Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2018 Subaru Forester

Published 02/14/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Blue Ox Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(4924)

$503.70

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(483)

$1406.81

Blue Ox Alpha Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 8,500 lbs

(481)

$1079.00

Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord

(3403)

$161.90

Question:

I have a 2018 Subaru forester that I want to flat tow, it has a manual transmission. what should I get?

asked by: John D

Expert Reply:

For your 2018 Subaru Forester we have the Blue Ox base plate kit part # BX3619 which is a confirmed fit and will work well. I attached an install video for this kit on a similar 2018 Subaru Forester as yours for you to check out as well.

For a tow bar that comes with safety cables the Blue Ox # BX7380 will work great too. It's non binding arms will make connecting and disconnecting the tow vehicle very easy as well.

For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-15267, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR, that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

Most likely you will also need a high low adapter so that the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry.

I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle.