Trailer Hitches; Trailer Safety Chains; Side Mirrors - Subaru Outback 2011 Owner's Manual

increase the load on the vehicle. Both the
maximum permissible weight (MPW) and
maximum permissible rear axle weight
(rear MPAW) must not be exceeded.
WARNING
Never exceed the maximum towing
weight. Exceeding the maximum
towing weight could cause personal
injury and/or vehicle damage.
! Diesel engine models
The stated trailer weights are only valid for
elevations up to 1,000 m (3,250 ft) above
sea level. At higher altitudes, the engine
loses power as the elevation increases,
resulting in a reduction of vehicle towing
performance. Under these conditions, the
"Maximum combined weight" should be
reduced by 10% per 1,000 m (3,250 ft) of
increased altitude. Please consider weight
before driving.
NOTE
The "Maximum combined weight" is
the sum of the "Maximum permissible
weight" (MPW) and the "Maximum
trailer weight".
& Trailer hitches
The use of a genuine SUBARU trailer
hitch is recommended. Genuine SUBARU
hitches are available from your SUBARU
dealer.
Regularly check that the hitch mounting
bolts and nuts are tight.
CAUTION
Do not modify the vehicle exhaust
system, brake system, or other
system when installing a hitch or
other trailer towing equipment.
& Trailer safety chains
In case the trailer hitch connector or hitch
ball should break or become discon-
nected, the trailer could get loose and
create a traffic safety hazard.
For safety, always connect the towing
vehicle and trailer with trailer safety
chains. Pass the chains crossing each
other under the trailer tongue to prevent
the trailer from dropping onto the ground
in case the trailer tongue should discon-
nect from the hitch ball. Allow sufficient
slack in the chains taking tight turn
situations into account; however, be care-
ful not to let them drag on the ground.
Driving tips
For more information about the safety
chain connection, refer to the instructions
for your hitch and trailer.
& Side mirrors
Many countries have regulations requiring
special outside mirrors when towing a
trailer. After hitching a trailer to your
vehicle, check that the standard side
mirrors provide a good rearward field of
view without significant blind spots. If
significant blind spots occur with the
vehicle's standard side mirrors, use addi-
tional outside mirrors that conform with
regulations.
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