Joseph Weaver Are you planning to hit the road with your RV and wondering whether you can tow your Subaru Outback along with you? The good news is that a Subaru Outback can be towed behind an RV, but there are some important things you should know before hooking it up.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about towing your Subaru Outback, including the different towing methods, equipment needed, and important safety considerations.
Key Takeaways
- A Subaru Outback can be towed behind an RV using a variety of methods, including flat towing, dolly towing, and trailer towing.
- Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing, is the most popular and convenient method for towing a Subaru Outback behind an RV.
- To flat tow a Subaru Outback, you will need a tow bar, base plates, a supplemental braking system, and wiring harness.
- Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for towing your Subaru Outback and always prioritize safety on the road.
Types of Towing
There are three main methods for towing a Subaru Outback behind an RV: flat towing, dolly towing, and trailer towing. Let’s take a closer look at each of these methods.
Flat Towing
Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing, involves towing your Subaru Outback with all four wheels on the ground. This is the most popular and convenient method for towing a Subaru Outback behind an RV.
To flat tow a Subaru Outback, you will need a tow bar, base plates, a supplemental braking system, and wiring harness. The tow bar connects your Subaru Outback to your RV, while the base plates attach to the frame of your vehicle. The supplemental braking system helps your RV to stop your Subaru Outback, and the wiring harness allows your vehicle’s taillights and turn signals to work while being towed.
Dolly Towing
Dolly towing involves towing your Subaru Outback with the front two wheels off the ground and the back two wheels on the ground. This method requires a special tow dolly, which can be rented from most RV rental companies.
Dolly towing is not recommended for Subaru Outbacks with all-wheel drive (AWD) because it can damage the transmission. However, if you have a Subaru Outback with front-wheel drive (FWD), dolly towing may be a viable option.
Trailer Towing
Trailer towing involves towing your Subaru Outback on a trailer that is attached to your RV. This is the least popular method for towing a Subaru Outback behind an RV because it requires a separate trailer and requires more storage space.
Trailer towing is ideal for Subaru Outbacks with all-wheel drive (AWD) because it prevents damage to the transmission. However, it is the most expensive method and can be cumbersome to maneuver.
Equipment Needed
No matter which towing method you choose, you will need some equipment to safely tow your Subaru Outback behind your RV. Here are the essential pieces of equipment you’ll need:
- Tow bar: A tow bar connects your Subaru Outback to your RV. Make sure to choose a tow bar that is compatible with your vehicle and RV.
- Base plates: Base plates attach to the frame of your vehicle and provide a secure connection point for the tow bar. Make sure to choose base plates that are designed for your specific make and model of vehicle.
- Supplemental braking system: A supplemental braking system helps your RV to stop your Subaru Outback. Make sure to choose a system that is compatible with your vehicle and RV.
- Wiring harness: A wiring harness allows your vehicle’s taillights and turn signals to work while being towed. Make sure to choose a wiring harness that is designed for your specific make and model of vehicle.
Safety Considerations
Towing a vehicle behind an RV requires careful consideration of safety factors. Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind:
- Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for towing your Subaru Outback. These guidelines will provide important information about towing capacity, speed limits, and other important details.
- Always use the appropriate equipment for your towing method. Using the wrong equipment can lead to damage to your vehicle or RV, as well as endangering your safety on the road.
- Make sure to properly balance your Subaru Outback on the tow bar or dolly. Improper balance can cause swaying or fishtailing, which can be dangerous while driving.
- Take turns slowly and allow for extra stopping distance. Towing a vehicle behind an RV requires more time and space to slow down and stop.
- Check all equipment before each use. Make sure that all connections are secure and properly aligned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I tow a Subaru Outback with all-wheel drive (AWD) behind an RV?
Yes, but you should use a towing method that lifts all four wheels off the ground, such as trailer towing or flat towing. Dolly towing can damage the transmission on Subaru Outbacks with all-wheel drive (AWD).
How fast can I tow my Subaru Outback behind an RV?
Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maximum towing speed. In general, most Subaru Outbacks can be towed at speeds up to 65 miles per hour.
Do I need a special license or registration to tow my Subaru Outback behind an RV?
In most cases, no. However, you should check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to ensure that you are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
What should I do if I experience problems while towing my Subaru Outback behind my RV?
Pull over to a safe location and assess the situation. If you are unable to fix the problem, contact a reputable towing service for assistance.
Conclusion
Towing your Subaru Outback behind an RV can be a convenient and enjoyable way to hit the road. Whether you choose to flat tow, dolly tow, or trailer tow, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and prioritize safety at all times. With the right equipment and precautions, you can enjoy a safe and stress-free journey with your Subaru Outback in tow.
