I have just rented a Forester 2016 3171ds for a two week trip from Portland Oregon to the four corners area and then west and back to Oregon. I've never driven anything like this, but am excited to head out with my family and dogs.Any advice or tips on this make/model and setting out for the first time, would be greatly appreciated.

I do not know anything specific to this brand. However, in general when driving a large class C, keep these things in mind. Right hand turns require a little wider turn, not much. Keep looking in passenger side mirror to make sure the rear end clears the corner. While driving on the road watch the side mirrors for cars passing you, especially on the right. Those mirrors also will help in keeping you in the lane if you can see the lines in the road. When making turns be mindful that the rear end swings wider than a car. In a left turn the rear end will swing right and vice versa. Practice, if possible, in a large parking lot with no one beside you. Good luck you will get the hang of it very quickly.

Always be aware of the height of the 'cab over' area. Watch the tail swing and remember the house is wider than the cab.Start looking for gas stops when you get to 1/2 tank. Find one that is easy in/out.Enjoy your trip.

Post your clearance on the visor above the steering wheel.As noted above, watch your side mirrors constantly and know what's around you. Right lane and modest speed is your friend.

Try to take the less of mountains if you can. :) Big grades with inexperienced drivers to larger rigs can really cause white knuckles. Better get going though!

Spend some serious time reading the owners manual and use the tow haul mode all of the time. That is a large heavy Class C and the rental outfits never explain/advise on the use of TH. With TH engaged long down hills will be a piece cake with little or no use of the brakes required and you won't burn a drop of fuel. You will also get better shift points especially when climbing.:C

Just Rented Forester 2016 3171ds for two week - Any advice?

12 Replies

gbopp
Explorer
Mar 17, 2017
Always be aware of the height of the 'cab over' area. Watch the tail swing and remember the house is wider than the cab.

Start looking for gas stops when you get to 1/2 tank. Find one that is easy in/out.

Enjoy your trip.
tobydad
Explorer
Mar 17, 2017
I do not know anything specific to this brand. However, in general when driving a large class C, keep these things in mind. Right hand turns require a little wider turn, not much. Keep looking in passenger side mirror to make sure the rear end clears the corner. While driving on the road watch the side mirrors for cars passing you, especially on the right. Those mirrors also will help in keeping you in the lane if you can see the lines in the road. When making turns be mindful that the rear end swings wider than a car. In a left turn the rear end will swing right and vice versa. Practice, if possible, in a large parking lot with no one beside you. Good luck you will get the hang of it very quickly.

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Just Rented Forester 2016 3171ds for two week - Any advice?

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