Is this right For you? Product Expert Kathleen M says:
Yes, if you:
Like that the matte finish blends in with your bumper and offers the added bonus of better rust protection than other brands
Worry about damaging the fascia or clips that secure it, therefore prefer an install that doesn't make you pull it off of your Subaru
No, if you:
Haul a camper or trailer that sways a lot and would need a weight distribution hitch
Aren't comfortable using a file or drill to open up an access hole to get some of the hardware in place
Might get annoyed by seeing the cross tube hanging below the bumper
This fully welded trailer hitch receiver bolts onto your vehicle's frame with no welding required. Matte black, powder coated steel is durable and corrosion resistant and creates a rugged look. Lowest Prices for the best trailer hitch from etrailer. etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" part number e83ZR can be ordered online at etrailer.com or call 1-800-940-8924 for expert service.
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Reviews (32)
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Why etrailer?
etrailer Trailer Hitch
- e83ZR
Class III
2 Inch Hitch
3500 lbs GTW
etrailer
Visible Cross Tube
525 lbs TW
Custom Fit Hitch
This fully welded trailer hitch receiver bolts onto your vehicle's frame with no welding required. Matte black, powder coated steel is durable and corrosion resistant and creates a rugged look.
Features:
Custom-fit trailer hitch lets you tow a trailer or carry a bike rack or cargo carrier with your vehicle
Precision, robotic welding maximizes strength and improves fit
Bolt-on installation - no welding required
Complete hardware kit and installation instructions included
Lifetime technical support from the experts at etrailer
Matte black powder coat finish over protective base coat offers superior rust resistance
Stylish, round-tube design
Ball mount, pin and clip sold separately
Made in the USA
Mounting hardware may be imported
Specs:
Receiver opening: 2" x 2"
Rating: Class III
Maximum gross trailer weight: 3,500 lbs
Maximum tongue weight: 525 lbs
Not rated for use with weight distribution systems
Limited lifetime warranty
Rugged, Matte Black Finish
The sturdy steel construction is protected with a matte black finish for added durability. This unique powder coating gives etrailer hitches a carbide-like appearance and a rugged look that sets them apart from traditional glossy hitches. In addition to being rust and corrosion resistant, the tough matte coating hides dirt, scuffs, and dings better than a glossy finish.
etrailer Technical Support
At etrailer 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.
13409 etrailer Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver - 2" - Matte Black Carbide
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" - e83ZR
Average Customer Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars (32 Customer Reviews)
This fully welded trailer hitch receiver bolts onto your vehicle's frame with no welding required. Matte black, powder coated steel is durable and corrosion resistant and creates a rugged look.
- e83ZR
by: Mark07/04/2022
The hitch arrived in a severely damaged box but the hitch itself was undamaged despite obviously bouncing around the box during shipping. Even the paint was fine. Much better packaging is needed to prevent damage to the product and, more importantly, to the shipping personnel or customers who need to handle the box. The hitch could easily fall through the box and injure someone during shipping or customer handling. The box was much too large for the hitch and the hitch was unsecured in the box.
The hitch fit my vehicle perfectly and the fish wires made installation of the bolting easy.
Regarding the instructions provided, here are some enhancement recommendations:
1) Rather than drop the muffler off of the mounts it is better to unbolt the muffler at the flange and remove the rear mount, letting the muffler hang on the front mount. This doesn’t stress the up-stream exhaust joints when using the provided instructions and it gets the muffler further out of the way without taking it off the car.
2) There is no way to install the front bolt in the driver side undercarriage molding with the hitch installed. The instructions should note that the front bolt will not be reused (similar to the guidance regarding the heat shield).
3) It would be helpful to recommend a step drill be used to enlarge the middle mounting hole and add a caution that drilling will produce metal chips. Safety glasses and debris precautions should be taken.
1319722
I just finished installing this hitch on to my 2022 Forester, and I couldn't be more pleased with it. The installation was just like the video that is posted to your site, and the wire feeding tools made it a breeze!
I did not have to modify the plastic underbody panel on my 2022. It fit back under the car, and I added a self tapping screw to hold it in place. Thanks for making it so easy!
1290423
The Hitch fits perfectly! We followed the installation video without issue. Works with 2022 Forester Wilderness. I would recommend using step bit to widen hole.
1291876
Installation worked just as shown in the videos. All holes lined up and fit was perfect. Took me a while to file out the hole for insertion of the bolts and clips, as I did not have a step bit up to 1.125". But I made it work with a file. Actually looked to me like it might be possible to access the frame opening by enlarging a hole in the top side, under the rear floor mat and foam insulation. Multiple holes there are taped over. Might be worth a look to see if they access the frame cavity. I drilled and tapped a hole in the hitch frame (prior to assembly) to reattach the back screw on the driver side underbody panel. Video said that wasn't necessary, but I thought, why not? Photo below. This was my second hitch and wiring from etrailer - very happy with both.
1190506
Well built and easy to install. If you watch the video you can’t go wrong. However I did not find it necessary to trim the plastic driver side underbody piece. It fit fine without cutting it. I figure if I ever remove the hitch I can reinstall the the plastic piece as it came from the factory.
1322495
- e83ZR
by: John07/11/2022
2021 Subaru Forester
I have bought multiple products through E-trailer, and have had no problems every thing fit and worked as they should.
1324699
- e83ZR
by: Jane03/08/2022
2019 Subaru Forester
I will be getting my new lease vehicle shortly. Three years ago I ordered a hitch for my 2019 Subaru Forester. I called etrailer to see if the hitch would fit the 2022 model year. Unfortunately I needed to order a new hitch for the new car. The good part is that I was sent the exact part number to order when I was ready. This is the second excellent experience I’ve had with etrailer!! Painless on many levels!!
1270415
- e83ZR
by: Forest04/01/2022
2022 Subaru Forester
Received trailer hitch receiver after ordering in only 2 days. I was able to get a friend with a car lift to assist me just 2 days later. We watched the installation instruction video and then easily installed the hitch receiver in about 1&1/4 hours. It is strong, looks good and I am sure will provide the service that I need. ( I don't know how to add pictures)
1280534
- e83ZR
by: Ed02/23/2022
2022 Subaru Forester
Second receiver from etrailer I’ve installed on a vehicle. The fit and finish is excellent, the instructions are good, the instructions are complete. My new forester has a few different trim pieces to remove but the process was straightforward. Use a floor jack or a couple buddies to line up the receiver. Took me about 2 hours.
1265859
- e83ZR
by: Dan12/17/2021
I really like the finish on this hitch. It’s a heavy hitch as it should be for Class III rating with a 2” receiver. However, I don’t particularly like the welds. They look sloppy, or as I call them, bubble gum welds. There’s no nice beads of weld run at the joints. But I’m only using it to haul a couple mountain bikes, so I’m sure it will do the job fine. Otherwise, a decent hitch.
1226385
- e83ZR
by: Adam08/07/2021
5 stars! Great price and quality! Just had this installed on my 2021 Subaru Forester. I opted to have it installed at a local dealer who charged me $[xxx]. Took the guy about 30 minutes to install.
1117107
Great Product. I was told by professional installer that the hitch was very "user friendly" for installation.
1313352
- e83ZR
by: Jennifer04/16/2022
I ordered a trailer hitch and within one week it was delivered! Great service
1286875
- e83ZR
by: John10/24/2021
Product is great quality. Welds look well done and the over all feel of the hitch is very sturdy. Bought to use occasional cargo basket and bike rack. Packaging could be a bit better but this hitch will withstand almost anything. Not yet mounted but for the price this hitch is overkill for my use.
1186832
- e83ZR
by: David04/26/2022
2020 Subaru Forester
Installation video was very helpful. Product installed within two hours. I will purchase from this vendor again. Good customer service as they kept me in the loop on shipping. Thank you.
1290890
- e83ZR
by: Steve05/02/2022
2020 Subaru Forester
Perfect fit for the vehicle the hitch was bought and installed on.
1292991
- e83ZR
by: BR08/04/2021
2019 Subaru Forester
This receiver seems to be very well constructed and sturdy. It fits nicely, as well as a 2" receiver that does not require bumper trimming can fit (does not extend past the bumper, and is as close to the bumper as can be). 5 stars for that.
The installation instructions could use some help. The layout of the document seems to be a bit random, and it's missing some information (like the need to trim the heat shield). The diagrams are smallish and unclear. The website says the heatshield must be permanently removed, and the paper instructions say it must be reattached after the receiver is mounted. I certainly think it should be reattached but that requires some minor trimming, that does not seem to be mentionned anywhere. 3 stars as this could be vastly and easily improved.
As for installation time of 1 hour... well, if you have a professional lift and some perfect tool for enlarging the holes, maybe. For most people it will likely take a few hours, so plan accordingly.
Now a note on cars and hitch mounts (that is not affecting my rating of this receiver). Cars have existed for over 100 years, and hitch receivers for a long time too. I find it unbelievable that we are still having to enlarge holes, trim this or that to make those fit together. It's not like we're trying to install a steam engine in the most recent rocket! Why isn't there some kind of industry standard template(s), a bit like what exists for TVs and wall mounts?
1113522
- e83ZR
by: Greg11/08/2021
2019 Subaru Forester
Great quality and I’m very happy so far. The delivery was fast. Everything fit like it should. I’m happy with the service so far so I am buying my bike rack here too.
1197969
- e83ZR
by: Rosemary08/03/2022
2021 Subaru Forester
Haven't opened box yet. I am having GT Customs install the hitch and wiring harness.
1345337
- e83ZR
by: Gustavo04/23/2022
Exceed my expectations, I am so satisfied with the service , was the first time buying from you guys and you have a new customer from now on .thank you very much.
1289450
- e83ZR
by: Adam09/28/2021
2020 Subaru Forester
This hitch is everything I need and more. It is sturdy and it looks good too. The install took me 3 hours. That was longer than I expected, but I am sure I could do it a lot faster the next time around. I would certainly recommend a step bit over a file or Dremel to widen the access hole.
1164845
- e83ZR
by: Nick07/30/2021
I tried to order from carparts.com but received a notification the day it was suppose to arrive that the item was not in stock. Found the same receiver at a cheaper price with free shipping on etrailer.com and it came a day early! Thank you!
1109310
- e83ZR
by: Kenneth04/24/2022
2019 Subaru Forester
fits well good quality good fit 1289838
- e83ZR
by: Michael08/08/2021
Nice sturdy hitch. The installation instructions are far from complete.
1117852
When installing The etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2 inch # e83ZR onto your vehicle you do have to remove the 4 heat shield attachments and remove the underbody panel but you will attach it back on after. After removal of the heat shield you will enlarge the center hole on each side of the frame rail to about 1-1/8 inches to allow the mounting hardware to pass through. Then you will fishwire the 1/2 inch carriage bolt and spacer through the... view full answer...
I was able to verify for you that there is indeed a trailer hitch receiver that fits your 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness, which is the following part:
- etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e83ZR
The will fit both the base Forester as well as the Wilderness because they share a frame, with the differences being things like more more ground clearance and an added oil cooler for the Wilderness.
The Wilderness is the more adventure/outdoors model of the '22 Forester, and the etrailer hitch... view full answer...
The etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver part # e83ZR which is a fit for a 2019 Subaru Forester is similar to the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C13409. The only difference is our house brand has a matte finish which helps it blend in more with the vehicle. The Curt hitch has a glossy finish. view full answer...
You do indeed have the option of reinstalling the heat shield with either the etrailer Trailer Hitch # e83ZR or Curt Trailer Hitch # C13409.
You would need to drill holes in the heat shield and then re-install it, but this is totally optional so if you'd like you can do so but it isn't necessary. view full answer...
For your 2021 Subaru Forester I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e83ZR. This custom-fit Class III hitch will be perfect for your towing needs. It has a matte black powder coat finish which will help hide any dirt or dings while providing corrosion resistance. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty and is made in the USA.
Since you will be doing some towing you will also need wiring. The most reliable wiring harness is the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118467.... view full answer...
When installing a trailer hitch on your 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness The etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2 inch # e83ZR is confirmed to fit.
The trailer hitch has a gross towing weight up to 3,500 pounds and has a gross tongue weight up to 525 pounds. I would recommend checking your vehicles manual for the proper towing capacity for your vehicle. Per our records it shows it can tow up to 3,000 pounds The hitch has a simple bolt-on installation... view full answer...
For the best hitch for your 2021 Subaru Forester, I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish # e83ZR. The etrailer hitch is the best option because not only is the most economical choice out of all available hitches for your vehicle, it also provides you with the same 525 pounds of maximum tongue weight/3,500 pounds of maximum gross towing weight as the rest of our available hitches (minus the Stealth hitches which have a lower tongue weight). It is... view full answer...
The best trailer hitch for your 2021 Subaru Forester is the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e83ZR. The etrailer hitch is easy on the wallet and does not require and fascia trimming like some of the other hitches we carry for your vehicle. We are proud to say, in addition, that the etrailer hitch is manufactured here in the U.S.A.
If you plan on towing a small trailer with this hitch, I recommend the T-One Wiring Harness # 118467 (if your vehicle doesn't have a 4-way already installed).... view full answer...
I verified that there is a trailer hitch receiver that fits your 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness. It is the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver item # e83ZR. It fits both the Forester and the Wilderness model because they share the same frame. This hitch will bolt to your frame with included hardware.
If you are planning on towing you will also need a wiring harness to control you trailer lights item # 118467 along with a ball mount kit item # C45534. view full answer...
For your 2021 Subaru Forester I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e83ZR. This custom-fit Class III hitch will be perfect for your towing needs. It has a matte black powder coat finish which will help hide any dirt or dings while providing corrosion resistance. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty and is made in the USA.
Since you will be doing some towing you will also need wiring. The most reliable wiring harness is the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118467.... view full answer...
I recommend going with the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e83ZR for your 2022 Subaru Forester because it's at a great price-point and it has a matte black finish so it will hold up much better to the elements and road debris.
Then for a nice bike rack I highly recommend the Kuat Piston Pro X Bike Rack for 2 Bikes # KU98VR. This is hot off the press from Kuat and full of some crazy new ideas including the integrated lights (you'll need to install the 4-Way # 118467), the Hydro-pneumatic... view full answer...
When I've reached out to our hitch manufacturers they said the Wilderness model for the 2022 Subaru Forester and Outback Wagon vehicles won't change how the hitches fit with the vehicle. I'm not sure why the dealer said it won't fit but I trust the guys I spoke with and there isn't a difference in hitch fits for the 2021 Forester and Forester Sport.
Be sure to get new hardware for the installation since hitch hardware is only designed to be torqued to specs once. If it's a hitch that we... view full answer...
The etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" # e83ZR and the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # C13409 are essentially the same hitch with the only difference being the paint and the price point. The # e83ZR has a matte black powder coating which will better match any black trim on your 2021 Subaru Forester and will hide any scratches better than the gloss black powder coating on the # C13409.
Both of these hitches have... view full answer...
I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch receiver # e83ZR as being the best choice for your 2021 Subaru Forester. This receiver has one of the easiest installations and does not require removing the rear bumper cover to install. Since you will primarily be using this receiver to carry a cargo carrier it carries the higher tongue weight rating of 525lbs and is capable of towing up to 3,500lbs. You will need to ensure that you do not exceed any capacities given by Subaru for your particular... view full answer...
There are quite a few quality trailer hitch receiver options that would work perfectly for towing a small trailer with your 2021 Subaru Forester being the Curt # C13409, Draw-Tite # 76271, EcoHitch # 306-X7391, and the etrailer # e83ZR.
All of these hitches share the same 525lb tongue weight and 3,500lb trailer weight rating making them a great option for towing a small trailer, but between them I have two recommendations based on how much you are looking to spend.
If you are alright... view full answer...
The hitch that installs the closest to the bumper for a 2-bike folding bike rack on your 2021 Subaru Forester that I can confirm is the Curt Hitch - 2" # C47HR. The distance from the center of the hitch pinhole to the outside face of the bumper is only 2 inches long. We haven't had a chance to do an install of the etrailer Hitch # e83ZR or the Stealth Hitch # SH77GR on a 2021 Subaru Forester, but it is unlikely that it will deviate much from the distance from the Curt hitch. As far bumper... view full answer...
There are going to be 3 different styles of receivers I want to show you for your 2021 Subaru Forester.
The first is the Stealth Hitches Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver w/ Towing Kit # SH77GR. This is the most hidden receiver that we have for your Forester. It also includes the wiring harness for a 7-way connector to go with the receiver. With the detachable receiver and ball mount no one will be able to tell that there is a receiver on your Forester when they are removed. This will also... view full answer...
For your 2022 Subaru Forester you will first need a T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118467 to tie into the tail lights on your vehicle to provide the lighting for the 7-way. This will plug into the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7 which also provides you with the wiring needed to install a brake controller. I have linked an installation video below that you can reference on the installation that was done on a 2015 Forester. A Mounting Bracket # 18140 will allow... view full answer...
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