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Fully welded vehicle trailer hitch is strong and durable. Draw-Tite's Tested Tough guarantee ensures that this hitch exceeds industry standards. The combination of an e-coat base and a powder coat finish provides excellent rust protection.
Features:
Specs:
Draw-Tite's Tested Tough program provides testing standards far superior to those outlined by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), the go-to source for engineering professionals.
Each Draw-Tite trailer hitch receiver undergoes extensive fatigue testing and static testing with the ball mount that is either supplied or recommended for use with that particular hitch, thus ensuring results that are applicable to real life use. Fatigue testing is also conducted on hitches rated for use with weight-distribution systems.
In addition, Draw-Tite performs static testing on a simulated automobile, as opposed to the rigid fixture used for SAE testing, resulting in a more true-to-life scenario.
At etrailer.com we're committed to the products we sell, and to our customers. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff are available via both phone and email to address your questions and concerns for the lifetime of your hitch. The technicians at etrailer perform hitch installations on a daily basis, making them a valuable resource for do-it-yourselfers. The one-on-one, personal service you'll receive comes straight from an expert in the towing and automotive field. We've installed it, we've wired it and we've towed with it, so whatever your question, we can answer it.
Tech Tip
No drilling through vehicle frame required for installation , Requires temporary removal of bumper/fascia during installation , Fascia trimming required
California residents: click here
Installing this hitch was pretty easy and it's a good design. I was a bit intimidated by taking off the bumper fascia, but I had no issues. I live in the high desert so there was a good deal of dust and dirt under the fascia, in the bumper, etc. so I added some cleaning chores. Kudos to Subaru for the design of the back of the car, which makes for a simple and very solid installation. Follow the torque instructions, it's tighter than you might think.
Everything about the experience was great. If you watch the install video and read the instructions you will have no issues! I rented the torque wrench from a local auto parts store. The hardest part is putting the trim back on.
I did this by myself within 2 hours.
LOVE IT! This hitch is perfect and has never given me a bit of trouble. It holds my mobility scooter and is fit perfectly for my 2018 Subaru Outback. I highly recommend it because it is strong and doesn't even show. Highly recommended.
Brooke M.
6/12/2025
Glad to hear that, Lora! It's nice having something sturdy that you don't worry about :) Happy to hear it's been a good fit :)
This was much easier than I thought to install. The installation difficulty rating made me think it would be difficult to install but it wasn't for someone somewhat mechanically inclined used to working with vehicles. To cut my bumper I used a cordless sawzall with a fine-tooth blade normally used for metal. It worked great for the plastic on the bumper and gave clean cuts. I did bust some of the plastic push-pins while removing the bumper, but those things always break and I have spares in my garage for that reason, but not the hitch's fault. Also worth noting, looks very good and clean when finished.
Very nice hitch. Installation went pretty smooth on my '18 Outback. I know this is rated a 10/10 on the difficulty scale but I would think it's easier than mounting the hitches that are bolted beneath the car, which requires drilling, yet are rated 6/10. No drilling here which is why I chose this hitch, along with the clean appearance (no bar visible below the bumper). I've done very little car work in my time so this is definitely doable if you're reasonably handy. Some recommendations. I had to spend $50 on tools I didn't have, the most expensive being a torque wrench. I also picked up a 10" ratchet extension, a handy little mini ratchet for unscrewing the screws for the mud flaps (guy uses one in the video), and a bag of spare retaining clips for Subarus. The latter is nice to have because you might break some clips as you get them out, like I did. The bag of aftermarket clips of multiple sizes only cost a few bucks online. Also, be ready for a surprise or two. Mine came immediately: For some reason the first four retaining clips I had to remove (for the tail-light covers) were not the kind that could be unscrewed or popped out. They were permanently set (see photo), so I had to wedge a screwdriver in there behind the cover to get them loose. This took a while to do because I was worried about breaking the tail-lights. I don't know why those clips were used for my car. If you happen to have them, then getting them loose will require some finesse. I also recommend keeping the clips organized for re-installing them. As I took them off I labeled them and put them in numbered bags, and wrote the corresponding numbers next to the holes on the fascia. Kudos to eTrailer for having such great installation videos. They really do making it much easier. Also, the shipping was crazy fast. Got the hitch in two days. Nicely done, etrailer. Will be buying from you again.
Buy far the best hitch for the Subaru Outback. Installation is a breeze with minimal tools. Remove tail lights, then the bumper cover, remove 8 nuts from the factory rebar and remove it, place the hitch on the rebar studs, then reinstall the factory rebar and then the cover and tail lights and you are done. This company sells great products with fast shipping and great customer support!!!!!
Victoria H.
1/10/2025
Way to go Charles! That's how you get it done.
The fit is good, and I like the reinforced receiver mount. Installation was straightforward.
Peter
3/23/2025
The majority of my use has been a receiver-mount bike carrier RockyMounts, 2-bike. The receiver has worked well for this purpose.
Simple, easy to install, and looks better than the Factory option. TEST fit your rear bumper to make sure your 4 1/2 x 4 cut lets your fender fittings line up. Ground clearance is optimal with this hitch which was the primary reason I choose this product and I could not be happier with this product. Well done.
I am pleased with this hitch. It does what its supposed to. The mounting of it was easy even after a few beers. I use a hitch basket with two 55qt coolers strapped down to it. It doesnt move, its very sturdy. The hitch doesnt stick out so its very shin/knee friendly. Pretty awesome. No compaints.
Nathan
12/3/2023
Still going strong, no issues.
It’s great! Was able to have it installed for minimal cost, had to buy an adaptor so the bike rack fit but otherwise perfect
I was very satisfied with the trailer hitch. The installation instructions and especially the e-trailer YouTube video made the installation relatively simple.
2018 outback. The bumper just barely snapped in over the hitch. And i could have done better cutting out my bumper. Otherwise, this is exactly what i was seeking.
As always I am very happy with the prompt service and shipping as well the quality of the product. My only disappointment is, I chose this Draw Tite hitch because it had the extra hole for the J-Pin (anti rattle device). Mine did not come with it. That was a let down
The hitch has been great. I use it for my bike carrier.
We've had this for a year and it has been great. Installation required me to find the right size sockets, and also a longer extension for my socket, but otherwise was smooth when following the YouTube video instructions. I felt very accomplished when the install was completed.
Brooke M.
6/6/2025
I'll bet it did feel great to get it done DIY style! Way to go :)
Very easy to install,just had boat trailer out yesterday fishing!
I ordered my hitch and got it just 4 days later. I backed the car into the barn out of the sun at 9:45 and had the hitch installed and the car back on the road by 11:30 by myself. The hardest part was getting the clug clips out because of the dust and mud. Putting the bumper cover back on was time consuming, too, but I wanted to make sure everything fit correctly. I even located and replaced a missing plug to make sure all holes were filled. Installing the Tekonsha wiring harness went as per instructions, except I had to remove one cargo hook to allow the fender cover to lift enough to gain access to the vehicle harness. I ran the trailer plug under the interior padding and under the door gasket and will secure it to the hitch receiver with tie wraps. Looks good on my 2013 Outback 3.6R imited (don't mind the dust from the barn floor).
Bob
8/29/2019
We dont tow often, but this hitch allows us the flexibility to tow a small trailer and UTV when we need to go outside the county. It is an excellent investment and does not hang out in the way.
I purchased the Draw-Tite Max Frame Hitch Receiver for my 2017 Subaru Outback. The people at Etrailer were great to deal with and helped me to make my choice in purchasing the correct hitch receiver for my Outback. I wanted a hitch that was like a custom fit and the Draw-Tite Max is the one. The instructions were easy to understand and it took about an hour to install. The service from Etrailer was great and they were always there to help me with my questions. I also purchased the Hopkins Plug in simple wiring harness which was very easy to install.
Larry S.
7/30/2019
Looks great and works great . One great hitch.
It’s a bit of a chore to install, seeing as you have to remove the entire bumper fascia. But let’s be real, there’s not really an easy hitch to install, just easier. The unit bolted in really easily and looks great!
Got this hitch early this year, had it attached by my mechanic cause I figured he had more tools than I do. I just recently got a bike rack for it and all I can say it that it’s rock solid! Through rough gravel roads I’d peek in the rear view mirror and the bikes are solid back there. (A testament also to the 1Up rack. What I also love about it is that since it’s attached to the inner steel bumper, it’s practically invisible except for the receiver. A great product at much less cost than a hitch from the dealer.
Mike
6/9/2021
Same as the day it was installed! Ill be sure to get this hitch mount again when its time to trade in my vehicle!
Absolutely a plug and play installation. Literally the hardest part was bringing myself to cutting the fascia. The guidance on YouTube for the other hitches was thoroughly enough to give me enough confidence to take on the project myself, instead of paying someone else $150.00 to do it for me. I did try to save the attachment on the fascia near the hitch mount, I am hoping this will give a more secure mount using all of the push pins.
I wasn’t even close to feeling confident, but now a close friend want to do his, and I am certain the two of us can get his done in 45 minutes or less.
Paul
8/19/2019
Doing just great! Would choose this hitch receiver and etrailer again.
Ease of installation was fantastic! Instructions were clear. Harness installation was as simple as promised. The vehicle did not reject the relay box. All signals worked as promised. I like that the end result is as near a factory appearing as possible as it protrudes from the facia.
Sharon M.
8/8/2024
Excelent. everything is as promised.
So I received this hitch in just a few days after placing the order, I opened the box to look it over as heavier items like this commonly get dinged during shipping. I needed to repaint a couple small spots, 10 minute fix. I ordered this hitch for my daughters 2016 outback to keep the vehicle looking sharp as the only thing visible after installation is the receiver. I prepped my tools per the instructions, opened an installation video on my phone and took it step by step, it was surprisingly easy and every one was please with the results!!
Paul
8/13/2019
Great!
Went with the drawtite. Best value in my opinion..the eco hitch would have been my choice(I just think it looks a bit cooler and sits more at a factory height tow hitch..about an inch difference from the draw tite and eco hitch) but the drawtite looks super clean once installed!
It’s not a hard install and requires basic minimus tools. The video is real helpful. Tow infinity and beyond!
Cesar
6/25/2022
Sturdy! Always glad I made the purchase. Thing looks brand new still
I have recently ordered, received and installed a trailer hitch and roof rack for my 2018 Subaru Outback. Shipping was in good time, order was correct and installation was easy. Great instructions and how-to videos online were very informative. Etrailer will be first on my list when I need something for my cars.
Lance
7/19/2019
No problems at all with my hitch.
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Gwendolyn Y.
4/25/2025
Happy to hear that the hitch installed smoothly for you, William. What are you going to be using the hitch with?