Road Test

The content of this article/image reflects the changes Identified in
TSB # 18-100-06
as of 02/06/2006
and applies to 2003 Forester & Impreza Models


Road Test

INSPECTION
GENERAL PRECAUTION
Road tests should be conducted to properly diagnose the condition of the automatic transmission.

CAUTION: When performing the test, do not exceed posted speed limit.

D RANGE SHIFT FUNCTION
Check shifting between 1st <--> 2nd <--> 3rd <--> 4th while driving on normal city streets.

D RANGE SHIFT SHOCK
Check the shock level when shifting up during normal driving.

KICK-DOWN FUNCTION
Check kick-down for each gear. Also check the kick-down shock level.

ENGINE BRAKE OPERATION
^ Check the engine braking effect in 3rd gear by shifting between D <--> 3 range while driving in 4th gear of D range [50 to 60 km/h (31 to 37 MPH)].
^ Check the engine braking effect in 2nd gear by shifting between 3 <--> 2 range while driving in 3rd gear of 3 range [40 to 50 km/h (25 to 31 MPH)].
^ Check the engine braking effect in 1st gear by shifting between 2 <--> 1 range while driving in 2nd gear of 2 range [20 to 30 km/h (12 to 19 MPH)].

LOCK-UP FUNCTION
Check that the engine speed does not change sharply when the accielerator pedal is lightly depressed when driving on flat roads at normal speed in the D range.
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P RANGE OPERATION
Stop the vehicle on an uphill grade of 5% or more and shift to "P" range. Check that the vehicle does not move when the parking brake is released.

UNUSUAL SOUNDS AND VIBRATION
Check for unusual sounds and vibration while driving and during shifting.

CLIMBING CONTROL FUNCTION
^ Check that the gear remains in 3rd when going up a grade.
^ Check that the gear remains in 3rd when applying the brakes while going down a grade.

TRANSFER CLUTCH
Check if tight corner braking occurs when the vehicle is started with steering wheel held at a fully turned position. (MPT model)

OIL LEAK
After the driving test, inspect for oil leaks.