seats of your vehicle are equipped with ac- tive head restraints. They automatically tilt forward slightly in the event the vehicle is struck from the rear, decreasing the amount of rearward head movement and thus reducing the risk of whiplash. For maximum effectiveness the head restraint should be adjust so

that the center of the head restraint is closest to the top of the occupant’s ears.

Seat heater (if equipped)

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

" Each active head restraint is effective only when its height is properly adjusted and the user sits in the correct position on the seat. " Each active head restraint is designed to work only once. If your vehicle is involved in a rear-end collision, have an authorized SUBARU dealer inspect the active head restraints. " The active head restraints may not operate in the event the vehicle experiences only a slight impact in the rear. " The active head restraints may be damaged if they are pushed hard from behind or subjected to shock. As a result, they may not function if the vehicle suffers a rear impact.

HS1042BB

1) HI – Rapid heating 2) LO – Normal heating The seat heater operates when the ignition switch is either in the “ACC” or “ON” position. To turn on the seat heater, push the “LO” or “HI” posi- tion on the switch, as desired, depending on the tem- perature. Selecting the “HI” position will cause the seat to heat up quicker. The indicator located on the switch comes on when the seat heater is in operation. When the vehicle’s in- – CONTINUED – 1-7

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

terior is warmed enough or before you leave the vehi- cle, be sure to turn the switch off.

Rear seats

" There is a possibility that people with delicate skin may suffer slight burns even at low tem- peratures if he/she uses the seat heater for a long period of time. When using the heater, al- ways be sure to warn the persons concerned. " Do not put anything on the seat which insu- lates against heat, such as a blanket, cushion, or similar items. This may cause the seat heater to overheat.

NOTE " Use of the seat heater for a long period of time while the engine is not running can cause battery discharge. " When cleaning the seat, do not use benzine, paint thinner, or any similar materials.

1-8

HG1044BA

Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. Do not put cushions or any other materials be- tween occupants and seatbacks or seat cush- ions. If you do so, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

! Armrest (if equipped)

HS8005BA

Never stack luggage or other cargo higher than the top of the seatback because it could tumble forward and injure passengers in the event of a sudden stop or accident.

To lower the armrest, pull on the top edge of the arm- rest.

UG1504BA

To avoid the possibility of serious injury, pas- sengers must never be allowed to sit on the center armrest while the vehicle is in motion.

– CONTINUED – 1-9

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

! Loading long objects

interfere with the driver’s proper operation of the car, possibly causing an accident and seri- ous injury.

Folding down the armrest and opening the seatback panel affords a loading space for long objects. To open the seatback panel, pull the release tab.

UG1505BA

" Secure long objects properly to prevent them from shooting forward and causing serious in- jury during a sudden stop or sharp cornering. Tie long objects down with a rope or something equivalent. " Avoid loading objects longer than 6.6 ft (2 m) and heavier than 55 lb (25 kg). Such objects can

1-10

UG1506BA

! Headrest adjustment – Wagon

! Rear center seating position

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1046BA

HS1106BA

To raise the headrest, pull it up. To lower it, push the head rest down while depressing the release button on the top of the seatback. When the seats are not occupied, lower the headrests to improve rearward visibility.

To raise the head restraint, pull it up. To lower it, push the headrest down while pressing the release button on the top of the seatback. When the rear-center seating position is occupied, place the headrest in its highest position. When the rear center seating position is not occupied, lower the headrest to improve rearward visibility.

– CONTINUED – 1-11

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

! Folding down the rear seat – Wagon

HS1047BA

HS1048BA

1-12

1. Lower the headrests. 2. Unlock the seatback by pulling the release knob and then fold the seatback down. To return the seatback to its original position, raise the seatback until it locks into place and make sure that it is securely locked.

" After returning the rear seat to its original po- sition, be certain to place all of the seatbelts and the tab attached to the seat cushion above the seat cushion. And make certain that the shoulder belts are fully visible. " Never allow passengers to ride on the folded rear seatback or in the cargo area. Doing so may result in serious injury or death. " Secure lengthy items properly to prevent them from shooting forward and causing seri- ous injury during a sudden stop.

Seatbelts ! Seatbelt safety tips

" All persons in the vehicle should fasten their seatbelts BEFORE the vehicle starts to move. Otherwise, the possibility of serious injury be- comes greater in the event of a sudden stop or accident. " All belts should fit snugly in order to provide full restraint. Loose fitting belts are not as ef- fective in preventing or reducing injury. " Each seatbelt is designed to support only one person. Never use a single belt for two or more persons — even children. Otherwise, in an accident, serious injury or death could re- sult. " Replace all seatbelt assemblies including re- tractors and attaching hardware worn by occu- pants of a vehicle that has been in a serious ac- cident. The entire assembly should be replaced even if damage is not obvious. " Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly restrained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

force and can injure or even kill children, espe- cially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or improperly restrained. Be- cause children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deploy- ment is greater. For that reason, we strongly recommend that ALL children (including those in child seats and those that have outgrown child restraint devices) sit in the REAR seat properly restrained at all times in a child re- straint device or in a seatbelt, whichever is ap- propriate for the child’s height and weight. Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (in- cluding forward facing child seats) in the REAR seats at all times. NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seat- ing positions than in the front seating posi- tions. For instructions and precautions con- cerning the child restraint system, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chap-

– CONTINUED – 1-13

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

ter.

! Expectant mothers

! Infants or small children Use a child restraint system that is suitable for your ve- hicle. See information on “Child restraint systems” in this chapter. ! Children If a child is too big for a child restraint system, the child should sit in the rear seat and be restrained using the seatbelts. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating po- sitions than in the front seating positions. Never allow a child to stand up or kneel on the seat. If the shoulder portion of the belt crosses the face or neck, adjust the shoulder belt anchor height (window- side seating positions only) and then if necessary move the child closer to the belt buckle to help provide a good shoulder belt fit. Care must be taken to secure- ly place the lap belt as low as possible on the hips and not on the child’s waist. If the shoulder portion of the belt cannot be properly positioned, a child restraint system should be used. Never place the shoulder belt under the child’s arm or behind the child’s back.

1-14

HS1107AA

Expectant mothers also need to use the seatbelts. They should consult their doctor for specific recom- mendations. The lap belt should be worn securely and as low as possible over the hips, not over the waist.

! Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) The driver’s seatbelt has an Emergency Locking Re- tractor (ELR). The emergency locking retractor allows normal body movement but the retractor locks automatically during a sudden stop, impact or if you pull the belt very quick- ly out of the retractor.

! Automatic/Emergency Locking Retrac-

tor (A/ELR)

Each passenger’s seatbelt has an Automatic/Emer- gency Locking Retractor (A/ELR). The Automatic/ Emergency Locking Retractor normally functions as an Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR). The A/ELR has an additional locking mode “Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode” intended to secure a child re- straint system. When the seatbelt is once drawn out completely and is then retracted even slightly, the re- tractor locks the seatbelt in that position and the seat- belt cannot be extended. As the belt is rewinding, clicks will be heard which indicate the retractor func- tions as an ALR. When the seatbelt is retracted fully, the ALR mode is released. When securing a child restraint system on the rear seats by the use of the seatbelt, the seatbelt must be changed over to the Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode. When the child restraint system is removed, make sure that the seatbelt retracts fully and the retractor re- turned to the Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) mode. For instructions on how to convert the retractor to the ALR mode and restore it to the ELR mode, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chapter.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

! Seatbelt warning light and chime Your vehicle is equipped with a seatbelt warning de- vice at the driver’s seat, as required by current safety standards. This device causes the seatbelt warning light on the instrument panel to light up for about six seconds when the ignition switch is turned to “ON” to remind the driver to wear the seatbelt. If the driver’s seatbelt is not fastened, a warning chime sounds at the same time.

! Fastening the seatbelt

" Never use a belt that is twisted or reversed. In an accident, this can increase the risk or sever- ity of injury. " Keep the lap belt as low as possible on your hips. In a collision, this spreads the force of the lap belt over stronger hip bones instead of across the weaker abdomen. " Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. To reduce the risk of sliding under the seatbelt in a collision, the front seatbacks should be always used in the upright position while the vehicle is running. If the front seat- – CONTINUED – 1-15

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

backs are not used in the upright position in a collision, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious in- ternal injury or death. " Do not put cushions or any other materials between occupants and seatbacks or seat cushions. If you do so, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.

HS1049BA

1-16

Never place the shoulder belt under the arm or behind the back. If an accident occurs, this can increase the risk or severity of injury.

Metallic parts of the seatbelt can become very hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sun- ny weather; they could burn an occupant. Do not touch such hot parts until they cool.

! Front seatbelts 1. Adjust the seat position: Driver’s seat: Adjust the seatback to the upright posi- tion. Move the seatback as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full vehicle control. Front passenger’s seat: Adjust the seatback to the upright position. Move the seat as far back as possi- ble. 2. Sit well back in the seat. 3. Pick up the tongue plate and pull the belt out slowly. Do not let it get twisted. If the belt stops before reach- ing the buckle, return the belt slightly and pull it out

more slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked, let the belt retract slightly after giving it a strong pull, then pull it out slowly again.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

4. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click.

HS1050BA

HS1051BB

5. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt. 6. Place the lap belt as low as possible on your hips, not on your waist.

– CONTINUED – 1-17

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

" Adjusting the front seat shoulder belt anchor

height

HS1052BA

The shoulder belt anchor height should be adjusted to the position best suited for you. To lower the anchor height, push the release button and slide the anchor down. To raise the anchor height, slide the anchor up. Pull down on the anchor to make sure that it is locked in place. Always adjust the anchor height so that the shoulder belt passes over the middle of the shoulder without touching the neck.

1-18

When wearing the seatbelts, make sure the shoulder portion of the webbing does not pass over your neck. If it does, adjust the seatbelt an- chor to a lower position. Placing the shoulder belt over the neck may result in neck injury dur- ing sudden braking or in a collision.

" Unfastening the seatbelt

Push the button on the buckle. Before closing the door, make sure that the belts are retracted properly to avoid catching the belt webbing

HS1053BA

in the door. ! Rear seatbelts (except rear center seatbelt on

Wagon)

1. Sit well back in the seat. 2. Pick up the tongue plate and pull the belt out slowly. Do not let it get twisted. If the belt stops before reach- ing the buckle, return the belt slightly and pull it out more slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked, let the belt retract slightly after giving a strong pull on it, then pull it out slowly again.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1051BC

4. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt. 5. Place the lap belt as low as possible on your hips, not on your waist.

3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click.

HS1050BA

– CONTINUED – 1-19

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

" Adjusting the rear seat shoulder belt anchor height (window-side seating positions only)

UG1075BA

The shoulder belt anchor height should be adjusted to the position best suited for you. To adjust the anchor height, push the release button and slide the anchor up or down. Pull down on the anchor to make sure that it is locked in place. Always adjust the anchor height so that the shoulder belt passes over the middle of the shoulder without touching the neck.

1-20

When wearing the seatbelts, make sure the shoulder portion of the webbing does not pass over your neck. If it does, adjust the seatbelt an- chor to a lower position. Placing the shoulder belt over the neck may result in neck injury dur- ing sudden braking or in a collision.

" Unfastening the seatbelt

Push the button on the buckle. Before closing the door, make sure that the belts are

HS1053BA

retracted properly to avoid catching the belt webbing in the door. ! Rear center seatbelt on Wagon

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1054BA

1) Center seatbelt tongue plate 2) Connector (tongue) 3) Connector (buckle) 4) Center seatbelt buckle

UG1093BB

Fastening the seatbelt with the webbing twisted can increase the risk or severity of injury in an accident. When fastening the belt after it is pulled out from the retractor, especially when inserting the connector’s tongue plate into the mating buckle (on right-hand side), always check that the webbing is not twisted.

– CONTINUED – 1-21

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1055BA

UG1535BA

1. Remove the tongue plate from the belt holder locat- ed under the right rear quarter glass and pull out the seatbelt slowly.

Be sure to fasten both tongue plates to the re- spective buckles. If the seatbelt is used only as a shoulder belt (with the connector’s tongue plate not fastened to the connector’s buckle on the right-hand side), it cannot properly restrain the wearer in position in an accident, possibly resulting in serious injury or death.

1-22

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UG1508BA

HS1059BA

2. After drawing out the seatbelt, pass it through the belt guide as follows: First insert one edge of the belt into the open gap in the comfort guide; then slide the rest of the belt in, so that the whole belt fits inside.

3. After confirming that the webbing is not twisted, in- sert the connector (tongue) attached at the webbing end into the buckle on the right-hand side until a click is heard. If the belt stops before reaching the buckle, return the belt slightly and pull it out more slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked, let the belt retract slightly after giving it a strong pull, then pull it out slowly again.

– CONTINUED – 1-23

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1060BA

HS1061BB

4. Insert the center seatbelt tongue plate in the center seatbelt buckle marked “CENTER” on the left-hand side until it clicks.

5. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt. 6. Place the lap belt as low as possible on your hips, not on your waist.

1-24

" Unfastening the seatbelt

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1062BA

Push the release button of the center seatbelt buckle (on the left-hand side) to unfasten the seatbelt. NOTE When the seatback is folded down for greater car- go area, it is necessary to disconnect the connec- tor.

HS1063BA

1. Insert a key or other hard pointed object into the – CONTINUED – 1-25

HS1064BA

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

slot in the connector (buckle) on the right-hand side and push it in, and the connector (tongue) plate will disconnect from the buckle.

UG1509BA

2. Allow the retractor to roll up the belt. You should hold the webbing end and guide it back into the retrac- tor while it is rolling up. Insert the tongue plate into the belt holder.

UG1510BA

" Do not allow the retractor to roll up the seat- belt too quickly. Otherwise, the metal tongue plates may hit against the trim, resulting in damaged trim. " Have the seatbelt fully rolled up so that the tongue plates are neatly stored. A hanging tongue plate can swing and hit against the trim during driving, causing damage to the trim.

1-26

! Seatbelt maintenance To clean the seatbelts, use a mild soap and lukewarm water. Never bleach or dye the belts because this could seriously affect their strength. Inspect the seatbelts and attachments including the webbing and all hardware periodically for cracks, cuts, gashes, tears, damage, loose bolts or worn areas. Re- place the seatbelts even if only minor damage is found.

" Keep the belts free of polishes, oils, chemi- cals and particularly battery acid. " Never attempt to make modifications or changes that will prevent the seatbelt from op- erating properly.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Front seatbelt pretensioners

HS1067BA

The driver’s and front passenger’s seatbelts have a seatbelt pretensioner. The seatbelt pretensioners are designed to be activated in the event of an accident in- volving a moderate to severe frontal collision. The pretensioner sensor also serves as the frontal SRS airbag sensor. If the sensor detects a certain pre- determined amount of force during a frontal collision, the front seatbelt is quickly drawn back in by the re- tractor to take up the slack so that the belt more effec- tively restrains the front seat occupant. When a seatbelt pretensioner is activated, an operat- – CONTINUED – 1-27

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

ing noise will be heard and a small amount of smoke will be released. These occurrences are normal and not harmful. This smoke does not indicate a fire in the vehicle. Once the seatbelt pretensioner has been activated, the seatbelt retractor remains locked. Consequently, the seatbelt can not be pulled out and retracted and therefore must be replaced. NOTE " Seatbelt pretensioners are not designed to acti- vate in minor frontal impacts, in side or rear im- pacts or in roll-over accidents. " The driver’s seat and passenger’s seat preten- sioners and frontal SRS airbag operate simulta- neously. " Pretensioners are designed to function on a one-time-only basis. In the event that a preten- sioner is activated, both the driver’s and front pas- senger’s seatbelt retractor assemblies must be re- placed only by an authorized SUBARU dealer. When replacing seatbelt retractor assemblies, use only genuine SUBARU parts. " If either front seatbelt does not retract or cannot be pulled out due to a malfunction or activation of the pretensioner, contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.

1-28

" If the front seatbelt retractor assembly or sur- rounding area has been damaged, contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible. " When you sell your vehicle, we urge you to ex- plain to the buyer that it has seatbelt pretension- ers by alerting him to the contents of this section.

" To obtain maximum protection, the occu- pants should sit in an upright position with their seatbelts properly fastened. Refer to the “Seatbelts” section in this chapter. " Do not modify, remove or strike the front seatbelt retractor assemblies or surrounding area. This could result in accidental activation of the seatbelt pretensioners or could make the system inoperative, possibly resulting in seri- ous injury. Seatbelt pretensioners have no user-serviceable parts. For required servicing of front seatbelt retractors equipped with seat- belt pretensioners, see your nearest SUBARU dealer. " When discarding front seatbelt retractor as- semblies or scrapping the entire car due to col- lision damage or for other reasons, consult

your SUBARU dealer.

! System monitors

UG7020DA

A diagnostic system continually monitors the readi- ness of the seatbelt pretensioner while the vehicle is being driven. The seatbelt pretensioners share the control module with the SRS airbag system. There- fore, if any malfunction occurs in a seatbelt preten- sioner, the SRS airbag system warning light will illumi- nate. The SRS airbag system warning light will show normal system operation by lighting for about 6 sec- onds when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” posi-

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

tion. The following components are monitored by the indi- cator: " Front sub sensor (Right hand side) " Front sub sensor (Left hand side) " Airbag control module (including impact sensors) " Seatbelt pretensioner (driver’s side) " Seatbelt pretensioner (Passenger’s side) " All related wiring " And all other airbag components In the event of a malfunction indicated by any of follow- ing, the vehicle should be taken promptly to your near- est SUBARU dealer to have the system checked. Un- less checked and repaired, the seatbelt pretensioners and SRS airbag will not function reliably: " Flashing or flickering of the indicator light. " No illumination of the warning light when the ignition switch is first turned to the “ON” position. " Continuous illumination of the warning light. " Illumination of the warning light while driving.

! System servicing

" When discarding a seatbelt retractor assem- – CONTINUED – 1-29

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

bly or scrapping the entire car damaged by a collision, consult your SUBARU dealer. " Tampering with or disconnecting the sys- tem’s wiring could result in accidental activa- tion of the seatbelt pretensioner and/or SRS air- bag or could make the system inoperative, which may result in serious injury. The wiring harnesses of the seatbelt pretensioner and SRS airbag systems are covered with yellow insula- tion and the connectors of the system are yel- low for easy identification. Do not use electrical test equipment on any circuit related to the seatbelt pretensioner and SRS airbag systems. For required servicing of the seatbelt preten- sioner, see your nearest SUBARU dealer.

The front sub sensors are located in both front fenders and the SRS airbag control module in- cluding the impact sensors is located under the center console. If you need service or repair in those areas or near the front seatbelt retrac- tors, we recommend that you have an autho- rized SUBARU dealer perform the work.

1-30

NOTE If the front part of the vehicle is damaged in an ac- cident to the extent that the seatbelt pretensioner does not operate, contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.

! Precautions against vehicle modifica-

tion

Always consult your SUBARU dealer if you want to in- stall any accessory parts to your vehicle.

Do not perform any of the following modifica- tions. Such modifications can interfere with proper operation of the seatbelt pretensioners. " Attachment of any equipment (bush bar, winches, snow plow, skid plate, etc.) other than SUBARU genuine accessory parts to the front end. " Modification of the suspension system or front end structure. " Installation of a tire of different size and con- struction from the tires specified on the tire placard attached to the driver’s door jamb.

Child restraint systems

UG1086BA

Infants and small children should always be placed in an infant or child restraint system in the rear seat while riding in the vehicle. You should use an infant or child restraint system that meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, is compatible with your vehicle and is ap- propriate for the child’s age and size. All child restraint systems are designed to be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or the lap belt portion of a lap/shoulder belt (except those covered under the section in this manu- al, entitled “Installation of child restraint systems by use of lower and tether anchorages (LATCH)”).

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Children could be endangered in an accident if their child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle. When installing the child restraint system, carefully fol- low the manufacturer’s instructions. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. All U.S. states and Canadian provinces require that in- fants and small children be restrained in an approved child restraint system at all times while the vehicle is moving.

HS1069BA

– CONTINUED – 1-31

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap or in his or her arms while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from injury in a collision, because the child will be caught between the passenger and objects inside the vehicle. Additionally, holding a child in your lap or arms in the front seat exposes that child to another serious danger. Since the SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force, the child could be injured or even killed.

1-32

HS1070BA

Children should be properly restrained at all times. Never allow a child to stand up, or to kneel on any seat. Unrestrained children will be thrown forward during sudden stop or in an ac- cident and can be injured seriously. Additionally, children standing up or kneeling on or in front of the front seat are exposed an- other serious danger. Since the SRS airbag de- ploys with considerable speed and force, the child could be injured or even killed.

! Where to place a child restraint system The following are SUBARU’s recommendations on where to place a child restraint system in your vehicle.

UG1530BA

A: Front passenger’s seat You should not install a child restraint system due to the hazard to children posed by the passenger’s air- bag. B: Rear seat, window-side seating positions Recommended positions for all types of child restraint systems. In these positions, Automatic/Emergency Locking Re- tractor (A/ELR) seatbelts and lower anchor bars are provided for installing a child restraint system.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

C: Rear seat, center seating position Installing a child restraint system is not recommended, although the A/ELR seatbelt is provided in this posi- tion. Some types of child restraints might not be able to be secured firmly due to projection of the seat cushion. In this seating position, you should use only a child re- straint system that has a bottom base that fits snugly against the contours of the seat cushion and can be securely retained using the seatbelt.

Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly restrained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, especially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or improperly restrained. Because children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deployment is greater. For that reason, be sure to secure ALL types of child restraint devices (including forward fac- ing child seats) in the REAR seats at all times. You should choose a restraint device which is appropriate for the child’s age, height and weight. According to accident statistics, chil- – CONTINUED – 1-33

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

dren are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions.

TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG.

! Choosing a child restraint system

HG1043BA

UGS507AA

SINCE YOUR VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH A PASSENGER’S SRS AIRBAG, NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SAFETY SEAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER’S SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD

1-34

Choose a child restraint system that is appropriate for the child’s age and size (weight and height) in order to provide the child with proper protection. The child re- straint system should meet all applicable requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for the United States or of Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for Canada. It can be identified by looking for the label on the child restraint system or the manu- facturer’s statement of compliance in the document at-

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

tached to the system. Also it is important for you to make sure that the child restraint system is compatible with the vehicle in which it will be used.

! Installing child restraint systems with

A/ELR seatbelt

low the manufacturer’s instructions supplied with it. After installing the child restraint sys- tem, check to ensure that it is held securely in position. If it is not held tight and secure, the danger of your child suffering personal injury in the event of an accident may be increased.

! Installing a rearward facing child restraint

" Child restraint systems and seatbelts can be- come hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sunny weather; they could burn a small child. Check the child restraint system before you place a child in it. " Do not leave an unsecured child restraint system in your vehicle. Unsecured child re- straint systems can be thrown around inside of the vehicle in a sudden stop, turn or accident; it can strike and injure vehicle occupants as well as result in serious injuries or death to the child.

When you install a child restraint system, fol-

UGS508BA

1. Place the child restraint system in the rear seating position. 2. Run the lap and shoulder belt through or around the child restraint system following the instructions provided by its manufacturer.

– CONTINUED – 1-35

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click.

UGS509BA

4. Take up the slack in the lap belt. 5. Pull out the seatbelt fully from the retractor to change the retractor over from the Emergency Lock- ing Retractor (ELR) to the Automatic Locking Retrac- tor (ALR) function. Then, allow the belt to rewind into the retractor. As the belt is rewinding, clicks will be heard which indicate the retractor functions as ALR.

UGS510BA

6. Push and pull the child restraint system forward and from side to side to check if it is firmly secured. Sometime a child restraint can be more firmly secured by pushing it down into the seat cushion and then tightening the seat belt. 7. Pull at the shoulder portion of the belt to confirm that it cannot be pulled out (ALR properly functioning).

1-36

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

NOTE When the child restraint system is no longer in use, remove it and restore the ELR function of the retractor. That function is restored by allowing the seatbelt to retract fully. ! Installing forward facing child restraint

US1581BA

1. Place the child restraint system in the rear seating position. 2. Run the lap and shoulder belt through or around the child restraint system following the instructions provided by its manufacturer. 3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle untill you hear a click.

– CONTINUED – 1-37

UG1089BA

8. To remove the child restraint system, press the re- lease button on the seatbelt buckle and allow the belt to retract completely. The belt will return to the ELR mode.

NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER’S SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

US1582BA