Subaru Outback Manuals 2025 Outback Owner's Manual | Page 487

Trailer Towing( Outback / Subaru Outback Wilderness) 479
gauge and indicator because the engine and transmission are relatively prone to overheating.
– Coolant temperature gauge. Refer to“ Engine Overheating” FP496.
– AT OIL TEMP warning light
. 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 s08al0501
. 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.
. Check that the vehicle rests horizontally with the trailer attached. If the vehicle is tipped sharply up at the front and down at the rear, check the total trailer weight, GVW, GAWs and tongue load again, then confirm that the load and its distribution are acceptable.
. Check that the tire pressures are correct.
. Check that the vehicle and trailer are connected properly. Confirm that – The trailer tongue is connected properly to the hitch ball.
– The trailer lights connector is connected properly and trailer’ s stop lights illuminate when the vehicle’ s brake pedal is pressed, and that the trailer’ s turn signal lights flash when the vehicle’ s turn signal lever is operated.
– The safety chains are connected properly.
– All cargo in the trailer is secured safely in position.
– The side mirrors provide a good rearward field of view without a
significant blind spot.
. Sufficient time should be taken to learn the“ feel” of the vehicle / trailer combination before starting out on a trip. In an area free of traffic, practice turning, stopping and backing up.
. When using the 2.4 L turbo engine model to tow a trailer, SUBARU recommends using unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 AKI( 95 RON) or higher to reduce the risk of engine overheat.
! Driving with a trailer s08al0502
. You should allow for considerably more stopping distance when towing a trailer. Avoid sudden braking because it may result in skidding or jackknifing and loss of control.
. Avoid abrupt starts and sudden accelerations.
. Avoid uneven steering, sharp turns and rapid lane changes.
. Slow down before turning. Make a larger than normal turning radius because the trailer wheels will be closer than the vehicle wheels to the inside of the turn. In a tight turn, the trailer could hit your vehicle.
. Crosswinds will adversely affect the handling of your vehicle and trailer, causing sway. Crosswinds can be due
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Driving Tips