At a Glance
- Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, hauling bulky items, or simply need extra space for everyday errands, knowing how to fold down the back seat is an essential skill.
- Locate the release levers or buttons on the underside of the rear seat cushions.
- Ensure that any cargo is securely fastened and positioned in a way that won’t obstruct the driver’s view or impede the deployment of airbags.
Are you looking to expand the cargo capacity of your Subaru Legacy? Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, hauling bulky items, or simply need extra space for everyday errands, knowing how to fold down the back seat is an essential skill. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can transform your Legacy into a spacious cargo hauler in no time.
Understanding the Mechanism: Leveraging Your Legacy’s Design
The Subaru Legacy features a clever and user-friendly system for folding down the rear seats. This design allows for maximum flexibility, enabling you to create a flat cargo floor or adjust the space according to your needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Folding Down Your Legacy’s Back Seat
1. Release the Seatbacks: Locate the release levers on the sides of the rear seatbacks. These levers are usually found near the top of the seatbacks. Pull the levers to release the seatbacks from their latches.
2. Fold the Seatbacks Down: With the seatbacks released, gently push them forward and down. They should fold flat against the rear seat cushions.
3. Secure the Seatbacks: Some Legacy models may have straps or clips to secure the folded seatbacks in place. If present, utilize these mechanisms to ensure the seats remain flat and stable.
Folding the Rear Seat Cushions: Expanding Your Cargo Area
For even more cargo space, you can fold down the rear seat cushions as well. This process is slightly more involved but provides significant additional room.
1. Remove the Headrests: Begin by removing the headrests from the rear seats. This will provide easier access to the release mechanisms.
2. Release the Seat Cushions: Locate the release levers or buttons on the underside of the rear seat cushions. These levers are often located near the front of the cushions. Pull or press the levers to release the cushions from their latches.
3. Fold the Seat Cushions Forward: With the cushions released, gently lift them up and fold them forward. The cushions should fold flat against the front seats, creating a completely flat cargo area.
Tips for Maximizing Cargo Space: Beyond the Basics
- Remove the Rear Seat Headrests: Even when not folding the seats, removing the headrests can create extra vertical space for taller items.
- Utilize the Cargo Cover: Your Legacy likely comes with a cargo cover that can be used to conceal items and improve security. When folding down the seats, you can remove the cargo cover for maximum space utilization.
- Utilize Storage Bins and Organizers: Keep your cargo area organized and efficient by using storage bins and organizers to separate and secure items.
Addressing Common Concerns: Troubleshooting Folding Issues
- Seatbacks Won’t Release: If the seatbacks are stuck, double-check that the release levers are fully engaged. You might need to apply a bit of force to disengage the latches.
- Seatbacks Won’t Fold Flat: Ensure that the seatbacks are fully released and that there are no obstructions preventing them from folding down.
- Seat Cushions Won’t Fold: If the seat cushions are stuck, make sure the release levers or buttons are properly engaged. You may need to apply a bit of pressure to release the latches.
The Final Touch: Securing Your Cargo
Once you have folded down the seats and loaded your cargo, ensure it is properly secured. Use straps, nets, or other cargo securing mechanisms to prevent items from shifting during travel.
Beyond the Fold: Additional Considerations for Your Legacy
1. Passenger Safety: When folding down the seats, always prioritize passenger safety. Ensure that any cargo is securely fastened and positioned in a way that won’t obstruct the driver’s view or impede the deployment of airbags.
2. Weight Distribution: Be mindful of the weight distribution when loading cargo. Avoid overloading any particular area and ensure the weight is balanced throughout the vehicle.
3. Maintenance: Regularly check the mechanisms for folding the seats to ensure they are functioning properly. Clean any dirt or debris that may accumulate around the release levers and latches.
The End of the Road: A Journey of Cargo Space Mastery
Congratulations! You are now equipped with the knowledge and skills to maximize the cargo space in your Subaru Legacy. By mastering the art of folding down the rear seats, you can expand your vehicle’s capabilities and tackle any hauling challenge with confidence.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I fold down the back seat in my Legacy with someone sitting in the front passenger seat?
A: Yes, you can fold down the back seat with someone sitting in the front passenger seat. However, it’s important to ensure that the folding process doesn‘t obstruct the passenger’s movement or access to the door.
Q: Is there a specific weight limit for cargo when the back seats are folded down?
A: The maximum cargo weight limit for your Subaru Legacy will be outlined in your owner’s manual. You should never exceed this limit, as it could compromise the vehicle’s safety and handling.
Q: Can I fold down the back seats in my Legacy if I have child seats installed?
A: It’s generally not recommended to fold down the back seats with child seats installed. The child seats may not be compatible with the folded seat configuration, and the folding process could compromise the safety of the child seats. Always consult the child seat manufacturer‘s instructions for proper installation and usage.
Q: How do I know if my Legacy has a split-folding rear seat?
A: Most Subaru Legacy models offer a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, allowing you to fold down either side of the seat individually. Check your owner’s manual or look for a release lever or button on each side of the rear seatback to confirm.