Does Rear Bumper have to be Removed to Install Curt Trailer Hitch on 2018 Subaru Outback  

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Expert Reply:

Curt trailer hitch # C11422 fits various versions of the Volkswagen Golf but not the 2018 Subaru Outback. The Curt hitches that fit your Outback without having to remove the bumper are # C13206 for a 2 inch receiver and # C12136 for a 1-1/4 inch receiver. I have linked videos that show how each installs.

Hitch # C13206 is rated for 600 pounds tongue weight and 4,000 pounds gross trailer weight.
Hitch # C12136 is rated for 350 pounds tongue weight and 3,500 pounds gross trailer weight.

If you do not mind removing the rear bumper/fascia to install a hitch I recommend the 2 inch EcoHitch # 306-X7601 as the best fit for your Outback. I have linked a video showing how it installs as well. It is rated for 525 pounds tongue weight and 3,500 pounds gross trailer weight.

Keep in mind that you have to go by the weight capacities of your Outback even though the hitches are rated higher. Consult the vehicle owner's manual for the capacities of your specific model Outback.

For either of the 2 inch hitches I recommend etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

For the 1-1/4 inch hitch the recommended ball mount is # C45521 and you can use 1-7/8 inch ball # A-80 or 2 inch ball # A-82.

For trailer wiring you can use # 118467 to add a 4-Way flat connector to the rear of the vehicle. I have linked a video showing how it installs as well.

expert reply by: Michael H

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