Confusing Subaru Instruction Manual

[R. Gerard]

Just got a new 2005 Subaru Outback wagon, the L.L. Bean model.

On page 7-29, there are instructions on the automatic shift that I
can't believe!

It says, basically, "If you inadvertently turned the ignition switch
off with the Selector Lever in the <N> position, proceed as follows. By
referring to the shift lock release section in this chapter, remove the
shift lock release cover then, with a screwdriver inserted into the
hole, move the Selector Lever to the <P> position. If this fails, have
the vehicle inspected by your Subaru dealer.:

I read this to mean that if you shut off your car when it is in
neutral you have to dig out a screwdriver and insert it into a hole
located just above the P-R-N-D markings to the left of the shift lever?

Are they shitting? What engineering genius came up with this
dim-witted idea.

Please, tell me the manual is flat wrong.

If it is true, can you still shift into D so you can drive to your
Subaru dealer and have him fix it or are you looking at a tow???

Many thanks,
Befuddled first time Subaru owner.

 

[LB]

I did not read manually that thourouly, but I was able to start my Outback
'05 on neutral w/no problem.

 

[Greg]

That procedure would only be necessary if the battery was dead. If you have
power then simply turn the key on, depress the brake and shift to park.
What section of the manual is that statement in? What is the context of the
paragraph?

 

[R. Gerard]

That procedure would only be necessary if the battery was dead. If you have
power then simply turn the key on, depress the brake and shift to park.
What section of the manual is that statement in? What is the context of the
paragraph?

Well, that's a relief. Thanks, Greg.

That info was from the Legacy/Outback 05 Owner's Manual.

Section 7 is <Starting and Operating>, the sub-heading on page 35 is
<Selector lever release button>.

Thanks for that clarification,
Gunni