Does the Heat Shield Need to be Removed to Install the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver

Question

Question:

is it better to cut the heat shield or drill it? on a 2024 subaru forester

asked by: Fred H

0

Expert Reply:

The heat shield actually has to be permanently removed to install the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e83ZR on your 2024 Subaru Forester.

expert reply by: Bryce D

0

Fred H.

3/6/2024

it does not say that in the instruction sheet that comes with the hitch it said either cut or drill the heat shield and reinstall it

Bryce D.

3/11/2024

@FredH It's up to you then, our techs found it better to remove the heat shield all together, but if you want to keep it you'd just need to make sure there is a 1 1/8" hole on either side of the frame for the mounting hardware to pass through - but it really does not matter if you drill or cut.

Gary

5/8/2025

For a 2025 Forester, can the heat shield be reinstalled? Is trimming the shield necessary?

Jesse M.

5/14/2025

@Gary Yes the heat shield can be trimmed and reinstalled. Take a look at the video in the link below. Around the 8:30 mark you can see how to trim the shield.

Helpful Links

tv-install-curt-trailer-hitch-receiver-custom-fit-2025-subaru-forester-c13409.aspx

Answer 1

Carson, totally fair concern, but you’re actually in better shape with this rack than most platform-style carriers. The Benton Modular Cargo Carrier #B42FR sits high on the hitch arm, and nothing hangs below your receiver. The shank will stick out…

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Answer 2

Exhaust melting cargo on a cargo carrier isn't a super common problem, but we are aware that it does happen on occasion. Especially if the cargo carrier is at the same height as the exhaust, relatively close to it, and/or the material in the…

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Answer 3

Hey Justin, some of the feedback we've gotten is that the handsfree liftgate is not functional after the install of the etrailer hitch part #e83ZR but we have had customers tell us it did still work like in the comments below. Everything we offer…

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Answer 4

PVC cargo bags like the etrailer part #e98990 that you referenced when really close to exhaust pipes normally would only melt if they got too hot. Catching on fire would not be likely at all unless maybe you had something flammable in the bag. For…

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Answer 5

The best trailer hitch for your 2024 Subaru Forester is the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver #C47HR because it's the only option that has the crosstube hidden behind the bumper. This means your hitch looks more sleek and gives you better ground…

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Answer 6

Hey Jeff, the Curt hitch part #C77MJ and the TowSmart part #TS42VR are both really great hitches. They are similar enough in design that I wouldn't say one or the other is more hidden. Now if you wanted something totally hidden we have the Oris…

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Answer 7

The main difference between these three hitches is going to be the looks and install time. EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" #306-X7391. Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" #C13409.…

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Answer 8

Hello Joshua, thanks for reaching out. Yes, we do have a trailer hitch for the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid. We actually have two hitch options for that, and it really comes down to your customers preferences. First is the etrailer Class 3 Hitch…

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Answer 9

Great question, Kevin! The hitch you mentioned, part #e83ZR, sits around 14" off the ground so part #EBMK4EL would be the perfect fit. Along with the ball mount, you will also be getting a ball, hitch pin, and a carrying case. Also, if…

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Answer 10

Hi Chris, We can definitely get you set up with an excellent hitch for your Kuat bike carrier! Since you mentioned liking the matte black finish (I’m a fan too, it really gives that nice OEM look), I’d recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver -…

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Answer 11

Hello Wes, Great question! The only hitch that we have that will not interfere with the sensor at all for the 2025 Subaru Forester is the EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" #306-X7391. If you go to the product…

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Answer 12

If the hitch in on your Wrangler Unlimited has a 350 lb tongue weight capacity, it means that no more than 350 lbs can be safely suspended from the receiver. The weight of the carrier would be included in that 350 lb figure. If the carrier is used…

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Does the Heat Shield Need to be Removed to Install the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver

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