Yes, you can flat tow a Subaru, but it depends entirely on the model and drivetrain. Front-wheel drive Subarus with manual transmissions are generally the safest for dinghy towing, while all-wheel drive models require extra precautions. Always consult your owner’s manual before towing.

This is a comprehensive guide about Can a Subaru Be Flat Towed?.

Key Takeaways

• Not all Subarus can be flat towed: drivetrain and transmission type matter a lot.
• Front-wheel drive models with manual transmissions are the safest for flat towing.
• AWD Subarus need special equipment like a flatbed or supplemental drivetrain protection.
• A tow bar, safety chains, and supplemental braking system are essential for safe flat towing.
• Always check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s official towing guidelines.
• Overheating is a real risk when flat towing, especially in hot weather.
• Get a professional diagnostic after long flat towing trips to ensure no damage occurred.

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Can a Subaru Be Flat Towed Everything You Need to Know

Flat towing a Subaru behind an RV or truck is a popular way to bring your car along on road trips. But here is the thing not every Subaru can be flat towed safely. The answer depends on your specific model, drivetrain, and transmission type. Doing it wrong can cause serious and expensive damage to your transmission and drivetrain.

This guide covers everything you need to know about flat towing a Subaru. We will break down which models work, what equipment you need, and how to avoid common mistakes. Whether you are planning a cross country adventure or just need to move your car short distances, this article has you covered.

By the end, you will know exactly whether your Subaru is safe for flat towing and what steps to take to protect your vehicle. Let us get into it.

What Is Flat Towing and Why Does It Matter for Subarus

Flat towing means pulling your car behind another vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. This is also called dinghy towing or four-down towing. It is different from using a flatbed trailer, where the entire car sits on the bed and none of the wheels touch the road.

Flat towing matters a lot for Subarus because of their drivetrain systems. Most Subarus come standard with all-wheel drive or symmetrical AWD. When all four wheels are spinning while being towed, the transmission and drivetrain components can spin without proper lubrication. This causes heat buildup and can lead to catastrophic damage.

Not every car has this problem. Front-wheel drive cars with manual transmissions are generally the safest for flat towing because only the front wheels spin and the transmission stays in a neutral position. But Subarus are more complex, which is why you need to understand the rules before you tow.

Flat Towing vs. Trailer Towing

There are two main ways to tow a car behind an RV or truck. The first is flat towing, where the car rides on its own wheels. The second is using a trailer or a car carrier. Some people prefer to have a car pull a trailer with their Subaru inside, which eliminates all drivetrain concerns. Trailer towing is safer for AWD vehicles but requires more space and fuel.

Flat towing is more convenient because you do not need a trailer. You can just attach a tow bar and go. But convenience comes with risk if you do not follow the rules. Always weigh the pros and cons based on your specific Subaru model.

Which Subaru Models Can Be Flat Towed

The short answer is some Subarus can be flat towed and some cannot. The key factors are the drivetrain, transmission type, and gear positions available. Here is a breakdown of what to look for.

Front-Wheel Drive Subarus

Front-wheel drive Subarus are the best candidates for flat towing. The FWD system only sends power to the front wheels, which means the rear wheels spin freely when being towed. This reduces the stress on the drivetrain significantly.

Models like the Subaru Impreza (hatchback) and Subaru Crosstrek (FWD variant) are often flat towable. However, you still need to check the transmission. A manual transmission with a neutral gear position is ideal. Automatic transmissions may have different requirements depending on the model year.

All-Wheel Drive Subarus

AWD Subarus are the most complicated when it comes to flat towing. Because all four wheels receive power, towing with all wheels on the ground can cause the transmission to spin without oil flow. This leads to overheating and internal damage.

Most Subaru owners manuals explicitly warn against flat towing AWD models. Instead, you should use a flatbed tow truck or a car trailer. If you absolutely must flat tow an AWD Subaru, you will need a supplemental drivetrain lubrication system, which is expensive and complicated.

Manual vs Automatic Transmission

Transmission type plays a huge role in flat towing safety. Manual transmissions are generally more forgiving because you can simply shift into neutral. The gears disengage and the internal components stop spinning.

Automatic transmissions are trickier. Even in neutral, some automatic transmissions do not allow full disengagement of the internal gears. This means fluid may not circulate properly during towing. Always check the specific model and year of your Subaru for the official towing position requirements.

Essential Equipment for Flat Towing a Subaru

If you have determined that your Subaru can be flat towed, you need the right equipment. Using the wrong gear or skipping safety steps is how accidents happen. Here is what you need.

Tow Bar

A tow bar is the primary connection between your tow vehicle and your Subaru. It attaches to the front of the Subaru and the rear of the tow vehicle. Look for a tow bar rated for your Subaru’s weight. Most compact Subarus weigh between 2,500 and 3,500 pounds, so a heavy-duty tow bar is a smart investment.

Make sure the tow bar is compatible with your specific Subaru model. Some bars are universal while others are model-specific. A proper fit prevents rattling, swaying, and disconnections while driving.

Safety Chains

Safety chains are a backup connection in case the tow bar fails. They attach from the tow vehicle to the Subaru’s frame or designated towing points. Cross the chains under the tongue of the tow bar to prevent the Subaru from dropping on the ground if the bar separates.

Always use chains rated for the weight of your vehicle. Do not skimp on this safety feature. It is cheap insurance against a dangerous situation on the highway.

Supplemental Braking System

Many states and provinces require a supplemental braking system when flat towing a vehicle. This is because the towed car has no brakes of its own while being towed. The braking system connects to the tow vehicle’s brake pedal and applies the Subaru’s brakes in sync.

There are several types available. Portable braking systems are easy to move between vehicles. Integrated systems are built into the tow bar setup. Either way, a supplemental brake is essential for safety and legal compliance.

Auxiliary Lighting

Your Subaru’s brake lights and turn signals need to work while being towed. An auxiliary lighting kit connects to the tow vehicle’s electrical system and powers the lights on the towed car. This keeps you visible to other drivers and keeps you legal on the road.

These kits are affordable and easy to install. Look for ones with magnetic mounts so you can remove them when not towing.

Step by Step Guide to Flat Towing a Subaru

Once you have the right equipment and confirmed your Subaru can be flat towed, follow these steps carefully. Skipping any step could result in damage or an accident.

1. Read your owner’s manual thoroughly for the manufacturer’s flat towing instructions. Every Subaru model is different.
2. Inspect your tow bar and all connections before each trip. Check for wear, rust, and loose bolts.
3. Attach the tow bar to the designated front towing points on your Subaru and the rear of the tow vehicle.
4. Connect safety chains and the supplemental braking system.
5. Shift the transmission into the correct towing position (usually neutral for manual, specific position for automatic).
6. Turn the ignition to accessory mode so the steering column unlocks and the wheels can turn freely.
7. Test the brakes and lights before hitting the road. Have someone press the brake pedal while you check the lights.
8. Drive carefully avoiding sudden stops, sharp turns, and highway speeds over 55 mph.

Common Mistakes People Make When Flat Towing a Subaru

Flat towing mistakes can be costly. Some of them cause damage that is not covered by warranty. Here are the most common errors to avoid.

Towing an AWD Subaru Without Protection

This is the number one mistake. Towing an all-wheel drive Subaru with all four wheels on the ground can destroy the transmission in a matter of miles. The internal gears spin without proper lubrication, causing heat and friction damage. Always use a flatbed for AWD models unless your manual explicitly allows flat towing.

Forgetting to Shift Into Neutral

If you tow a manual Subaru without shifting into neutral, the transmission gears remain engaged. This causes the gears to spin and grind, leading to expensive repairs. Always double check the gear position before you start towing.

Ignoring Overheating Risks

Flat towing can cause your Subaru to overheat, especially on hot days. When the engine is off but the wheels are spinning, the cooling system may not circulate coolant properly. On long downhill stretches, this risk increases significantly. If you notice steam or a temperature gauge rising, stop immediately and let the car cool down.

Some people worry about their car overheating on a hot day even without towing. When you add flat towing to the mix, the risk doubles. Plan your stops and monitor your temperature gauge closely.

Skipping the Supplemental Brake

Not using a supplemental braking system is dangerous and illegal in many areas. Without it, your towed Subaru adds momentum to the stopping distance of the tow vehicle. In an emergency stop, the towed car will keep moving forward, which can cause a serious collision.

Not Checking Tire Pressure

Underinflated tires on a towed car create more rolling resistance and can cause overheating. Check your Subaru’s tire pressure before every trip. The recommended pressure is listed on the driver side door jamb.

After Towing Care and Maintenance

Once you arrive at your destination, take a few minutes to inspect your Subaru. Flat towing puts extra stress on components that normal driving does not.

Check your tire condition, brake pads, and transmission fluid. If you have been towing for a long distance, consider getting a free diagnostic on your car at an auto parts store. Many places offer complimentary code reads that can catch issues before they become expensive problems.

Also, inspect your tow bar and equipment for wear. Replace any damaged parts before your next trip. Regular maintenance of your towing gear keeps everyone safe.

Expert Tips for Safe Flat Towing

Here are some expert-level tips that most guides skip over. These small details can make a big difference in protecting your Subaru during flat towing.

• Keep towing trips under 50 miles when possible. Longer distances increase wear on the drivetrain even for approved models.
• Use a steering lock to prevent the front wheels from turning too far and damaging the steering linkage.
• Check your insurance policy to make sure your towed vehicle is covered in case of an accident.
• Practice towing in an empty parking lot before hitting the highway. Get a feel for how the towed car responds to braking and turning.
• Keep a log of your towing mileage so you can track wear and schedule maintenance accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I flat tow a Subaru Outback?

It depends on the drivetrain and transmission. FWD Subaru Outbacks with manual transmissions may be flat towable, but AWD models generally cannot be. Always check the owner’s manual for the specific year and trim. When in doubt, use a flatbed trailer to be safe.

What speed can I tow a Subaru when flat towing?

Most manufacturers recommend staying under 55 mph when flat towing. Higher speeds increase stress on the drivetrain and reduce your ability to react to road conditions. Keep your speed steady and avoid sudden braking whenever possible.

Do I need a supplemental braking system for flat towing?

Yes, in most states and provinces a supplemental braking system is required by law when towing a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. Even if it is not legally required in your area, it is a critical safety device that prevents collisions during emergency stops.

Can flat towing damage my Subaru’s transmission

Yes, flat towing can damage the transmission if it is not done correctly. AWD Subarus are especially vulnerable because all four wheels spin during towing. Even FWD models can suffer damage if the transmission is not in the correct towing position. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to prevent transmission damage.

How much does flat towing equipment cost?

A basic flat towing setup including a tow bar, safety chains, supplemental brake, and auxiliary lighting costs between $500 and $1,500. Higher quality equipment costs more but offers better safety and durability. Think of it as an investment in protecting your Subaru.

Is flat towing the same as dinghy towing

Yes, flat towing and dinghy towing are the same thing. Both refer to towing a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground behind another vehicle. The terms are used interchangeably in the RV and automotive communities.

Conclusion

So, can a Subaru be flat towed? The answer is yes, but with important caveats. Front-wheel drive Subarus with manual transmissions are the safest candidates for flat towing. AWD models need extra precautions or should be transported on a flatbed. The right equipment, proper technique, and careful attention to your owner’s manual make all the difference.

Flat towing a Subaru is a great way to bring your car on adventures without needing a trailer. But it requires knowledge, preparation, and respect for the limits of your vehicle. Take the time to understand your specific model’s requirements, invest in quality towing equipment, and always prioritize safety over convenience.

Your Subaru is a reliable and capable vehicle. With the right approach to flat towing, you can enjoy it both on the road and off the road. Happy travels and tow safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Can a Subaru Be Flat Towed??

Can a Subaru Be Flat Towed? is an important topic with many practical applications.