Recommended Trailer Hitch and Wiring for 2018 Subaru Outback Limited

Updated 01/23/2018 | Published 01/22/2018

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1019)

$209.61

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

(2968)

$49.36

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

(410)

$216.11

Question:

Good afternoon I am interested in a class III 2inch hitch for a new 2018 Subaru Outback Limited 3.6R, I have two Curt hitches for my other Subaru Foresters, which would you recommend the Draw-Tite or Curt and which wiring harness would you recommend, please provide your suggestion as why to one hitch over the other for this new vehicle, and will the harness you recommend be plug and play? For the hitch is one less steps to install or does the exhaust need to be dropped slightly, heat shield removed and new access holes drilled for each type? Is one made differently / stronger? What spray primer or coating would you recommend after drilling the access holes? Thank you again,

asked by: Larry K

Helpful Expert Reply:

For your 2018 Subaru Outback Limited, I recommend the Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch # 75673. This Class III hitch features a 2 inch receiver opening and a 4,000 pound towing weight capacity. I took a look at the online owner's manual for your 2018 Outback Limited and found that it has a towing capacity of 2,700 pounds. You will always need to follow whichever limit is lower, the vehicle's or the hitch's, so in this case your towing capacity will be 2,700 pounds. I do also recommend verifying this information in your copy of the owner's manual.

This Draw-Tite hitch and the Curt # C13206 that is also confirmed to fit your vehicle are extremely similar. They both feature the same towing capacities, will install in the same location on the vehicle frame, and have identical installation procedures. There really is no drop-off with either option when it comes to strength and durability. The reason I recommend the Draw-Tite model, is simply because unlike Curt, Draw-Tite does not require the use of additional stabilizing straps for non-trailer loads such as bike racks and cargo carriers. These straps can be a bit of annoyance to use if you intend to ever use the hitch receiver for these types of products, so I typically recommend Draw-Tite hitches when everything else is equal.

As for the actual installation process, you will need to temporarily lower the exhaust and some minor heat shield modification might be required. You will also need to drill a 1-1/8 inch access hole in the bottom of the frame. Any spray-on primer will work well for preventing rust or corrosion from this drilling. I have attached the complete installation instructions that you can also take a look at, as well as a video on the 2017 model Outback that will be similar to your application.

Then for a trailer wiring harness, I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118467. This custom-fit harness is indeed a plug and play installation that will connect to the existing ports located behind the driver side trim panel on the vehicle. This will give you a 4-Way connector to connect with and power a trailer's basic signal lights. I have again attached the written installation instructions and a video on the 2017 Outback that you can use for reference.

Lastly, in order to tow a trailer, you will also need a ball mount and hitch ball. I have included a great article that explains how to determine the best one for your particular setup, along with a link that will take you to our available selection. I have also attached a couple articles on trailer towing that you might find helpful.