Subaru Outback manuals

Subaru Outback (BR): Trailer hitches

WARNING

Never drill the frame or under-body of your vehicle to install a commercial trailer hitch. If you do, dangerous exhaust gas, water or mud may enter the passenger compartment through the drilled hole. Exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas which is dangerous, or even lethal, if inhaled. Also, drilling the frame or underbody of your vehicle could cause deterioration of strength of your vehicle and cause corrosion around the drilled hole.

CAUTION

● Do not modify the vehicle exhaust system, brake system, or other systems when installing a hitch or other trailer towing equipment.

● Do not use axle-mounted hitches as they can cause damage to the axle housing, wheel bearings, wheels or tires.

Choose a proper hitch for your vehicle and trailer.

The use of a genuine SUBARU trailer hitch is recommended. A genuine SUBARU hitch is available from your SUBARU dealer.

If use of a non-genuine hitch is unavoidable, be sure the hitch is suited to your vehicle and trailer. Consult with a professional hitch supplier to assist you in choosing an appropriate hitch for your vehicle. Be sure to follow all of the hitch manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use.

Never use a hitch that mounts only to the rear bumper. The bumper is not designed to handle that type of load.

For all types of hitches, regularly check that the hitch mounting bolts and nuts are tight.

READ NEXT:

 Trailer brakes

WARNING ● Adequate size trailer brakes are required when the trailer and its cargo exceed 1,000 lbs (453 kg) total weight. ● Do not directly connect your trailer’s hydraulic brake system

SEE MORE:

 Towing with all wheels on the ground

WARNING ● Never turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK” position while the vehicle is being towed because the steering wheel and the direction of the wheels will be locked. ● Remember that the brake booster and power steering do not function when the engine is not running. Bec

 Air cleaner element

WARNING Do not operate the engine with the air cleaner element removed. The air cleaner element not only filters intake air but also stops flames if the engine backfires. If the air cleaner element is not installed when the engine backfires, you could be burned. CAUTION When replacing the a

© 2010-2026 Copyright www.suoutback.com