Trailer Towing (Outback) 437
Connection of trailer lights to your vehicle’s
electrical system requires modifications 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 stop lights
each time you connect a trailer to your
vehicle.
! Tires
WARNING
s08al0405
Never tow a trailer when the temporary
spare tire is used. The temporary
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
are properly inflated. Refer to “Tires”
☞P528.
Trailer tire condition, size, load rating and
proper inflation pressure should be in
accordance with the trailer manufacturer’s
specifications.
In the event your vehicle gets a flat tire
when towing a trailer, ask a commercial
road service representative or professional
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
s08al05
. For models equipped with the
BSD (Blind Spot Detection) and
RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic Alert)
driving support systems, when
towing a trailer, touch “BSD/
RCTA” to deactivate the system.
The system may not operate
properly due to the blocked radar
waves. For details about how to
turn on/off the BSD/RCTA, refer
to “Car settings” ☞P215.
. For models equipped with RAB
(Reverse Automatic Braking)
system, consult your SUBARU
dealer for additional information
about towing a trailer.
. Towing a trailer in high temperatures,
or on long or steep grades,
may cause the vehicle to overheat.
Refer to “Engine Overheating”
☞P453.
. When towing a trailer, steering,
stability, stopping distance and
braking performance will be different
when compared to normal
operation. You should never
drive at excessive speeds but
always employ extra caution
when towing a trailer. You should
also keep the following tips in
mind.
. When parking on a steep slope
with a trailer attached to your
vehicle, the braking power of the
electronic parking brake may not
be sufficient since strong braking
power is needed.
! Before starting out on a trip
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. Check the towing regulations for trailer
or caravan vehicles that vary by state/
region. Failure to comply with the procedures
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 regulations.
. Check that the vehicle and vehicle-tohitch
mounting are in good condition. If any
problems are apparent, do not tow the
trailer.
– CONTINUED –
8
Driving Tips