2008 Subaru Outback Owner's Manual - Page 334

9-14 In case of emergency Towing WARNING Never tow AWD vehicles (both AT and MT) with the front wheels raised off the ground while the rear wheels are on the ground, or with the rear wheels raised off the ground while the front wheels are on the ground. This will cause the vehicle to spin away due to the operation or deterioration of the center differential. & Towing and tie-down hooks The towing hooks should be used only in an emergency (e.g., to free a stuck vehicle from mud, sand or snow). CAUTION . Use only the specified towing hooks and tie-down hooks. Never use suspension parts or other parts of the body for towing or tie-down purposes. . Never use the tie-down hook closest to the muffler under the vehicle for towing purposes. . To prevent deformation to the bumper and the towing hook, do not apply excessive lateral load to the towing hooks. Front towing hook (OUTBACK models): 1. Take out the towing hook, screwdriver and wheel nut wrench from the on board tool bucket. 2. Wrap a flat-head screwdriver in a vinyl tape or cloth, insert it into the gap between the cover and the front bumper, and use it to lever the cover open. 3. Pull the entire front fog light cover toward you. If towing is necessary, it is best done by your SUBARU dealer or a commercial towing service. Observe the following procedures for safety.