Subaru Forester: Trailer towing tips / Before starting out on a trip
- Check the towing regulations for trailer
or caravan vehicles that vary by state/
region. Failure to comply with the procedures
set forth will not only compromise
your safety, but will also negate your
insurance coverage and/or may violate
the state road and traffic acts and regulations.
- Check that the vehicle and vehicle-tohitch
mounting are in good condition. If any
problems are apparent, do not tow the
trailer.
- Check that the vehicle rests horizontally
with the trailer attached. If the vehicle
is tipped sharply up at the front and down
at the rear, check the total trailer weight,
GVW, GAWs and tongue load again, then
confirm that the load and its distribution are
acceptable.
- Check that the tire rating and pressures
are correct.
- Check that the vehicle and trailer are
connected properly. Confirm that:
- The trailer tongue is connected
properly to the hitch ball.
- The trailer lights connector is connected
properly and trailer’s brake
lights illuminate when the vehicle’s
brake pedal is pressed, and that the
trailer’s turn signal lights flash when
the vehicle’s turn signal lever is operated.
- The safety chains are connected
properly.
- All cargo in the trailer is secured
safely in position.
- The side mirrors provide a good
rearward field of view without a significant
blind spot.
- Sufficient time should be taken to learn
the “feel” of the vehicle/trailer combination
before starting out on a trip. In an area free
of traffic, practice turning, stopping and
backing up.
You should allow for considerably more
stopping distance when towing a trailer.
Avoid sudden braking because it may
result in skidding or jackknifing and loss
of control...
Other information:
WARNING
Never remove the radiator cap until
the engine has been shut off and has
fully cooled down. When the engine
is hot, the coolant is under pressure.
Removing the cap while the engine
is still hot could release a spray of
boiling hot coolant, which could
burn you very seriously...
While the light control switch is in the
“AUTO” position, the headlights will automatically
turn on when the windshield
wipers operate several times. The headlights
will automatically turn off when the
wipers stop.
NOTE
The ON/OFF setting of this function can
be changed by a SUBARU dealer...