Can You Flat Tow A Subaru?

Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability, versatility, and off-road capabilities. They are popular among outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, and many Subaru owners love to take their vehicles on road trips. However, when it comes to towing a Subaru, there are some important things to consider. One of the most common questions that Subaru owners ask is whether or not you can flat tow a Subaru. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide you with some helpful tips and information.

What is Flat Towing?

Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing, is a method of towing a vehicle behind another vehicle without using a trailer. The towed vehicle is connected to the towing vehicle using a tow bar, which is attached to the frame of the towed vehicle and the hitch of the towing vehicle. Flat towing is popular among RV owners who want to bring a second vehicle with them on their travels. It is also commonly used for short-distance towing, such as moving a vehicle from one location to another.

Can You Flat Tow a Subaru?

The short answer is yes, you can flat tow a Subaru, but not all Subaru models are suitable for flat towing. Subaru vehicles with manual transmissions and all-wheel drive can be flat towed, while those with automatic transmissions or front-wheel drive are not recommended for flat towing. This is because automatic transmissions are not designed to be towed with all four wheels on the ground, and towing them in this manner can cause damage to the transmission. Front-wheel drive Subaru vehicles are also not recommended for flat towing because they are not designed to be towed with the front wheels on the ground, which can cause damage to the drivetrain.

If you have a Subaru with a manual transmission and all-wheel drive, it can be flat towed safely as long as you follow some guidelines. First, you should consult your vehicle's owner's manual to determine if it is suitable for flat towing and to learn about any specific requirements or limitations. You should also make sure that your tow bar and towing vehicle are properly rated for the weight of your Subaru. Additionally, you should follow all safety precautions, such as using safety chains and ensuring that your lights and brakes are working properly.

Helpful Tips for Flat Towing a Subaru

If you are planning to flat tow a Subaru, there are some helpful tips that can make the process easier and safer. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Use the Right Tow Bar

When flat towing a Subaru, you should use a tow bar that is specifically designed for your vehicle. You should also make sure that the tow bar is properly rated for the weight of your vehicle. Using the wrong tow bar can cause damage to your vehicle or make towing unsafe.

2. Follow the Owner's Manual

Before flat towing your Subaru, you should carefully read the owner's manual to learn about any specific requirements or limitations. The manual will also provide you with important information about how to prepare your vehicle for towing and how to operate it safely while being towed.

3. Check Your Brakes and Lights

Before hitting the road, you should check your Subaru's brakes and lights to ensure that they are working properly. This is especially important if you are towing your Subaru behind an RV or another vehicle, as the brakes and lights on the towed vehicle are not connected to the towing vehicle.

4. Practice Towing

If you are new to flat towing, it is a good idea to practice before hitting the road. Find a large, empty parking lot and practice hooking up and unhooking your tow bar, turning, and backing up. This will help you get comfortable with the process and ensure that you are prepared for any challenges that may arise on the road.

Conclusion

Flat towing a Subaru can be a convenient and practical way to bring your vehicle with you on your travels. However, it is important to remember that not all Subaru models are suitable for flat towing, and there are some important guidelines and tips to follow to ensure that you do so safely. By following the advice in this article and consulting your owner's manual, you can safely and confidently flat tow your Subaru to your next adventure.