Over the weekend, I discovered a "FWD" slot in my fuse box. On checking my manual, it seems to be an electrical method of disabling the 4WD to FWD "...except on auto transmissions on turbos." for servicing purposes.

Trouble is, there are no electrical contacts within the slot and therefore nothing happens.

Anyone know anything about this?

Is the facility there anyway, but hidden?

Could it be hooked up to the handbrake to convert to FWD when handbraking?

Graham

MY99 WRX

 

IIRC, it's so the car can be towed on a suspended (i.e. front wheels off the deck) tow. It's supposed to disable the drive to the rears so that they'll freewheel. I've never needed to have the car towed so I've not investigated further. Your dealer should be able to confirm.

Brian

 

I suspect it may be a facility available on AUTO boxes on NON-TURBO models.

 

Thanks, Moray. I knew I'd read it somewhere! - From the handbook of my previous Legacy 4CAM Auto:

"For maintenance and inspection performed on 4WD automatic transmission vehicles which requires a running engine and the front wheels turning (for example, when they are jacked up, driven on rollers, or tested by a brake tester), set a spare fuse (15A) in the FWD connector located in the engine compartment to switch to FWD from 4WD. Confirm that the front wheel drive warning light is on. Always use reliable blocks to prevent the vehicle from moving. Never race the engine or brake suddenly."

 

Not sure a Dealer would be too happy to advise as it's a MY99 WRX.

Yes the book does mention towing
and auto and on re-reading it could be read that the facility is for the Sport auto as it says "The auto transmission for the turbo 4WD can not be changed over from 4WD to FWD."

Any other thoughts?

Graham

MY99 WRX