2005 Subaru Outback RFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

General Information: Note: Towing

Avoid towing vehicles except when the vehicle cannot be driven. For models with AWD, AT or VTD, 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 towing vehicle is heavier than the towed vehicle.
  • FRONT

Remove the fog light cover (except for OUTBACK model) and hook cover, and then install the hook.

Fig 1: Identifying Towing Points - Front
G03827453Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  • REAR
Fig 2: Identifying Towing Points - Rear
G03827454Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  • NOTES
WEIGHT SPECIFICATION

Towing Notes MT AT
Lifting up four wheels (On a trailer) Fig 3 Towing the vehicle with lifting up all four wheels is a basic rule for AWD modes. (1) (1)
Rope Fig 4
  • Check if both front and rear wheels are rotated normally.
  • AT model driving conditions; Allow driving speed less than 30 km/h (19 MPH).
Allow driving distance less than 30 km (19 miles).
(1) (3)
Raising the front wheels Fig 5 Prohibited for full-time AED model. (2) (2)
Lifting up the front wheels Fig 6
  • Prohibited, due to damage on bumper, front grille, etc.
  • Do not raise the vehicle with bumper.
(2) (2)
(1) OK
(2) Prohibited
(3) Conditionally OK
Fig 3: Identifying Towing NT-00023
G03827455Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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