Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
General Information: Notices: 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 vehicle towing is heavier than the vehicle being towed.
- Front
Remove the fog light cover (except for OUTBACK model) and hook cover, and then install the hook.
- Rear
- Notes
| Towing | Precautions | MT | AT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifting up four wheels (On a trailer) | Towing the vehicle after lifting up all four wheels is a basic rule for AWD model. | β¦ | β¦ |
| Rope |
Allow driving distance 30 km (19 miles) or less |
β¦ | Β |
| Raising the front wheels | Prohibited for full-time AWD model. | X | X |
| Lifting up the front wheels |
|
X | X |
| Marked β¦: OK, Marked X: Prohibited, Marked : Conditionally OK. | |||
- Check ATF, gear oil and rear differential oil before driving.
- Place the shift lever in "N" position during towing.
- Do not lift up the rear wheels to avoid unsteady rotation.
- Turn the ignition key to "ACC", then check the steering wheel moves freely.
- Release the parking brake to avoid tire dragging.
- Since the power steering does not work, be careful for the heavy steering effort. (When engine is stopped)
- Since the servo brake does not work, be careful that the brake is not applied effectively. (When engine is stopped)
- In case of the malfunction of internal transmission or drive system, lift up four wheels (on a trailer) for towing.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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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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