Subaru Forester: Towing / Towing with all wheels on the ground

1. Release the parking brake and put the transmission in the neutral position.
2. The ignition switch should be in the “ON” position while the vehicle is being towed.
3. Take up slack in the towline slowly to prevent damage to the vehicle.

WARNING

• Never turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK”/“OFF” position while the vehicle is being towed because the steering wheel and the direction of the wheels will be locked.
• Remember that the brake booster and power steering do not function when the engine is not running. Because the engine is turned off, it will take greater effort to operate the brake pedal and steering wheel.

CAUTION

• If transmission failure occurs, transport your vehicle on a flatbed truck.
• Sometime damaged vehicles cannot be towed because of their damaged condition. In that case, use a flat-bed truck for transportation.
• The traveling speed must be limited to less than 20 mph (32 km/h) and the traveling distance to less than 31 miles (50 km). For greater speeds and distances, transport your vehicle on a flatbed truck.
• Use a flat-bed truck if there are long distance downgrades or steep slopes. However, do not apply the brake pedal for a long time because the engine braking will not work while towing. Doing so could overheat the brake.
• Drive carefully and do not make an impact on the towing rope by suddenly starting.
• Use a specific towing rope for towing. If wire ropes and metal chains are needed to be used for towing, wrap the contact portion of the bumper with cloth to protect it from damage.