418
Trailer towing
WARNING
If the trailer is loaded with more weight in the back of trailer ’ s axle than in the front , the load is taken off the rear axle of the towing vehicle . This may cause the rear wheels to skid , especially during braking or when vehicle speed is reduced during cornering , resulting in oversteer , spin out and / or jackknifing .
& Trailer hitches
WARNING
S08AL03
Never drill the frame or under-body of your vehicle to install a commercial trailer hitch . If you do , dangerous exhaust gas , water or mud may enter the passenger compartment through the drilled hole . Exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide , a colorless and odorless gas which is dangerous , or even lethal , if inhaled . Also , drilling the frame or underbody of your vehicle could cause deterioration of strength of your vehicle and cause corrosion around the drilled hole .
CAUTION
. Do not modify the vehicle exhaust system , brake system , or other systems when installing a hitch or other trailer towing equipment .
. Do not use axle-mounted hitches as they can cause damage to the axle housing , wheel bearings , wheels or tires .
Do not use a trailer hitch other than a genuine SUBARU trailer hitch . A genuine SUBARU trailer hitch is available from your SUBARU dealer .
& When you do not tow a trailer
S08AL14
CAUTION
. The housing should be kept free of dirt and corrosion at the points of contact . The surfaces only require cleaning with a cloth . Grease or other lubricants should never be used .
. If the tow ball mount is not installed , the plastic insert should then be inserted for protection and to prevent it from getting dirty .
When the tow ball mount is not used , place the ball cap and store securely .
& Connecting a trailer
! Trailer brakes WARNING
S08AL04
S08AL0401
. Adequate size trailer brakes are required when the trailer and its cargo exceed 1,000 lbs ( 453 kg ) total weight .
. Do not directly connect your trailer ’ s hydraulic brake system to the hydraulic brake system in your vehicle . Direct connection would cause the vehicle ’ s brake performance to deteriorate and could lead to an accident .
If your trailer ’ s total weight ( trailer weight plus its cargo weight ) exceeds 1,000 lbs ( 453 kg ), the trailer is required to be equipped with its own brake system . Electric brakes or surge brakes are recommended , and must be installed properly . Check that your trailer ’ s brakes conform with Federal , state / province and / or other applicable regulations . Your SUBARU ’ s brake system is not designed to be tapped into the trailer ’ s hydraulic brake system . Please ask your SUBARU