Is OEM Hitch Fascia Panel for 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness Compatible With Aftermarket Hitches

Question:

Loved your answers to my earlier questions. A quick follow up- Subaru in their accessories a new rear bumper panel to substitute when installing a trailer hitch. Will this work with your the Curt hitch? From your website I see you have a e65ZR eTrailer hitch that will fit my 2022 Outback Wilderness. It looks exactly like the Curt hitch but at a lower price point and what I really like it is matt black. However it shows not being available until Oct 7. Any chance that will be in stock sooner? What are the disadvantages of this vs the Curt hitch. They look exactly the same. When I attach my Taxa Cricket popup trailer to another Subaru Outback XT the rear end sinks 1.5in, should I worry about this? IS that a reasonable amount? How much sinkl should I worry about? Thanks in advance.

asked by: Richard B

Expert Reply:

From what I've been able to determine by looking at the online instructions for that Subaru Outback Hitch Panel, it appears that the OEM Subaru hitch sits up further on the vehicle, so the receiver tube exits through a hole in the bumper fascia, while the Curt # C67JR install so they sit a little lower, with the receiver tube sitting against the underside of the bumper fascia. Therefore the hitch panel wouldn't work with the aftermarket hitches mentioned above. The e65ZR has been discontinued and isn't available.

The delivery dates we show represent the most current information we possess regarding when the product will be available, and is accurate to the best of our knowledge. The only difference between the Curt and etrailer brand is that the Curt uses a glossy finish while the etrailer brand uses a matte finish.

A 1-1/2 inch sag when the trailer is hitched up isn't a huge deal, I'd only be concerned if the sag is pronounced enough to change aim of your headlights. If it does change the aim of the headlights, I'd recommend using the # CSS-1125R Coil Sumo Springs which will greatly reduce or eliminate that sag.

expert reply by: Mike L