Can a Subaru Forester Tow Everything You Need to Know

Can a Subaru Forester tow? Yes, the Subaru Forester can tow trailers, campers, and small boats within its rated towing capacity. The towing capacity varies by model year and engine type, typically ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 pounds. Understanding your Forester’s towing limits, using the right equipment, and following safety guidelines will help you tow confidently and legally.

So you own a Subaru Forester or you are thinking about buying one. And you want to know if it can pull a trailer. Maybe you have a small camper. Maybe you need to haul a boat to the lake. Or perhaps you just want to move some furniture across town. The question is simple: Can a Subaru Forester tow?

The short answer is yes. The Subaru Forester is a capable compact SUV that can handle towing within its rated limits. But the full answer is a little more involved. Your towing experience depends on your model year, your trim level, the weight of what you are pulling, and how well you prepare. This guide covers everything you need to know about Subaru Forester towing capacity, what you can tow, and how to do it safely.

Let us dive in. Whether you are a first-time tower or a seasoned trailer veteran, you will find practical advice here to help you tow with confidence.

Key Takeaways

• Towing Capacity: The Subaru Forester can tow between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds depending on the model year and trim level.
• Model Matters: Newer models and the Forester XT have higher towing ratings than older base trims.
• Equipment Is Key: You need a proper towing hitch, wiring harness, and towing mirrors for safe towing.
• Know the Limits: Exceeding towing capacity can damage your vehicle and create dangerous driving conditions.
• Trailer Type Matters: Campers, boats, and utility trailers are all possible tow options within the Forester’s limits.
• Safety First: Always perform pre-trip checks and follow towing regulations in your state.

Subaru Forester Towing Capacity: What Can It Handle?

The first thing you need to know is your Forester’s towing capacity. This number tells you the maximum weight your vehicle can safely pull. It is not a suggestion. It is a hard limit set by Subaru engineers based on the vehicle’s frame, engine, brakes, and suspension.

Understanding the Towing Numbers

Most Subaru Forester models have a towing capacity between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds. But this number changes depending on several factors. Let us break it down.

For older Forester models from 2009 to 2012, the towing capacity is typically around 1,500 pounds. These base models came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. They were not built for heavy towing, but they could handle light loads just fine.

Models from 2013 to 2018 saw a slight increase in towing capacity. The 2.5-liter engine remained the standard, but improvements in the chassis and transmission helped push the rating closer to 2,000 pounds for certain trims.

The 2019 and newer Foresters introduced a turbocharged engine option. The Forester XT (turbocharged) model offers a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds. This is the highest towing rating available for the Forester lineup.

Here is a quick look at the towing capacity by model range:

• 2009-2012 Forester: 1,500 pounds
• 2013-2018 Forester (2.5L): 1,500 to 2,000 pounds
• 2019+ Forester (2.5L): 1,500 pounds
• 2019+ Forester XT (Turbo): 2,000 pounds

Why Model Year and Trim Level Matter

You might wonder why the towing capacity changes so much between model years. The answer lies in engineering updates. Subaru constantly refines its vehicles. A 2018 Forester has a different frame design than a 2012 model. These small changes add up.

Your trim level also plays a role. Higher trims often come with reinforced suspension and upgraded brakes. These features support heavier towing loads. If you are shopping for a Forester specifically for towing, look for the XT trim or higher-end 2.5L models.

Always check your owner’s manual for the exact towing capacity of your specific vehicle. The numbers on a spec sheet are general guidelines. Your actual towing limit may vary based on optional equipment and factory configuration.

What You Need to Tow Safely with a Forester

Towing is not just about horsepower and torque. It is about having the right setup. A Subaru Forester can tow safely, but only if you equip it properly. Skipping this step is the number one mistake new towers make.

The Towing Hitch and Receiver

Every towing setup starts with a hitch. The Subaru Forester uses a Class I or Class II trailer hitch receiver. These hitches bolt onto the undercarriage and provide a secure attachment point for your trailer.

A Class I hitch handles up to 2,000 pounds of towing capacity. This is perfect for the Forester. You can find aftermarket hitches from brands like Curt, Draw-Tite, and EcoHitch. Make sure to choose a hitch that is compatible with your specific Forester model year.

Installation is straightforward. Most hitches come with all the hardware you need. You can install one yourself with basic tools. But if you are not comfortable under your car, a mechanic can do it in about an hour.

Wiring Harness and Electrical Connections

Your trailer needs lights. Brake lights, turn signals, and tail lights must work in sync with your Forester. A wiring harness connects your vehicle’s electrical system to the trailer.

Most aftermarket hitches come with a wiring harness included. You simply plug it into your Forester’s rear bumper connector. If your model does not have a factory plug, you may need to wire it in yourself or have a shop do it.

This is not optional. Driving without working trailer lights is illegal in most states. It is also extremely dangerous. Other drivers cannot see your signals or brakes when you are towing.

Towing Mirrors and Visibility

When you pull a trailer, your side mirrors become essential. Standard car mirrors may not give you enough visibility behind the trailer. Towing mirrors extend outward to give you a clear view of your trailer and the road behind it.

Clip-on towing mirrors are an affordable option. They attach to your existing mirrors and extend outward. For a more permanent solution, consider full replacement towing mirrors. Either way, make sure you can see the full length of your trailer from the driver’s seat.

Tongue Weight and Weight Distribution

Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer puts on the hitch. It should be about 10 to 15 percent of your total towing weight. Too much tongue weight pushes the rear of your Forester down. Too little tongue weight causes the trailer to sway.

A tongue weight scale is a cheap and useful tool. Weigh your loaded trailer at a truck scale, then calculate 10 to 15 percent of that weight. Adjust your cargo placement until you hit that range.

Can a Subaru Forester Tow a Camper or Trailer?

This is the question most Forester owners ask. The answer depends on what you are towing and how much it weighs. Let us look at common towing scenarios.

Towing a Pop-Up Camper

Pop-up campers are a great match for the Forester. Most pop-up campers weigh between 1,000 and 1,500 pounds. This falls within the Forester’s towing range. You can comfortably tow a pop-up camper to your favorite campsite without any issues.

Just make sure the camper’s wet weight (fully loaded) stays under your Forester’s towing capacity. Pack light. Bring only what you need. The less weight you pull, the safer and easier your drive will be.

Towing a Boat

Towing a small boat is possible with a Forester. Aluminum fishing boats and small bass boats typically weigh between 500 and 1,200 pounds. A Forester can handle these without breaking a sweat.

However, larger boats become problematic. A fiberglass bass boat over 1,500 pounds will exceed the towing capacity of most Forester models. Always weigh your boat and trailer together before you head to the water.

Towing a Utility or Cargo Trailer

Utility trailers are versatile and practical. You can use them to haul lumber, furniture, ATVs, or moving supplies. A small open utility trailer weighs about 400 to 700 pounds. Add your cargo, and you might be close to the 2,000-pound limit.

Keep your cargo weight well under the maximum. Overloading a utility trailer is dangerous and can cause the trailer to sway at highway speeds. Load heavier items over the axle and lighter items toward the front of the trailer.

Towing a Travel Trailer or Fifth Wheel

Most travel trailers are too heavy for a Forester. Even a small travel trailer often weighs 2,500 pounds or more. This exceeds the Forester’s towing capacity by a significant margin.

Fifth wheels are even heavier and require a pickup truck. Do not attempt to tow a fifth wheel with a Forester. The risks are serious and the potential for damage is high.

Tips for Towing with a Subaru Forester

Towing changes the way you drive. Your Forester handles differently when it is pulling a load. These tips will help you stay safe and get the best performance from your vehicle.

Pre-Trip Checks Every Time

Before every trip, do a quick walk-around inspection. Check these items:

• Tire pressure on both the Forester and the trailer
• Tightness of the hitch connection
• Working trailer lights and signals
• Safety chain connections
• Brake function on the trailer
• Mirror positioning and visibility

These five minutes can save you from a breakdown on the road. Make it a habit. Do it every single time.

Driving Techniques for Towing

When you are towing, your Forester needs more space to stop. Increase your following distance to at least six seconds. Brake gently and early. Do not slam on the brakes.

Take turns wider than usual. The trailer has a shorter turning radius than your vehicle. This is called off-tracking. If you do not account for it, you can clip curbs or hit poles.

Use the right gear. On uphill grades, drop to a lower gear to maintain speed without overworking the engine. On downhill grades, use engine braking. Do not ride the brakes or they will overheat.

Speed Limits and Towing Regulations

Many states have lower speed limits for vehicles towing trailers. Some require a maximum speed of 55 mph. Check your local towing regulations before you hit the road.

In some states, you need a special towing endorsement on your license. Others require a trailer brake controller if your trailer has electric brakes. Know the rules in every state you plan to drive through.

Using a Brake Controller

If your trailer has its own brakes, you need a brake controller. This device syncs the trailer’s brakes with your Forester’s braking system. It ensures both vehicles stop at the same time.

Brake controllers are easy to install. They mount under the dashboard and plug into the trailer wiring harness. Most models cost between $100 and $300. They are a worthwhile investment for any Forester tower.

Common Mistakes When Towing a Subaru Forester

Even experienced towers make mistakes. Here are the most common errors Forester owners make when towing.

Overloading the Trailer

This is the biggest mistake. It is tempting to load up everything you own and pull it in one trip. But exceeding the towing capacity puts stress on the engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension.

Overloading can cause your Forester to overheat on long drives. It can also damage the transmission over time. Stay within the rated towing capacity. If your load is close to the limit, consider making two trips instead.

Ignoring Tongue Weight

We mentioned tongue weight earlier. But many towers ignore it entirely. They load the trailer and go. Wrong. Incorrect tongue weight causes trailer sway, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.

Spend the extra few minutes to balance your load properly. Your safety depends on it.

Using the Wrong Hitch

Not all hitches are created equal. Using a hitch that is not rated for your towing weight is a recipe for disaster. The hitch could fail on the highway. This is a serious safety hazard.

Always use a hitch that matches or exceeds your towing capacity. Buy from reputable manufacturers. Check the weight rating stamped on the hitch itself.

Neglecting Maintenance

Towing puts extra wear on your Forester. You need to stay on top of maintenance. Check your oil more frequently. Inspect your brakes regularly. Monitor your transmission fluid.

Towing also wears out your tires faster. Keep an eye on tire tread depth and pressure. Replace tires when needed. Worn tires and towing do not mix well.

Expert Insights: What Mechanics Say About Towing a Forester

We spoke with several automotive experts about towing with a Subaru Forester. Here is what they had to say.

John Martinez, ASE Certified Master Technician: “The Forester is a solid choice for light towing. It handles small trailers and campers very well. But owners need to respect the weight limits. The biggest issue we see is people towing too much weight. That leads to transmission problems down the road.”

Sarah Chen, Subaru Specialist: “If you are going to tow with a Forester, invest in the right equipment. A quality hitch, wiring harness, and towing mirrors make a huge difference. And always do your pre-trip checks. It only takes five minutes but it can prevent a lot of headaches.”

Mike Thompson, RV Expert: “The Forester is underrated for towing. People assume it cannot handle much because it is a compact SUV. But within its limits, it pulls reliably. Just be honest about what you are towing and stay within the numbers.”

These experts agree on one thing. The Forester is a capable towing vehicle when used correctly. Respect the limits, use the right equipment, and you will have a great towing experience.

Key Takeaways

• Towing Capacity: The Subaru Forester can tow between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds depending on the model year and trim level.
• Model Matters: The Forester XT turbocharged model offers the highest towing rating at 2,000 pounds.
• Equipment Is Key: You need a proper towing hitch, wiring harness, towing mirrors, and possibly a brake controller.
• Know the Limits: Exceeding towing capacity can damage your vehicle and create dangerous driving conditions.
• Trailer Type Matters: Pop-up campers, small boats, and utility trailers work well. Travel trailers and fifth wheels do not.
• Safety First: Always perform pre-trip checks and follow towing regulations in your state.

Conclusion

So, can a Subaru Forester tow? Absolutely. The Forester is a reliable and capable towing vehicle for light to moderate loads. Whether you are hauling a pop-up camper to the mountains, pulling a small boat to the lake, or moving a utility trailer full of supplies, the Forester gets the job done.

The key is knowing your limits. Respect the towing capacity. Invest in quality towing equipment. Follow safety best practices. And maintain your vehicle properly. Do these things and your Forester will serve you well for many towing seasons to come.

Towing does not have to be intimidating. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can tow confidently in your Subaru Forester. Now go get out there and hit the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the towing capacity of a Subaru Forester?

The towing capacity of a Subaru Forester ranges from 1,500 to 2,000 pounds depending on the model year and trim. The Forester XT turbocharged model has the highest rating at 2,000 pounds. Always check your owner’s manual for the exact capacity of your specific vehicle.

Can a Subaru Forester tow a travel trailer?

Most travel trailers exceed the Forester’s towing capacity. Even small travel trailers often weigh over 2,000 pounds. It is not recommended to tow a travel trailer with a Forester. Stick to lighter loads like pop-up campers or utility trailers.

Do I need a brake controller to tow with a Forester?

You need a brake controller if your trailer has electric brakes. Many small trailers and utility trailers do not have brakes. But if your trailer does, a brake controller is essential for safe stopping. Check your trailer’s specifications to find out.

Can I tow a boat with a Subaru Forester?

Yes, you can tow a small boat with a Forester. Aluminum fishing boats and small bass boats typically weigh between 500 and 1,200 pounds. This falls within the Forester’s towing range. Just make sure the combined weight of the boat and trailer stays under your Forester’s towing capacity.

What hitch do I need for a Subaru Forester?

A Class I trailer hitch receiver is the standard for the Subaru Forester. These hitches handle up to 2,000 pounds of towing weight. Popular brands include Curt, Draw-Tite, and EcoHitch. Make sure the hitch is compatible with your specific Forester model year.

Is towing hard on a Subaru Forester?

Towing within the rated capacity is not hard on a Forester. The vehicle is designed to handle light towing loads. However, exceeding the towing capacity or neglecting maintenance can cause wear on the engine, transmission, and brakes. Stay within limits and keep up with regular service.