Removing Rear Trim Panels to Install Trailer Wiring on a 2014 Subaru Forester
Updated 07/03/2014 | Published 07/02/2014 >
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Subaru service dept charges me $250 to remove the rear panel so I can access the light connector and plug the Curtiss harness which costs $30. Its ridiculous but Subaru makes it very hard for the nonexpert to open the rear panel compartment. There are no instructions anywhere and the ones coming with the Curtiss trailer harness kit are not helpful. Does anyone have a video or instructions on how to open the side panels in the rear compartment of a Subaru Forester 2014?
asked by: Raul M
Expert Reply:
Installation of Curt trailer wiring harness # C56040 is going to be similar to the 2 videos I have linked. In fact it should be just about identical. Once you see how it is done you will wonder why the dealer wants to charge such a price!
I do recommend a trim panel remover tool, # PT73HJ, which does make things a lot easier.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Video: Mount: T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector on a 2011 Subaru Forester
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: What Hitch For The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Has The Best Ground Clearance?
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Trailer Hitch Recommendation for 2019 Subaru Outback
- Q&A: Will I Need To Enlarge Holes On Frame When Installing Trailer Hitch On 2024 Subaru Outback?
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: How Much Does a Hitch Weigh and Ground Clearance for a 2025 Subaru Crosstrek?
- Q&A: Hitch for 2011 Subaru Outback Wagon with Best Ground Clearance
- Q&A: Recommended Hidden Hitch for a 2020 Subaru Forester
- Article: Rooftop Cargo Carriers
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch

