Does EcoHitch EH57CR Require Enlarging Holes In The Frame

Updated 05/28/2026 | Published 05/23/2026

Question:

I am interested in a trailer hitch for my 2025 Subaru Crosstrek sport. I am looking for a hitch that does not require any drilling OR enlarging of the pre-existing holes in the frame. I noticed that the Ecohitch model does not require any enlarging, but this model is much more expensive. I am more interested in the Curt hitch, but the square washer and bolts this model comes with are too big to fit through the frame holes without enlarging. Would it be possible to use the smaller hardware from the Ecohitch model to install the Curt hitch? Could I purchase this hardware bolt, square washer, etc from a regular hardware store? Thanks

asked by: Brandon

Expert Reply:

Hey Brandon, thanks for reaching out. You are correct that the EcoHitch # EH57CR for the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Sport does come with slightly smaller spacer blocks that will fit inside the frame without enlarging the holes.

That said, I really can't recommend using hardware other than what is supplied with the hitch since it would void your warranty. You may be able to find bolts and washers at a local hardware store, but a lot of times the spacer blocks are pretty specific to the hitch and they can be hard to find. If you decide to go this route, just make sure the bolts are the proper size and grade (grade 5 or higher).

What will you be using the hitch for?

expert reply by: Jesse M

Brandon

5/27/2026

Hey thanks for the answer. It's just for a bike rack to carry 1-2 mountain bikes

Jesse M.

5/28/2026

@Brandon Ok nice! If you go for the Curt hitch I still have to recommend using the included hardware. If you have a step bit, it doesn't take much to enlarge the holes. Sometimes you can even do it with a file - it's usually a very small amount of enlarging. I totally get the reluctance to do that though, especially if it's a leased vehicle. Let me know what you decide to do.