Which Trailer Hitch for 2002 Subaru Outback Sedan

Expert Reply:

We offer a Curt # C12270 or a Draw-Tite # 36284 Class II receiver hitch for your 2002 Subaru Outback Sedan.

Both hitches would install in the same manner, with a couple of slight differences. Both hitches have the same 3000 lb towing capacity (limited to the 2000 lb towing capacity of the vehicle) but the Curt has a 350 lb tongue weight capacity while the Draw-Tite has a 300 lb tongue weight capacity.

The crossbar of the Curt routes under the exhaust pipe while that of the Draw-Tite is routed above it. This difference is purely cosmetic, but I prefer to have the crossbar pass over the top of the exhaust pipe, I feel it looks better and provides better ground clearance (see photo). As far as quality goes, the hitches are both high-quality. If the way the crossbar is situated to the exhaust pipe isn't important to you, you can choose the least expensive model without feeling like you've sacrificed anything.

The Curt # C12097 you'd looked at isn't a fit for your vehicle.

If you'll be towing with the hitch, you'd need a few more items to complete your towing system. For a trailer wiring harness, use # 119147KIT. For a ball mount, use # C45026 and # A-80 for a 1-7/8 inch or # A-82 for a 2 inch trailer ball.

If you click the provided link, you can see install videos for either hitch mentioned above.

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expert reply by: Mike L

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