Section 2 (General Information): Note: Towing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Subaru Forester. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Avoid towing vehicles except when the vehicle cannot be driven. For models with AWD or AT, use a loader instead of towing. When towing other vehicles, pay attention to the following to prevent hook or vehicle damage resulting from excessive weight.

Do not tow other vehicles with a front tie-down hook.
Make sure the vehicle towing is heavier than the vehicle being towed.
When towing the vehicle, install the towing hook (eye bolt).
CAUTION: When tightening the eye bolt using a wheel wrench, be careful not to scratch the bumper.

Fig 1: Tightening Eye Bolt Using Wheel Wrench
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Precautions

TOWING PRECAUTIONS REFERENCE CHART

Towing	Precautions	MT	AT
Lifting up four wheels (On a trailer) Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.	Towing the vehicle after lifting up all four wheels is a basic rule for AWD model.	◦	◦
Rope Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.	Check if both front and rear wheels are rotated normally. AT model driving conditions: Driving speed of 30 km/h (19 MPH) or less Allow driving distance 50 km (31 miles) or less	◦	Δ
Raising the front wheels Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.	Prohibited for full-time AWD model.	X	X
Lifting up the front wheels Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.	Prohibited, due to damage on bumper, front grille, etc. Do not raise the vehicle with bumper.	X	X
Marked ◦: OK, Marked X : Prohibited, Marked Δ: Conditionally OK.

Place the shift lever in "N" position during towing.
Do not lift up the rear wheels to avoid unsteady rotation.
Turn the ignition key to "ACC", then check the steering wheel moves freely.
Release the parking brake to avoid tire dragging.
Since the power steering does not work, be careful for the heavy steering effort. (When engine is stopped)
Since the servo brake does not work, be careful that the brake is not applied effectively. (When engine is stopped)
In case of the malfunction of internal transmission or drive system, lift up four wheels (on a trailer) for towing.
Make sure to detach the towing hook (eye bolt) after towing. If the hook remains attached, airbag may not operate properly when receiving a shock. And it may also affect the crash performance of the vehicle.