Class II Hitch and Cargo Carrier Recommendation for a 2004 Subaru Forester

Question:

We are having a Class II hitch, 1 1/4 receiver put on our 2004 Subaru Forester at the local UHaul. The car is rated for Class I, with a 200 lbs. tongue weight. Are there any problems with putting a Class II hitch on a car rated for Class I? We plan to stay below the 200 lbs limit. Is the Curt 18110 a good fit? Is there a better recommendation? Thanks for any help.

asked by: John R

Expert Reply:

The biggest difference between the Class I hitches and the Class II ones are the capacities. Both are a 1-1/4 inch hitch so it wouldn't make a huge difference either way.

For your 2004 Subaru Forester we only carry Class II hitches like the Curt Hitch # C12038. All that means is that the hitch has more capacity than your vehicle. But since a towing setup is only as strong as it's weakest component you are still limited to the Class I capacities of your vehicle.

Some 1-1/4 inch accessories are only designed to fit Class II hitches, so the good news is no matter what 1-1/4 inch accessory you find like a bike rack or a cargo carrier it will fit your hitch.

The Curt Cargo Carrier part # C18110 that you referenced would be a great choice for a cargo carrier. I attached a review video for this carrier for you to check out as well.

I attached an FAQ article on the differences between the hitch classifications for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C