Videos are provided as a guide only. Refer to manufacturer installation instructions and specs for complete information.
/
Curt/
Custom Fit/
Trailer Hitch Wiring/
4 Flat/
Powered ConverterItem # C56040
Retail:$39.42
Our Price: $27.95
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Quickly and easily install a 4-way trailer connector on your vehicle with this custom harness. Connector plugs directly into existing wiring. Powered converter reduces strain on wiring system and is made using SMT to ensure superior performance.
Features:
Specs:
Installation
This custom-fit T-connector plugs into your vehicle's wiring harness, which is located behind the interior trim panel in your rear cargo area. Once you've plugged in the converter, insert the included 10-amp fuse into the integrated fuse holder.
Once installation is complete, the 4-way connector will be stowed in an out-of-the-way location within your cargo area. Adhere the black converter box to the frame of the car using the double-sided tape provided. Secure any loose parts of the T-connector with the provided cable ties.
It is recommended that you use a small amount of grease on all electrical connections - the plug on your automobile and the 4-pole connector itself - to help prevent corrosion.
A tail light converter is built into this T-connector. This converter is a circuit-protected, battery-powered unit that bypasses the electrical routes that are used by a basic wiring harness. As a result, there is virtually no draw on your tail light circuits.
Because most trailers run on a two-wire system - wherein the brake and turn signals are carried on one wire - the separate brake and turn signals from your vehicle's three-wire system need to be combined so they are compatible with the wiring system of the trailer. This converter combines the brake and turn signal functions of your automobile so that they run on one wire to properly activate your trailer's tail lights. Note: This will not affect how the tail lights on your vehicle operate.
Curt builds each tail light converter using surface-mount technology (SMT). This method of construction involves soldering electronic components directly to the surface of a printed circuit board. SMT eliminates the need for leads, which are used in older through-hole technology. The result is a circuit board that is smaller yet provides more routing area and that offers superior performance, reliability and durability.
Circuit boards constructed using SMT have been shown to perform better under rough conditions with excessive vibration than those made using the through-hole method. And where would vibration be more likely to occur than in towing applications? Curt converters also produce less heat, leading to increased durability and longer life. In addition, lower levels of resistance ensure better performance, especially for parts that operate at higher frequencies.
Each Curt circuit board is made using high-quality components that are pieced together in the most technologically savvy fashion, leading to greater predictability and reliability in functioning.
Installation Details 
2019 - 2019 Subaru Ascent
2019 - 2019 Subaru Ascent
2018 - 2019 Subaru Crosstrek
2018 - 2019 Subaru Crosstrek
2009 - 2018 Subaru Forester
2009 - 2018 Subaru Forester
2013 - 2019 Subaru Outback Wagon
2013 - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
2013 - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
2010 - 2012 Subaru Outback Wagon excluding Sport
2010 - 2019 Subaru Outback Wagon excluding Sport
2016 - 2017 Subaru Crosstrek non-Hybrid models
2016 - 2017 Subaru Crosstrek non-Hybrid models
2014 - 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek non-Hybrid models
2014 - 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek non-Hybrid models
Video of Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
Videos are provided as a guide only. Refer to manufacturer installation instructions and specs for complete information.
Today, we're going to be reviewing part number C56040. This is the Curt T-connector vehicle wiring harness with a 4-pole flat trailer connector. This is designed for the Subaru Forester, Outback Wagon, and XV Crosstrek. To see if this fits your particular year and model, you can use the vehicle fit guide located right here on our website. This unit's going to provide your 4-way flat trailer connector at the back of your vehicle to power your trailer signal lights. It's compatible with 5-pole, 6-pole, and 7-pole adapters.
Those are sold separately. This unit's going to connect quickly and easily. You don't have to worry about cutting or splicing any wires. All you have to do is locate the connection point in your rear cargo area, plug in the connector, get everything else attached according to the included instructions, and you're going to be set to go. The black box right here is a taillight converter. This is included.
That way it's going to ensure that your vehicle's wiring matches that of your trailer's. The power module is going to connect directly to the battery through the wiring to avoid overloading the vehicle's electrical system. It's going to include the fuse holder as well as a 10 amp fuse. It's got a nice little dust cap on it. That's already pre-wired into the harness, so nothing to do there when it comes to the installation except installing the 10 amp fuse into the holder.
This is constructed using a surface mount technology for consistent, reliable performance. It's going to maximize trailer light yield and intensity, while producing minimal heat. It's also going to ensure superior operation in rough road conditions. Now, here on our 4-way flat connector, it's going to have a nice grip design, so you can easily manage that and get a secure hold on it. It's also to come with a nice little dust cap for the 4-way flat connector.
That way the connection points always stay protected. This product's made in the USA. When it comes to the amperage, for the stop and turn lights, that's going to be 3 amps per circuit. We're talking about the maximum amperage. For the taillights, that's going to be 6 amps per circuit. A few other things that it comes with that I haven't touched on. You're going to get a self-tapping screw. That's to make the ground connection. It's got the white wire with the ring terminal on there, so it makes it really easy. Double-sided tape goes on one side of the converter box. That way you can stick it to a nice clean surface and get that mounted. It's going to come with all the necessary instructions and owner-related items, that way you're knowledgeable about the system that you're purchasing, as well as some zip ties to help clean up your install. That's going to secure the wires up and out of the way. That way you can adjust those as necessary. You can hide them and tuck them out of the way, so they're not exposed. That's going to do it for our review of part number C56040. This is the Curt T-connector vehicle wiring harness with a 4-pole flat trailer connector. .
Average Customer Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars (581 Customer Reviews)
Quickly and easily install a 4-way trailer connector on your vehicle with this custom harness. Connector plugs directly into existing wiring. Powered converter reduces strain on wiring system and is made using SMT to ensure superior performance.by: Tom W09/24/2018
Harness was perfect for my 2019 Outback. The instructions that are available on etrailer and come with the harness which did a great job of giving me the general location of the connector. Took me a little while to fish it out as Subaru had it tucked up in the trim very well. Once I had it out and visible the remainder of the installation was a snap. I did vary from the instructions however and ran the harness through one of the rubber plugs at the bottom of the spare tire well. This allowed for a very clean, permanent installation using a bracket attached to the hitch as the picture shows. 568307
by: Jeffrey10/21/2018
Great plug in product. Works as stated and installation was a snap. Can’t go wrong with this one. Etrailer has been great during this and all previous transactions. 576343
by: Ryan10/21/2018
Was easy to install and I'm glad I listened to the video and didnt try to run the wiring to the lower panel. It was pretty simple to install. 576269
by: John09/21/2018
Just follow the installation video - a piece of cake to fit - the hardest part was pulling the 2 pushpins out when I didn't have a push pin remover tool! Didn't use the fancy plug-in tester - used a good old fashioned metering tool - all outputs working as expected. The longest part of the job was removing (and putting back) all the stuff that was in my trunk! 567508
by: Eric09/18/2018
Installed on 2018 Subaru Forester and it only took a few minutes. Again, the online video from eTrailer made it easy! Step by step instructions on removing the trim pieces and where to connect the ground wire. 566224
by: Walter09/30/2018
Good product and great seller. Prompt and excellent communications, too, when needed. 570286
by: Edgar10/16/2018
Very simple to install. 574785
by: Walker08/31/2018
The wiring connector was shipped promptly (I needed it ASAP) and was very easy to install. The installation video was easy to follow and completely accurate. The connector was half the price of similar products. Buy this product and save yourself time, money and hassle!! 560198
by: Brent09/17/2018
Harness installed in the 2013 Subaru Forester like it was factory. Plug & play done in 10 minutes. Great order cradle to grave for me. 565860
by: Mary09/25/2018
Very easy to install if you are a handy person 568866
by: Charles09/15/2018
Great product and well done instructional video to take you through the installation step by step 565566
by: Alicia08/09/2018
This is my second purchase from etrailer and as with the first, everything was super easy. I love the videos because it explains everything you need to do. From start to finish installing the wiring harness took about an hour with all the proper tools. There are 2 things I did different than the video. First, I mounted the box to the top of the inside of the plastic side panel, not to the metal frame. The double sided tape piece just wouldn't hold the box to the metal so I just stuck it on top of the inside plastic piece. When you remove the side panel, you'll understand what I'm saying. Second, I took out my spare tire and ran the wiring through the bottom of the spare tire well. There is a round rubber piece that pops out and I ran the wiring through there and wrapped it around the hitch. I didn't like the idea of the wires hanging out of my back lift gate and this way, they are out of the way. 551940
by: Steve W09/12/2017
Great product, service. Wiring installation in Subaru Outback much better than others and cheaper! 431771
Works great, just used it for towing motorcycle trailer. Thanks
Steve W - 09/13/2018by: Spencer09/23/2018
Easy to plug in, ground, and have ready to use. 568107
by: Darren09/11/2018
It was a challenge to locate the wiring harness in the Subaru Outback. Other than that installation was easy. 563906
by: Paul09/01/2018
Great product at a reasonable price. Everything I needed in one package for correct electrical hook up of a trailer to my Subaru Forester. Clear and concise instructions. Installation took about 10 minutes. Thank you. 560697
by: Blake09/07/2017
Same as the hitch. Shipping was fast and the fact that etrailer checks to see if it was delivered is great! 429895
Works like a champ! Great customer service from etrailer for them checking up a year later.
Blake - 09/07/2018by: Jacob09/05/2018
Product was delivered in a timely manner and works as described. Would do business again. 561695
by: Dean09/18/2018
Easy install. No issues. 566230
by: Charlie08/20/2018
Service from etrailer was great. The installation instructions were clear and accurate. The product went in as described, has performed well and stays tucked out of the way when I don't need it. Sounds like a winner to me! 555442
by: Neil A08/17/2018
The online videos, specific to my make and model, provided assurance that this was the right product and that the installation would be straightforward. The trailer wirng harness installed like the video and works great. 554584
by: Todd07/28/2018
I had a hitch installed last year on my 2017 Outback but didn't have the electrical done because we just haul bikes on a rack. But I needed to rent a trailer to move our son so I called over to ask and was quoted nearly $400 for electrical to be hooked up. After about 2 minutes online, I selected this harness. First, the video was excellent! Too many times the videos for self install products are terribly done and/or inaccurate. This was very well done and shows the entire process from beginning to end. I had no idea Subaru tucks a prewired connector behind a panel for exactly this reason, so after watching video I found it in a matter of minutes. Once the harness arrived, it was the easiest install you could imagine. 5 minutes and it was in. Everything you need is provided (you need your own drill though, lol). Instructions provided are also spot on. Harness appears to be of top quality, the packaging was professional and the order arrived exactly on time. I paid less than $30, had it installed in 5 minutes and it tested perfectly! 547017
by: Joe08/27/2018
Great product. The video made this an extremely easy installation. 558872
by: Mark F.08/10/2013
After installing a Modulite protector on my Mazda 3, I have to say this install was a BREEZE... Imagine an actual plug that you just plug in... WOW, what a mind blower! He He. The product easily installs under the drivers side, rear kick plate. On our 2013, the trailer wiring plug is right at the back of the car. You just have to pull off the hatch trim panel to get to it. Running the extra ground wire is no big deal. I drilled a hole, sanded off the paint around it. screwed down the round flat connector with the provided machine screw, and put some RTV on top of it to prevent rust. 94363
They both worked great, thank you for the follow up!
Mark F - 02/20/2015by: Charles03/10/2018
5 stars for the wiring harness which works just fine in my 2017 Subaru Outback Wagon. The install took some time though (more than it took to install a Curt hitch) because it was hard to locate and expose the car's wiring connector. Would give the install a 3 star for that. The harness instructions have pictures showing where to find that connector behind a panel covering the left rear wheel well. But you don't know exactly where behind that panel, and it's a tight squeeze getting your hand & forearm in there to find it. A small mirror helped. The harness is looped back on itself so you won't see the connector, look for the loop and maybe some blue tape which holds the loop. It's finding that loop that took the time. I routed the harness out through a rubber plug in the spare tire well. It's easy & much neater than running it under the tailgate when you're towing. Remove the rubber plug, slice it from the center to one edge so you can get the wiring harness into it. Figure out how long a wire you need outside the car, reinstall the plug, and seal around the wire with 100% silicone caulk. I connected the grounding wire to an existing bolt inside the car (just secure with a second nut) rather than drilling a new screw hole. 483150
by: jd11/21/2013
I installed this on a 2014 Subaru Forester. Does exactly what it is supposed to do and is easily installed. Be sure to remove the threshold trim piece before removing the rear 1/4 panel. I only took the 1/4 panel loose at the back end and the connector is right there behind the very back end of the panel. I left the vehicle's connector where it was and plugged the new connector into it without undoing anything. There is ample room right behind the 1/4 panel on the floor to stick the switching unit down. I used the bolt that holds the left rear tie-down bracket to the frame for the ground lead. The ground terminal will fit this bolt just fine. Sorry, but didn't think to take any photos. Remember to remove the threshold trim piece (the latch hardware piece sticks up through it at the middle). There are videos on their website (for other Subarus) that you can view for further info. The printed instructions included for the Forester doesn't mention the trim piece on the threshold, only says to remove the rear trim piece, so it is somewhat incomplete. 108038
Still going strong. Havent had any issues.
jd - 11/22/2014by: Robert08/20/2018
Product as described, great quality, awesome price point, and timely delivery. Thanks 555494
by: Karen11/18/2017
This is a follow up on my previous review (the one with the cat in the picture). This is an EXTREMELY simple installation in your 2016 Subaru Outback. Except for the part about finding the OEM plug under the side panel. The etrailer video is very accurate, especially the more recent one that's about 7 minutes long. The hard part is getting your hand up in there far enough to reach the plug. This depends on the size of your hand! In my case, it wasn't until I had help to hold the side panel out while I stuck my hand in there was I able to get it done. I also used a putty knife to pry up the little lip of the side panel over the black plastic trim that is located right beneath the tie-down ring. That gave us enough slack to pull the panel out. The side panel did not suffer any damage by this procedure. There are also insulation pieces in the way, so if you get discouraged keep pushing. It's up there. I actually pulled some of the little squares of insulation out just because (frustration while I was waiting for my help to arrive), but they are easy to stuff back in when you're done. You shouldn't have to do that. While you're hunting, keep in mind that it is really close to the tie-down ring, about 3-4 inches, and it is up high, about the same level as the top of the ring enclosure. Once you feel it, you will know it. There's nothing in there to get your fingers confused. Give it a good pull. There's not much slack, it will only come out far enough to plug in and push it back under. It was plug and play and my trailer lights worked perfectly with no problem. I've been a big fan of etrailer for at least 10 years, and once again they did not disappoint. 453108
by: DJ D12/02/2017
It was so much fun the first time I did it again! That's right, I'm a repeat off-ender. I traded my 20104 Outback that I had installed the 75673 hitch on back in July. Instead of removing the old hitch, I used it as a bargaining chip to increase my trade-in value on a new 2018 Outback. Since I had done the installation before, I knew what to do. Did the job go any faster? No, because there were a few things a tad different on the 2018 Outback. Foremost, the white connector for the wiring was more difficult to access. Second, there were differences in the way I could route the wire once connected. I also opted to remove the muffler instead of dropping the exhaust and suspending it. Believe it or not, that was just as time consuming, as the rubber supports were new, stiff, and difficult to manipulate. Bottom line, same quality product, excellent customer service, and value. I highly recommend etrailer for your needs and I will come back to them for future purchases. 456725
by: no name02/18/2013
The instructions for the electrical connector were missing the details for the XV Crosstrek. So after taking off most of the panels at the back of the car, I called the tech support number and he suggested to look under the kick plate at the very back of the car. After removing the back panel, the plug was easily found on the drivers side against the back wall of the car. Since this is a new model for 2013, I assume the instructions will be updated shortly. 66859
White connector is under hatch kick plate , Left of center of rear spare tire compartment. . It is tape to a plastic wire hold down. pop out hold down remove tape there you go. Hard to see and feel with finger tips. remember its at the back of vehicle hatch opening kick plate. NOT UP BY SEATS . GOOD LUCK 2013 crosstrek.
-- comment by: Carl - 05/18/2013Thank you for the additional info.
--
Patrick B - 5/20/2013Im still having a bit of trouble with the kick plate removal on my Crosstrek. Just to make sure were talking about the same piece... Im assuming the kick plate is the piece that runs across the bottom of the hatch opening that the hatch latch pokes through. It has two button fasteners which Ive removed but the panel still seems to be firmly attached. It appears to snap in but Im a little leery of pulling too hard and breaking it. Is there a trick to its removal?
-- comment by: John R - 07/31/2013There are little retention tabs on the underside of the panel that help to hold it in place. Once you remove the push rivets, gently and firmly pull up on the panel. Check out our install video on the 2013 Crosstrek to see it in action. There are a couple of video links below the main photo.
-- Patrick B - 8/5/2013Have wire harness for my new 2014 Subaru Forester. Can not find connector in vehicle. Comment below said it is located just left of center at the rear under the hatch kick plate Have no idea what the hatcdh kick plate is : I have used fingers, mirror and flashlight. HELP!! Thanks
-- comment by: Dick G - 08/01/2013The kick plate is right at the threshold, the long piece of plastic covering that goes along the cargo area where the latch is. Check out the link to the video on the Crosstrek to see removal of the kick plate.
-- Patrick B - 8/5/2013plastic wire hold down in his kick plate sounds like the metal cargo tie in, which has a plastic bezel, in the side panel of my 2014 Forester. I need to remove this in order to access the connector. Seems like Carlo was able to pop his out, which I have not been able to do. Mine has a metal tab poking through the back attachment bracket that could be a release, but so far I have not been able to make it move. Any suggestions.
-- comment by: Ed V - 10/07/2013Send me a photo of the tab if you can. I have a feeling it is just a spring tab that helps hold by tension and firmly pulling on it or slightly squeezing and pulling will get it to release. But to make sure, it would help to see pictures first in case it is something other that what I think it is.
-- Patrick B - 10/10/2013All is good with the trailer hitch and wiring harness. Thanks to the folks at etrailer we were able to quickly resolve the instructions for the Subaru XV wiring harness. Being a brand new model last year, it was not unexpected that there would be some growing pains with the installation instructions.I have recommended your company to several of my friends who are looking for trailer hitches.
-- comment by: dave - 02/18/2014I just installed this wiring kit on my 2014 Subaru Outback. The installation was very straightforward. The connector plug was hidden at the spot that the instructions suggested. I dont think I would have found it without the guide.I ordered the product at 10:00 pm on 317 and received it on 3/20. E-trailer provided emails to confirm the order and shipment.Thanks e-Trailer for great service!
-- comment by: Keith - 03/23/2014Thanks for the feedback, glad to know the harness installed with relative ease. Give us a shout if you ever have any questions.
-- Patrick B - 3/27/2014Just purchased new 2015 Subaru Forester Im installing hitch and wire harness by myself . Video instruction is absolutely great .Thank you for making my life easier
-- comment by: George Z - 09/01/2014by: Michael F.06/01/2017
My recent purchase of a trailer hitch and wiring assembly for my 2017 Subaru Outback arrived yesterday while I was underneath my vehicle prepping it for the install.I have dual exhausts so I removed the muffler hangers on either side to unbolt the mufflers from the exhaust pipe. Once that was done removing the heat shields was easy; drilling/enlarging the access hole for the hitch bolts was also not difficult except for dodging the shower of hot metal shavings.The hitch itself was a perfect fit and installed nicely with the aid of a jack. I tightened it to specs, cut the heat shields, reconnected the mufflers and hangers and viola -install complete. The wiring inside the vehicle was also done with ease-( note) to access the connection itself unbolt the driver side latch located on the trim panel to the left of the rear seat as this will allow you to get easier access to the connection that is bound by blue tape to the main wiring bundle. I chose to route the 4 pole wires underneath the foam shelf and into the spare tire well out to the hitch through the access hole using the existing rubber grommet and sealed both sides with Gorilla tape to ensure a weather proof seal. I checked all connections and was pleased with the ease of the install and its ability to allow me to now tow... Both products arrived quickly, installed as indicated and add a useful enhancement for the vehicle . I will be using erailer.com for future purchases and highly recommend them for a thorough, and enlightening web site and great products that perform and install as indicated - overall GREAT customer service and PRODUCTS!! 389654
by: John08/14/2018
Product arrived on time and worked as it should. Have ordered from etrailer before and will do so again. 553733
by: Michael K09/08/2017
Installing this powered trailer lighting adapter was pretty easy, the most difficult part being removal of the trim panels. If you haven't done this sort of thing before you'll find that an inexpensive set of trim removal tools will be a significant help. Subaru did the wiring job properly - contrary to what I expected you don't have to run a hot wire to the battery, a hot is already present at the connector - and the actual hookup is pretty easy. The assembler who secured the connector pigtail at the factory was perhaps overly enthusiastic with the electrical tape so a sharp knife and some careful dissection was required to avoid damaging any wires. While the instructions suggest drilling a hole and using the included self-tapping screw for the ground wire, on my 2017 Crosstrek that wasn't necessary as Subaru has thoughtfully provided a tapped hole for an M6 screw in the perfect location. I used an M6-100 hex head bolt with both a flat washer and a lock washer. 430177
by: Jayson08/01/2018
Plug & Play A+A+A+ I got this installed more or less in the dark as I receieved it after work. We've had no problem with it what-so-ever since. I'd like to see some sort of P&P w/brake controller option if that is even possible. Thanks etrailer!! 548591
Im sorry to say that the Outback isnt factory prewired for installing a brake controller. Youd need to hardwire in a controller, but we offer a kit, part # ETBC7
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
$70.38 that includes everything necessary to install a brake controller except for the controller itself. Ill link you to an install video and a help article that shows and explains the entire process. The installation isnt terribly difficult for folks with a little electrical know-how.
Mike L - 08/01/2018by: Jeff C06/28/2018
Here's some pics, rather than drill into the floor I used the larger eyelet and a grounding washer and used the strut nut. Went well ! 528134
by: Ken A.06/25/2014
No problems with wiring install, it happened as per instructions and pics. I installed on 2014 Subaru Forester. All worked well when tested. 137701
Please tell which instructions you refer to for a 2014 Forester. Have you found a video? Ive had a heck of a time looking for an easy way to move the rear panel to the side, like the instructions say. Subaru service wants $250 to remove the panel and plug the harness!! Why doesnt Subaru just make it easy and locate the harness connector in the rear hatch next to the spare tire?? Is that a tactic to give their service contractors some extra cash?
-- comment by: Raul M - 07/02/2014I used instructions that came with wiring harness. Guess need to read into instructions a bit, maybe several times. The panel pieces are held on with snap in holders... be careful and snap away from auto frame you should be able to reuse the snap pieces. The piece across door opening, the left side needs to come loose first then the big panel piece on left side. The plug will be where the instructions say and there should be a pic showing the plug. Hope this helps. PS, Pay attention to instruction 2C.
-- comment by: - 07/03/2014Hi Ken, thanks for your prompt and encouraging reply! Im hopeful again , but please send me a link or copy of your instructions. Were definitely looking at different instructions. Fig 2c in mine is the removal of the styrofoam tray, which I dont think is the crucial step you meant to point to. Do you need my email? Perhaps you can post those instructions here , for the benefit of others having the same problem. Thanks.
-- comment by: Raul M - 07/03/2014In the installation instructions for your 2014 Subaru Forrester, section 2C corresponds to photos G and H that show the rear trim panel. The removal of this trim panel is what Ken is referring to in his comment. The installation instructions are linked above on the right hand side of the product page.
-- Rachael H - 7/7/2014by: John05/30/2015
Wiring kit installed in minutes. Worked first time I tested it then after putting everything in place, it wouldn't work. It turned out to be a bad connection in the plug in my car, not this harness. The kit has everything needed for installation and includes a long cable on the flat 4 plug end. Very easy to store the flat 4 plug inside the car except when using it, just as described in the video. Thanks etrailer!!!! 198683
The installation was as easy as the on line video suggested. I was very pleasantly surprised it went as well as in the video! This clearly was developed with some thought. Both items were extremely easy to install and have been working fine since installation. Whenever I need anything for my vehicle or camper in the future, I most definitely will go immediately to your webpage.Thank you for quality products at a great price. I have to tell you, this follow-up email just made my day! Thanks for thinking of me............Just another really satisfied customer
John - 06/18/2016by: Zach E.05/15/2014
With the factory connector installation was a breeze! The hole and plug that the wires exit the vehicle to go to the hitch was on top of a heat shield that had sharp edges, so I used 3/8" plastic split-loom to protect the wiring all the way from the hole to the 4-pin connector. In order to keep the factory rubber plug, I used a utility knife to cut a slit from the center of the plug straight out to the edge of the plug, and then cut a tiny area out of the center of the plug. This let me slide the plug onto the wires and place it right back into its hole. 130770
by: Jeff08/02/2018
Super simple to install in my 2018 Subaru Forester. Took about 15 minutes with the plug and play design. Sure beats the old days of cutting and splicing wires. Highly recommended. 549140
by: david j.06/02/2015
the harness plugged right into the existing terminal. the wiring is plenty long. i followed others' suggestions and ran the wiring under the spare tire and thru the existing grommet in the spare tire well by cutting a slit in the center of the grommet. then covered the wires with a protective sheaf and then working the four-prong connector through. the only small problem i had was getting to the auto's connector as the wires had been folded, taped and tucked up inside the panel out of sight. i was glad for your instructions that assured me it was there. :) will use a rubber adhesive to seal the grommet. 199920
The hitch has worked very nicely. Fit my Subaru to a t . Like a few others, I installed the hitch from inside the cargo area, drilling enlarging a couple of holes that were already there. I would recommend you product to others.
david j - 06/17/2016by: DJ D07/26/2017
As others have posted, just can't say enough positive about my experience with etrailer. Received everything in one box in about a week after ordering online. While awaiting the shipment, I worked from the storage area inside the car and pre-drilled the access holes and located the wiring harness plug. The online video was spot-on for what to expect in mounting the hitch. I was able to do the install with the car on its wheels, no jacking or stands. For those without a floor jack, slip a piece of 2"x2" into the receiver and let it hang out the front about 6". You can then balance the hitch on your Subaru car jack, carefully slide it under the car, and slowly lift the hitch into place. Yes, a smooth, flat, level surface (garage floor) is needed for this. My only error in the install was forgetting about the tip of not tightening the hitch bolts completely until the heat shield was re-installed. As another commenter stated, the wiring harness' black box slips under the left rear corner trunk panel just fine. I zip tied the wiring harness to some holes at the top left lip of the spare tire well, ran the wire toward that wide, rubber body plug under the spare tire, cut a slit in the body plug and pushed the wiring harness through. I then used the silver metal duct tape (not gray duct/duck tape) to adhere the wire to the left rear wall of the spare well below where I had zip tied the harness and covered the harness with the metal tape until it exited through the rubber body plug (metal taped over the rubber body plug, too, to ensure water tightness). I didn't time my install, but if I'd done everything in sequence it probably would've taken the 2 to 2.5 hrs as previously posted. Thanks to all for your advice/tips and good luck to the new customers on your home install. 410762
by: Chad V07/22/2017
The wiring harness was almost as tough to install as the trailer hitch. You really have to tear open the entire rear of the car to get to the light wiring in order to attach this to. I already had most of the back opened up to install the hitch anyway. It's a good product. Install time was about 1.5 - 2 hours. 409073
Still working fine after a year.
Chad V - 07/23/2018by: Patti S.03/18/2014
Extremely happy with the transaction and eTrailer! I purchased the Hidden Hitch and Curt wiring harness for my new 2014 Subaru Outback. Hitch arrived earlier than anticipated and in great condition. It was boxed well. I haven't had a chance to install it yet but was extremely happy to see eTrailer has video instructions and helpful hints. I've already recommended this company to my friends and will come back if I need anything else. I'll post another review once I install the hitch - when we don't have 5 ft of snow! 121181
The Hidden Hitch works perfectly and Im completely happy with it.
Patti S - 03/19/2015by: Thomas08/17/2018
Plug and play, very simple. 554735
by: David07/29/2018
It appears to be exactly what I needed. Will find out when I install it. It was delivered quickly. The website was easy to navigate. 547535
by: Greg N.05/20/2018
First off, it works; I tested it with my boat. Second, it's so good that I no longer have to splice wires to get a good trailer light connection. Third, the instruction video by etrailer was a big help but there's one thing that I really need to elaborate on; finding and fetching the Subaru plug in which to hook up the unit. Subaru puts the plug deeply under a side cover that was nearly impossible to fetch. I strongly recommend that you look at the video and add one more thing; remove the forward hold down ring to expose the wire, tape, and plug. Neither my wife with skinny arms nor I could reach it as shown in the video. By removing the hold down ring, I was able to see the wire, slice the tape with a pocket knife, and push the plug toward the rear of the car to make it reachable. We struggled, got cuts, and cussed a bunch trying to find the plug and this made it easy. Also by removing the hold down ring I was able to pull the side covering out enough to get more arm into the gap. Otherwise I would NEVER have been able to make the connection. Otherwise, everything went just as shown on the video. 510712
Subaru is well-known for varying the location of the connector for the trailer wiring plug, especially on Outback models. On some vehicles, its even located on the passenger side so unfortunately it can take some detective work to locate it!
-- Mike L - 05/21/2018by: Anthony07/12/2018
I have a 2013 Subaru Forester. The harness was clean, good quality and installed in just a few minutes. Tested it out on my trailer and it worked perfectly. I ordered with the cheapest shipping on Sunday and received it on Wednesday. Install took less than 30 minutes and the video on their website was 100% accurate and easy to follow. Their communication is on-point as well. I got an order confirmation, shipping confirmation and an email George checking on delivery and satisfaction (and asking for review, which is how I ended up here). I wish all companies conducted themselves like etrailers. Thank you! 540835
by: John07/24/2018
My order was promptly received and exactly as advertised. Self installation video was extremely helpful and installation was relatively easy even for a non mechanical mind. 545360
by: Robert07/26/2018
Arrived on time. Instructions easy to follow and specific to my vehicle. It worked. Recommend product and seller. 546282
by: Paul B.Once07/28/2018
Once pigtail in car was reached, installation was simple as advertised. Works perfectly. 546970
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