2017 Subaru Forester Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2017 Subaru Forester can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. This versatile compact SUV, known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and practical design, offers a modest but useful towing capability for light-duty tasks.

Quick Answer: 2017 Forester Towing Specs

Before you tow, it's critical to know your vehicle's specific weight ratings. Always confirm these numbers on the driver's side door jamb sticker, as they can vary based on trim and optional equipment.

• Maximum Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs
• Maximum Payload Capacity: 900 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 4,343 - 4,519 lbs
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): 5,843 - 6,019 lbs (Estimated)
• Curb Weight: 3,296 - 3,651 lbs
• Recommended Hitch: Class I or Class II (1.25" or 2" receiver)
• Maximum Tongue Weight: 150 - 200 lbs

Tow Ratings by Engine & Drivetrain

For the 2017 model year, Subaru kept the towing specifications consistent across all trims and engine choices. All Foresters feature standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

All ratings are compliant with the SAE J2807 standard, which provides a more rigorous and realistic measure of a vehicle's true towing capabilities.

Tow Package Contents

Unlike body-on-frame trucks and larger SUVs, the 2017 Forester does not offer a factory-installed "tow package." Instead, towing-related hardware is typically installed at the dealership or by an aftermarket specialist. The key components you will need are:

• Trailer Hitch Receiver: A Class I or Class II hitch is required to meet the Forester's 1,500-pound limit. This will include a 1.25-inch or 2-inch receiver opening.
• Trailer Wiring Harness: A 4-pin wiring connector is necessary to operate the trailer's basic lighting (brake lights, turn signals, and taillights).

Notably, certain features common on heavy-duty tow vehicles are not available or necessary for the Forester's weight class:

• Transmission Cooler: While the Forester's CVT automatic transmission has a standard cooler, an auxiliary heavy-duty transmission cooler is not offered as a factory option. For light loads up to 1,500 lbs, the factory system is sufficient. If you plan to tow frequently in hilly terrain or hot climates, monitoring transmission temperature is a wise precaution.
• Integrated Brake Controller: An electric trailer brake controller is not required for trailers without their own braking systems, which includes nearly all trailers under the 1,500-pound limit. If your specific trailer has electric brakes, a compatible aftermarket brake controller would need to be installed.
• Trailer Sway Control: The 2017 Forester comes standard with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), which functions as a form of trailer sway control. It can detect and mitigate sway by applying individual brakes and reducing engine power.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck Towing

The 2017 Subaru Forester is a unibody compact SUV and is not designed or rated for 5th-wheel or gooseneck towing. This type of towing is reserved for heavy-duty pickup trucks.

Weight Distribution & WDH Requirements

A weight-distribution hitch (WDH) is generally not required or recommended for loads under 5,000 pounds. For the Forester's 1,500-pound maximum, a WDH is unnecessary. Proper trailer loading is the most important factor for maintaining stability. Ensure that 10-15% of the total trailer weight is on the tongue (the part that connects to the hitch ball), which for the Forester means a tongue weight between 150 and 200 pounds.

Real-World Towing Tips for the 2017 Forester

Towing a small utility trailer, a jet ski, a small aluminum fishing boat, or a pop-up camper is well within the Forester's capabilities. For a safe and stress-free experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Stay Within Limits: Remember that payload capacity includes all passengers, cargo, and the trailer's tongue weight. With a 900-pound payload limit, a 200-pound tongue weight leaves you with 700 pounds for people and gear inside the vehicle.
• Increase Following Distance: Your braking distance will increase significantly with a trailer attached. Double or triple your normal following distance.
• Drive Proactively: Anticipate turns, lane changes, and stops well in advance. The added length and weight of the trailer will make the Forester less nimble.
• Manage Speed: The 2.5L engine and the 2.0L turbo have adequate power for this weight class, but acceleration will be slower. Avoid sudden maneuvers and maintain a steady, moderate speed, especially on highways.

Common Towing-Related Issues

While generally reliable, the primary concern when towing with any unibody vehicle like the Forester is potential strain on the powertrain, particularly the transmission.

• Transmission Strain: The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is efficient for daily driving but can be stressed by the sustained load of towing, especially up steep grades. Ensure the CVT fluid is serviced according to Subaru's maintenance schedule.
• Rear Suspension Sag: With a heavy tongue weight, you may notice the rear of the vehicle sagging. This can affect handling and headlight aim. Ensure the trailer is loaded correctly to minimize this effect.

By understanding and respecting its limitations, you can safely use your 2017 Subaru Forester for a variety of light-duty towing needs.

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