How big of a trailer can a Subaru Forester pull?
In general, a Subaru Forester can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. This is the official towing limit for most current U.S.-spec Forester models.
The exact figure depends on the model year, engine, and whether your vehicle has the Factory Trailer Tow Package or other optional equipment. Towing capacity is governed by the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and gross combined weight rating (GCWR), and exceeding these limits can affect handling, braking, and warranty protections. Always verify your specific rating in the owner’s manual and on the door jamb label, and follow guidance about hitch fittings, wiring, and trailer brakes.
Current official towing limits
This section summarizes the official maximums for contemporary Forester models. Variations can occur by year and equipment, so use this as a baseline and confirm with your exact VIN.
What affects the rating
In practice, the rating you see on your vehicle is influenced by the engine choice, optional towing package, cooling provisions, and overall drivetrain configuration. The numbers published by Subaru reflect the maximum safe limit for standard, factory-backed setups in the current generation.
- Maximum towing capacity: 1,500 pounds for most current Forester models with proper equipment.
Always rely on the official rating for your specific vehicle and remember that load distribution and driving conditions can change how safely that limit translates into real-world towing.
Equipment and setup required for towing
To tow within the official limit, you’ll need the right hardware and configuration. The Forester typically requires a factory or dealer-installed trailer tow package and compatible electrical wiring, with additional considerations for engine cooling and trailer brakes depending on load and distance traveled.
Trailer Tow Package components and considerations
The following elements are commonly associated with towing readiness on Forester models that support it. Availability can vary by year and trim.
- Class II hitch rated for up to 1,500 pounds.
- Proper wiring harness to power trailer lights and signals (4- or 7-pin depending on year).
- Cooling and sometimes engine/transmission cooling enhancements for higher or prolonged loads.
- Trailer brakes may be required by law for heavier trailers and on longer trips; check local regulations and trailer weight.
With the correct equipment installed, you can tow closer to the rating more safely, but always stay within the published limit and follow manufacturer guidance on load distribution and maintenance.
How to calculate a safe trailer weight for your Forester
Estimating a safe trailer weight involves understanding your vehicle’s ratings and your actual vehicle weight with passengers, cargo, and accessories. This helps ensure you stay well within safe limits under real-world conditions.
- Find your GCWR and GVWR from the door jamb label or the owner's manual for your exact model/year.
- Weigh your Forester with a typical load (driver, passengers, and cargo) to determine actual curb weight.
- Subtract the vehicle’s actual weight from the GCWR to find the maximum combined weight you should not exceed, including the trailer and its payload.
- Aim for a trailer weight that keeps tongue weight around 10–15% of the trailer’s total weight, and leave a safety margin for braking and steering.
- Factor in braking capacity, tires, and road/weather conditions; do not tow at the limits in rain, snow, or steep terrain.
In practice, many Forester owners tow well under the 1,500-pound limit to maintain responsive braking, smoother acceleration, and longer drivetrain life, especially on longer trips or challenging terrain.
Practical scenarios and safety considerations
Here are common scenarios and practical advice to keep in mind when towing with a Forester.
- Light-duty camping trailers, small utility trailers, or bike trailers are generally well within the limit.
- For longer trips or heavier loads, consider staying well below the 1,500-pound cap to preserve braking performance and engine cooling.
- Check local laws on trailer brakes, lights, and hitch requirements; some places mandate brakes for heavier trailers regardless of vehicle rating.
Always consult your dealer or Subaru’s official customer support if you plan to tow frequently or with heavier trailers. They can help confirm the exact rating for your VIN and recommend any needed equipment or upgrades.
Summary
The Subaru Forester’s towing ceiling is generally 1,500 pounds for current models when properly equipped. Your exact capacity depends on year, engine, and towing package, so verify the rating on your door sticker and in the owner’s manual. Follow proper hitching, wiring, and load-distribution practices, and stay within the published limits to ensure safe and reliable towing.
Which forester can tow 3,000 lbs?
2024 Subaru Forester Wilderness
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.
Is the Subaru Forester good for towing?
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.
What is the 80% towing rule?
Many RVers are strict followers of the 80% or 80/20 rule of towing, and it's a great rule to live by if you want to ensure you don't overload your tow vehicle. The 80% towing rule is less of a “rule” and more of an idea: don't pull a trailer with a GVWR that is more than 80% of your vehicle's maximum towing capacity.
What size trailer can a Subaru Forester pull?
1,500 lbs1
