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  1. Trailer Hitch
  2. CURT
  3. Class II
  4. 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
  5. 3500 lbs GTW
  6. Concealed Cross Tube
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"
CURT

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

Part Number: C12038
In Stock
$190.90
Retail:$328.95
You Save: $138.05
Trailer Hitch

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Perfect for light-duty towing, this custom, vehicle trailer hitch receiver features fully welded, gloss powder coated steel construction. Drawbar sold separately. Great Prices for the best trailer hitch from CURT. Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4" part number C12038 can be ordered online at etrailer.com or call 1-800-940-8924 for expert service.
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  • Reviews (188)
  • Q & A (0)
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CURT Trailer Hitch - C12038

Highlights

  • Custom Fit Design: Engineered specifically for seamless integration with your vehicle.
  • Superior Rust Resistance: Gloss black powder coat over a protective base coat prevents rust.
  • High Strength Capacity: Class II rating supports up to 3,500 lbs GTW and 350 lbs TW.
  • DIY-Friendly Installation: Bolt-on setup, uses existing hardware, no welding necessary.
  • Precision Welding: Robotic welding ensures maximum strength and an optimized fit.
  • Concealed Cross Tube: Maintains vehicle aesthetics with a low profile look.

Features to know about

Stay Hidden on the Road: Concealed Cross Tube

If you're all about aesthetics and don't want your hitch making a statement, the Concealed Cross Tube design has your back. It offers a sleek, low-profile appearance, ensuring your vehicle maintains its smooth, factory look while still being equipped for towing.

Effortless Installation, Maximum Durability: Bolt-On Design with Powder Coated Finish

Say goodbye to complicated installations and hello to more time on the road. The bolt-on installation means no welding is required, making for a hassle-free setup. Plus, the gloss black powder-coated steel provides not only a robust construction but superior rust resistance, ensuring long-lasting durability through all weather conditions.

Power Through with Confidence: Class II Rating

When towing light-duty trailers, class II makes all the difference. This hitch supports a 3,500 lbs maximum trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight, allowing you to tow small utility trailers or carry bike racks and cargo carriers with ease, giving you the flexibility to meet all your travel needs.

Crafted for Compatibility: Custom Fit Design

No more guesswork! This hitch is designed with your vehicle in mind, ensuring a perfect fit right out of the box. Tailored for precision, it promises seamless integration with the Subaru Forester, maximizing strength and minimizing installation complications with its custom fit.

Built to Sustain: Robust, Fully Welded Design

Constructed with a sturdy, square-tube design, this hitch stands strong. It's fully welded, ensuring maximum strength and optimal safety while on the move. Feel secure knowing your trailer is held firmly with a hitch made to endure the rigors of towing.

Easy-On-The-Eyes and Functional: High Gloss Powder Coat Finish

The hitch isn't just built to perform; it's designed to blend seamlessly with your vehicle's aesthetics. The high gloss powder coat finish not only looks great but works overtime to protect against chips and corrosion, keeping your hitch looking sharp on any journey.

Specs

Receiver Specifications

  • Receiver opening: 1-1/4" x 1-1/4"

Rating

  • Class: II
  • Maximum gross trailer weight: 3,500 lbs
  • Maximum tongue weight: 350 lbs

Warranty

  • Type: Limited lifetime warranty

12038 Curt Class 2 Trailer Hitch Receiver

Installation Details C12038 Installation instructions

This Product Fits The Following Vehicles




Customer Satisfaction Score:

Ratings & Reviews

4.7

188 reviews
Perfect for light-duty towing, this custom, vehicle trailer hitch receiver features fully welded, gloss powder coated steel construction. Drawbar sold separately.

by:

Great job to everyone!



by:

it fit good thank you



by:

Just what we needed and quickly delivered.



by:

Fit great and straight forward install about one hour. Pulling my boat to lake now, got fish to catch.



by:

As ordered and scary fast delivery. Installation video was very helpful.



by:

Product was as advertised. And the customer service was even better! Great job to everyone!



by:

Great hitch for the Forester! High quality and well hidden. Installed in about an hour with air tool.



by:

The hitch was easy to install. It would have been easier if I viewed the videos before installing it, rather then afterwards!



by:

Good hitch. Easy install! Make sure you use lots of WD40 on the bolts to free them up!



by:

The whole process of reviewing products, ordering and shipping was staight forward and simple. the instalation videos were informative and encouraging.



by:

Great price. Better than the 2,500 install at a camping store for the same same product. Thanks etrailer.



by:

Made well but I havent used it yet. Did not take long to install with the proper tools. You definitely need two sets of hands.



by:

Products as advertised, customer service outstanding. The online installation videos were very helpful.



by:

Easy to install, I highly recommend air tools to loosen the existing bolts which attach hitch to the frame.



by:

Pretty easy...best to have a friend, as it's a bit awkward to hold the hitch up while trying to align and drive the bolts. Very satisfied.



by:

Great product for a great price. The videos and instructions for installation made this a breeze, great company to order from. Quick shipping and good communication, will recommend to friends.



by:

Crazy fast shipping! Installation was very straight forward- just like the video on the website, and the quality of the hitch is excellent. Using etrailer.com saved me lots of time and money!



by:

I'm very pleased ! Starting with the easy online ordering process... to a prompt purchase confirmation...to an unexpectedly fast delivery ! The end results was a product that was not only appealing to the eye...included all the hardware as stated.. was fabricated with quality materials and workmanship... and overall, made in USA !



by:
Subaru Forester

TOUGH INSTALL...THIS IS AN EXCELLENT HITCH FOR THE FORESTER, BUT UNLESS YOU HAVE AN AIR WRENCH, 2-3 GUYS TO HELP, AND A TORCH TO UN-FREEZE BOLTS, I WOULD NOT, I REPEAT NOT TRY THIS ONE BY YOURSELF. THIS PROJECT TOOK ME 3 1/2 HOURS WITH BASIC TOOLS, NOT THE SUGGESTED 50 MINUTES AS ON THE VIDEO. i AM PRETTY SKILLED AT DO-IT-YOURSELF PROJECTS, BUT IF I HAVE ANYTHING TO SAY ABOUT THIS ONE, IT WOULD BE TO DEFINITELY TAKE IT TO A DEDICATED "WRENCH-MONKEY", AND SAVE YOURSELF A WHOLE LOT OF HEADACHE, AND HEARTACHE.



by:

Very fast shipping...easy installation....the only thing I would add is to include the 12MM bolts in-case any were damaged during removal of the old brackets.



by:

Etrailer shipped out my order the same day & I received it in 2 days! Installed easily & the videos are a huge help!
Only 1 issue. The pin/clip don't fit on the hitch, but that's an easy fix.



by:
Subaru Forester

Great Hitch for the ForesterXTThis hitch will work out just fine for my Subaru Forester XT.It has a nice fit you will have too look very hard to see the unit once installed.I have used the hitch more than 7 times since purchase. I hope It will work with my HKS exhaust with the design I see no problem.



by:

Outstanding and very easy to install. I didn't have any problems at all. I think I could have been confused and taken longer without the video but using the video it was fast and smooth. The hitch is of high quality and just what we needed.



by:

Trailer hitch fit very well. I was very happy to watch the instructional video for installation tips. I'm not much of a mechanic and seeing the job performed really boosted my confidance!

Thanks very much, I'll be returnig to etrailer the next time I need cargo supplies!



by:
Subaru Forester

Nice hitch for the Forester. Straightforward install. Videos were very helpful. Start to finish about 2 hours w/out air wrench. Used plenty of penetrating oil and waited 5 min. With an 18" breaker bar the 17mm bolts backed right out. You will need another person to most easily complete the install.


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See what our Experts say about this CURT Trailer Hitch

  • Distance From Hitch Pin Hole to Receiver for Curt Hitch on 2007 Subaru Forester
    The distance from the hitch pin hole to the face of the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C12038 is the standard 2 inches. This will be a perfect hitch for your 2007 Subaru Forester for a Thule bike rack like the Thule Camber # TH9058. I have added a link below for a video install for you to check out of the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C12038.
    view full answer...
  • 3-Bike Rack Recommendation for 2007 Subaru Forester
    Most of the racks you referenced do indeed share similar design traits, features and pricing. However, not all of these carriers include locks and there are a few other key distinctions that separate the Thule Raceway 3 from the rest. The OutWay 3, part # TH56BV, includes locks for the rack itself and for your 3 loaded bikes. It also has the feature of using 2 high-strength steel cables, rather than 6 straps; this offers a measure of additional security against would-be thieves. This carrier's...
    view full answer...
  • Hitch Adapter Availability for a Curt Hitch # C12038 to Allow 2 inch Bike Rack to be Carried
    We offer adapters like the part # HTAD that will allow you to carry a bike rack designed for a 2 inch hitch with a hitch with a 1-1/4 inch opening, but you should note that when you use an adapter like this the capacity of the hitch will be cut in half. The # Curt Hitch part # C12038 that you referenced has a tongue weight capacity of 350 lbs and has been confirmed to fit your vehicle. So as long as the weight of your bikes and rack are less than 175 lbs this adapter would work for you. A...
    view full answer...
  • Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2006 Subaru Forester LL Bean
    The Curt Trailer Hitch for the 2006 Subaru Forester, item # 12038, would make a great choice for transporting bikes with your vehicle. We have a video installation of the hitch on a 2001 Forester for your to review (see link). There are many two bike racks that will work in the Class II hitch. I would recommend the Swagman XC2 Wheel Mount Bike Rack, item # S64650, which is very easy to load and unload, holds the bikes very securely and does not allow them to contact each other or the rear...
    view full answer...
  • Hitch Recommendation for a 2001 Subaru Forester
    For your 2001 Subaru Forester there are only hitches with 1-1/4 inch openings available for you. 2 inch hitches are usually reserved for larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs. I attached a help article on hitch sizes for you to check out as well. The most popular hitch we offer with other owners of 2001 Subaru Foresters is the Curt Hitch part # C12038. This is a 1-1/4 inch hitch but it should work just fine for you.
    view full answer...
  • Comparing Curt and Draw-Tite Class II Trailer Hitch Receivers For a 2006 Subaru Forester
    For the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C12038 which fits your 2006 Subaru Forester, Curt no longer requires you to use the Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap # 18050 with use on hitch mounted accessories. You will be able to use your class II bike rack with up to 350lbs of total weight on the Curt # C12038 or 300lbs on the Draw-Tite # 36311. These weight capacities are given from the manufacturer and I can not say exactly why one will be rated for a higher capacity than the other.
    view full answer...
  • 3-Bike Hitch Rack Recommendation for 2007 Subaru Forester with 1-1/4-Inch Class II Hitch
    The 3-bike hitch rack I recommend for use in your Forester's Class II hitch is the lightweight aluminum Thule Helium Pro # TH9043PRO which weighs only 20-lbs. The Helium pro fits both 1-1/4-inch Class II hitches and 2-inch hitches. Locks are included to secure both the rack and all three of your daughter's bikes. The rack tilts for vehicle access simply by pulling a spring-loaded pin and the rack arms conveniently fold down when it is not in use. It is suitable for use on all types of...
    view full answer...
  • Trailer Hitch and Wiring Recommendations/Comparisons for a 2006 Subaru Forester
    For the 2006 Subaru Forester there are only Class II hitches with 1-1/4 inch receivers available. The Draw-Tite hitch # 36311 and Curt hitch # C12038 are both rated for 3,500 pounds gross trailer weight. The Curt hitch is rated for 350 pounds tongue weight and the Draw-Tite is rated for 300 pounds tongue weight. These capacities are greater than what the vehicle is capable of though. According to the owner's manual if the trailer has brakes then the vehicle can tow 2,400 pounds gross...
    view full answer...
  • Does Curt Trailer Hitch 12038 Come with Lock Washers for Installation on a 2003 Subaru Forester
    Curt Trailer hitch # C12038 does not include lock washers. So it wasn't that you didn't get them it is that the hitch doesn't come with them. Using Loctite would be a great idea. Blue Loctite is should be all you need, # LT37614. Because the red Loctite is pretty much permanent. So should the hitch need to be removed for any reason, it would take pneumatic tools if you used red Loctite. Also, make sure the bolts are torqued to the specifications in the instructions. If they are too loose...
    view full answer...
  • Trailer Hitch Recommendation for a 2005 Subaru Forester
    The difference between the Curt Hitches part # C120383 and part # C12038 is that the # C120383 comes with a ball mount that you would use for towing and the other hitch does not. Either hitch would fit your 2005 Subaru Forester. I attached an install video for you to check out as well. Then you will need to add a properly sized ball and the wiring. Those items are not included with the hitch. For a 1-7/8 inch ball use # 19256 and for a 2 inch ball use # 19258. For trailer wiring you...
    view full answer...
  • Is Using a Hitch Adapter for a Spare Tire Carrier Safe?
    You will be alright using a Hitch Adapter # 80303 as long as you do not exceed the weight ratings. This adapter will reduce the tongue weight by 50%, which on the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C12038 is 350lbs. So as long as your spare tire and carrier weights do not exceed 175lbs you are within the manufacturers specifications. If your spare tire carrier is hollow you can use the Anti-Rattle Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock # 63232 to secure it and limit the wobble that would normally occur....
    view full answer...
  • What is Included with Curt Trailer Hitch 12038 for a 2008 Subaru Forester
    For Curt trailer hitch # C12038 you will get the trailer hitch itself and the hardware needed to install it. The other parts you need depend on what you're going to use the htich for. If you're going to be carrying a cargo carrier or bike rack you also need a support strap # 18050 per Curt's warranty. If you plan on towing a trailer you need to add ball mount # C45503 along with the properly sized ball and the wiring. Those items are not included with the hitch. For a 1-7/8 inch ball...
    view full answer...
  • What Size are the Bolts Used to Install Curt Trailer Hitch on a 2002 Subaru Forester
    The bolts used on your 2002 Subaru Forester to install Curt trailer hitch # C12038 are 12mm bolts. They are likely coarse threaded. You will need to use grade 5 bolts or better. They should be available at a local hardware store. Pinch bolts are usually used to hold two round things together with some sort of clamp bracket. A good example of this is a bike handlebars where you would loosen it to make vertical and alignment adjustments. I am not sure why the bolts are not long enough....
    view full answer...
  • Recommendation For Trailer Hitch For 2003 Subaru Forester
    Both the Curt Class II Hitch, Item # C12038, and the Draw-Tite Class II Hitch, Item # 36311, are confirmed fits for your 2003 Subaru Forester. The Curt Hitch requires stabilizing straps to be used when using hitch for non-trailer loads like a bike rack. When stabilizing straps are not used, your warranty from Curt is voided. Draw-Tite hitches do not require stabilizing straps to be used on non-trailer loads. The Curt and Draw-Tite Hitches have the same maximum gross trailer weight of...
    view full answer...
  • Where is Curt Trailer hitch 12038 for 2002 Subaru Forester Made
    The Curt hitch, part # 12038, for your Subaru Forester is made in the U.S.A.
    view full answer...
  • Class II Hitch and Cargo Carrier Recommendation for a 2004 Subaru Forester
    The biggest difference between the Class I hitches and the Class II ones are the capacities. Both are a 1-1/4 inch hitch so it wouldn't make a huge difference either way. For your 2004 Subaru Forester we only carry Class II hitches like the Curt Hitch # C12038. All that means is that the hitch has more capacity than your vehicle. But since a towing setup is only as strong as it's weakest component you are still limited to the Class I capacities of your vehicle. Some 1-1/4 inch accessories...
    view full answer...
  • Will a Yakima Hangover On a Subaru Forester 2008?
    I have a great solution. Unfortunately, the Yakima HangOver 4 Bike Rack for Mountain Bikes #Y02484 will only fit on an installed 2-inch hitch. After extensive research, I could not find a 2-inch hitch receiver for a 2008 Subaru Forester. However, I recommend the Malone Runway Max Bike Rack for 4-Bikes # MAL72VR to fit on your vehicle's 1-1/4 hitch. There are no vertical mount available that is compatible with 1-1/4 receivers. The Malone Runway Max is great because it is a more economic...
    view full answer...
  • Which Vehicles Will Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch 75560 Fit
    Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" Item # 75560 fits the following vehicles: 2008 - 2009 Subaru Legacy 2005 - 2007 Subaru Outback Sedan excluding Sport 2005 - 2009 Subaru Outback Wagon excluding Sport 2005 - 2007 Subaru Legacy Sedan 2005 - 2007 Subaru Legacy Wagon The hitch is not a fit for a 2005 Subaru Forester. It will take Draw-Tite hitch # 36311 or Curt hitch # C12038.
    view full answer...
  • Will the Hollywood Racks Trail Rider Fit on a 2004 Subaru Forester
    Yes, the Hollywood Racks Trail Rider, part # HR200Z, will work with a 2004 Subaru Forester if you have a hitch. I've included a link to a review video that has a segment on attaching it to the hitch. If you don't have a hitch already, then I recommend getting the Curt Trailer Hitch, part # C12038. It's relatively easy to install and will be able to accommodate your Hollywood Rack. I've included a link to an installation video for a 2003 Subaru Forester for you to look at.
    view full answer...
  • What is the Height and Width of Cross Tube on Curt Trailer Hitch C12038 for a 2005 Subaru Forester
    I went out to the warehouse to measure Curt trailer hitch # C12038 for your 2005 Subaru Forester. The cross tube is 2-1/2 inches front to back and 1-1/2 inches tall. I have included a picture illustrating these measurements for you. I have also linked a video showing an example installation.
    view full answer...
    Image 1 for
  • Can a Bike Rack for 2-Inch Hitch Be Adapted for a 1-1/4-Inch Hitch
    You are correct that all of the trailer hitches we offer for the 2006 Subaru Forester are 1-1/4-inch Class II types. These cannot directly accept a hitch-mount bike rack intended for 2-inch hitches, although many bike racks are designed to be compatible with both sizes. Without knowing what rack you have I cannot say whether this is the case for you. If your bike rack is the type that fits only a 2-inch hitch, then the ideal solution is to choose a new rack that will fit your Forester's...
    view full answer...
  • Heavy Duty E-Bike Rack For 2008 Subaru Forester
    I recommend the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider Part # HLY74FR. It provides compatibility with e-bikes up to 80 pounds each, as well as bikes that have 5" tire widths. With the added weight of the two bikes and the carrier itself, you will need to check your owners manual if you Forester is equipped with the factory hitch and not exceed the tongue rating. If you are needing to upgrade from the factory hitch, I suggest the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver Part # C12038. It provides a 350 pound...
    view full answer...
  • Trailer Hitch Fit for 1997 Subaru Forester
    Subaru began manufacturing the Forester in 1997 as a 1998 model. Curt doesn't list the # C11497 Class I hitch as a fit for your Subaru Forester, nor have they (or we) tested the fit, so I couldn't speak to the fit. I'd recommend using a confirmed fit for your Forester, like the Curt Class II hitch, part # C12038. If you'll be towing with the hitch you'll also need a trailer wiring harness like # 118461, a ball mount like # C45503, a hitch pin like # PC2 and a trailer ball like # 19256...
    view full answer...
  • Hitch Recommendation for 2008 Forester to Carry a RockyMounts MonoRail
    The RockyMounts MonoRail 2 bike rack # RKY10003 will fit the Draw Tite hitch part # 36311 that is a confirmed fit for your 2008 Subaru Forester. It also fits the Curt # C12038 which fits too, but since the Draw Tite doesn't require a stabilizer strap like the Curt does it's the way to go.
    view full answer...


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