Can I tow a trailer with a Subaru Forester?
Yes. Most Forester models are rated to tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Understanding the rating and where it comes from
The Forester’s posted tow rating depends on the year, engine, drivetrain, and whether you have Subaru’s towing package. The standard 2.5-liter models generally top out at 1,500 pounds when the proper hitch and wiring are installed. Hybrid variants and certain trims may differ; always check your exact specification in the owner's manual or Subaru's official spec sheets for your model year.
- Non-hybrid Forester with the 2.5-liter engine: official tow rating up to 1,500 pounds when equipped with the proper hitch and wiring.
- Forester Hybrid/e-Boxer variants: towing capacity is typically lower and varies by market; verify the exact figure for your model.
- Towing packages and equipment: A factory or dealer-installed towing package can enable the 1,500-pound rating on eligible trims and ensures the hitch, wiring, and cooling are up to spec.
- Braking and regulations: Trailers of certain weights may require separate trailer brakes or compliant lighting wiring per local rules; confirm requirements where you plan to tow.
In short, the Forester is capable of towing light trailers, with 1,500 pounds as a general ceiling for most configurations. Verify the rating for your exact car before pulling away.
Practical towing guidelines
Before towing, understand the vehicle’s limits and follow best practices for safe operation. The following guidelines help you tow more safely and efficiently.
- Check payload and weight limits: Ensure the combined weight of passengers, cargo, and the hitch does not exceed the Forester’s GVWR minus the trailer’s weight.
- Match trailer weight and tongue weight: Aim for a tongue weight around 10–15% of the trailer’s loaded weight to maintain stability.
- Use the correct hitch and wiring: Use a hitch rated for up to 1,500 pounds and a properly installed wiring harness for reliable trailer lights and brakes where required.
- Brake considerations: If your trailer has its own brakes or if local laws require it, ensure the braking system is properly installed and working.
- Driving adjustments: Allow extra stopping distance, accelerate and brake gradually, and use towing mirrors if needed for better rear visibility.
Following these guidelines helps keep towing within the Forester’s capabilities while promoting safety on the road.
Alternatives if you need more towing capability
If frequent or heavier towing is part of your routine, you may want a model with higher towing capacity or a different setup in Subaru’s lineup.
- Subaru Outback: typically rated around 2,700 pounds with the 2.5-liter engine, and up to about 3,500 pounds with turbocharged options on certain trims.
- Subaru Ascent: designed for bigger loads, with a maximum tow rating around 5,000 pounds.
- Other considerations: If you need heavy towing but prefer a Subaru platform, compare configurations and optional packages across these models to match your needs.
For those who regularly tow heavier loads, upgrading to a model designed for higher tow ratings or adjusting your towing plan may be the prudent path.
Summary
The Subaru Forester can tow, but most configurations max out at about 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. Always verify the exact rating for your year and trim, use the recommended hitch and wiring, and follow safe towing practices. If you anticipate needing more towing capacity on a regular basis, consider a model with a higher tow rating, such as the Outback or Ascent.
What is the weakness of a Subaru Forester?
Oil Consumption
Many drivers have reported that they need to get their oil changed more frequently than they have had to in other cars. This is likely due to oil cracks or leaks in the camshaft and crankshaft seals as well as the oil pump seal.
How do I know if my forester can tow something?
Can a Subaru Forester Tow a Trailer? The Subaru Forester can tow anything up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. If you'd like to tow a small trailer that weighs up to this threshold for the Subaru Forester, you're in luck. However, you'll need to be careful to stay within that amount.
Is a Subaru Forester good for towing?
CarsGuide has published 72 expert reviews of the Subaru Forester. It has an average rating of 7.4 out of 10. Read all the reviews here. The towing capacity of the Subaru Forester supports up to 1800kg.
How big of a trailer can I tow with a Subaru Forester?
1,500-pound
2019-2022 models: These models maintained the 1,500-pound towing capacity, making them suitable for light towing tasks. 2023 model: The 2023 Subaru Forester introduced the Wilderness trim, which significantly increased the towing capacity to 3,000 pounds, while other trims remained at 1,500 pounds.
