Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek
Updated 02/08/2017 | Published 02/07/2017
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Hi. Can I flat tow a 2016 or 2017 Subaru Crosstrek with a manual transmission? Thanks for you help!
asked by: Dave
Expert Reply:
The owner's manuals I'm able to find online for a 2016 and 2017 Subaru Crosstrek don't mention flat towing at all. Your best bet is to check with Subaru to find out if it can be flat towed, and what steps are necessary to do so. From what I have found both model years can be flat towed since you have a manual transmission but I still recommend verifying with Subaru. Also, both models use the same parts to be flat towed so what I recommend works with either the 2016 or the 2017.
For a base plate kit I suggest the Roadmaster # 52922-1A. This kit has removable arms and mounting points for the electrical connector. The kit pairs right up with the Sterling tow bar # RM-576. The Sterling also includes safety cables so that's one less thing to worry about.
To power the Subaru's lights you can use the diode kit # RM-15267. This splices into the car's wiring system and will provide a connector at the front. It includes the electrical cord to stretch between the Subaru and RV as well. In addition, a Brake Light Relay # RM-88400 is needed to keep the Crosstrek's brake signal from overriding the RV's turn signals.
For a supplemental braking system I recommend the Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251. The install is more involved than portable systems but after that's over with you just flip a switch to get it ready.
Finally, you'll likely need a high-low adapter. I've attached an article to help you determine the correct rise or drop your setup requires.
In addition to my recommendations I've linked some articles on flat towing that you may find helpful.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Tow Bar Base Plate
- Removable Draw Bars
- Twist Lock Attachment
- Partially Hidden
- Roadmaster
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: evenbrake
- Shop: Base Plate for Tow Bar
- Search Results: rm88400
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Brake System
- Shop: Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Q&A: What is a Complete Flat Tow Set-Up for My 2013 Subaru Crosstrek or XV Crosstrek?
- Shop: Replacement Quick Disconnect Crossbar Assembly for Roadmaster Tow Bars
- Shop: Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Wiring
- Video: An In-Depth Look at the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit
- Video: Breaking Down the Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit
- Video: An In-Depth Look at the Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles
- Video: Detailed Breakdown of the Replacement Roadmaster Tow Bar Quick Disconnect Brackets
- Video: Mount: Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit on a 2017 Subaru Crosstrek
- Video: All About the Replacement Roadmaster Tow Bar Quick Disconnect Brackets
- Video: How to Install: Replacement Roadmaster Tow Bar Quick Disconnect Brackets on your 2014 Ford Focus
- Shop: Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles
- Shop: Roadmaster Brake-Lite Relay Kit for Towed Vehicles
- Shop: Roadmaster Bulb and Socket Tail Light Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - Incandescent
- Shop: Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Which is Better Roadmaster or Blue Ox Tow Bar
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between the Blue Ox Patriot BRK2019 & BRK2022?
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Search Results: base plate for tow bar
on Tow Bar Base Plate
