2002 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 282

n Tires Make sure that all the tires on your vehicle are properly inflated to the pressure under towing conditions as shown on the tire placard located on the left center pillar of your vehicle. Trailer tire condition, size, load rating and proper inflation pressure should be in accordance with the trailer manufacturer's specifications. B Trailer towing tips D Never exceed 45 mph (72 km/h) when towing a trailer in hilly country on hot days. D When towing a trailer, steering, stability, stopping distance and braking performance will be different from normal operation. For safety's sake, you should employ extra caution when towing a trailer and you should never speed. You should also keep the following tips in mind: n Before starting out on a trip D Check that the vehicle and vehicle-to-hitch mounting are in good condition. If any problems are apparent, do not tow the trailer. D Check that the vehicle sits horizontally 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. D Check that the tire pressures are correct. D 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 connected 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 operated. - the safety chains are connected properly. - all cargo in the trailer is secured safety in position. - the side mirrors provide a good rearward field of view without a significant blind spot. 8-30 CAUTION