What Hitch and Bike Rack Should I Get for MY 2025 Subaru Forester?

Updated 07/08/2026 | Published 07/02/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(701)

$196.80

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

(708)

$171.64

RockyMounts MonoRail Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(371)

$549.99

RockyMounts AfterParty Swing Away Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Wheel Mount - 2" Hitches

(47)

$1349.99

RockyMounts GuideRail Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(47)

$979.99

Question:

I have a 2025 Subaru Forrester, and I am trying to decide if I should go through Subaru or hitch dealer in my area to install it. The Schuling hitch dealer says they do not drill into the bumper to install it but into the frame rail, whether there are already mounting holes drilled. I don’t go off road and I’m simply going to add a bike rack for two bikes. The hitch they would install is a CURT 13409.I just want to make sure this wouldn’t affect any safety or warranty as far as Subaru is concerned. Sorry if this doesn’t make sense, I’ve never done this before. Thanks for your help!

asked by: Kris

Expert Reply:

Hello Kris,

Welcome to etrailer! I'm glad you found us.

Your question makes perfect sense, especially if you've never had a hitch installed before.

The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C13409 is a custom-fit hitch for your 2025 Subaru Forester. It mounts using existing holes in the vehicle's frame, so there is no drilling into the frame required for installation. There is some trimming of the underbody panel, which is a normal part of the installation, but there are no modifications made to the structural frame of your Forester.

As far as your warranty goes, installing an aftermarket hitch does not automatically void your Subaru warranty. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, Subaru can't deny your warranty simply because you installed an aftermarket part. If there were ever a warranty claim, they would need to show that the hitch or its installation caused the issue before denying coverage for that specific repair.

I do want to mention, I would go with our etrailer # e83ZR. It's the same design, but it has a matte black finish instead of a glossy black finish. I think it blends in with the lower fascia a little better and gives it more of an OEM look. I actually installed one on my Escape a few weeks ago so I could haul my bikes, and I've been really happy with it.

If you're still shopping for a bike rack, I use the RockyMounts AfterParty # RKY37ZR and have been really impressed with it. The swing-away feature makes it easy to access the rear of the vehicle without unloading the bikes, and it includes locks and a built-in security chain. If you don't need the swing-away feature, the RockyMounts AfterParty # RKY97ZR is another great option. If you're looking for something a little more budget-friendly without giving up quality, the RockyMounts MonoRail # RKY10004 is also a solid choice.

Do you have a specific trail you like to take your bikes out on? We have the Katy Trail here in Missouri, I feel so free on that trail without a care in the world. I attached an image of my set-up, as well as some pictures from the Katy trail this last weekend.