How much weight will a Subaru Forester pull?
The Subaru Forester is a popular compact SUV known for its reliability, versatility, and all-wheel-drive capability. One of the most common questions among Forester owners and potential buyers is: how much weight can it tow? In this article, we’ll explore the towing capacity of the Subaru Forester, factors that influence towing performance, and tips for safe towing.
Understanding the Subaru Forester's Towing Capacity
The towing capacity of a Subaru Forester depends on the model year and trim level. Generally, most Subaru Forester models are rated to tow up to 1,500 pounds. However, newer models, particularly those equipped with Subaru’s advanced towing packages, can tow up to 3,000 pounds. Always check your vehicle’s owner manual or consult with your dealer to confirm the exact towing capacity for your specific model.
Factors That Affect Towing Performance
While the manufacturer’s towing capacity provides a guideline, several factors can influence how much weight your Subaru Forester can safely pull:
- Engine Power: The Forester’s 2.5L 4-cylinder engine provides sufficient power for light to moderate towing. However, heavier loads may strain the engine.
- Transmission: Subaru’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) is designed for efficiency and smooth driving, but it may not handle heavy towing as well as traditional automatic transmissions.
- Braking System: Towing heavier loads requires a robust braking system. Ensure your brakes are in excellent condition before towing.
- Trailer Weight: The weight of the trailer itself counts toward the total towing capacity. Be sure to include this in your calculations.
- Additional Cargo: Any extra weight inside the vehicle, such as passengers or luggage, reduces the available towing capacity.
Tips for Safe Towing with a Subaru Forester
To ensure a safe and efficient towing experience, follow these tips:
- Use the Right Equipment: Invest in a high-quality hitch and towing accessories that are compatible with your Forester.
- Distribute Weight Evenly: Properly balance the load on your trailer to avoid swaying or instability.
- Check Tire Pressure: Ensure both your vehicle’s and trailer’s tires are inflated to the recommended levels.
- Drive Cautiously: Towing adds weight and affects handling. Drive at moderate speeds and allow extra distance for braking.
- Inspect Regularly: Before each trip, inspect your towing setup, including the hitch, lights, and connections.
Conclusion
The Subaru Forester is a capable vehicle for light to moderate towing, with a towing capacity ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 pounds depending on the model. By understanding your vehicle’s limits and following safe towing practices, you can confidently tow small trailers, boats, or other equipment. If you have any questions about your Forester’s towing capabilities or need assistance preparing your vehicle for towing, feel free to contact us at Kevin’s Autos for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
How big of a trailer can a Subaru Forester pull?
Paired with a Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission with low shift mode, the All-New Subaru Forester provides a maximum towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds with trailer brakes.
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.
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 load limit on a Subaru Forester?
The rail system offers a dynamic load capacity of 176-lb. and a 700-lb static load limit, allowing safe use of a roof-top tent. The Forester also offers up to 1,500-lb. towing capacity (3,000-lb.
Can a Subaru Forester tow a camper trailer?
However, if you get a small, lightweight camper, your Subaru Forester can tow it. Always check the weight of the camper you are trying to tow and ensure it's within the threshold your Subaru Forester can handle, typically no more than 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Can a Subaru pull a small camper?
When the Subaru Forester Wilderness was added to the lineup in 2022, the maximum towing capacity increased to 3,000 pounds. Kathleen Mongeon chose a 2022 Forester Wilderness to haul her Bushwhacker camper (1,500 to 1,940 pounds), both purchased new.
How much weight can a Subaru take?
How much can a Subaru Ascent tow?
| Model | 2023 | 2021 |
|---|---|---|
| Ascent | 2,000-5,000 lbs | 2,000-5,000 lbs |
| BRZ | Not Recommended | Not Recommended |
| Crosstrek | 1,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| Forester | 3000 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
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.
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.
What is my car weight limit?
Check out your car's information placard (or your owner's manual) on the inside of the driver's side door jamb. It should have information like how many people can be seated in the car, the weight limit and cold tire pressure.
