Can the Hatch Be Opened On a 2018 Subaru Outback with Yakima FullBack Installed

Updated 04/07/2020 | Published 04/06/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Yakima FullBack 3 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms

(263)

$312.55

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(755)

$187.30

Question:

Looking at the fullback 3 Yakima rack for 2018 Subaru Outback. It looks like in anchor mode the straps and pulled tight against the inside part of liftgate. It seems that in this configuration the rack would need to be removed before the hatch could be opened bikes not installed. Can you confirm this and are there other models that may fit better?

asked by: Colin M

Expert Reply:

The Yakima FullBack 3 Bike Rack part # Y02633 is an excellent option for a 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon. In regards to installation, the upper hooks must be changed out and installed in anchor mode. That said, you need to remove a trunk mount bike rack on any vehicle before you open the hatch, not just this bike rack and vehicle combo. The reason for this is because the hatch is not designed to handle the extra weight of the rack and you obviously risk the chance of interference.

If you want to be able to open the hatch with a bike rack still attached, you'll need a trailer hitch and hitch mounted bike rack. I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver part # e98847 and the Thule Hitching Post Pro part # TH934XTR for this.

expert reply by: Conner L