Look of Hitch and Ground Clearance with Curt Class II Trailer Hitch on 2016 Subaru Outback

Updated 02/16/2016 | Published 02/15/2016

Products Featured in This Question

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

(75)

$208.75

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(666)

$15.93

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

(255)

$216.45

Question:

Please advise about impact on ground clearance and appearance. Previously had a hitch installed on my 2005 Camry to use for bike rack. I did not anticipate reduced ground clearance and had to live with hitch scraping ground as I drove up driveway w/Hollywood curb profile and similar ground profiles. I have notice that some hitch racks are UGLY. How will this rack look compared to other options? Thanks.

asked by: Leonard C

Expert Reply:

Installing a trailer hitch like the Curt Class II Trailer Hitch Receiver # C12136 on your 2016 Subaru Outback can effect your vehicle's ground clearance at the rear. The cross tube of the trailer hitch will sit below the vehicle, as seen in the photo I have attached from the installation instructions, which can cause the hitch to limit your vehicle's ground clearance.

I spoke with my contact at Curt and he was able to tell me that, for this hitch, the measurement from the mounting location to the bottom of the hitch receiver is approximately 9 inches. From the mounting location to the top of the receiver measures 7 inches. You can use these measurements to see about where the # C12136 hitch will sit on your Outback.

The photo I have attached will give you an idea of what this hitch will look like once it is installed. Some people find the round cross tube on the Curt # C12136 trailer hitch to be more aesthetically pleasing than the square cross tube on the Draw-Tite and Hidden Hitch trailer hitches. I have attached a photo showing the Draw-Tite # 36493 hitch installed on an Outback for you to compare the look of each hitch.

It is also important to note that the Curt # C12136 will require the use of a stabilization strap # 18050 with all non-trailer loads, such as bike racks and cargo carriers.