Subaru Forester 2019-2023 Owners Manual / Driving tips / Trailer towing

Subaru Forester: Driving tips / Trailer towing

Your vehicle is designed and intended to be used primarily as a passenger-carrying vehicle. Towing a trailer puts additional loads on your vehicle’s engine, drivetrain, brakes, tires and suspension and has an adverse effect on fuel economy.

If you do decide to tow a trailer, your safety and satisfaction depend upon proper use of correct equipment and cautious operation of your vehicle.

Seek the advice of your SUBARU dealer to assist you in purchasing a hitch and other necessary towing equipment appropriate for your vehicle. Do not use towing equipment other than genuine SUBARU towing equipment. In addition, be sure to follow the instructions for proper installation and use provided by the trailer or caravan’s manufacturer.

SUBARU assumes no responsibility for injuries or vehicle damage that result from trailer towing equipment, or from any errors or omissions in the instructions accompanying such equipment or for your failure to follow the proper instructions. Regularly check that the hitch mounting bolts and nuts are tightened securely.

Connecting a trailer

Warranties and maintenance

SUBARU warranties do not apply to vehicle damage or malfunction caused by trailer towing. If you use your vehicle to tow a trailer, more frequent maintenance will be required due to the additional load...

Other information:

Subaru Forester 2019-2023 Owners Manual: P (Park) / R (Reverse) / N (Neutral) / D (Drive) /

This position is for parking the vehicle and starting the engine. In this position, the transmission is mechanically locked to prevent the vehicle from rolling freely. When you park the vehicle, first apply the parking brake firmly, then shift into the “P” position...

Subaru Forester 2019-2023 Owners Manual: Manual rear gate

The rear gate can be locked and unlocked using any of the following systems. Power door locking switch: Refer to “Locking and unlocking from the inside”. Keyless access with the push-button start system (if equipped): Refer to “Keyless access with push-button start system”...