Subaru Crosstrek Manuals 2016 Crosstrek Owner's Manual | Page 467

8-24 Driving tips/Trailer towing (Crosstrek models) ! Trailer lights CAUTION Direct splicing or other improper connection of trailer lights may damage your vehicle’s electrical system and cause a malfunction of your vehicle’s lighting system. Connection of trailer lights to your vehi- cle’s electrical system requires modifica- tions to the vehicle’s lighting circuit to increase its capacity and accommodate wiring changes. To ensure the trailer lights are connected properly, please consult your SUBARU dealer. Check for proper operation of the turn signals and the brake lights each time you connect a trailer to your vehicle. ! Tires are properly inflated. Refer to “Tires” F12- 8. Trailer tire condition, size, load rating and proper inflation pressure should be in accordance with the trailer manufacturer’s specifications. Also check federal, state, province and/or other applicable regula- tions. In the event your vehicle gets a flat tire when towing a trailer, ask a commercial road service representative or profes- sional to repair the flat tire. If you carry a regular size spare tire in your vehicle or trailer as a precaution against getting a flat tire, be sure that the spare tire is firmly secured. & Trailer towing tips CAUTION WARNING Never tow a trailer when the tem- porary spare tire is used. The tem- porary spare tire is not designed to sustain the towing load. Use of the temporary spare tire when towing can result in failure of the spare tire and/or less stability of the vehicle. Make sure that all the tires on your vehicle . For models equipped with the BSD (Blind Spot Detection) and RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic Alert) driving support systems, when towing a trailer, press the BSD/ RCTA OFF switch to deactivate the system. The system may not operate properly due to the blocked radar waves. For details about the BSD/RCTA OFF switch, refer to “BSD/RCTA OFF switch” F7-56. . Never exceed 45 mph (72 km/h) when towing a trailer in hilly country on hot days. . When towing a trailer, steering, stability, stopping distance and braking performance will be dif- ferent when compared to normal operation. For safety’s sake, you should employ extra caution when towing a trailer and you should never drive at excessive speeds. You should also keep the following tips in mind: ! 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 proce- dures 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 regula- tions. . Check that the vehicle and vehicle-to- hitch mounting are in good condition. If any problems are apparent, do not tow the trailer. . Check that the vehicle rests horizon- tally with the trailer attached. If the vehicle