The retractable cargo cover has an overlooked lift-up position and a dedicated underfloor storage location when removed.
Check that your vehicle has it.
Applies to 2020-2025 Outbacks equipped with the lifting/retractable cargo-area cover. Equipment can be standard, optional or retailer-installed depending on year and trim.
- Retail trim / version
- Premium and higher trims when fitted, Base when fitted
- Required equipment / service
- the lifting/retractable cargo-area cover, the Subaru accessory cargo-area cover
Does the documented scope match your car?
This check combines the verified year, any source-supported powertrain scope, source-named trim/package and required equipment. It does not read a VIN or factory build record.
Published availability and qualifications
Applies to 2020-2025 Outbacks equipped with the lifting/retractable cargo-area cover. Equipment can be standard, optional or retailer-installed depending on year and trim.
Know what kind of control to look for.
This original category diagram is an orientation aid, not a picture of your exact trim. Use the written labels and your vehicle manual to identify the real control.
Step by step.
- 01
To extend the cover, hold its center handle, tilt it up and pull it rearward.
- 02
Insert both end stoppers into the side catches.
- 03
For quick cargo access, pull down on the center handle to release the stoppers from the catches.
- 04
Allow the stoppers to slide upward in the grooves so the cover remains raised instead of fully rewinding.
- 05
When maximum cargo room is needed, fully retract and detach the cover according to the housing instructions.
- 06
Lift the cargo floor and place the detached cover in its underfloor storage position.
Important limits
- The cover conceals light items; it is not a shelf and must not support cargo, people or pets.
- Secure the detached cover in its proper underfloor location before driving so it cannot become a projectile.
- Do not trap the cover, its stoppers or cargo when closing the rear gate.
Quick checks.
- ✓If the cover will not lift, pull down on the center handle first so both stoppers release evenly from the catches.
- ✓If it retracts unevenly, remove twisting tension and guide both sides squarely; do not force a jammed roller.
- ✓If the underfloor compartment will not close, verify the cover is seated in the molded storage position and no tools or cargo are underneath it.
What happened on your vehicle?
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Subaru 2023 Outback Getting Started Guide - Cargo Cover
Relevant section or page: Page 54. We use the written official source to determine the steps and applicability shown above.
View 2 supporting references
Reviewed with a visible trail.
Scope and steps were checked by Car Cheat Codes Editorial Review. A guide is narrowed or corrected when the source does not support a broader claim.
- Published
- Last modified
- Source checked
Guide change history
- Initial verified publication.