Q&A for How to Use Paddle Shifters on a Subaru Outback

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Question

Why doesn't Subaru market a manual shift for Outback models? Some of us prefer clutching!

Community Answer

Demand is very low for manual cars. Dealers get better return on investment by stocking a wider variety of automatics and simply requiring manuals to special order. People who demand manual transmissions will wait for them if need be. For Subaru, the demand is low enough that the expected return is not enough to justify even offering manuals on most models. If you want AWD car with fuel economy, the only other option is Audi.

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Question

Do I have to use the paddle shifters? What happens if I decide not to use them and treat it as a normal automatic?

Community Answer

You do not have to use the paddle shifters at all if you have an automatic transmission. You can completely forget about them if you don't want to use them. If you ever touch the downshift unintentionally, the car will shift out when you touch the gas. Alternatively, shift to 'M' then back to 'D' to clear your paddle shift immediately.

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Question

Can you shift from manual to automatic while in motion?

Community Answer

Yes. Move the shifter from 'M' to 'D' or 'D' to 'M' at any time to switch between manual and automatic.

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Question

The hands' driving position on the steering wheel is normally 10 and 2 which puts them in close proximity to the paddle shifters and causes accidental engagement, do you find this is a problem?

Community Answer

I have had this happen to me while driving at 45 mph. I accidentally hit the left paddle and the transmission down shifted. At that time I thought the paddle would only work in the "M" mode. Not knowing what to do I stopped at a traffic light and turned off the car and started it up again! Now I know better, but I am still afraid it may happen again. These paddles are in a very poor position!

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Question

How do I go in reverse in manual in my Subaru Outback?

Community Answer

The paddle shifters only work when moving forward. You will need to move the normal shift lever to the R position to engage reverse.

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Question

What happens if I drive in manual never using the paddle shifters?

Community Answer

You will hurt your engine. In manual, the car doesn't automatically up-shift. You will have to manually hit the "+" paddle or put it into automatic. It does, however, automatically downshift when you brake in manual mode.

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