Recommended Trailer Hitch for 2016 Subaru Forester

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Question:

Given that my Forester has a towing capacity of just 1500lbs, I suppose a Class1 hitch would be more than enough for anything I might safely tow! However, it seems Class3 hitches are most popular, and your Youtube video presents only Class3s and Class2s for a Forester. Why would I consider buying a Class3 or a Class2 hitch?

asked by: Lance

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

The primary reason I and others recommend a Class III trailer hitch like the Draw-Tite # 75876 over a Class I or even Class II hitch, knowing that you will never come close to its 3,500 pound towing weight capacity, is because of the 2 inch receiver that it provides. A 2 inch receiver opening will give you a much larger selection of hitch-mounted accessories to choose from like bike racks and cargo carriers. Class I and Class II trailer hitches have a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening, which will limit the available options and capacities of these accessories. For example, a Class I trailer hitch, regardless of the capacity of the bike rack itself, can only safely carry up to 2 bikes.

Other than giving you more options down the line for your trailer hitch, it also does not hurt to have an overrated Class III hitch, as it is only going to provide more durability and a stronger construction for however you decide to use it.

I have attached an installation video of this Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch on your 2016 Subaru Forester for you to check out.

Since it sounds like you plan on doing some towing, I also recommend adding the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118467. This will allow you to quickly and easily install a 4-way trailer connector on your vehicle to power your trailer's signal lights. I have included an installation video on your vehicle for this harness for you to review.

You will also need a ball mount to tow a trailer. I recommend the etrailer.com Ball Mount Kit # 989900. This kit includes two ball mounts with different rise and drops as well as the two most common hitch ball sizes. I have included a link that will take you to an article on ball mounts and how to choose the correct one for your setup if the ball mounts in this kit will not work.

expert reply by: Chris R

1

Answer 1

The Draw-Tite Max Frame #75876 is a confirmed fit for all models of the 2018 Subaru Forester, including those with a dual exhaust such as yours. I've added some photos that show the hitch on Forester's with a dual exhaust for you to take a…

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Answer 2

I went ahead and confirmed with the manufacturer that the Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Box X #TH629707 is heavily water resistant, but not water tight. Thule recommends that people who use the carrier Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Box X TH629707…

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Answer 3

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 4

It looks like you will need to pry up that trim piece around the hook. Under it there is likely going to be a screw or something that is holding it on. I recommend using something plastic to pry out that trim piece because a metal tool could damage…

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Answer 5

Yes, the front #TFFF53B Timbren suspension enhancement are similar to the front #SSF-170-40-2 SumoSprings for your 2018 Thor ACE 30.2 Motorhome. Timbren is a little more well-known but we have received feedback from our customers that the SumoSprings…

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Answer 6

It can be a bit tricky to find the exact connection point for the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness #C56370 from just the instructions. What I recommend you do is take a look at the video I've linked which shows this harness being installed…

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Answer 7

You could do that if you wish, you'll just want to make sure that the heat shield is NOT sandwiched between the hitch and the chassis of the vehicle at any point. We frequently hear from folks with concerns about the vehicle being harmed because…

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Answer 8

For your 2018 Subaru Forester XT I recommend the Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch #76182 because it features a hidden design where only the receiver is visible beneath the vehicle. This provides you with a clean, OEM appearance unlike the…

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Answer 9

To install the Curt hitch part #C13144 on your 2015 Subaru Forester you will need to permanently remove the rear heat shield. I attached the install video you referenced as well as instructions that detail how this is done. Heat shields like what…

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Answer 10

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 11

The differences that you noted between the Draw-Tite trailer hitches #75876 and #76182 for your 2018 Subaru Forester are spot on. Both are custom hitches so no drilling is required (although you may need to enlarge some access holes) and they both…

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Answer 12

My recommendation for a trailer hitch for your 2015 Subaru Forester is the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch, part #75876. It is a Class lll hitch and has a 2 inch receiver opening. It has a towing capacity at 3,500 lbs and a tongue weight of 525 lbs. I prefer…

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Recommended Trailer Hitch for 2016 Subaru Forester

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