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

Updated 05/14/2025 | Published 03/06/2024

Question:

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

asked by: Fred H

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

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