Towing Capacity and Trailer Hitch Recommendation for 2021 Subaru Outback 2.5L

Question

Question:

I want to have a hitch installed on my 2021 Outback Premium, 2.5 engine to tow a lightweight camper I am told 2700lbs is max this car can tow, but am a little concerned about where the hitch is placed and if it actually damages any part of the frame? that it is attached to. I have read some of your recommendations, but I believe the hitches were for Foresters. Any suggestions on the right hitch, where I could get it installed... and any feedback on my will it kill my car?inch would be appreciated. Many thanks

asked by: Mike

0

Expert Reply:

According to Subaru, the 2.5L equipped 2021 Outback does carry a 2700 lb towing/270 lb tongue weight capacity. This means that they have tested the vehicle up to that weight, and the engineering folks feel comfortable using that as a towing capacity, knowing that the rear structure/frame members would be used as the attachment point for a hitch.

Given this, I'd personally feel confident towing with the vehicle as long as the capacities/limits mentioned by Subaru in the owner's manual aren't exceeded.

Given the cost, capacities and installed appearance of the available hitches, I'd recommend the Draw-Tite Class III hitch, part # DT94YR. This is a partially concealed design hitch, which means that all but the receiver tube and safety chain loops will be concealed behind the bumper, which most folks find to be the most visually appealing option.

As long as you don't exceed the vehicle's capabilities, you'll be just fine.

Since you'll be towing with the hitch, you'll also need a trailer wiring harness like # 118467, a ball mount like # D-4, a Hitch Pin and Clip item # PC3, and # 19260 for a 1-7/8 or # 63845 for a 2 inch trailer ball.

I don't have any specific recommendations for an installer, but since installation requires that the rear bumper cover be temporarily removed, I'd recommend using a body shop, as they're well-versed on removing body panels without damaging them.

If you click the provided links, you can see install videos for the hitch and wiring harness I recommended.

expert reply by: Mike L

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Answer 1

You are correct. You will always be limited by a total setup's weakest component. In the case of installing the Draw-Tite Class III trailer hitch #75673 on your 2017 Subaru Outback Wagon, you will have to follow the 200 pound tongue weight…

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Answer 2

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 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

I definitely understand being a bit overwhelmed by the amount of options in front of you, however I can definitely help with differentiating the trailer hitches for your 2019 Subaru Outback Wagon along with explaining my personal recommendation,…

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Answer 5

Yep, so long as your 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is not a hybrid both the Curt and etrailer hitches will fit: - Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver #C13382 - etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver #e98912 The only difference besides price is the finish; the…

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Answer 6

If you just need a 4-pin to 7-pin trailer wiring adapter, then you can use part #C57672. This will plug into the 4-pin trailer connector on your brother's vehicle and give him the 7-pin socket for the trailer. Keep in mind, this will only give…

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Answer 7

The Curt #C13410 and Draw-tite #76227 are very similar in design and both have the same weight ratings of 600lbs tongue weight and 4,000lbs of trailer weight. I do like that Draw-Tite does add the additional plate of steel in between the hangers that…

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Answer 8

Yes, we do. To add a hitch to your 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch item #C26VV. This hitch is custom fit and bolts to your Toyota with included hardware. This is a class III hitch with a 2" receiver. It has a…

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Answer 9

The OEM prep package consists of 4 "pucks" in the bed of the truck that will allow you to drop in puck style hitches for easy installation and removal, that gives you a completely clear bed when not in use. The B&W Companion OEM 5th…

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Answer 10

Congrats on the new car! For your 2024 Subaru Outback, I recommend the etrailer Hitch item #e25TR. This hitch is custom fit and bolts to your Subaru with included hardware. I really like this hitch because it mounts behind the rear bumper cover…

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Answer 11

Class I and Class II hitches both have a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening. The difference is that a Class I hitch has a lower tongue weight rating, usually 200 pounds and a lower towing rating, usually 2,000 pounds. A Class II hitch usually has a tongue…

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Answer 12

As far as wiring for the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander, we do have the Curt #C59236 available which is more of a universal hardwire harness. Unfortunately there are not any plug-and-play options that have been confirmed to fit as of yet (October 4,…

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