Can you put a tow package on a Subaru Forester?

Yes. A Subaru Forester can be equipped with a tow package, either through an official dealer-installed OEM option or via a reputable aftermarket setup. Availability and exact components depend on the model year and engine, and towing capacity varies accordingly.

In this article, we’ll break down what a tow package typically includes, how to choose between factory and aftermarket routes, and the safety, warranty, and practical considerations you should know before towing with a Forester.

Tow package options for Forester

There are two main pathways to add towing capability to a Forester: an OEM (dealer) towing package, and aftermarket hitch and wiring solutions. Each path has its own benefits and considerations, and exact components depend on the year and engine of your Forester.

OEM towing package (dealer-installed)

• Trailer hitch receiver and mounting hardware designed for Subaru frames


• Trailer wiring harness (typically 4-pin or 7-pin, depending on year and spec)


• In some years, cooling upgrades such as an enhanced radiator, transmission cooler, or oil cooler to help manage heat when towing


• Compatibility with the vehicle’s electronics and warranty policies when installed through a Subaru dealer

OEM towing packages are designed to meet Subaru’s specifications and are generally the simplest way to ensure proper fit and warranty alignment. Availability and exact contents vary by model year, so a dealer check is essential.

Aftermarket hitch options

• Aftermarket hitch receivers and wiring harnesses suited to your Forester’s frame


• Price range varies by manufacturer and included features (harness type, enablement of trailer brakes, etc.)


• Potentially fewer constraints on lead times or customization, but you’ll need to ensure compatibility with your engine, transmission, and warranty expectations


• Electrical integration and test procedures should be performed by a qualified installer to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations

Aftermarket routes offer flexibility and can be more cost-competitive, but they may involve different warranty considerations and require careful matching of weight ratings to your specific Forester configuration.

Model-year and engine considerations

Not every Forester year or engine option is identical when it comes to towing. The exact capacity and required components depend on the generation, engine (for example, normally aspirated vs turbo), drivetrain, and whether the vehicle is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a conventional automatic transmission.

• Most recent non-turbo Foresters rely on a tow package to achieve higher towing capability, with ratings and equipment tailored to the engine and transmission


• Turbocharged variants (where offered) can have different towing ratings and accessory needs, so always verify the official towing guide for your exact year and trim


• Always consult the owner’s manual or Subaru’s official towing guide for your specific VIN to confirm maximum trailer weight, tongue weight, and required equipment

Bottom line: towing capabilities are not universal across all Forester years and engines. Always confirm the precise specifications for your vehicle before towing.

Installation and safety considerations

Proper installation and safe towing practices are essential to protect the vehicle and ensure regulatory compliance. Here are the key steps and cautions to keep in mind.

• Have the hitch and wiring installed by a qualified technician, ideally through a Subaru dealership or an experienced shop familiar with Subaru vehicles


• Verify that your payload, tongue weight, and trailer weight stay within the Forester’s rated limits with the chosen tow package


• Use the correct wiring (4-pin or 7-pin) and test trailer lights, brake controllers, and other electrical systems to comply with local laws


• Consider heat management upgrades (transmission cooler, engine oil cooler) if you anticipate frequent or heavy towing


• Follow weight distribution and braking guidelines for safe towing and to protect driveline components

Conclusion: A proper installation, adherence to rated capacities, and routine maintenance are essential for safe towing and to preserve warranty coverage where applicable.

Practical steps to add a tow package

The following steps help ensure you choose the right setup and get a reliable, legal installation.

• Identify your model year, engine, and transmission to determine exact towing requirements


• Consult the owner’s manual and Subaru’s official towing guide for max trailer weight and tongue weight


• Decide between OEM dealer-installed towing package or a trusted aftermarket solution


• Obtain a precise quote and confirm warranty implications with the dealer or installer


• Schedule professional installation and perform a post-installation inspection and test

Conclusion: Careful planning, verification of specifications, and professional installation help ensure a durable, safe towing setup for your Forester.

Summary

In short, you can equip a Subaru Forester with a tow package through either an OEM dealer-installed option or a reputable aftermarket solution. Availability and specifics depend on the model year and engine, and towing capacity varies accordingly. Always verify the exact ratings for your vehicle, choose components that match those ratings, and have the system installed by qualified professionals to maintain safety and warranty integrity. With the right setup, the Forester can tow within its designed limits while preserving performance and reliability.

Is a Subaru Forester good for towing trailers?

Subaru rates the Forester Wilderness up to 3,000 pounds and pairs it with Trailer Stability Assist from the factory. This rating carries through from its 2022 debut into the 2025 model year. For small boats or a teardrop camper that creeps past 1,500 pounds loaded, Wilderness is the correct choice.

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.

Can you add a tow package to a Subaru Forester?

Yes, you can purchase and have a hitch installed on your Subaru Forester locally.

What year to stay away from a Subaru Forester?

You should generally stay away from Subaru Forester model years known for significant engine issues, such as the 1998–2001, 2003, 2006, 2009, and 2010 models due to head gasket failures and other problems. The 2011–2014 and 2014–2018 models are also problematic, particularly for excessive oil consumption, CVT transmission issues, and suspension problems, according to sources like Panda Hub, CoPilot for Car Shopping, CarBuzz, and MotorBiscuit. 
You can watch this video to learn more about the worst model years for the Subaru Forester: 44sCar ExpertlyYouTube · Apr 14, 2025
Specific model years to avoid

• 1998–2001: These early models are known for frequent head gasket failures, which can be costly to repair. 
• 2003 and 2006: These model years experienced recurring head gasket issues and other problems like electrical malfunctions and cooling system failures. 
• 2009–2010: These years saw engine stalling, head gasket problems, and engine oil pipe ruptures. The 2010 model received particularly low reliability ratings. 
• 2011–2014: The 2.5L engine (FB25) in these models is known for excessive oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed. The 2011 model also had poor oil warning light design. 
• 2014: Often cited as one of the worst model years, this model is known for severe oil consumption, CVT transmission problems, and broken coil springs. 
• 2015: Continued issues with engine and transmission troubles were reported, along with airbag sensor malfunctions. 
• 2018: Recall issues related to faulty rear suspension springs and engine valves affected some models. 

Common issues across multiple years

• Head gasket failure: A common issue in many pre-2012 models, especially those with the 2.5L EJ series engine, typically occurring around 60,000 to 100,000 miles. 
• Excessive oil consumption: A major problem in models with the newer FB25 engine from 2011 to 2014, which can cause serious engine damage. 
• Transmission issues: The 2014 model's CVT transmission was prone to problems, and the 2015 model also had reports of transmission troubles. 
• Suspension and wheel bearings: Problems with rear suspension springs and premature wheel bearing wear were reported in some models, including the 2014. 
• Cracking windshields: A widespread issue across multiple model years, including the 2014 and 2017, which even led to a class-action lawsuit. 

What to look for when buying a used Forester

• If considering an older model (1998-2012), check for documented evidence of head gasket replacement, preferably with upgraded multi-layer steel gaskets. 
• For 2011-2014 models, be aware of excessive oil consumption and ensure the owner is diligent about checking oil levels. If possible, check the VIN for any service bulletins or extended warranty coverage related to oil consumption. 
• If looking at a 2014 or newer, get a pre-purchase inspection, with a specific focus on the transmission and suspension. 
• Look for rust, especially in areas with heavy road salt use.