2009 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 284

In case of emergency 9-13 Rear towing hook: CAUTION If a trailer hitch is installed, it is not possible to install the rear towing hook. To install the rear towing hook, the standard bumper beam must be installed on the vehicle at a SUBARU dealer. Consult a SUBARU dealer for details. Use a hitch ball and follow the instructions below when towing. . The weight of the object being towed must be less than the weight of the vehicle. . Drive the vehicle 20 mph (32 km/h) or less speed. . Do not drive more than 31 miles (50 km). 1. Take the towing hook out of the tool bucket and take the screwdriver out of the tool bag. Take the wheel nut wrench out of the cargo area. 4. Tighten the towing hook securely using a wheel nut wrench. After towing, remove the towing hook from the vehicle and stow it in the tool bucket. Fit the towing hook cover on the bumper. 2. Pry off the cover on the rear bumper using a screwdriver, and you will find a threaded hole for attaching the towing hook. WARNING . Do not use the towing hook except when towing your vehicle. . Be sure to remove the towing hook after towing. Leaving the towing hook mounted on the vehicle could interfere with proper operation of the SRS airbag system in a frontal collision. 3. Screw the towing hook into the thread hole until its thread can no longer be seen. - CONTINUED -