Does the Draw-Tite Hitch 76182 for a 2018 Subaru Forester Require Bumper Trimming

Question:

On the video it show the notching of the rear bumper with a dremel tool, on the instructions it does not show this step. Is it necessary? thank you

asked by: Steven C

Expert Reply:

Yes, the rear bumper fascia must be trimmed to install the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 76182. This is the drawback of the hidden cross tube design. It does not call this out directly in the instructions but it does provide a diagram of the size opening that needs to be made (see photo).

If you don't want to trim the rear bumper fascia then you can use the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 75876 but keep in mind you will be able to see the cross tube with the hitch installed. Therefore, you will need to choose between hidden cross tube with trimming or visible cross tube with no trimming. I prefer the hidden cross tube as you only have to trim the bumper once.

expert reply by: Conner L