Scotty (I love your channel)... Is it possible (or wise) to disable the automatic breaking function? This happened on a 2018 Subaru Forester: An In-law was driving the NJ Parkway at ~65mph. The roadway was relatively empty. The braking function began a rapid deceleration that surprised the driver. The braking was strong enough that she slid toward and against the steering wheel. She noticed what looked like a large piece of construction wrapping blowing across the street... that, presumably, triggered the braking.
Now, my in-law is afraid to drive on windy days... so, it impacts her happiness with the car. She asked me if it were possible to disable this safety feature. I'm conflicted... probably a bad idea.
I'd love to hear your thoughts.
George in NJ
https://techinfo.subaru.com/stis/doc/ownerManual/MSA5B1914A_STIS.pdf
Page 6 shows how to turn it off.
THANK YOU! I'll show her this feature.
Is it possible (or wise) to disable the automatic breaking function?
Yes, follow the instructions from Toyotagrl’s posts. Especially after what your in-law encountered (and yours is not the only make and model to encounter this), it’s probably wise to turn it off. You don’t want someone colliding into you from braking all of a sudden (also known as a “brake check”).
THANK YOU! She was lucky that no one was behind her during that event.
I had a loaner 2020 Outback. THE WORST lane departure system out of Nissan, Toyota and Honda. I am not surprised. A change in the color of the asphalt triggered it. Just as the pre-collision braking had problems when I was on a curved onramp to a freeway. I've NEVER had that happen in any car before or since.
Sensitivity settings might be something to dig into. I believe Subaru strictly uses optical sensors (unlike my 2018 Rav4 and Prius that uses optics AND radar built into the front logo).
Good luck. I also beg that you consider filing a complaint with the NHTSA. This could lead to a serious accident and should be given to our totalitarian government so that (if there's enough complaints) they'll approach Subaru to come up with a fix and possibly save injuries and death.
Thanks! I like the suggestion that there may be a sensitivity adjustment. If I learn anything I will repost. I'll help her make a NHTSA entry if she wishes.
Since optical sensors are used, covering up the cameras might disable the system.
I'm not sure if any other features use the optical sensor. Interesting!
Thank you all for your responses. I guess I shouldn't be surprised that Scotty's auto forum is full of talented helpful folks! I'll confer with the driver of this event and let you know how it goes.
There's always wire cutters!
HAHAHA!