Comparing Factory Hitch and OEM Hitch for 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon
Question:
For my 2018 Subaru Outback which is better the factory hitch option or an aftermarket one?
asked by: Rich
Expert Reply:
For your 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon an aftermarket hitch like the Curt # C13206 is easily the better option. You'll have a much lower price to pay, better capacities, and you won't have to deal with the super shallow hitch pin depth that Subaru has on their factory hitches. This makes fitting accessories like bike racks more difficult so aftermarket hitches are definitely the way to go over the factory hitches.
For trailer wiring you'd then want the T-One kit part # 118467 which is a confirmed fit and is our most reliable option. I attached an install video for this as well.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 600 lbs TW
- 4000 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
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Mark
9/7/2020
The factory hitch is the best option. The aftermarket options are pushed by folks looking to profit themselves. I’ve had both. The factory is cleaner fit. The aftermarket options promising more capacity are bull. The hitch doesn’t change or increase vehicle capacity. It’s a sales pitch only. Also, the aftermarket hitched (my experience via Curt) are much less integrated and rust badly over time. Your vehicle will look like a big chunk of rust below the rear bumper well before the car itself shows age. Stick with the factory integrated hitch.