Can a Weight Distribution Hitch Cause Uneven Tire Wear

Updated 07/02/2020 | Published 07/01/2020

Question:

I have an E2 Fastway 450lb anti sway hitch. I was wondering if when you attach the trailer, and crank up the trailer to raise the rear of the car to effect the “wheel barrow “ type weight distribution, could that cause the rear tires to wear on the outside edges? I was thinking that if the rear of the car is lifted slightly it could impact the contact of the tires on the ground. Total novice here. Just trying to figure out why my last set of tires did this while recently pulling a small travel trailer with my 2017 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited. New tires will be rotated at regular intervals and alignment checks will be performed as well. Thank you.

asked by: Kristen K

Expert Reply:

What you're most likely seeing when the back end is lifting up as you set up your Fastway E2 # FA92-00-0450 is not really lifting the rear of the vehicle; it's actually the weight being taken off of the rear axle on your 2017 Subaru Outback. Unless you're using a system that is not properly rated for your trailer, you really wouldn't see any abnormal tire wear on the rear tires and you should really see the opposite- your tongue weight shouldn't be more than 450-lbs with the # FA92-00-0450.

If you continue to experience this type of issue, it would really lead me to believe that there is something else going on, but if you can confirm the GVWR and TW of your trailer, it might help me determine if there is in fact an issue with the weight distribution system you're using.

expert reply by: Erik B