Ignition Switch

The ignition switch has a function of giving the driver warning by sound if he or she opens the door with the key still in the "LOCK" or "ACC" position.
The ignition switches on the MT models have a safety mechanism that prevents inadvertent locking of the steering wheel during driving. The driver cannot turn the ignition key from "ACC" to "LOCK" unless the key is pushed inward at the "ACC" position (arrow 1 in the drawing below).

Fig 1: Identifying Ignition Switch
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
The ignition switches on the AT models have a key interlock mechanism to avoid locking of the steering wheel during driving. The ignition key can be turned to the "LOCK" position only when the select lever is in the P position.

NOTE: Should the key be impossible to turn to "LOCK" when the select lever is in the P position due to failure of the key interlock mechanism, the interlocking can be cancelled by operating the release lever located on the underside of the steering column.

Fig 2: Identifying Ignition Switch Components

Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.