Subaru Forester 2012 Owner's Manual page 305

8-18
Driving tips
normal.
!
Before starting out on a trip
. Be sure to check regulations concern-
ing the maximum speed or driving restric-
tions for vehicles towing trailers. If you are
driving across several countries, check
each country's requirement before leaving
home, because regulations may vary.
. Check that the vehicle and vehicle-to-
hitch mounting are in good condition. If
any problems are apparent, do not tow the
trailer.
. Check that the vehicle sits horizontally
with the trailer attached. If the vehicle is
tipped sharply up at the front and tipped
down at the rear, check that the drawbar
weight and the weight on the rear axle do
not exceed the maximum permissible rear
axle weight.
. Check that the tire pressures are
correct.
. Check that the vehicle and trailer are
connected properly. Confirm that:
– The trailer tongue is connected
properly to the hitch ball.
– The trailer lights connector is con-
nected properly and trailer's brake
lights illuminate when the vehicle's
brake pedal is pressed, and that the
trailer's turn signal lights flash when
the vehicle's turn signal lever is oper-
ated.
– The safety chains are connected
properly.
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– All cargo in the trailer is secured
safely in position.
– The side mirrors provide a good
rearward field of view without a sig-
nificant blind spot.
!
Driving with a trailer
. You should allow for considerably more
stopping distance when towing a trailer.
Avoid sudden braking because it may
result in skidding or jackknifing and loss of
control.
. Avoid abrupt starts and sudden accel-
erations. If your vehicle has a manual
transmission, always start out in first gear
and release the clutch at moderate engine
revolution.
. Avoid uneven steering, sharp turns and
rapid lane changes.
. Slow down before turning. Make a
longer than normal turning radius because
the trailer wheels will be closer than the
vehicle wheels to the inside of the turn. In
a tight turn, the trailer could hit your
vehicle.
. Sufficient time should be taken to learn
the "feel" of the vehicle/trailer combination
before starting out on a trip. In an area free
of traffic, practice turning, stopping and
backing up.
. Crosswinds will adversely affect the
handling of your vehicle and trailer, caus-
ing sway. Crosswinds can be due to
weather conditions or the passing of large
trucks or buses. If swaying occurs, firmly
grip the steering wheel and slow down
immediately but gradually.
. When passing other vehicles, consid-
erable distance is required because of the
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added weight and length caused by
attaching the trailer to your vehicle.
1) Left turn
2) Right turn
. Backing up with a trailer is difficult and
takes practice. When backing up with a
trailer, never accelerate or steer rapidly.
When turning back, grip the bottom of the