Towing Capacity of 2011 Subaru Outback and Parts Needed to Tow Trailer  

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Expert Reply:

I took a look at the online owner's manual for your 2012 Subaru Outback and found that as long as you have the 3.6L engine, the vehicle is capable of towing a 3,000 pound trailer if it is equipped with brakes. For a trailer without brakes, the Outback has a towing capacity of 1,000 pounds. I do recommend checking your copy of the owner's manual as well, as it's very possible that you have a slightly different model that might feature different limits.

If you don't yet have a trailer hitch installed on the vehicle, I recommend the Draw-Tite Class III # 75673 (as long as you don't have the Sport model). This hitch is confirmed to fit the vehicle and will provide you with a 2 inch receiver opening to use with a ball mount for towing. I have attached an installation video on your 2012 Outback that you can use for reference.

Then for a trailer wiring harness, I recommend the Tekonsha T-One # 118467 (again, as long as you don't have the Sport model). This will install by connecting directly to built-in ports behind the driver side trim panel. It will provide you with a 4-Way connector to connect with and power a trailer's basic signal lights.

If your trailer is equipped with electric brakes, you will then need to convert the 4-Way to a fully-functional 7-Way by using the Universal Wiring Kit # ETBC7. This kit includes all the parts necessary for this conversion, along with the wiring and circuit breakers needed to install a trailer brake controller. For a brake controller, I highly recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 # 90885.

In order to tow a trailer, you will also need a ball mount and hitch ball. I have attached a great article that explains how to choose the best one for your setup, along with a link that will take you to our available selection. I have also attached a couple articles on trailer towing that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R

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