Towing a pop up camper with a 2017 Subaru outback for challenger gas automatic transmission I think CVT

Asked by GuruY36VY Apr 06, 2018 at 07:11 PM about the 2017 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD

Question type: General

I have a newer 2017 Subaru outback lesson 10,000 miles.
Looking at a pop up camper that I believe weighs 2600
pounds dry. My Subaru is the four-cylinder thing is the
small four-cylinder with automatic I believe CVT
transmission. Wondering if this would just kill the car be a
death trap on the road. The pop-up does not have trailer
brakes. Thank you for your input. I don’t want to use it for
huge trips. Maybe maximum of within two hours of my
home. It’s relatively flat around here. And probably would
not get towed more than once a month. Thoughts please
all are welcome thank you

4 Answers

First of all CVT's don't need the added stress of hauling a load. 2,600 pounds is at the maximum limit of weight Subaru recommends but if you read the fine print in your owners manual the weight inside the car also counts so factor that in. You will need trailer brakes for safety.

2 people found this helpful.
47,960

Over a ton is just too unsafe without trailer brakes! Likewise the 2.5i, even with the 2nd gen CVT, is just going to be REALLY pokey uphill or passing at speed. But you could do it part- time, as needed. But OB's rear brakes have been skimpy, and the fronts barely rated for the combined load, so you may overheat and warp the rotors on downhill runs. Be gentle...these are not monstrous German brake parts.

2 people found this helpful.
86,005

In California, any trailer exceeding 1,500 pounds is required by law to have electric brakes on the trailer... coordinated with the car... I would definitely check your local state statute.....Even though the car is rated for 2,700 pounds.... pulling 96 percent of the capability and you probably have some additional gear placing you right over the top.....Not having the proper brakes...if you get into an accident and it's discovered that you just flagrantly violated the rules...the consequences might be very severe......I wouldn't do it..... plus, in California.... you can't tow any trailer faster than 55 MPH...... http://drivinglaws.aaa.com/tag/trailer-brakes/

3 people found this helpful.
10

Your total weight includes the trailer, gear in the trailer, fresh and grey water, passengers in the TV and gear in the TV. You are way too close to Max towing capacity. Not a good idea.

1 people found this helpful.

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