Subaru Crosstrek 2020 Manual page 369

trailer.
. Towing a trailer in high tempera-
tures, or on long or steep grades,
may cause the vehicle to over-
heat. Refer to "Engine overheat-
ing" F9-12.
. When towing a trailer, steering,
stability, stopping distance and
braking performance will be dif-
ferent when compared to normal
operation. For safety's sake, you
should employ extra caution
when towing a trailer and you
should never drive at excessive
speeds. You should also keep the
following tips in mind:
. The braking power of the parking
brake may not be sufficient when
stronger braking power is
needed (e.g., when parking on a
steep slope while towing a trai-
ler).
If your vehicle is equipped with SI-DRIVE,
and when towing a trailer on an uphill
slope, do not drive in the Intelligent (I)
mode. It is recommend that you drive in the
Sport (S) mode.
However, it is possible to tow a trailer in
any mode of the SI-DRIVE on a downhill
slope.
! Before starting out on a trip
. Check the towing regulations for trailer
or caravan vehicles that vary by state/
region. Failure to comply with the proce-
dures set forth will not only compromise
your safety, but will also negate your
insurance coverage and/or may violate
the state road and traffic acts and regula-
tions.
. 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 rests horizon-
tally with the trailer attached. If the vehicle
is tipped sharply up at the front and down
at the rear, check the total trailer weight,
GVW, GAWs and tongue load again, then
confirm that the load and its distribution are
acceptable.
. Check that the tire rating and 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
Driving tips/Trailer towing
the vehicle's turn signal lever is oper-
ated.
– The safety chains are connected
properly.
– All cargo in the trailer is secured
safely in position.
– The outside mirrors provide a good
rearward field of view without a sig-
nificant blind spot.
. 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.
! 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
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