What is a Complete Flat Tow Set-Up for My 2013 Subaru Crosstrek or XV Crosstrek?  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hello Bob,

Happy to get a package together for you to tow your 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek (not sure why Subaru marketed this car as the XV Crosstrek and just the Crosstrek, let’s just stick with one model please). Your Crosstrek must have a manual transmission in order to flat tow; it also CANNOT be a hybrid.

- Base plate: Roadmaster Crossbar-Style Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms # 52922-1A

- Tow bar: Roadmaster Nighthawk All-Terrain Tow Bar w/ LED Lights - Non-Binding - RV Mount - 8,000 lbs # RM-676. Since there is only a crossbar-style baseplate, you will also need the Quick Disconnect Crossbar Assembly for Roadmaster Tow Bars # 910021-00.

- Wiring: Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 4-Way Flat Connectors # RM-154. The Nighthawk tow bar comes with your 7-way to 6-way cord, as well as the 6-way connector for the front of the Subaru.

- Roadmaster Brake-Lite Relay Kit for Towed Vehicles # RM-88400

- Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit for Towed Vehicles # RM-156-25 – this is what I call peace of mind, because it is exactly what it gives you when you get to your destination: peace of mind that your battery is not dead =)

- Braking System: Curt RVi Series 4 Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Wireless Monitor - Proportional #RVI44FR. This machine I like to call Johnny 5 because it literally talks to you, I might be showing my age a little by referencing this movie.

If you would like a one-time install braking system, then please let me know if your coach has air brakes or not.

In order to figure out if you need a high-low adapter, I am going to need two measurements from you. On flat, level ground, please measure from the ground to where the baseplate will install (please refer to the attached image; I highlighted the baseplate area in purple). Then, measure from the ground to the inside top of the receiver on the coach. Once I have those measurements, I can tell you what high-low adapter you will need to keep your setup level while towing.

I attached some install/review videos for you to check out. I also included a help article on the must-have components for flat towing and a dealer locator in case you are not feeling up to the install.

What kind of coach do you have? Are you new to flat towing?

expert reply by: Kate F

0

Subaru Where Base Plate Installs
(click to enlarge)

Kate F.

11/13/2025

Hey Bob, how did your flat tow setup for the Crosstrek come together with the Roadmaster Nighthawk and the other parts? Did the braking system and wiring all work smoothly with your coach? Your update could make it easier for the next person planning a similar setup.

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