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  1. Trailer Hitch
  2. etrailer
  3. Class III
  4. 2 Inch Hitch
  5. 3500 lbs GTW
  6. Visible Cross Tube
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

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

Item # e98838
Retail:$304.99
Our Price: $175.94
You Save: $129.05
Trailer Hitch

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Shipping Weight: 35 lbs
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This fully welded trailer hitch receiver bolts onto your vehicle's frame with no welding required. Matte black, powder coated steel is durable and corrosion resistant and creates a rugged look. Great Prices for the best trailer hitch from etrailer. etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" part number e98838 can be ordered online at etrailer.com or call 1-800-940-8924 for expert service.
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  • Reviews (482)
  • Q & A (0)
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etrailer Trailer Hitch - e98838

  • Class III
  • 2 Inch Hitch
  • 3500 lbs GTW
  • Visible Cross Tube
  • etrailer
  • 525 lbs TW
  • Custom Fit Hitch

This fully welded trailer hitch receiver bolts onto your vehicle's frame with no welding required. Matte black, powder coated steel is durable and corrosion resistant and creates a rugged look.


Features:

  • Custom-fit trailer hitch lets you tow a trailer or carry a bike rack or cargo carrier with your vehicle
  • Precision, robotic welding maximizes strength and improves fit
  • Bolt-on installation - no welding required
    • Complete hardware kit and installation instructions included
  • Lifetime technical support from the experts at etrailer
  • Matte black powder coat finish over protective base coat offers superior rust resistance
  • Sturdy, square-tube design
  • Ball mount, pin and clip sold separately
  • Made in the USA
    • Mounting hardware may be imported


Specs:

  • Receiver opening: 2" x 2"
  • Rating: Class III
    • Maximum gross trailer weight: 3,500 lbs
    • Maximum tongue weight: 525 lbs
    • Not rated for use with weight distribution systems
  • Limited lifetime warranty


Rugged, Matte Black Finish

The sturdy steel construction is protected with a matte black finish for added durability. This unique powder coating gives etrailer hitches a carbide-like appearance and a rugged look that sets them apart from traditional glossy hitches. In addition to being rust and corrosion resistant, the tough matte coating hides dirt, scuffs, and dings better than a glossy finish.


Matte Carbide Finish vs Glossy Finish

Matte Carbide Finish vs Glossy Finish

etrailer Technical Support

At etrailer we're committed to the products we sell, and to our customers. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff are available via both phone and email to address your questions and concerns for the lifetime of your hitch. The technicians at etrailer perform hitch installations on a daily basis, making them a valuable resource for do-it-yourselfers. The one-on-one, personal service you'll receive comes straight from an expert in the towing and automotive field. We've installed it, we've wired it and we've towed with it, so whatever your question, we can answer it.



e98838 etrailer Class 3 Trailer Hitch Receiver - 2" - Matte Black Carbide

Installation Details E98838 Installation instructions

This Product Fits The Following Vehicles




Customer Satisfaction Score:


Customer Reviews

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" - e98838

Average Customer Rating:  4.8 out of 5 stars   (482 Customer Reviews)

This fully welded trailer hitch receiver bolts onto your vehicle's frame with no welding required. Matte black, powder coated steel is durable and corrosion resistant and creates a rugged look.

by:

Pretty happy with the product and the build quality. Love the matte black finish. I was able to install this by my self (took me around 90 mins). With the car up on jack stands, I used my floor jack to support one site of the hitch receiver while I got the flange nutes started on the other side.

Would recommend that etrailer provide slightly longer 1/2" carriage bolts. With the round hole spacer that goes between the frame and the hitch receiver it can be a little tricky to get the flange nut started.



by:
2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek

Just received hitch and unpackaged. So far so good. Hitch and hardware seem to in good order. Install instructions are clear. Will update review upon completion of installation.

Eric

12/11/2023

Installation was easy. Ive used the hitch with a bicycle carrier. Works as advertised. I would recommend this product.



by:

This is my second purchase from etrailer & both experiences have been excellent. I ordered this hitch on the morning of New Year’s Eve, knowing full well that it would not be shipped until after the holidays. Much to my surprise, I received an email a few hours later stating that my order had shipped. The order arrived quickly, the installation was every bit as easy as the video makes it look & fit was spot on. I did not have to lower the exhaust & actually installed it by myself, using a series of blocks to lift it into place a little at a time. All total a little over one hour to install.



by:
2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek

Wow! quick delivery, very excited since the instructions were very detailed and clear.

John

2/21/2024

Excellent! The product really serves the purpose for multiple uses, trailer, cargo carrier, bike rack



by:

We bought the Trailer hitch for a bike rack and it has really come in handy. Trailer hitch is quality made and the customer service was great.

Tracy

9/4/2023

Working great, really comes in handy when transporting our bikes to a trail. Would recommend to everyone.



by:

This is a heavy duty hitch that was very easy to install. The video instructions were very helpful. I used a rat tail file to quickly enlarge the holes and the fish wires made it easy to pull the bolts and plates into place. The hitch fit nicely around the muffler without the need to detatch the muffler. I had not problems at all with the installation and it only took about an hour.

Mike

5/20/2022

Great. It is only used to hold a hitch mount bike rack and it is solid so far.



by:

ordered hitch assembly in the morning and later that same day it shipped out to destination! setting on my porch 2 days from ship date (crazy).you pay [online] XX.00 for overnight shipping and dont recive it that f a s t.....moving on to the fabrication of the hitch it is superb,along with powercoating it is sure to last longer then the car.And now the instillation, "CAKE" It practically put itself together.THE END.

Thomas

6/16/2023

hitch is as the day installed



by:

The customer service and speedy shipping from etrailer was fantastic!

The hitch was easy to install and the video online makes the process very easy to follow. It probably took me about 1.5 hrs - I did it solo. Recommend having a hand when actually attaching the the hitch bc it is heavy. I used a dremel to make the bolt holes larger. The fish hook method was super convenient. They provide the “fish hooks”. I did not have to take off my muffler on my 2015 Subaru Crosstrek. Very happy with this decision because Uhaul hitch& install was way more $$$ than etrailer. 10/10 recommend



by:
2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek

Recently received my trailer hitch from etrailer. The install was a breeze especially with the helpful online videos for guidance. I did have to expand the frame hole slightly but only took about 10 minutes for that part. I’d say total instal time was less then an hour. So far I have only used to totes some bikes around but big trip coming up end of July with more gear. Very satisfied. Thanks etrailer.

Jef

7/28/2019

The trailer hitch after a year is still going strong! We use it often and are very satisfied with this product.



by:
2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek

etrailer made it easy, and this hitch works and looks great on the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek. The installation video definitely helped to save me some time.



by:
Subaru XV Crosstrek

I purchased this hitch and a wiring harness for my Subaru Crosstrek to haul a small aluminum boat. The installation of the hitch was fairly easy, the lighting harness was easier!
I am quite pleased with the product and would recommend it to friends.



by:
2017 Subaru Crosstrek

At one year the hitch is doing great! I use it for a bike rack, not towing. Working well!



by:
2017 Subaru Crosstrek

Installation was not as easy as the instructions would indicate. The hardware was too large to fish through the access hole so I had to elongate the hole in the frame. Also it is very difficult to torque the 7/16 nuts down because of the angled steel of the hitch beneath them. It would have been great if they had engineered an access hole to put a socket though the hitch to get at the bolt. Other than those two things, it all went well. The job took less than an hour and a half. I consider myself pretty experienced mechanically and had all the tools I needed already. It was nice to have instructions that were written by a native English speaker.



by:

Great hitch, excellent quality and finish, easy to install, fast shipping from etrailer. I am a big fan!



by:

Hitch was very easy to install, maybe an hour and a half, fishing the bolts worked flawlessly once you got the wire through the second hole. Great service thanks again. Oh and this was installed on a Suburu 2015 crosstek.

Richard

6/30/2021

GREAT !! USE THE HITCH EVERY WEEKEND WITH NO PROBLEMS



by:
2016 Subaru Crosstrek

Fair packaging, box was damaged, but no damage to hitch. Seemed good quality, had it installed instead of doing myself due to car having work done on it at time. Will see how it holds up now to use and NY winters.

Todd

3/7/2023

No complaints



by:
2017 Subaru Crosstrek

Installation followed the video provided on the website very well...was a breeze knowing the right tools to use

Kelsey

5/31/2023

I use this mainly for a hitch mounted Hammock stand behind my Subaru Crosstrek...been an awesome addition and have worked out well.



by:

Hitch was delivered promptly and was exactly as described and works perfectly.



by:
2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek

Your hitch does NOT JUST A BOLT ON!!!…I have to pay $xxx to have it installed!!!… more than the hitch price …three different garage could not install because the holes had to be enlarged and adjusted…will not buy from you again…VERY MISLEADING ADS…



by:

Trailer hitch came with easy to follow instructions and I was able to do it by myself. I was able to install within 30 minutes and that was taking my time. It does help to have the right set of tools(which I do) but I can’t imagine if you need to take it to a shop that they would take long to install it either.



by:
2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek

Easy enough to install as long as you have another pair of hands available. Don't know how you would fasten the bolts otherwise. I got under the car and held it in place and my wife tightened the bolts. The "fishing method" that is on this video (take a look at it if you haven't already) works perfectly, though. Very quick installation even for me who is a practicing attorney and not a car mechanic.



by:
2017 Subaru Crosstrek

Shipped right away and arrived on time. The instructional video was spot on and the hitch went on quickly. Looks great on the car and plenty of room left between the back window and the mountain bike.



by:

Looks good! Came quickly! Would recomme nd!



by:

Great product, easy to install if you have a sawzall or grinder for getting the starter bolts in the frame. It took me 30 min on my first install. A friend had the same vehicle and we knocked it out in just over 15



by:
2016 Subaru Crosstrek

Quick delivery. Feels strong. A second set of hands would have been really helpful, but I had to manage with just the one set. Dropped at my door today. Installed on my car today. Ready to rock.


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Show More Reviews

See what our Experts say about this etrailer Trailer Hitch

  • Will the etrailer.com e98838 Fit a 2014 Crosstrek Hybrid?
    The etrailer.com # e98838 will definitely fit your 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid. Though we have not done an install on a 2014 as of yet, I did include an install video we did on a 2015 for you to check out.
    view full answer...
  • What is the Shipping Weight of the etrailer Hitch for a 2017 Subaru Crosstrek
    The shipping weight of the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver part # e98838 which is a fit for a 2017 Subaru Crosstrek is 35 lbs.
    view full answer...
  • Trouble Tightening Bolts on etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver for 2017 Subaru Crosstrek
    It's hard for me to offer suggestions on the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver part # e98838 which is a fit for a 2017 Subaru Crosstrek as I don't physically have the hitch and vehicle in front of me but the instructions state you'll need the following: 3/8" DRIVE RATCHET 11/16" - 3/8" DRIVE SOCKET 3/4" - 3/8" DRIVE SOCKET DIE GRINDER W/ RASP BIT 3/8" DRIVE TORQUE WRENCH If you still have issues even with the required tools list, I can tell you that I've installed many hitches and some...
    view full answer...
  • Is Stabilization Strap Required for etrailer.com Class III Trailer Hitch on 2016 Subaru Crosstrek
    The etrailer.com Trailer Hitch Receiver # E98838 that you referenced does not require a stabilization strap when using it for non-trailer loads (bike rack, cargo carrier, etc) like with the Curt alternative. This Class III hitch will work perfectly on your 2016 Subaru Crosstrek and will line right up to existing holes in the vehicle's frame for a no-drill installation. I also really like the unique matte black finish on this hitch that creates a more rugged look and is resistant to scratches....
    view full answer...
  • How Does Fishwire Technique Get Used When Installing Bolts Into Frame of 2017 Subaru Crosstrek
    The fishwire technique used to run the bolts through the frame of your 2017 Subaru Crosstrek is an interesting technique but if you take your time with it it's not too bad and actually pretty clever. So I attached an install video to this page that shows the entire install of this hitch but if you fast forward to the 4:15 mark of the vehicle you'll see exactly how to do it on your vehicle.
    view full answer...
  • How to Order Replacement Install Hardware for etrailer.com Hitch # e98838
    Yes, you can order just the replacement hardware you need for the hitch part # E98838 that you referenced with the part # RHK. You'll need to select the hitch manufacturer and enter the part number of the hitch on the product page for this part number and we'll ship you out the correct hardware.
    view full answer...
  • Replacement Hardware Kit For etrailer Trailer Hitch
    Yes, it is. Simply go to part # RHK, type your hitch item number in and select the manufacturer. This will give you a complete hardware kit to replace what was lost.
    view full answer...
  • Does etrailer Hitch # e98838 Fit 2015 Subaru Crosstrek
    Yes the etrailer hitch # e98838 that you referenced does fit a 2015 Subaru Crosstrek XV.
    view full answer...
  • Selecting A Hitch And Determining Capacity For Small Trailer Travel
    While the etrailer.com Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98838 is rated for up to 3,500lbs of gross trailer weight. Your towing setup however is always limited by the lowest rated component and per the owners manual, your Subaru Crosstrek XV is limited to 1,500lbs of gross trailer weight (the total mass of a road trailer that is loaded to capacity, including the weight of the trailer itself, plus fluids, and cargo, that a vehicle is rated to tow by the manufacturer). The etrailer Tongue Weight...
    view full answer...
    Image 1 for
  • Availability of Installation Video of the etrailer.com Hitch # E98838 on a 2017 Subaru Crosstrek
    Although we don't have an installation video of the etrailer.com Trailer Hitch Receiver # E98838 on a 2017 Subaru Crosstrek as of yet (September of 2018), I did link the written instructions and an installation video of the Curt # C13135 being installed on a 2017 Crosstrek. These trailer hitches have very similar installation instructions so you can follow the Curt video steps to install the # E98838. If you let me know what you will be using the trailer hitch for I can make additional...
    view full answer...
  • Hitch Recommendation to Carry E-Bike Rack for 2015 Subaru XV CrossTrek Hybrid
    We do have hitches that fit your 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid which will allow you to use an e-bike rack like the Thule EasyFold XT part # TH903202 that you referenced which is also your best option. The EasyFold is a really great option for E-bikes as it has more than enough weight capacity for the heavier bikes, has a ramp to make loading/unloading easy, and has frame clamps that can fit basically all frame styles. For a hitch we have the etrailer.com hitch part # E98838 which is...
    view full answer...
  • Are the Safety Chain Loops on the EcoHitch Invisi Easy to Acces on a 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
    Since the safety chain loops on the EcoHitch Invisi Trailer Hitch Receiver # 306-X7203 are directly behind the 2" receiver you will have to reach up and under the rear fascia on your 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek both to attach your safety chains and to access the hitch pin hole. This trailer hitch does give you an extremely clean look but if you plan on utilizing the receiver off and on it is not the most user-friendly design. If you would like a trailer hitch that has safety chains loops...
    view full answer...
  • Is there a trailer hitch receiver and trailer connector for 2023 Subaru Crosstrek?
    I confirmed that the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver 2" # e98838 is a fit for your 2023 Subaru Crosstrek. This is a heavy duty 2" receiver, which is the most common size for accessories and ball mounts. I like that the matte black paint helps the receiver blend in and look OEM. If you plan to pull a trailer then you will want a wiring harness to power the trailer lights. For this, you can use this simple plug-in harness # 118467. For a trailer ball mount, I recommend this handy Etrailer...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Trailer Hitch for a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek
    The trailer hitch I recommend for a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek is the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receive part # e98838 because it offers an easy drill-free installation at a great price. The etrailer option has a matte finish which helps it blend in better with the vehicle more than the other glossier finish options. If you will be towing then you will also need a trailer wiring harness, the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness part # 118467 which is plug-n-play and the etrailer Ball Mount Kit part # 989900.
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Trailer Hitch for 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek (Non-Hybrid)
    The trailer hitch I recommend for a 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek (Non-Hybrid) is the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver part # e98838 which is a direct bolt-on fit with no cutting or drilling required. This trailer hitch in particular has a matte finish whereas the other options are glossy and the matte finish will help the trailer hitch blend in with the vehicle more. The trailer hitch I recommend for a 2003 Toyota Highlander is the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C13429 which also features...
    view full answer...
  • Will The EcoHitch Invisi Trailer Hitch Receiver Fit A 2017 Subaru Crosstrek Without A Knock Panel
    The EcoHitch Invisi Trailer Hitch Receiver # 306-X7203 is only designed for XV model Subaru Crosstreks (2013-2017). I spoke with TorkLift and their tech stated that it should have a knockout panel unless it's an aftermarket bumper or if you had a 2018, which is when they changed the body style. You could try taking off your bumper and seeing if there is something in the way that would block the hitch from installing prior to ordering it and follow through with your plan to just cut a...
    view full answer...
  • Install Video for Trailer Hitch that Fits 2014 Subaru XV
    We have install videos for hitches that fit your 2014 Subaru XV like the etrailer # e98838 but at this time we do not have an install video for the # 306-X7203 that you referenced.
    view full answer...
  • Adapter for 1-1/4 Inch Receiver to 2 Inch Receiver for Hitch on 2020 Chevy Malibu
    It sounds like you need a 1-1/4 inch to 2 inch adapter for the trailer hitch receiver that fits a 2020 Chevy Malibu - the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C12185. We do have an adapter available, the Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver # HTAD. Just keep in mind the adapter is for accessories like a bike rack or cargo carrier only, and should not be used for towing. I have added a link below to a video review of the adapter for you to check out as well.
    view full answer...
  • Trailer 4 Flat Wire Harness for a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
    I recommend the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector Item # C56243 as an option that works for the hybrid of the Subaru Crosstrek. The below installation video is a great help when you're ready to get started. If you don't already have a hitch, the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver Class III - 2" Item # E98838 is confirmed to fit and is available in a matte black finish for a nice, less obvious look.
    view full answer...
  • Can etrailer Trailer Hitch for 2016 Subaru Crosstrek Be Installed By 1 Person
    You can install the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98838 on your 2016 Subaru Crosstrek by yourself but it does get tricky since the bolts used for the installation are hanging down through the frame and you need to avoid pushing them back up into the frame when raising the hitch into place. Usually when people install hitches on their own they will use jack stands and blocks of wood to act as a second set of hands. You can follow the linked installation video and instructions prior...
    view full answer...
  • Complete Towing Setup For A 2017 Subaru Crosstrek
    the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98838 you mention weighs 35-lbs. This hitch is also confirmed to fit your 2017 Subaru Crosstrek, and has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500-lbs, as welll as a maximum towing capacity of 525-lbs. You'll want to consult your vehicle owner's manual for your vehicle's maximum towing capacity and compare the rating to the trailer hitch, and utilize the lowest rating between the two, that way you don't overload your vehicle. Finally, if you're interested...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Trailer Hitch On 2016 Subaru Crosstrek for Best Ground Clearance
    For your 2016 Subaru Crosstrek, the EcoHitch Invisi Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # 306-X7203 has the best ground clearance and only fits vehicles with the center knock-out panel in the bumper. The next best ground clearance is in the Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4" # DT24959 which at the lowest point will give you 13 inches ground clearance. This is about an inch more clearance than the 2 inch # e98838 which will give...
    view full answer...
  • Does Bolt Hole Spacing for etrailer.com Trailer Hitch Fit 2015 Subaru Impreza Wagon
    The etrailer.com trailer hitch receiver, part # E98838, has mounting holes that are 33-5/8 inches across and 7-1/16 inches front to back. It's designed to fit the Subaru XV Crosstrek from 2013 to 2015 and then the Crosstrek that followed in 2016 and 2017. It isn't a fit for the Impreza although the mounting hole dimensions are pretty close to the same. It's a custom designed hitch that isn't a fit or to be used on any vehicle other than what it's designed for. The only 2 inch trailer...
    view full answer...
  • Replacement Fish Wire Bolt Leaders and Fit Compatibility Of etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver e98838
    Congratulations on your new vehicle! The etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98838 you purchased uses two different fish wires, so you will need the 1/2" # C58400, and 7/16" # C58410. This hitch is confirmed to fit the 2013-2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek, and the 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstrek. If you are needing a trailer hitch receiver for your new vehicle, just let me know the Year/Make/Model and I would be happy to recommend the best option for you.
    view full answer...


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Info for this part was:

Employee Lindsey S
Edited by:
Lindsey S
Employee Jameson C
Expert Research:
Jameson C
Employee Joshua S
Video by:
Joshua S
Employee Thomas T
Video by:
Thomas T
Employee Jacob T
Video Edited:
Jacob T
Employee Chris R
Video Edited:
Chris R
Employee Wilson B
Updated by:
Wilson B
Employee Robert C
Test Fit:
Robert C
Employee Jacob H
Test Fit:
Jacob H
Employee Ryan G
Test Fit:
Ryan G
Employee Kristina F
Written by:
Kristina F

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