Is a Subaru Forester good in snow and ice?
The Subaru Forester has long been a popular choice for drivers living in areas with harsh winter conditions. Known for its all-wheel drive capabilities and rugged design, many wonder if it truly excels in snow and ice. In this article, we will explore the features that make the Subaru Forester a reliable vehicle for winter driving, as well as some tips for maximizing its performance in snowy conditions.
All-Wheel Drive System
One of the standout features of the Subaru Forester is its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. This technology provides power to all four wheels simultaneously, enhancing traction and stability on slippery surfaces. Unlike some competitors that offer AWD only when needed, the Forester's system is always active, which can be a significant advantage in snow and ice.
Ground Clearance and Tires
The Forester boasts a higher ground clearance compared to many other compact SUVs, which helps prevent the vehicle from getting stuck in deep snow. Additionally, equipping the Forester with winter tires can dramatically improve its handling and braking performance in icy conditions. Winter tires are designed to provide better grip and control, making them an essential investment for anyone living in snowy climates.
Safety Features
Subaru prioritizes safety, and the Forester is no exception. It comes equipped with various safety features that enhance its performance in winter conditions:
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Helps maintain steering control during hard braking on slippery surfaces.
- Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC): Monitors and adjusts the vehicle's stability, helping to prevent skidding.
- Subaru EyeSight: An advanced driver-assist technology that includes features like adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking, which can be particularly useful in winter driving.
Driving Tips for Winter Conditions
To get the most out of your Subaru Forester in snow and ice, consider the following tips:
- Slow Down: Reduced speed is crucial for maintaining control on slippery roads.
- Increase Following Distance: Allow more space between you and the vehicle in front to account for longer stopping distances.
- Use Gentle Inputs: Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, or steering movements to prevent loss of traction.
- Know Your Vehicle: Familiarize yourself with how your Forester handles in different conditions to build confidence.
Conclusion
In summary, the Subaru Forester is indeed a solid choice for driving in snow and ice, thanks to its all-wheel drive system, safety features, and higher ground clearance. By following some basic winter driving tips and ensuring your vehicle is equipped with the right tires, you can navigate winter roads with confidence. Whether you're commuting to work or heading out for a weekend adventure, the Forester is designed to keep you safe and secure in challenging weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Subaru have a bad reputation?
Issues such as engine problems, failing oxygen sensors, Takata airbag recalls, transmission concerns, and rodent-attractive wiring can affect various Subaru models.
Why are Subaru Foresters not selling?
The popular Forester's five-month drop in sales performance has a lot to do with the economy. Many seniors look at the Forester and compare the price with the Crosstrek and can get an excellent all-wheel-drive vehicle for about $5,000 less—and even more so on the upper Touring trim level.
Does Subaru Forester need chains in snow?
Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles with snow-tread tires on all four wheels. Note: four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles must carry traction devices in chain control areas. This is good news for every Subaru built since 1997 with the exception of the BRZ.
Is Subaru Forester a true 4WD?
Crossover small or medium SUV All-Wheel Drive cars such as Subaru Forester that are designed for normal road use with occasional dirt or mild off road use generally use permanently engaged AWD systems. This has the active safety advantage of always having twice the grip of a driver selectable 4WD system.
How to drive a Subaru Forester in snow?
Safe Driving Tips for Snow and Ice
Accelerate and decelerate carefully: Apply gentle, gradual pressure to gas and brake pedals to avoid skidding or losing control. Take turns cautiously: Pivoting around curves can cause skidding, especially if you over rotate your steering wheel.
Do I need snow chains if my car is AWD?
Requirement 2 (R-2): Chains are required on all vehicles except four-wheel-drive vehicles under 6,500 pounds gross weight and equipped with snow tires on all four wheels.
Do Subaru Foresters do well in snow?
Subarus are known for being good winter driving vehicles; the Forester, Outback, WRX, Ascent, and Crosstrek all receiving 7/10 or 8/10 rankings for winter driving. With all models possessing substantial ground clearance, Subarus are great for handling a road covered in snow.
What mode is best for snow on a Subaru Forester?
You shouldn't need either unless it's extreme conditions, and then it would be X-mode. In normal snow/wet conditions you should drive in regular mode with care considering the conditions. Your vehicle will compensate for any slippage with Vehicle Dynamics.
Why can't I put chains on my Subaru?
Many of Subaru's vehicle manuals explicitly state that snow chains are not recommended. Additionally, some vehicles, such as the Outback, have a very low clearance between the vehicle body and the tires. This makes installing chains difficult and can potentially be damaging.
What are the weaknesses of a Subaru Forester?
A list of some of the most common issues Forester owners have to deal with.
- CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery.
- Unintended Acceleration.
- Brake Light Switch Defect.
- Cracked Windshields.
- Lineartronic CVT Reliability.
- Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires.
- Subaru EyeSight Problems.
- Subaru Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags.
