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Can you pull a trailer with a Subaru Forester?

Yes, you can tow a trailer with a Subaru Forester, but the vehicle's towing capacity and the weight of the trailer will determine what you can safely haul. The Forester is a compact SUV, so its towing capabilities are more limited compared to larger SUVs or trucks.


Subaru Forester Towing Capacity


The Subaru Forester has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 to 3,000 pounds, depending on the model year and engine configuration. The 2023 Subaru Forester, for example, has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds. This means you can tow a small to medium-sized trailer, such as a pop-up camper or utility trailer, as long as the total weight of the trailer and its contents does not exceed the Forester's towing limit.


Factors to Consider


When towing a trailer with a Subaru Forester, there are several important factors to keep in mind:



  • Trailer Weight: The total weight of the trailer and its contents must not exceed the Forester's towing capacity. Overloading the vehicle can be dangerous and may damage the powertrain.

  • Trailer Brakes: Trailers over a certain weight (usually 1,000 pounds) are required to have their own braking system. This helps the trailer stop safely and reduces the load on the Forester's brakes.

  • Driving Dynamics: Towing a trailer can significantly affect the Forester's handling, acceleration, and braking. Drivers should take it slow, leave extra space for braking, and be cautious when turning or changing lanes.

  • Trailer Hitch: The Forester must be equipped with a proper trailer hitch that is rated for the weight of the trailer. Aftermarket hitches can be installed if the vehicle did not come with one.


By following these guidelines and staying within the Forester's towing capacity, owners can safely tow a variety of small to medium-sized trailers with their compact SUV. However, for heavier or larger trailers, a larger vehicle with a higher towing capacity would be a better choice.

Why are Subaru Foresters not selling?


The popular Forester's five-month drop in sales performance has a lot to do with the economy. Many seniors look at the Forester and compare the price with the Crosstrek and can get an excellent all-wheel-drive vehicle for about $5,000 less—and even more so on the upper Touring trim level.



Can I tow a trailer with my Subaru Forester?


The Subaru Forester can tow anything up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.



Is a Forester as safe as an outback?


Both the Forester and Outback have the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Award and similar crash-test scores. But, they have some differences. The Outback is slightly bigger, which means more cargo space - 75.7 cubic feet versus the Forester's 70.9 cubic feet.



What is the weakness of a Subaru Forester?


Excessive oil consumption, unexpected acceleration, engine stalling while driving, the check engine light staying on, engine reluctance when accelerating, and the engine catching fire or malfunctioning are among the top engine issues expressed by 2015 Forester owners.



Is Subaru Forester a good car for towing?


Impressive Subaru Forester Engine Specs
The engine is a big reason behind the capable towing capacity offered by the Subaru Forester. Enjoy a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder engine in the 2024 model year, allowing towing up to 3,000 pounds when properly equipped.



Can a Subaru Forester tow 3000 lbs?


For those needing the most towing capacity, buyers should consider the new 2024 Subaru Forester Wilderness trim level. This rugged, off-road-focused trim level has 3,000 lbs of towing capacity, double that of the other trims, giving the 2024 Subaru Forester even more everyday utility.



Can you put a trailer hitch on a Subaru Forester?


The price range of a hitch for a Subaru Forester ranges from $150 to $175. U-Haul carries several different classes of hitches and offers different sizes to accommodate both 1¼ to 2-inch receivers. U-Haul offers both installation services at a local U-Haul Moving Center® and will ship your hitch to your home.



Which Subarus can tow 5000 lbs?


2021 Subaru Ascent SUV
The 2021 Subaru Ascent SUV has a max towing capacity of 5000 lbs on selected trim levels when equipped with the available Class III trailer hitch.



What weight will a Subaru Forester tow?


The towing capacity of the 2022 Subaru Forester supports up to 1800kg. This is a braked figure, while the maximum load for any vehicle without using trailer brakes is 750kg, if rated to tow that much in the first place.



What size camper can a Subaru Forester tow?


Light Duty for Campers and Mores
The Forester is a light-duty towing vehicle. The 1,500-pound towing capacity allows the Forester to tow lightweight pop-up campers, medium utility, and box trailers, and modestly sized sport or fishing boats; perfect for the outdoor activities Newton has to offer.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.