Best Trailer Hitch For Carrying 4 Bikes On A 2019 Subaru Outback Wagon
Updated 07/23/2026 | Published 07/16/2026
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Question:
Hi, I would like to install a 4 roadbikes rack to my 2019 2.5L Subaru Outback. I need a hitch and was wondering 1. If e98847 is the right one? 2. How long does it take to install? I might take it to my mechanic 3. If it does not fit for any reason what is the return policy?
asked by: Tee D
Expert Reply:
Hi Tee!
The etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" # e98847 will be a fantastic hitch for carry 4 roadbikes on your 2019 Subaru Outback! It has plenty of carrying capacity with its 600 pounds of tongue weight (though the 2.5L is limited to 270 pounds of tongue weight) and the 2" receiver means you can carry a 4 bike rack with absolutely no problems.
As to the install, this is rated a 6 out of 10 for the install difficulty and we estimate about an hour to get fully put on. There is some drilling through the frame, access holes will need to be enlarged by filing or with a rotary tool, the exhaust must be temporarily lowered, and a heat shield will need to be modified or trimmed. I included an install video we did with this hitch going onto a 2019 Outback so you can see exactly what is involved. It's a bit of work to get done, but it is very doable at home. I do recommend having a helper when you go to bolt it up though. Hitches can be kind of awkward to hold in place while you start threading the nuts on.
I think the only downside with this hitch is how it sits after the install. The crosstube will be exposed (see included image), but if that doesn't bother you, it isn't anything to worry about. However, if that does bother you, check out the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" # e42TR.
This will be a much more hidden design (see second image) and is the one I prefer due to that. However, it is rated 10 out of 10 for the install difficulty and will take roughly 2 hours to get fully installed. There is no drilling through frame required for this one, it does require temporary removal of bumper/fascia, and fascia trimming. I included an install video of this going onto a 2019 Outback as well. Other than the install being different, everything else will be the same (tongue weight capacity, 2" receiver opening, American made, etc). I just think this one looks better.
As to your third question, we can take back anything uninstalled and unused. So if you get it and it really won't fit, we can definitely take it back. That said, we have sold literally hundreds of these and I can say with 100% certainty that either hitch will fit and work perfectly for you.
What kind of roadbikes do you have? I had a GT back in the day (I think it was a ZR 3.0, but that was quite a long time ago) and did the Tour De Sewer on it in California, as well as a few other things.
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Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class III
- 600 lbs TW
- 4000 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- etrailer
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on Trailer Hitch
Janey
7/22/2026
Hello Tee, I believe laser S answered your question, pretty thoroughly and accurately, but if you wanted an unbiased opinion from someone who has a 2019 Subaru outback, and who installed this hitch, then I'm the gal. I love this hitch. It feels solid and well-made. I've had it for a year now, with absolutely no problems. I did take it to a mechanic, and even though there is a great video on how to install it, they decided not to take the time, and it took them two hours, which I had to pay for. I do have a friend, who is very handy, who installed his onto his outback, and acted like he had no problems. But he's a guy who can pretty much do anything. I highly recommend this hitch.