Can a Subaru Be Flat Towed Everything You Need To Know

Yes, many Subaru models can be flat towed, but it depends on your specific vehicle, drivetrain, and transmission type. Flat towing a Subaru behind an RV or camper is a popular choice for road trips, but you must follow the manufacturer guidelines to avoid costly damage. In this guide, we walk you through every Subaru model that supports flat towing, the gear you need, and the exact steps to do it safely.

There is nothing quite like hitting the open road with your Subaru riding right behind your RV. It feels freeing. It feels adventurous. But before you hook up and drive off, you need to answer one critical question: can a Subaru be flat towed?

The short answer is yes, but with important caveats. Not every Subaru model supports flat towing. Not every drivetrain works the same way. And skipping a single step in the process can lead to thousands of dollars in transmission damage.

This guide covers everything you need to know about flat towing a Subaru. We will look at which models work, what equipment you need, the step-by-step towing process, and the mistakes that trip up even experienced RVers. Whether you own a Subaru Outback, a Subaru Forester, or another model, this article has you covered.

Key Takeaways

• Not all Subarus can be flat towed: drivetrain and transmission type determine compatibility.
• Manual transmission Subarus are generally easier to flat tow than automatic models.
• You need the right equipment: a tow bar, base plate, safety cables, and auxiliary braking system.
• Always check your owner manual before attempting to flat tow any Subaru.
• Common mistakes include ignoring transmission lubrication and skipping the base plate installation.
• Flat towing is different from dolly towing: all four wheels stay on the ground during flat towing.
• Follow the manufacturer procedures exactly to keep your warranty intact and your vehicle safe.

What Is Flat Towing and Why Does It Matter for Subaru Owners?

Flat towing means pulling a vehicle behind another vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. This is different from using a car dolly, where two wheels sit on a platform and two stay on the road. Flat towing is also called dinghy towing or four-wheel towing.

For Subaru owners, flat towing is especially relevant because these vehicles are popular choices for recreational vehicle towing. Subarus are reliable. They handle rough roads well. And their all-wheel drive systems make them great adventure vehicles. But all-wheel drive also creates unique challenges when it comes to towing.

When you flat tow a Subaru, the transmission, driveshaft, and wheels all spin while the engine is off. If the vehicle is not designed for this, internal components can overheat and suffer serious damage. This is why understanding your specific model matters so much.

Flat Towing vs. Dolly Towing: What Is the Difference?

People often confuse flat towing with dolly towing. Here is the key difference.

• Flat towing: All four wheels of the towed vehicle rest on the ground. The vehicle is connected to the tow vehicle with a tow bar.
• Dolly towing: The front wheels of the towed vehicle sit on a small dolly platform. The rear wheels remain on the ground.

Flat towing is more convenient because you do not need to remove the drivetrain or use extra equipment beyond the tow bar setup. However, it puts more stress on the transmission if the vehicle is not rated for it.

Which Subaru Models Can Be Flat Towed?

This is the question most Subaru owners want answered. The truth is that Subaru towing capacity varies by model, year, and drivetrain. Some Subarus are explicitly approved for flat towing by the manufacturer. Others are not.

Subaru Outback Flat Towing

The Subaru Outback is one of the most popular vehicles for RV towing. Many older models with manual transmissions can be flat towed without issues. However, newer Outback models with CVT (continuously variable transmission) require special attention. Always check the owner manual for the specific year and trim level.

Subaru Forester Flat Towing

The Subaru Forester is another common choice for car towing behind RV setups. Older Forester models with manual transmissions are generally flat tow-friendly. Newer models with automatic or CVT transmissions may have restrictions. Again, the owner manual is your best resource.

Subaru Impreza and Other Models

The Subaru Impreza, Subaru Crosstrek, and Subaru Legacy each have their own towing guidelines. Some models with manual transmissions can be flat towed. Models with automatic or continuously variable transmissions often cannot be flat towed without additional precautions.

The Role of Drivetrain in Flat Towing

Here is where it gets technical, but we will keep it simple. Subarus come with two main drivetrain types:

• All-wheel drive (AWD): Power goes to all four wheels. This creates a problem for flat towing because the wheels are all connected to the transmission and driveshaft.
• Front-wheel drive (FWD): Power goes to the front wheels only. Flat towing FWD vehicles is generally easier on the drivetrain.

Because most Subarus are AWD, flat towing requires extra care. The driveshaft disconnect is a key component in some flat towing setups for AWD vehicles.

What You Need for Flat Towing a Subaru

Before you tow, you need the right gear. Skipping equipment is one of the fastest ways to damage your Subaru or create a dangerous situation on the road.

Tow Bar

A flat tow bar is the primary piece of equipment. It connects the towed Subaru to the front of the RV or tow vehicle. Look for a tow bar that is rated for your Subaru’s weight. Popular brands include Blue Ox, Roadmaster, and Demco.

Base Plate

A base plate is a mounting bracket that attaches to the front of your Subaru. It provides a secure connection point for the tow bar. Base plates are vehicle-specific, meaning you need one designed for your exact Subaru model and year.

Safety Cables

Safety cables serve as a backup connection between the towed vehicle and the tow vehicle. If the tow bar fails for any reason, the safety cables prevent the towed vehicle from separating. Always use cables rated for your vehicle’s weight.

Auxiliary Braking System

Most states and provinces require an auxiliary braking system when flat towing a vehicle behind an RV. This system applies the brakes on the towed vehicle when the tow vehicle brakes. It is not just a legal requirement in many places. It is a critical safety feature.

Supplemental Tools and Accessories

A few other items make flat towing smoother and safer:

• Towing lights: Ensure the towed vehicle’s brake lights and turn signals work when connected.
• Steering wheel lock: Prevents the steering wheel from turning while towing.
• Transmission lubrication pump: For some models, a pump circulates transmission fluid while the engine is off.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Flat Towing a Subaru

Even experienced RVers make mistakes when flat towing. Here are the most common ones and how to avoid them.

Ignoring the Owner Manual

This is the number one mistake. Every Subaru model has specific towing guidelines from the manufacturer. Ignoring these guidelines can void your warranty and cause serious damage. If the manual says your model cannot be flat towed, do not do it.

Skipping the Base Plate Installation

Some people try to use a tow bar without a base plate. This is a dangerous shortcut. The base plate provides a secure, vehicle-specific connection. Without it, the tow bar can shift, vibrate, or detach while driving.

Forgetting the Auxiliary Brake

As mentioned, many jurisdictions require an auxiliary braking system. But beyond the legal aspect, it is a safety issue. Without it, the towed Subaru will not slow down when the tow vehicle brakes. This can cause a dangerous situation, especially at highway speeds.

Not Disconnecting the Driveshaft (When Required)

For AWD Subarus, not disconnecting the driveshaft during flat towing can cause severe transmission damage. The driveshaft keeps spinning the transmission internals even when the engine is off. Without proper lubrication, gears and bearings can overheat and fail.

Overlooking Tire Condition

Worn or underinflated tires on the towed Subaru can affect handling and braking. Before every trip, check the tire pressure and tread depth on all four wheels of the vehicle being towed.

Step-by-Step Guide to Flat Towing a Subaru

Now that you have the equipment and the knowledge, here is how to actually flat tow your Subaru.

Step 1: Verify Your Model Is Flat Tow Approved

Check the owner manual or contact a Subaru dealer. Confirm that your specific model, year, and drivetrain combination supports flat towing. Do not assume.

Step 2: Install the Base Plate

Have a base plate professionally installed or follow the manufacturer instructions carefully. The base plate must be securely bolted to the frame of your Subaru.

Step 3: Attach the Tow Bar

Connect the tow bar to the base plate on the Subaru and to the tow vehicle. Make sure all pins and latches are secure. Give it a firm tug to confirm nothing is loose.

Step 4: Connect Safety Cables

Attach the safety cables from the towed Subaru to the tow vehicle. Cross the cables underneath the tow bar to prevent them from dragging on the ground.

Step 5: Install the Auxiliary Braking System

Follow the manufacturer instructions to install and test the auxiliary brake system. Make sure it engages properly when the tow vehicle brakes.

Step 6: Connect Towing Lights

Wire the towed Subaru’s brake lights and turn signals to the tow vehicle’s electrical system. Test all lights before hitting the road.

Step 7: Follow the Correct Towing Procedure

Every vehicle has a specific procedure for flat towing. This may include putting the ignition in a specific position, turning the steering wheel a certain way, or engaging a specific gear. Follow these steps exactly every single time.

Step 8: Drive Safely

Once everything is connected and tested, you are ready to go. Drive at moderate speeds. Avoid sudden stops and sharp turns. Check all connections after the first few miles of driving.

Expert Tips for Safe Flat Towing

Here are some insider tips from experienced RVers and Subaru enthusiasts.

Check your connections before every trip. Even if everything was fine last time, a quick check takes two minutes and can prevent a disaster on the highway.

Invest in quality equipment. A cheap tow bar might save you money upfront but could fail under stress. Spend a little more on a reputable brand.

Practice in a safe, empty area first. Before you hit the open highway, practice connecting, disconnecting, and driving with your towed Subaru in a parking lot or empty road.

Keep a maintenance log for your tow setup. Track when you last inspected the tow bar, cables, and base plate. Replace worn parts immediately.

Consider roadside assistance coverage that includes towed vehicles. If something goes wrong on the road, you want to know you are protected.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flat Towing a Subaru

Can all Subaru models be flat towed?

No, not all Subaru models can be flat towed. Compatibility depends on the model year, drivetrain, and transmission type. Always consult your owner manual or contact a Subaru dealer to confirm whether your specific vehicle supports flat towing.

What happens if you flat tow a Subaru that is not rated for it?

Flat towing an unapproved Subaru can cause severe transmission damage. The internal components of the transmission rely on engine-driven fluid circulation. Without the engine running, these parts can overheat, grind, and fail. Repair costs can easily reach several thousand dollars.

Do I need a special license to flat tow a Subaru behind an RV?

In most cases, no special license is required for flat towing a car behind an RV. However, regulations vary by state and country. Always check local laws regarding recreational vehicle towing requirements in your area.

How fast can I drive when flat towing a Subaru?

Most manufacturers recommend staying at or below highway speeds, typically 55 to 65 miles per hour. Check your Subaru owner manual for the specific speed limit. Driving too fast can cause excessive wear on the towed vehicle’s transmission and tires.

Can I flat tow a Subaru with a CVT transmission?

Some Subaru models with CVT transmissions can be flat towed, but many cannot. CVT transmissions have unique internal components that can be damaged when the vehicle is towed with the engine off. Always verify your specific model and year in the owner manual before attempting flat towing.

What is the difference between flat towing and dinghy towing?

There is no practical difference. Flat towing and dinghy towing are two terms for the same process: pulling a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground behind another vehicle. Both terms are used interchangeably in the RV and automotive communities.

Conclusion

Can a Subaru be flat towed? Yes, many Subaru models can be flat towed, but it requires the right knowledge, equipment, and preparation. Whether you own a Subaru Outback, a Subaru Forester, or another model, the key is to follow the manufacturer guidelines exactly. Check your owner manual, invest in quality towing equipment, and never skip safety steps.

Flat towing a Subaru opens up a world of adventure on the road. You can bring your daily driver along for the trip, and it is ready to go the moment you arrive. But with that freedom comes responsibility. Take the time to understand your vehicle, prepare your setup, and drive safely.

Now that you have all the information you need, you are ready to plan your next road trip with confidence. Happy trails, and safe travels with your Subaru in tow.