Table of Contents

Subaru Impreza 2023 Vehicle Dynamics Control System Base Sedan

The 2023 Subaru Impreza offers a stable and well-balanced driving experience, raising the bar for vehicle dynamics. The Impreza offers outstanding traction and stability thanks to its well-known Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which improves handling and control in a variety of driving situations. A smooth and serene ride is guaranteed by the finely adjusted suspension system, and driver confidence is increased by the accurate brakes and rapid steering. The 2023 Impreza’s vehicle dynamics highlight Subaru’s dedication to safety, performance, and a pleasurable driving experience, making it a dependable option for discriminating drivers whether negotiating rough terrain or traveling down the freeway.

2024 Subaru Impreza Specs, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)

Vehicle Dynamics Control system

Safety precautions

WARNING
Always use the utmost care in driving – overconfidence because you are driving a vehicle with the Vehicle Dynamics Control system could easily lead to a serious accident.

CAUTION

Even if your vehicle is equipped with the Vehicle Dynamics Control system, winter tires should be used when driving on snow-covered or icy roads; in addition, vehicle speed should be reduced considerably. Simply having a Vehicle Dynamics Control system does not guarantee that the vehicle will be able to avoid accidents in any situation.
Activation of the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is an indication that the road on which the vehicle is traveling has a slippery surface; since having Vehicle Dynamics Control is no guarantee that full vehicle control will be maintained at all times and under all conditions, its activation should be seen as a sign that the speed of the vehicle should be reduced considerably.
Whenever suspension components, steering components, or an axle are removed from a vehicle, have an inspection of that system performed by an authorized SUBARU dealer.
The following precautions should be observed in order to ensure that the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is operating properly:
- All four wheels should be fitted with tires of the same size, type, and brand. Furthermore, the amount of wear should be the same for all four tires.
- Keep the tire pressure at the proper level as shown on the vehicle placard attached to the driver’s side door pillar.
- Use only the specified temporary spare tire to replace a flat tire. With a temporary spare tire, the effectiveness of the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is reduced and this should be taken into account when driving the vehicle in such a condition.
If non-matching tires are used, . If non-matching tires are used,
The Vehicle Dynamics Control system helps prevent unstable vehicle motion such as skidding using control of the brakes and engine power. Do not turn off the Vehicle Dynamics Control system unless it is absolutely necessary. If you must turn off the Vehicle Dynamics Control system, drive very carefully according to the road surface conditions.

System features
In the event of wheelspin and/or skidding on a slippery road surface and/or during cornering and/or an evasive maneuver, the Vehicle Dynamics Control system adjusts the engine’s output and the wheels’ respective braking forces to help maintain traction and directional control.

Traction Control Function
The traction control function is designed to prevent the spinning of the driving wheels on slippery road surfaces, thereby helping to maintain traction and directional control. Activation of this function is shown by flashing the Vehicle Dynamics Control operation indicator light.

Skid Suppression Function
The skid suppression function is designed to help maintain directional stability by suppressing the wheels’ tendency to slide sideways during steering operations. Activation of this function is shown by flashing the Vehicle Dynamics Control operation indicator light.

NOTE

- The Vehicle Dynamics Control system may be considered normal when the following conditions occur.
- Slight twitching of the brake pedal is felt.
- The vehicle or steering wheel shakes to a small degree.
- An operating sound from the engine compartment is heard briefly when starting the engine and when driving off after starting the engine.
The brake pedal seems to jolt when driving off after starting the engine.
In the circumstances shown in the following list, the vehicle may be less stable than it feels to the driver. The Vehicle Dynamics Control system may therefore operate. Such an operation does not indicate a system malfunction.
- On gravel-covered or rutted roads
- On unfinished roads
- When the vehicle is towing a trailer
- When the vehicle is fitted with snow tires or winter tires.
Activation of the Vehicle Dynamics Control system will cause the operation of the steering wheel to feel slightly different compared to that for normal conditions.
It is always important to reduce speed when approaching a corner, even if your vehicle is equipped with the Vehicle Dynamics Control system.
Always turn off the engine before replacing a tire. Failure to do so may render the Vehicle Dynamics Control system unable to operate correctly.

Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF switch

Press or turn the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF switch to deactivate the Vehicle Dynamics Control system. Creating adequate driving wheel slips by deactivating the Vehicle Dynamics Control system may help to recover from the loss of traction. Use the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF switch as necessary.

A standing start on a steeply sloping road with a snowy, gravel-covered, or otherwise slippery surface
Extrication of the vehicle when its wheels are stuck in mud or deep snow

Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF indicator light

When the switch is pressed or turned during engine operation, the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF indicator light on the combination meter illuminates. The Vehicle Dynamics Control system will be deactivated and the vehicle will behave like a model not equipped with the Vehicle Dynamics Control system. When the switch is pressed again (type A) or turned to the “NORMAL” side (type B) to reactivate the Vehicle Dynamics Control system, the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF indicator light turns off. With the Vehicle Dynamics Control system deactivated, traction and stability enhancement offered by the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is unavailable. Therefore, you should not deactivate the Vehicle Dynamics Control system except under the above-mentioned situations.

NOTE

When the switch has been pressed (type A) or turned (type B) to deactivate the Vehicle Dynamics Control system, the Vehicle Dynamics Control system automatically reactivates itself the next time the ignition switch is turned to the “LOCK”/ “OFF” position and the engine is restarted.
If the switch is pressed (type A) or turned (type B) and held for 30 seconds or longer, the indicator light turns off, the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is activated, and the system ignores any further pressing of the switch. To make the switch usable again, turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK”/“OFF” position and restart the engine.
When the switch is pressed (type A) or turned (type B) to deactivate the Vehicle Dynamics Control system, the vehicle’s running performance is comparable to that of a vehicle that does not have a Vehicle Dynamics Control system. Do not deactivate the Vehicle Dynamics Control system except when absolutely necessary.
Even when the Vehicle Dynamics Control system is deactivated, components of the brake control system may still activate. When the brake control system is activated, the Vehicle Dynamics Control operation indicator light flashes.

Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) (U.S.-spec. models)

Low tire pressure warning light

The tire pressure monitoring system provides the driver with a warning message when tire pressure is severely low. The tire pressure monitoring system will activate only when the vehicle is driven at speeds above 20 mph (32 km/h). Also, this system may not react immediately to a sudden drop in tire pressure (for example, a blow-out caused by running over a sharp object).

WARNING

If the low tire pressure warning light illuminates while driving, never brake suddenly. Instead, perform the following procedure.
Otherwise, an accident involving serious vehicle damage and serious personal injury could occur.

Keep driving straight ahead while gradually reducing speed.
Slowly pull off the road to a safe location.
Check the pressure for all four tires and adjust the pressure to the COLD tire pressure shown on the tire inflation pressure label. The tire inflation pressure label is located on the door pillar on the driver’s side.
Even when the vehicle is driven a very short distance, the tires get warm and their pressures increase accordingly. Be sure to
let the tires cool thoroughly before adjusting their pressures to the standard values shown on the tire inflation pressure label. After adjusting the tire pressures, increase the vehicle speed to at least 20 mph (32 km/h) to start the TPMS rechecking of the tire inflation pressures. If the tire pressures are now above the severe low-pressure threshold, the low tire pressure warning light should turn off a few minutes later.
If this light still illuminates while driving after adjusting the tire pressure, a tire may have significant damage and a fast leak that causes the tire to lose air rapidly.
If you have a flat tire, replace it with a spare tire as soon as possible.
When a spare tire is mounted or a wheel rim is replaced without the original pressure sensor/transmitter being transferred, the low tire pressure warning light will illuminate steadily after blinking for approximately one minute.
This indicates the TPMS is unable to monitor all four road wheels.
Contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible for tire and sensor replacement and/or system resetting.
When a tire is repaired with liquid sealant, the tire pressure warning valve and transmitter may not operate properly. If a liquid sealant is used, contact your nearest SUBARU dealer or another qualified service shop as soon as possible.
Make sure to replace the tire pressure warning valve and transmitter when replacing the tire. You may reuse the wheel if there is no damage to it and if the sealant residue is properly cleaned off. Do not inject any tire liquid or aerosol tire sealant into the tires, as this may cause a malfunction of the tire pressure sensors. If the light illuminates steadily after blinking for app approximately one minute, promptly contact a SUBARU dealer to have the system inspected.

CAUTION
Do not place metal film or any metal parts in the cargo area. This may cause poor reception of the signals from the tire pressure sensors, and the tire pressure monitoring system will not function properly.

NOTE
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

This device may not cause harmful interference, and
This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

FCC CAUTION
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Parking your vehicle

Parking brake
To set the parking brake, depress the brake pedal firmly and hold it down until the parking brake lever is fully pulled up.

To release the parking brake, pull the lever up slightly, press the release button, then lower the lever while keeping the button pressed. When the parking brake is set while the engine is running, the parking brake warning light illuminates. After starting the vehicle, be sure that the warning light has turned off before the vehicle is driven.

CAUTION
Never drive while the parking brake is set because this will cause unnecessary wear on the brake linings. Before starting to drive, always make sure that the parking brake has been fully released.

Parking tips
When parking your vehicle, always perform the following items.

Apply the parking brake firmly.
For MT models, put the shift lever in the “1” (1st) for an upgrade or “R” (Reverse) for a downgrade.
For CVT models, put the select lever in the “P” (Park) position.

Never rely on the mechanical friction of the transmission alone to hold the vehicle.

When parking on a hill, always turn the steering wheel. When the vehicle is headed up the hill, the front wheels should be turned away from the curb.

When facing downhill, the front wheels should be turned into the curb.

WARNING

Never leave unattended children or pets in the vehicle. They could accidentally injure themselves or others through inadvertent operation of the vehicle. Also, on hot or sunny days, the temperature in a closed vehicle could quickly become high enough to cause severe or possibly fatal injuries to people.
Do not park the vehicle over flammable materials such as dry grass, waste paper or rags, as they may burn easily if they come ear hot engine or exhaust system parts.
Be sure to stop the engine if you take a nap in the vehicle. If engine exhaust gas enters the passenger compartment, occupants in
the vehicle could die from carbon monoxide (CO) contained in the exhaust gas.

CAUTION
If your vehicle has a front under spoiler (optional), pay attention to blocks and other obstructions on the ground when parking. The under spoiler could be damaged by contact with them.

Hill start assist system warning

The Hill Start assist system is a device only for helping the driver to START the vehicle on an uphill grade. To prevent accidents
when the vehicle is parked on a slope, be sure to firmly set the parking brake. When setting the parking brake, make sure that the vehicle remains stationary when the clutch pedal (MT models) and brake pedal (both MT and CVT models) are released.
Do not turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK”/“OFF” position while the Hill start assist system is operating. The Hill Start Assist system will be deactivated and may lead to an accident.

The Hill Start Assist system is a device to make the following vehicle operations easier.

Starting forward facing uphill
Starting backward facing downhill

Brake pedal
Clutch pedal (MT models only)

In both these cases, the Hill Start Assist system operates under the following conditions.

When the clutch pedal is depressed while the brake pedal is also depressed (MT models)
When the vehicle has stopped with the brake pedal depressed (CVT models) Braking power is maintained temporarily (for approximately 2 seconds) by the Hill start assist system after the brake pedal is released. The driver is therefore able to start the vehicle in the same way as on a level grade, just using the clutch pedal (MT models only) and accelerator pedal (all models). If the braking power of the Hill start assist system is insufficient after the brake pedal is released, apply more braking power by depressing the brake pedal again.
The Hill start assist system may not operate on slight grades. Also, the Hill Start Assist system does not operate in the following cases.

When starting backward and facing uphill. When starting forward facing downhill. While the parking brake is applied
While the ignition switch is in the “ACC” or “LOCK”/“OFF” position
While the Hill start to assist warning light/Hill start to assist OFF indicator light is illuminated.
When using the Hill start assist system, a braking effect may be felt even after the brake pedal has been released. However, for MT models, this braking effect should disappear once the clutch pedal is released.

NOTE
A slight jolt may be felt when the vehicle begins to move forward after being reversed.

To activate/deactivate the Hill start assist system

Hill start assist OFF indicator light

CAUTION
When starting on an uphill grade, make sure the Hill start to assist OFF indicator light is off. If the Hill Start assist OFF indicator light is on, make sure the parking brake is applied.

NOTE
If you make an error when performing any steps in the following procedure, place the ignition switch in the “LOCK”/ “OFF” position once and then start over again.

To deactivate

Park your vehicle in a flat and safe location and apply the parking brake.
Turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK”/ “OFF” position.
Restart the engine.
Confirm the following items.
1. The brake system warning light illuminates.
2. The Vehicle Dynamics Control warning light turns off.
3. The Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF indicator light turns off.
4. The ABS warning light turns off.
  
  Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF switch
5. Press and hold the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF switch for 30 seconds until the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF indicator light “ ” on the combination meter turns on and off.
6. Within 5 seconds, release the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF switch.
  Hill start assist OFF indicator
7. Within 2 seconds, press back the Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF switch. The Hill start to assist OFF indicator light turns on and off.
8. Turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK”/ “OFF” position. Hill start assist is deactivated.

NOTE
When the Hill start assist system is deactivated, the Hill start to assist OFF indicator light illuminates.

To reactivate
To reactivate the Hill Start Assist system, repeat steps 1 to 8. When the Hill Start assist system is activated, the Hill Start Assist OFF indicator light turns off.

FAQ

What is Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system in the 2023 Impreza?
Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is a drivetrain configuration that provides power to all four wheels for enhanced traction and stability.

Is the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system standard on all 2023 Impreza models?
Yes, the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is typically standard on all 2023 Subaru Impreza models.

How does the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system contribute to the vehicle’s dynamics?
The Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system enhances traction and stability, improving the vehicle’s handling and control, especially in challenging road conditions.

What type of suspension system is used in the 2023 Impreza?
The 2023 Impreza is often equipped with a carefully tuned independent suspension system for a comfortable and composed ride.

Does the 2023 Impreza offer adaptive suspension or variable damping options?
Adaptive suspension or variable damping options may be available in certain higher trim levels or as part of specific packages for the 2023 Impreza.

How is the steering system in the 2023 Impreza tuned for driver responsiveness?
The steering system in the 2023 Impreza is typically tuned to provide responsive and precise handling, enhancing driver confidence.

Does the 2023 Impreza offer driver-selectable driving modes?
Some models of the 2023 Impreza may offer driver-selectable driving modes that allow drivers to customize their driving experience.

Are there any performance-oriented versions of the 2023 Impreza, such as the WRX or WRX STI?
Subaru offers separate performance-oriented models like the WRX and WRX STI, which provide even more dynamic driving experiences compared to the standard Impreza.

How does Subaru prioritize safety in the vehicle dynamics of the 2023 Impreza?
Subaru’s commitment to safety is reflected in Impreza’s vehicle dynamics, which are designed to provide stability and control in various driving conditions, contributing to overall safety.

Does the 2023 Impreza offer features like electronic stability control or traction control?
Yes, the 2023 Impreza typically includes electronic stability control and traction control features to help maintain vehicle stability.

Are there any driving assistance systems that enhance vehicle dynamics in the 2023 Impreza?
The 2023 Impreza may offer driving assistance systems like Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which can include adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance.

Does the 2023 Impreza have a sport-tuned variant for enthusiasts?
While the Impreza is known for its balance of performance and practicality, Subaru’s sport-tuned models like the WRX offer a more performance-oriented driving experience.

How does the Impreza handle various road conditions, including adverse weather?
The Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system in the 2023 Impreza is particularly effective at handling adverse weather conditions, providing superior traction on snow, ice, and wet roads.

Is there a difference in vehicle dynamics between the sedan and hatchback versions of the 2023 Impreza?
The sedan and hatchback versions of the 2023 Impreza typically have similar vehicle dynamics, but any differences would be related to factors like weight distribution.

Can the 2023 Impreza’s vehicle dynamics be customized or adjusted by the driver?
Some models of the 2023 Impreza may offer customizable driving modes or settings that allow the driver to adjust vehicle dynamics to their preferences.

Useful Link

View Full User Guide: Subaru Impreza 2023 Base Sedan User Guide

Download Manuals: https://www.subaru.com/owners/vehicle-resources/manuals.html