Hitch And Wiring Setup For 2018 Subaru Outback To Pull A Utility Trailer

Updated 06/04/2026 | Published 05/27/2026

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(167)

$218.01

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(3637)

$45.29

etrailer Adjustable 2-Ball Mount - 2" Hitch - 6" Rise, 6" Drop - 10K

(206)

$103.21

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(760)

$196.21

Question:

Hi there, I am looking for advice on which hitch to purchase for a 2018 Subaru Outback. I will primarily be towing a 5x8 utility trailer to haul lumber, mortar and small equipment. no more than 1000 lbs. thanks! tyler

asked by: Tyler W

Expert Reply:

Hey Tyler!

I'd definitely go with a 2" receiver for your 2018 Outback, since the smaller 1-1/4" receivers don't have the same capacity or compatibility with towing accessories. I'd look at our etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver 2" # e42TR. This one is rated for more than your vehicle can even handle, so I'd check the owner's manual to verify how much you can safely tow before hooking up :).

This one is considered a "concealed cross tube", meaning you don't see the hitch tube hanging down, just the receiver opening is visible. This, along with the matte black paint, allow it all to look OEM on your Subaru.

If you don't care about that, a slightly more affordable option is the standard cross tube model # e98847. This has the same rating of up to 4,000lbs towing and 600lbs tongue weight, but again, I recommend checking how much your vehicle can handle.

I do recommend grabbing some trailer lights as well with the Curt 4 way flat # C56040. If you need a ball mount, we have a nice adjustable setup here - etrailer Adjustable 2-Ball Mount # e66PR. I actually have this on my truck and love it.

I've attached installation videos for you to follow along if doing it all yourself. What type of projects are you doing with the trailer?

expert reply by: Andrew N

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Dave B.

6/3/2026

Definitely install the 2 inch hitch. I installed it on my 2018 Outback and it has worked out very well. The installation was not as difficult as I thought it would be. The instructions were very good. I had gotten an estimate from the Subaru dealership about installing a hitch receiver and they would only install a 1.25 and it would have cost about $700. I highly recommend this 2 inch.

Louis M.

6/3/2026

Everything that Novak states is 100% accurate, I installed this hitch on my wife's 2019 Subaru Outback, I was somewhat intimidated at first, but it was easier that I thought. Definitely go with the 2" hitch, it's a very well-built receiver hitch.

6/3/2026

I recommend going with the 2” receiver. I installed this hitch (concealed) on my 13 Outback and it was really straightforward to do. Hardest part was cleanly separating bumper molding. Once that shell was off, everything else was easy. Took me about 1.5-2hrs to install. Saved quite a bit of money over the dealer quote. I’ve used to tow my 4x6 trailer and also for a mtb bike carrier. I’m glad I went this route.

6/4/2026

Yes, these guys are right. Get the 2 inch hitch. I like the hidden drop down look and if you have a dremmel or the likes, its easy to make a hole just big enough for the reciever and it looks custom to your vehicle. Easy to assemble on my 2017 outback. An extra set of hands helped, but could have done it on my own. Pry tools and a careful pressure recommended when taking off the bumper and unplug tail lights. A couple.bolts on and off and your all set!