Front Tie-Down Anchor Point Solution for 16 Solo Canoe on a 2019 Subaru Outback Wagon

Published 11/09/2018

Question:

There are no front tiedown points on my 2019 Subaru Outback, either outside of the vehicle or under the hood. This makes tying down the bow of my canoe a problem when cartopping. I have a frame hitch so its easy enough to tie down the stern. The dealer said to install the tow bolt in the front bumper and use that, but it is not located along the vehicles centerline. Not a great solution, especially since I often travel over 1,000 miles to my destinations and dont want the wind at interstate speeds pulling off-center. Do you have other suggestions? With my old 09 Escape, I could use frame holes under the hood to attach ratchet straps to, then close the hood on the ropes. That worked just fine, but no such holes exist in the Subaru. To me, its a design flaw, especially for a vehicle that advertises itself as something that can carry bikes, boats, etc.

asked by: Jeff K

Expert Reply:

I have the perfect solution for you! The Malone T-Style Hood Loops # MPG308 were designed for vehicles like your 2019 Subaru Outback Wagon where it is difficult to find tie-down points. If you check out the attached photos you can see how another customer utilized some loops like these to secure their canoe to the roof of their 2017 Subaru Outback Wagon.

A review video has been linked for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jon G