How to set cruise control on a Subaru Impreza?
Use the left-side cruise control stalk to enable and manage cruise control on a Subaru Impreza. Turn the system on, reach your desired speed, then press SET to lock it in; you can adjust speed with RES/ACC or SET/COAST and cancel with the brake or a dedicated CANCEL control.
Where to find the cruise control controls
In most Impreza models, the cruise control is operated from a stalk on the left side of the steering column. The stalk typically carries an ON/OFF switch and the SET/COAST and RES/ACC controls, with a cancel function accessible if you need to disengage. Some newer models equipped with EyeSight adaptive cruise control may offer additional distance settings via steering wheel controls.
How to enable cruise control
Use this sequence to engage cruise control and lock in your speed. The instructions apply to most Impreza models; variations may exist by year or trim.
- Move the left stalk’s switch to ON. A cruise indicator should illuminate on the instrument cluster.
- Accelerate to the speed you want to maintain using the accelerator pedal.
- To set and lock in that speed, press the SET/COAST portion of the stalk (or push the end toward SET/COAST) until you hear a confirmation and the speed is displayed as the set speed.
- Release the accelerator. The car will hold your selected speed automatically.
Engaging cruise control simply requires the system to be on and the desired speed reached. If your model supports it, EyeSight adaptive cruise will also begin maintaining a following distance to the vehicle ahead, not just a fixed speed.
Adjusting speed, resuming, and canceling
While cruise is active, you can modify speed, resume after a cancellation, or cancel entirely using the brake or traction features. The controls for adjustments are typically on the same stalk.
- Increase speed: brief push or tap toward RES/ACC (or push the stalk up toward RES/ACC). Release when you reach the desired speed. The system will maintain the new speed.
- Decrease speed: brief push or tap toward SET/COAST (or push the stalk down toward SET/COAST). Hold to decelerate gradually, then release to set a new speed.
- Cancel cruise: brake pedal or press the CANCEL button if present on the stalk. This will disengage cruise while preserving the previously set speed for later resumption.
- Resume: press RES/ACC or push the stalk toward RES/ACC to return to the previously set speed.
Notes: In manual transmission models, you can cancel by braking or by using the control on the stalk; the cruise system typically disengages when you depress the clutch or brake. When you resume, your old speed is restored if traffic allows.
EyeSight Adaptive Cruise Control (if equipped)
Some Impreza trims include EyeSight with adaptive cruise control. This mode maintains a set speed while also keeping a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. The basic steps to activate are similar to standard cruise, but you’ll have distance settings to manage how closely you follow another car.
Adjusting following distance in EyeSight
Use the distance control on the steering wheel or the dedicated distance switch to choose a following gap (common options range from closest to farthest). A larger gap means more space between you and the vehicle in front, while a smaller gap keeps you closer at the same set speed.
Safety considerations and tips
Crucise control is a convenience feature, not a substitute for attentive driving. Do not use it in heavy traffic, on winding roads, or in wet or icy conditions. Always stay ready to take manual control, and be especially mindful when using adaptive cruise with EyeSight in complex traffic scenarios.
Summary
To set cruise control on a Subaru Impreza, locate the left-side cruise stalk, turn the system on, accelerate to your desired speed, and press SET to lock it in. You can increase or decrease speed with RES/ACC or SET/COAST, cancel with braking or the stalk’s cancel control, and resume with RES/ACC. If your model includes EyeSight, you can also adjust following distance for adaptive cruise control. Always prioritize safe driving and be prepared to disengage at any time.
