Is Class II or III Trailer Hitch Recommended for 2015 Subaru Forester

Published 07/18/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(798)

$170.71

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(2971)

$49.49

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2621)

$11.37

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

(119)

$165.36

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(1358)

$12.62

Convert-A-Ball Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 10,000 lbs

(1354)

$85.25

Question:

Need a trailer hitch for my 2015 Subaru Forester. Want to pull my vintage trailer, 1100lbs. The Subaru dealer quoted my $688. for hitch and installation. Seems to bit high, but then I assume they must know how to do the installation. I may purchase a hitch on my own and have a local mechanic install for me. Looking at your Hidden Hitch class II or III. How do I decide which hitch to get? I also want to haul my bike around. Can you help me figure this out? Many thanks!! Barb

asked by: Barb G

Expert Reply:

Ouch! $688.00? We can do better than that.

Both Class II hitches with the 1-1/4 inch receiver, part # 36523 and the Class III with the 2 inch receiver, part # 75876 are available for your Forester. Whenever the choice is available, I always recommend that folks go with the Class III with the larger receiver opening. The 2 inch receiver has a much better selection of accessories available. The Class III also has a higher capacity, but that's kind of a moot point because the 2015 Forester has a towing capacity of 1500 lbs, so you won't be able to tow more than that.

To complete your towing set-up, you would also need the following:

Trailer wiring harness with 4-pole trailer connector, part # 118467
Ball mount, part # AMSC2
1-7/8 inch trailer ball, part # 19260 or 2 inch ball, part # 63845

I've linked you to the installation instructions, go ahead and look them over. The installation might be something you could handle yourself if you're fairly handy. Or, if you don't feel comfortable attempting it, any trusted mechanic should be able to complete the installation quickly.

I've also linked you to an install video for the wiring harness and some FAQ articles with some helpful hitch installation tips.