Does The Heat Shield Need To Be Reinstalled With Trailer Hitch On A 2020 Subaru Forester

Question:

I'm looking at hitch options for my 2020 Subaru Forester. Not sure what all is required to install or if I have to do something special to the heat shield? Seems to depend on the hitch? Simpler the better.

asked by: Sally N

Expert Reply:

Yes, depending on the hitch you choose, you will have to modify, reinstall, or remove entirely the heat shield from your 2020 Subaru Forester. While all the hitch options for your Forester except for the EcoHitch # 306-X7391 are roughly the same difficulty to install, the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C13409 requires you to remove the heat shield entirely so that is one less step in your installation. In cases where the heat shield must be removed and left off, the hitch itself provides more than enough shielding to protect the vehicle from the heat of the exhaust. All are great hitches but I would recommend the Curt for your situation.

To keep the receiver tube from rusting, the Curt Rubber Tube Cover part # C22272 is a great choice for preserving your new hitch. Included are video resources for more information to get you started.

expert reply by: Patrick R