Quote:
Originally Posted by docj
FWIW Remco says that the 2016 Forester with a manual transmission is towable. And the 2016 Forester owner's manual simply says that there are severe speed and distance restrictions if you flat-tow a CVT model but I don't see any language restricting flat-towing of a manual transmission model.
|
You're right about both points. Speed/distance restrictions with CVT and no specific language prohibiting flat towing with a manual transmission.
However, all the references regarding towing that I see in the 2016 Forester Owner's Manual available on the subaru.com website are contained in the "In Case of Emergency" section (9) of the Owner's Manual. The CVT restrictions are a max speed of 20mph and a max distance of 31 miles.
As I understand the concern in towing the newer Subaru's (I think it was in '16, not positive about the year) is that all reference to towing was taken out of the "normal" operation sections and including specific instructions about how to do it (transmission in neutral, ignition in first detent, air in recirc mode, etc.) and the only reference to towing was moved to emergency operations. That leaves the manufacturer to ask, "What was your emergency?"
Of course, as I understand it (I'm not a lawyer) the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act does give some protection.
I've just always felt better about towing a car that the owner's manual gives clear, specific approval for towing four down.
When something gets torn up and Subaru says you pay, I'm not sure how helpful Remco is going to be. I don't know, maybe Remco will be very helpful. Maybe not.
Take care,
Stu