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What is the maximum tongue weight for a Subaru?

The maximum tongue weight for a Subaru is typically 200 pounds. This is the maximum amount of weight that can be placed on the trailer hitch of a Subaru vehicle, which is an important consideration for anyone planning to tow a trailer or attach a hitch-mounted accessory.


Understanding Tongue Weight


Tongue weight refers to the downward force exerted on a trailer hitch by a trailer or other towed item. It's a crucial factor in determining the towing capacity and overall stability of a vehicle. If the tongue weight exceeds the manufacturer's recommended limit, it can lead to handling issues, poor braking performance, and even potential damage to the vehicle's suspension and frame.


Subaru's Tongue Weight Limit


Subaru, a popular Japanese automaker, has a standard tongue weight limit of 200 pounds across most of its vehicle lineup. This includes models like the Outback, Ascent, Forester, and Crosstrek, which are known for their versatility and off-road capabilities.


It's important to note that the tongue weight limit may vary slightly depending on the specific Subaru model, year, and configuration. Owners should always refer to their vehicle's owner's manual or consult with a Subaru dealer to confirm the exact tongue weight limit for their particular model.


Factors Affecting Tongue Weight


Several factors can influence the tongue weight of a trailer or hitch-mounted accessory, including:



  • Trailer size and weight: Larger and heavier trailers will generally have a higher tongue weight.

  • Trailer load distribution: How the weight is distributed on the trailer can affect the tongue weight.

  • Hitch type and height: The type and height of the trailer hitch can impact the tongue weight.

  • Accessory weight: The weight of any hitch-mounted accessories, such as bike racks or cargo carriers, must be factored in.


It's crucial to carefully calculate and monitor the tongue weight to ensure it stays within the Subaru's recommended limit, as exceeding this limit can compromise the vehicle's handling, safety, and performance.

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 is the max tongue weight for a Subaru Crosstrek?


Extra Crosstrek Towing Tips
The 2021 Crosstrek maximum tongue weight of 150 lbs with tongue weight between 8 to 11 percent of total trailer weight.



What is the weight limit for the Subaru Outback?


The Subaru Outback can tow up to 3,500 pounds, an excellent number for a wagon. Many wagons and compact crossovers of a similar size from other automakers can tow around 1,500 pounds. However, it's important to remember that the Outback has two engine options, each with a different towing capacity.



What happens if you exceed hitch tongue weight?


If the trailer has too much tongue weight, it can overload the tow vehicle. This can cause a loss of steering and braking control for the tow vehicle. It also puts too much stress and weight on the tow vehicle's rear axle, leading to the axle or suspension failure if not addressed.



What is the max tongue weight for a Subaru Forester?


176 pounds
Subaru Forester Specs
To haul all that cargo, it runs on a 2.5L 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER® engine that gets up to 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The Forester's tow hitch also features a strong tongue weight of 176 pounds.



What is the max tongue weight for a Subaru Outback?


Here's what you'll want to look for while you configure your new Outback: Trailer Hitch: 270-pound tongue weight and 2,700-pound towing capacity for the 2.5L engine, 350-pound tongue weight and 3,500-pound towing capacity for the 2.4L turbocharged engine.



How much tongue weight can a Subaru Outback handle?


Here's what you'll want to look for while you configure your new Outback: Trailer Hitch: 270-pound tongue weight and 2,700-pound towing capacity for the 2.5L engine, 350-pound tongue weight and 3,500-pound towing capacity for the 2.4L turbocharged engine.



Can a Subaru tow 4000 lbs?


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 increase towing capacity?


How to Maximize Towing Capacity

  1. Upgrading the Hitch. The same vehicle can tow more with a Class III hitch than with a Class II hitch.
  2. Installing a Weight-Distribution Hitch.
  3. Upgrading the Brakes.
  4. Replacing the Axles.
  5. Adding a Bigger Radiator.



What is the acceptable tongue weight?


roughly 10 to 15 percent
What Is Proper Tongue Weight? For conventional trailers with ball-mounted hitches, proper tongue weight is roughly 10 to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight.


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.