Subaru Legacy 2023 Power Steering Touring XT
The cutting-edge electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) technology on the 2023 Subaru Legacy is intended to improve driving enjoyment by offering a snappy and natural steering feel. With lighter steering at lower speeds for easier maneuverability and tighter steering at higher speeds for increased stability and feedback, this system modifies the amount of assistance based on the speed of the vehicle. The Legacy’s overall efficiency is further enhanced by the integration of EPAS, which uses power only when steering assistance is required. This lowers engine workload and improves fuel economy. Furthermore, Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and other driver-assistance technologies function flawlessly with the power steering system, guaranteeing a safe, enjoyable, and engaging drive in a variety of road conditions.
2024 Subaru Legacy Specs, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)
Power Steering
Power steering warning light
The vehicle is equipped with an electric power steering system. When the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position, the power steering warning light on the combination meter illuminates to inform the driver that the warning system is functioning properly. Then, if the engine starts, the warning light turns off to inform the driver that the steering power assist is operational.
CAUTION
While the power steering warning light is illuminated, there may be more resistance when the steering wheel is operated. Drive carefully to the nearest SUBARU dealer and have the vehicle inspected immediately.
NOTE
If the steering wheel is operated in the following ways, the power steering control system may temporarily limit the power assist in order to prevent the system components, such as the control computer and drive motor, from overheating.
- The steering wheel is operated frequently and turned sharply while the vehicle is maneuvered at extremely low speeds, such as while frequently turning the steering wheel during parallel parking.
- The steering wheel remains in the fully turned position for a long period of time.
At this time, there will be more resistance when steering. However, this is not a malfunction. Normal steering force will be restored after the steering wheel is not operated for a while and the power steering control system has an opportunity to cool down. However, if the power steering is operated in a nonstandard way which causes power assist limitation to occur too frequently, this may result in a malfunction of the power steering control system.
Braking Tips
Never rest your foot on the brake pedal while driving. This can cause dangerous overheating of the brakes and needless wear on the brake pads.
When the brakes get wet
When driving in the rain or after washing the vehicle, the brakes may get wet. As a result, the brake stopping distance will be longer. To dry the brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe speed while lightly depressing the brake pedal to heat up the brakes.
Use of engine braking
Remember to make use of engine braking in addition to foot braking. When descending a grade, if only the foot brake is used, the brakes may start working improperly because of brake fluid overheating, caused by overheated brake pads. To help prevent this, shift into a lower gear to get stronger engine braking.
Braking when a tire is punctured
Do not depress the brake pedal suddenly when a tire is punctured. This could cause a loss of control of the vehicle. Keep driving straight ahead while gradually reducing speed. Then slowly pull off the road to a safe place.
Brake System
Two separate circuits
Your vehicle has a dual-circuit brake system. Each circuit works diagonally across the vehicle. If one circuit of the brake system should fail, the other half of the system still works. If one circuit fails, the brake pedal will go down much closer to the floor than usual and you will need to press it down much harder. And a much longer distance will be needed to stop the vehicle.
Electronic Brake booster
The vehicle is equipped with an electronic brake booster to provide additional braking force. Do not turn off the ignition switch while driving because that will turn off the brake booster, resulting in poor braking power. The brakes will continue to work even when the brake booster completely stops functioning. If this happens, you will have to depress the pedal much harder than during normal braking, and the braking distance will increase.
NOTE
When the following operations are performed, an operating sound from the electronic brake boost control module may be heard. This is not a malfunction.
- The brake pedal was operated.
- The driver’s door was opened.
- The EyeSight function was activated.
- Several minutes have passed after the engine stopped.
Supplemental booster function when pressure fails
If there is a malfunction in the braking system, the power for the braking will be stored by controlling the hydraulic pressure of the VDC system. When the brake pedal is depressed while the supplemental booster function is operating, an operation sound and brake pedal vibration may be generated.
Brake assist system
Do not be overconfident about the brake assist. It is not a system that brings more braking ability to the vehicle beyond its braking capability. Always use the utmost care when driving regarding vehicle speed and safe distance.
CAUTION
When you need to brake suddenly, continue depressing the brake pedal strongly to bring the effect of the brake assist. Brake assist is a driver assistance system. It assists the brake power when the driver cannot depress the brake pedal strongly and the brake power is insufficient. Brake assist generates the brake power according to the speed at which the driver depresses the brake pedal.
NOTE
- When you depress the brake pedal strongly or suddenly, the following phenomena occur. However, even though these occur, they do not indicate any malfunctions, and the brake assist system is operating properly.
- You might feel that the brake pedal is applied by lighter force and generates a greater braking force.
- You might hear the sound of ABS operating from the engine compartment.
Disc Brake Pad Wear Warning Indicators
The disc brake pad wears warning indicators on the disc brakes giving a warning noise when the brake pads are worn. If a squeaking or scraping noise is heard from the disc brakes while braking, immediately have your vehicle inspected by the nearest SUBARU dealer.
ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System)
Always use the utmost care in driving overconfidence because you are driving with an ABS-equipped vehicle could easily lead to a serious accident.
CAUTION
- The ABS does not always decrease stopping distance. You should always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.. When driving on badly surfaced roads, gravel roads, icy roads, or over newly fallen snow, stopping distances may be longer for a vehicle with the ABS than one without. When driving under these conditions, therefore, reduce your speed and leave ample distance from other vehicles.
- When you feel the ABS operating, you should maintain constant brake pedal pressure. Do not pump the brake pedal since doing so may defeat the operation of the ABS.
The ABS prevents the lock-up of wheels which may occur during sudden braking or braking on slippery road surfaces. This helps prevent the loss of steering control and directional stability caused by wheel lock-up. When the ABS is operating, you may hear a chattering noise or feel a slight vibration in the brake pedal. This is normal when the ABS operates. The ABS will not operate when the vehicle speed is below approximately 6 mph (10 km/h).
ABS Self-Check
You may feel a slight shock in the brake pedal and hear the operating noise of the ABS from the engine compartment just after the vehicle is started. This is caused by an automatic functional test of the ABS being carried out and does not indicate any abnormal condition.
ABS Warning Light
Refer to “ABS Warning Light”.
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) System
The EBD system maximizes the effectiveness of the brakes by allowing the rear brakes to supply a greater proportion of the braking force. It functions by adjusting the distribution of braking force to the rear wheels in accordance with the vehicle’s loading condition and speed.
The EBD system is an integral part of the ABS and uses some of the ABS components to perform its function of optimizing the distribution of braking force. If any of the ABS components used by the EBD function fails, the EBD system also stops working.
When the EBD system is operating, you may hear a chattering noise or feel a slight vibration in the brake pedal. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.
EBD System Malfunctions
If a malfunction occurs in the EBD system, the system stops working and the brake system warning light and ABS warning light illuminate simultaneously.
- The brake system warning light
- ABS warning light
- Vehicle Dynamics Control warning light
If both warning light remains on even though the parking brake is released, the brake fluid level may be low or there could be a problem with the EBD system. Park the vehicle in a safe place immediately and contact an SUBARU dealer.
WARNING
- Driving with the brake system warning light on is dangerous. This indicates your brake system may not be working properly. If the light remains on, have the brakes inspected by a SUBARU dealer immediately.
- If at all in doubt about whether the brakes are operating properly, do not drive the vehicle. Have your vehicle towed to the nearest SUBARU dealer for repair.
FAQ
The 2023 Legacy utilizes an electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system.
EPAS provides a more responsive and smoother steering feel, adjusting the level of assistance based on vehicle speed and steering input.
Yes, the system offers more assistance at lower speeds for easier maneuverability and less at higher speeds for better road feel and stability.
While the Legacy doesn’t typically offer customizable steering settings, the steering is optimally tuned for a balance of comfort and responsiveness.
Electric power steering is more efficient than hydraulic systems as it only uses power when steering assistance is needed, reducing engine load and improving fuel efficiency.
The system works in conjunction with driver-assist technologies like lane-keeping assist, offering corrective steering inputs to help maintain lane discipline.
The system is designed to provide quick and accurate responses, ensuring that the vehicle responds effectively to sudden steering inputs.
The exact turning diameter can vary by model and tire size, but the Legacy generally offers a tight turning radius for its class, enhancing maneuverability.
While not explicitly stated, many modern vehicles, including the Legacy, use steering systems that effectively alter the steering ratio based on speed and steering angle.
The steering system complements the AWD by providing stable and predictable steering, especially important in slippery conditions where AWD is most beneficial.
Electric power steering systems generally require less maintenance than hydraulic systems, with no fluid changes needed, but regular check-ups are recommended.
Driving modes mainly affect throttle response and transmission settings; the steering feel remains relatively consistent across modes.
The system is designed to convey enough road feel to the driver for a connected driving experience while filtering out unwanted harshness.
It plays a crucial role in ensuring that the vehicle is responsive to driver inputs, stable at high speeds, and easy to maneuver at low speeds.
The system is fully integrated and automated, so manual adjustments or overrides are not typical features.
Useful Link
View Full User Guide: Subaru Legacy 2023 Touring XT User Guide
Download Manuals: https://www.subaru.com/owners/vehicle-resources/manuals.html
2024 Subaru Legacy Specs, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)