Subaru Outback Manuals 2013 Outback Owner's Manual | Page 367

Driving tips ! Installing carrying attachments on the crossbars When installing any carrying attachment such as a bike carrier, ski carrier, kayak carrier, cargo basket, etc. on the crossbars, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure that the attachment is securely fixed to the crossbars. Use only attachments designed specifically for the crossbars. A set of the crossbars is designed to carry loads (cargo and attachment) of not more than the allowable load limit described in the Owner’s Manual of a genuine SUBARU carrying attachment. Before operating the vehicle, make sure that the cargo is properly secured on the attachment. NOTE . Remember that the vehicle’s center of gravity is altered with the weight of the load on the roof, thus affecting the driving characteristics. Drive carefully, avoid rapid starts, hard cornering and abrupt stops. Crosswind effects will be increased. . Restore the bars to the original position when the bars are not used as crossbars. 8-15 ! How to use as crossbars CAUTION . Do not raise the bar higher than necessary. The base of the bar may be damaged. . Be careful not to contact the bars while sliding them. Otherwise, the bars may be scratched or the latch portions may be damaged. . Do not slide the bar more than necessary when sliding the bar. The base of the bar may be damaged. . Do not allow the bar to fall on or contact the roof panel or the moonroof when sliding the bar. Otherwise the roof panel may be dented or the glass of the moonroof may be damaged. 1. Pull out the integrated crossbars from the roof rail holders by pulling up the covers. 2. Slide the bars in the direction shown in the illustration. – CONTINUED –