Towing Capacity for a 2015 Subaru Outback Wagon

Question:

OK I have the ecohitch EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4 installed on my outback 3.6 and I am looking at trailers. My question is ...the hitch is rated for 525 lbs and my car manual says maximum tongue weight of 200lbs and towing capacity 3000lbs? What value do I use when looking at campers for the dry hitch weight?

asked by: Stephania

Expert Reply:

For starters, the EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 306-X7601 and your 2015 Subaru Outback Wagon are tested independently of one another which is why you are seeing two different figures. The weakest component in a towing setup is always going to be your limiting factor which in this case is the vehicle therefore, you will be limited to 200 lbs tongue weight and 3,000 lbs gross trailer weight.

The dry hitch weight is going to be the tongue weight of the trailer while unloaded. The loaded hitch weight will need to be below the total tongue weight for your Outback which is 200 lbs. Also, in the owner's manual it states that if the trailer is over 1,000 lbs it will need to have brakes. In order to tow a trailer with brakes you will first need a 4-way like part # 118467, a 4 to 7-way adapter like part # ETBC7, and a brake controller like part # 90885.

I have attached install videos for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L