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Trailer towing
connector to the towing trailer ’ s wire harness .
9 . Confirm proper function of the hitch electrical wire harness by individually and combination activating the brake , stop and turn signal lights on the trailer .
NOTE
Always disconnect the trailer electrical wire harness before launching or retrieving a watercraft .
& If not towing a trailer
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. Remove the ball mount from the hitch receiver tube .
. Place the dust cap over the four-pin connector of the hitch electrical wire harness to protect against possible damage .
. Occasionally lubricate terminals of the four-pin connector using terminal grease .
8-13 . Trailer towing
CAUTION
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Turn off the Auto Start Stop system when you are towing the vehicle ( except for Subaru Forester Wilderness ).
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 .
& Warranties and maintenance
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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 . ( Refer to “ Maintenance schedule under severe driving conditions ” in the “ Warranty and Maintenance Booklet ”.)
Under no circumstances should a trailer be towed with a new vehicle or a vehicle with any new powertrain component ( engine , transmission , differential , wheel bearings , etc .) for the first 1,000 miles ( 1,600 km ) of driving .
& Maximum load limits WARNING
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Never exceed the maximum load limits explained in the following . Exceeding the maximum load limits could cause personal injury and / or vehicle damage .