Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Tips

Here are tips about Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) to help you and your Subaru maintain a long-term relationship.

Avoid AWD Overconfidence

AWD gives you exceptional traction in just about any driving situation. However, inclement
weather with slippery roads can be a problem even for AWD. Reduce speed and
maintain ample distance from other vehicles.

Towing Your Vehicle

Do not tow an AWD vehicle equipped with an automatic transmission having any of its wheels on the ground. Never tow with only two wheels on the ground or on a dolly.Instead, haul AWD vehicles with all four wheels off the ground on trailers or flatbed trucks. Put the transmission in Park (automatic)
or in gear (manual). Apply the parking brake. (You can tow a manual model with all four wheels on the ground and the transmission in Neutral.)

State Emission Testing

Never test an AWD vehicle on a two-wheel dynamometer. States using them will exempt full-time  AWD vehicles like your Subaru or offer an alternative. Four-wheel dynamometer testing is approved. See your dealer for information regarding emission testing in your state.

Watch Those Boots!

Boots at the ends of axle shafts protect your AWD system from dirt, moisture, and road debris, which can get into broken, torn, or split boots and cause damage. Have your dealer check the boots every time your vehicle is serviced.

If you would like to learn more on how to maximize the life of your Subaru, check out our Caring for Your Subaru   page.