Does etrailer Hitch for 2017 Subaru Outback Replace Impact Bar

Updated 10/27/2025 | Published 01/28/2025

Question:

I currently have a oem 1.25inch trailer hitch on my 2017 outback. When upgrading to your 2inch trailer hitch, will I need to replace the impact bar that was removed during the oem installation of the 1.25inch hitch? Or is this hitch designed like the oem version and does not require a impact bar under the bumper cover? Thank you, Sidney

asked by: Sidney C

Expert Reply:

Hey Sidney, the etrailer hitch part # e42TR fits behind the rear impact bar and does not replace it.

How come you are wanting to upgrade to a 2 inch hitch?

expert reply by: Jameson C

Sidney

1/29/2025

I am replacing because I purchased e-bikes and bike racks rated for 60# bikes only come in 2" hitches. I appreciate your comments. However, I spoke to one of your folks and they read the instructions and it said the hitch requires the bumper beam (impact bar). Maybe I didn't have my terminology correct. Will you confirm the # e42TR does not need the bumper beam? It does seem odd the oem doesn't need the bumper beam, but other hitches do. Thank you for your time.

Jameson C.

1/29/2025

@Sidney You are right and I was wrong. I don't know how I missed that but basically the hitch installs behind the bumper beam. I am really sorry about the confusion on that! It's probably easier for the OEM to make a hitch that they feel like satisfies as a replacement for the bumper beam since they are who designed the whole vehicle. If your bumper beam is now gone you'd have to get a new one from Subaru.

Kevin

3/11/2025

@JamesonC Hi there, Can you please clarify this? The folks I had replace my hitch mentioned nothing about removing a bumper beam. Do I need to be concerned about this and/or have them confirm? I was under the impression this purchase was a pretty straightforward swap for the OEM hitch. Thanks, Kevin

Jameson C.

3/11/2025

@Kevin I tried to attach a picture above to show you how this hitch installs to help explain. But basically the etrailer hitch # e42TR installs behind the factory bumper beam. It does not replace the bumper beam. Does that help?

See All (5) Replies to Sidney ∨

Expert Reply:

Hey Sidney, the etrailer hitch part # e42TR fits behind the rear impact bar and does not replace it.

How come you are wanting to upgrade to a 2 inch hitch?

expert reply by: Jameson C

etrailer Hitch
(click to enlarge)

Jameson C.

10/27/2025

Hey Sidney, did the 2-inch hitch fit behind the impact bar as expected on your Outback? Your update could make it easier for others thinking about the same upgrade.