Subaru Forester: Loading your vehicle / Roof rails (if equipped)

1. Roof rails

Cargo can be carried on the roof after securing the crossbars to the roof rails and installing an appropriate carrying attachment. When installing crossbars and a carrying attachment, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. The roof rail system is designed to carry loads (cargo, crossbars and carrying attachment) of no more than 176 lbs (80 kg). Be sure not to exceed your vehicle’s GVWR and GAWR.

CAUTION

• When using a carrying attachment, make sure that the total carrying load of the cargo, crossbars and carrying attachment does not exceed 176 lbs (80 kg). Overloading may cause damage to the vehicle. Read the manufacturer’s instructions and pay attention to not exceed the load limit of the parts.
• For cargo carrying purposes, the roof rails must be used together with the SUBARU recommended crossbars and any appropriate carrying attachment that may be needed. The roof rails must never be used alone to carry cargo. Otherwise, damage to the roof or paint, or a dangerous road hazard due to loss of cargo could result.

NOTE

• Remember that the vehicle’s center of gravity is altered with the weight of the load on the roof, thus affecting driving characteristics.
• Drive carefully. Avoid rapid starts, hard cornering and abrupt stops. Crosswind effects will be increased.