2013 Subaru Outback LimitedFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

General Information: Note: Note: Towing

Avoid towing vehicles except when the vehicle cannot be driven. For models with AWD, CVT, 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.
  • When towing the vehicle equipped with Subaru EyeSight with the engine running, be sure to hold down the pre-collision brake OFF switch to turn OFF the pre-collision brake function. (Check that the pre-collision brake OFF indicator light in the meter lights up.)
  • Front

    Remove the hook cover, and install the towing hook.

    Fig 1: Installing Towing Hook (Front)
    G08579501Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  • Rear

    Remove the hook cover, and install the towing hook

    Fig 2: Installing Towing Hook (Rear)
    G08579502Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  • Precautions
    Towing Precautions MT AT, CVT
    Lifting up four wheels (On a trailer)
    G05667423
    Towing the vehicle after lifting up all four wheels is a basic rule for AWD model. β—¦ β—¦
    Rope
    G05667424
    • Check if both front and rear wheels are rotated normally.
    • AT and CVT models driving conditions: Driving speed of 30 km/h (19 MPH) or less Allow driving distance 50 km (31 miles) or less
    β—¦ Ξ”
    Raising the front wheels
    G05667425
    Prohibited for full-time AWD model. X X
    Lifting up the front wheels
    G05664774
    • Prohibited, due to damage on bumper, front grille, etc.
    • Do not raise the vehicle with bumper.
    X X
    Marked β—¦ : OK, Marked X : Prohibited, Marked Ξ”: Conditionally OK.
CAUTION:
  • 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. (Models without the keyless access with push button start system)
  • 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.
  • Do not use towing hook (eye bolt) except when towing.
  • Make sure to detach the towing hook (eye bolt) after towing. If it remains attached, airbag may not operate properly when receiving a shock. And it may also affect the crash performance of the vehicle.
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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