What are the tow settings for Subaru Outback?
The Subaru Outback is a versatile and reliable vehicle, known for its capability to handle various terrains and towing needs. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway with a trailer or need to tow a small camper, understanding the tow settings for your Subaru Outback is crucial for safety and performance. In this article, we’ll explore the key tow settings and considerations for this popular vehicle.
Understanding the Towing Capacity of the Subaru Outback
Before diving into the tow settings, it’s important to know the towing capacity of your Subaru Outback. Depending on the model year and trim, the towing capacity can vary. For most recent models:
- The standard towing capacity is approximately 2,700 pounds.
- With the optional towing package, the capacity increases to around 3,500 pounds.
Always check your owner’s manual for the exact specifications of your vehicle to ensure you don’t exceed its limits.
Key Tow Settings to Adjust
When preparing your Subaru Outback for towing, there are several settings and adjustments to consider:
- Trailer Hitch: Ensure you have a properly installed trailer hitch that matches the towing capacity of your vehicle. Subaru offers factory-installed hitches designed specifically for the Outback.
- Trailer Brakes: If your trailer exceeds 1,000 pounds, it’s recommended to use trailer brakes. The Outback is equipped with a trailer brake controller connection to make this easier.
- Transmission Mode: Use the Subaru Outback’s X-Mode feature when towing on challenging terrains. This mode optimizes engine output and enhances traction control for better stability.
- Tire Pressure: Check and adjust the tire pressure on both your vehicle and the trailer. Proper tire pressure ensures better handling and reduces the risk of blowouts.
- Weight Distribution: Distribute the weight evenly in your trailer to avoid swaying. Use a weight distribution hitch if necessary for heavier loads.
Additional Tips for Safe Towing
To ensure a safe and smooth towing experience with your Subaru Outback, keep these tips in mind:
- Perform a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle and trailer, checking lights, brakes, and connections.
- Drive at moderate speeds and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns to maintain control.
- Be mindful of your vehicle’s total weight, including passengers and cargo, to stay within the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
- Use extended side mirrors if your trailer obstructs your rearview visibility.
Conclusion
The Subaru Outback is a capable towing vehicle when equipped with the right settings and accessories. By understanding its towing capacity, adjusting key settings, and following safety tips, you can confidently tow your trailer or camper on your next adventure. If you have any questions or need assistance with towing setup, feel free to contact us at Kevin’s Autos for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Subaru to tow behind an RV?
The Subaru Ascent is the largest Subaru SUV, and it also has the highest maximum towing capacity – up to 5,000 pounds in all trim levels but the Base trim1 – along with seating for seven or eight passengers, depending upon the trim level.
How to tow a Subaru Outback behind an RV?
Subaru vehicles with manual transmission can be towed with all four wheels on the ground and the transmission in neutral. Subaru vehicles with automatic transmission can only be towed with all four wheels OFF the ground.
How do you tow an AWD car behind an RV?
For all-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive vehicles, you'll most likely need to tow your vehicle with a trailer or car hauler. In this case, you will drive your vehicle onto the trailer and tow the vehicle with no wheels touching the ground. Trailers are the most expensive option.
Can a Subaru Outback really tow 2700 lbs?
The average tow capacity for all years of Subaru Outback ranges from 1,000 to 3,500 pounds. When you choose a newer model, the standard towing capacity is 2,700 pounds.
What size camper can a Subaru Outback tow?
If the total weight of a loaded up teardrop trailer is more than 2,700 pounds, you shouldn't use your Outback to tow it. So to be safe, get a teardrop trailer that's less than 2,000 pounds. That will allow you to add your gear, and still tow safely.
What mode should I tow in?
In general, you should engage Tow/Haul mode whenever you're towing a large trailer or hauling a heavy load.
Are CVT transmissions ok for towing?
To tow a vehicle equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission, an appropriate vehicle dolly MUST be placed under the towed vehicle's drive wheels. Never tow a front-wheel drive vehicle with a CVT with the front wheels on the ground or four wheels on the ground.
How to increase towing capacity?
How to Maximize Towing Capacity
- Upgrading the Hitch. The same vehicle can tow more with a Class III hitch than with a Class II hitch.
- Installing a Weight-Distribution Hitch.
- Upgrading the Brakes.
- Replacing the Axles.
- Adding a Bigger Radiator.
What are the towing specs for a Subaru Outback?
The standard 2.5L SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder tows up to 2,700 pounds. If you opt for the 2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine instead, it can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Does the Subaru Outback have a tow mode?
The Outback does not offer a towing package. However, Subaru's standard all-wheel drive and traction control system help improve your towing experience.
