Parts Needed to Tow Tear Trailer With 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness With Factory Hitch
Updated 08/25/2026 | Published 07/06/2026
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Question:
I’m buying a 2026 Subaru forester wilderness with the hitch installed at the factory. What do I need to tow a tear trailer? I understand it doesn’t come with the wiring?
asked by: Mike C
Expert Reply:
Hey Mike! It looks like that is correct, the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness does not come with trailer wiring. However, I would double check with the dealership just to be sure. If your tear trailer does not have electric brakes you need the Curt Powered Tail Light Converter w/ 4-Way Flat # C59496. This will power the lights on your trailer.
If you do have brakes, you will also need a 7-way and a brake controller like the # C51180 you were looking at. I recommend adding a brake controller in the cab for simplicity and reliability. It is more work initially, but that installation is a one time deal. On top of the Curt 4-way you will need the # ETBC7. This comes with the adapter, wiring, and everything else required to upgrade to a 7-way.
For a brake controller, I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty # RED52VR. This is brake controller is really easy to use and incredibly reliable. It also doesn't take up space in the cab and has an OEM look once you have it in place, see the attached photo.
The only other thing you will need is a ball mount. You can pick up an adjustable ball mount like # e66PR if you plan to tow a variety of trailers. You can also measure the hitch once you get the vehicle so you can find the appropriate rise/drop for your ball mount to stay level if you just want a fixed ball mount.
What kind of trailer do you have?
(click to enlarge)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness - Dash Knob - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Splice-In
- Dash-Mounted Knob
- Behind-Dash
- Up to 2 Axles
- Indicator Lights
- Single Trailer Only
- Redarc
more information >
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on Trailer Brake Controller
Woodmiller
8/25/2026
Just had a Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty installed in me 2026 Forester Wilderness WITH Factory hitch and 4 and 7 wire plugs factory installed. The plugs were already wired from the factory, the Tech just had to install the controller. Took about 45 minutes.