Recommended Trailer Hitch and Wiring for 2016 Subaru Legacy

Updated 03/17/2017 | Published 03/16/2017

Products Featured in This Question

T-One Connector Assembly w/Upgraded Circuit Protected ModuLite HD Module

(20)

$57.11

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(92)

$228.88

Swagman XTC2 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(1655)

$203.20

Question:

I am trying to decide which receiver hitch is best for our newinch 2016 Legacy sedan. It will be, primarily, used for a bike rack but may be occasionally used to tow my Hobie cat. The boat trailer probably weighs around 500 pounds with a pretty light tongue weight. Ive never measured it but I can easily move it around by hand. I am mainly concerned about having enough clearance to get the bike rack into the receiver and clear the trunk and still not have to worry about dragging in driveways.

asked by: Bill E

Expert Reply:

For your 2016 Subaru Legacy Sedan, I recommend going with a Class III trailer hitch. While you may not ever need the higher rated weight capacity of a Class III hitch, the 2 inch receiver opening will allow you to choose from many more hitch-mounted accessories such as bike racks and cargo carriers than that of a 1-1/4 inch receiver on a Class II hitch.

I recommend the Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch # 75673 for a couple of reasons. First, when compared to the Curt Class III # 13390, it does offer a slightly greater ground clearance measurement of 10-1/2 inches, as opposed to 10-1/4 inches on the Curt. The measurement from the center of the hitch pin hole to the outside of the bumper is 6 inches.

Also, per Curt warranty requirements, all non-trailer loads (bike racks, cargo carriers, etc) must be supported by stabilizing straps. Draw-Tite does not have this same requirement on their trailer hitches.

The Draw-Tite # 75673 has a 600 pound tongue weight capacity along with a 4,000 pound towing capacity. I have attached an installation video on your 2016 Subaru for you to check out.

Since you will be towing occasionally, I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Connector Assembly # 118671 to quickly install a 4-way trailer connector on your Subaru Legacy. This will be needed to connect to your boat trailer to power its rear lights. I have also included an installation video on your vehicle for you to review.

If you do not have one already, you will also need a ball mount to tow your trailer. I have attached a link that takes you to our available selection as well as a helpful article that details how to choose the correct one for your setup.

Also, if you are looking for a bike rack, I recommend the Swagman XTC-2 2-Bike Platform Rack # S64670. This is a very nice platform style rack that can hold up to 2 bikes at 35 pounds each. It features a rising shank for improved ground clearance and the upright arms can fold down for storage when not in use. I have included a video demonstration on this rack for you to check out.