Can I pull a camper with a Subaru Outback?
Yes—it's possible to tow a camper with an Outback, but the size depends on the engine and equipment. The 2.4-liter turbo model offers up to about 3,500 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped, while the standard 2.5-liter engine is rated around 2,700 pounds. Always verify your exact model’s towing spec and use the correct hitch and wiring.
Pulling a camper with a mid-size wagon like the Outback is a common weekend option for travelers who want flexibility without stepping up to a larger SUV or truck. The key questions are: what can you tow safely, what gear do you need, and how should you plan for weight and handling on the road? The following sections lay out official limits, practical setup tips, and camper choices that fit within the Outback’s capabilities.
What the Outback can tow
The following overview helps you gauge what size camper is realistically towable from Subaru’s lineup, depending on the powertrain and equipment. Use this as a baseline when selecting a trailer.
- 2.5-liter engine (non-turbo): up to 2,700 pounds (about 1,225 kg) towing capacity
- 2.4-liter turbo engine: up to 3,500 pounds (about 1,588 kg) towing capacity, with the proper towing package
- To reach the upper end of the rating, ensure your Outback is equipped with the factory towing package (hitch, wiring, and related cooling enhancements) and comply with local trailer-brake requirements
In practice, many small campers, teardrops, and lightweight pop-ups fall within the Outback’s practical towing range—especially when the turbo engine is chosen and the vehicle is properly equipped. Always confirm the exact specification for your trim and the trailer’s GVWR before purchasing or hitching up.
Important considerations when towing with an Outback
Beyond raw weight, several practical factors determine how safely and comfortably you can tow, including hitch setup, braking, and payload. Use these guidelines to plan responsibly.
- Payload matters: The Outback’s payload (passengers, cargo, hitch) reduces how much you can tow. Do not exceed the combined payload and trailer weight.
- Tongue weight: Aim for about 10–15% of the trailer’s gross weight on the hitch. For a 3,500 lb trailer, expect roughly 350–525 lb on the hitch.
- Trailer brakes: Trailers with higher GVWR often require brakes, and some jurisdictions require an electric brake controller. Check local rules and the trailer’s specifications.
- Weight distribution: A weight-distribution hitch helps distribute tongue weight and improves stability on the highway.
- Cooling and transmission: Towing can heat the engine and transmission. Plan climbs, long grades, and cooldown breaks to protect the drivetrain.
- Fuel economy and range: Expect noticeably lower mpg when towing and plan fuel stops accordingly.
- Safety and maintenance: Inspect hitch connections, lights, and wiring before every trip; use available towing-assist features as applicable.
With the right setup and careful planning, towing a camper with an Outback can be safe and enjoyable for suitable trips.
Choosing a camper that fits your Outback
Given a maximum towing capacity of roughly 2,700–3,500 pounds depending on engine and equipment, many small campers are viable options. Focus on the trailer’s GVWR (not just dry weight), and look for designs with a manageable tongue weight and good weight distribution. Teardrop trailers, lightweight pop-ups, and compact travel trailers often fit within the Outback’s limits when properly equipped. Always verify the trailer’s official weight ratings and maintain proper load distribution.
Practical tips for first-timers
These steps help you begin towing with confidence and stay safe on the road with a towed camper.
- Check your exact model’s towing specification in the owner’s manual or with a Subaru dealer.
- Install the correct hitch and wiring harness, and verify whether trailer brakes or a brake controller are required or recommended for your trailer.
- Balance weight properly with a weight-distribution hitch and ensure correct tongue weight within the recommended range.
- Test-tow in a safe area to learn handling, braking, and sway control before embarking on longer trips.
- Plan routes with grades and fuel stops, and monitor engine and transmission temperatures during towing.
With careful planning and the right equipment, many Outback owners successfully tow lightweight campers for weekend adventures and shorter trips.
Summary
The Subaru Outback can tow a camper within its official limits, with the best performance on the 2.4-liter turbo engine up to about 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. The standard 2.5-liter engine is typically rated around 2,700 pounds. Always verify your model’s precise towing specification, use the proper hitch and wiring, and respect payload and tongue-weight guidelines. When chosen and configured correctly, an Outback can be a versatile platform for light camping trips.
Is a Subaru Outback good for towing?
For the current generation, most trims with the 2.5-liter BOXER engine are rated to tow up to 2,700 pounds when properly equipped. Models with the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine—XT trims and the Outback Wilderness—are rated up to 3,500 pounds.
What year to avoid a Subaru Outback?
Years to generally avoid for the Subaru Outback include 2010-2014, 2017-2020, and older models 2005-2009. Common issues in these years include CV/transmission problems, engine oil consumption, electrical failures, and early models were known for head gasket and cooling system issues.
Years to avoid and common problems
- 2005-2009: Known for head gasket failures, coolant leaks, and oil leaks.
- 2010-2014: Experienced significant transmission issues, oil consumption problems, and electrical and steering column defects.
- 2017-2020: These years often suffered from frequent windshield cracks, electrical issues like faulty alternators and battery drains, and problems with the infotainment system.
- The first year of the sixth generation, 2020, had early adopter problems, particularly with the infotainment system and CVT.
- 2013-2014: Specifically had issues with the CVT transmission and the 2.5L engine, leading to oil consumption.
- 2015-2016: The 2.5L engine developed leaks from the valve covers and cam carriers.
What to look for instead
- Post-2014: These models are generally more reliable, but specific years like 2015 and 2018 have been singled out by some sources.
- Post-2021: Many recent models have improved reliability, although some 2023 models had issues with the infotainment system and electrical accessories.
- 2019 3.6R: This is often recommended as a good model to track down due to high mileage customer vehicles and a history of good reliability.
How much weight can a Subaru Outback pull?
The standard 2.5L SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder tows up to 2,700 pounds. If you opt for the 2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine instead, it can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Can a Subaru Outback really tow 2700 lbs?
As you can see, from the Base to the Touring, you'll be able to hit a towing capability of up to 2,700 pounds. For those needing more hauling ability, the Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Limited XT, and Touring XT editions can offer the max Subaru Outback towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
