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Subaru Outback with Trailer Hitch ReceiverSubaru Outback with Trailer Hitch Receiver

Your Subaru Outback Trailer Hitch is Here

If you're looking for the perfect trailer hitch for your Subaru Outback, you're in the right place. Whether you're towing for the first time or upgrading your setup, CURT offers custom hitches designed to fit your Outback's style and model year perfectly. Browse our selection to find the right receiver hitch, along with wiring, ball mounts, and other towing essentials. Just enter your Subaru's year, make, and model to get started with confidence!

Find a Hitch | Installation Help | Essential Accessories | Upgrades | FAQs

Our Subaru Outback Hitches

Benefits of CURT Trailer Hitches

CURT is a leading manufacturer in the trailer hitch industry, and our hitches for the Subaru Outback exemplify our commitment to quality. Each tow hitch is engineered with precision, constructed from premium materials, and finished to the highest standards. This dedication to quality ensures a superior towing experience every time you hit the road. 

  • Custom fit for original equipment look and feel
  • Dual-coat finish for enhanced corrosion resistance
  • Open-back receiver tube for easy cleaning
  • Standard receiver sizes
  • Comprehensive, in-house safety testing
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Made in USA (some hitches may include imported hardware)
2017 Subaru Outback Trailer Hitch2017 Subaru Outback Trailer Hitch

Subaru Outback Trailer Hitch Installation

Installing a tow hitch on your Subaru Outback is simple with CURT's custom-fit design. This tailored approach means you won't need extensive modifications like drilling or trimming, resulting in a clean, seamless look.

If you're not comfortable installing it yourself, that's perfectly fine. Thanks to CURT's wide dealer-installer network, you can easily find a professional near you to help with the installation.

Example Hitch Installation on 2019 Subaru Outback:

Subaru Outback Hitch Installation Instruction Examples

CURT offers step-by-step install instructions with each of its custom hitches, including trailer hitches for the Subaru Outback. Browse the installation PDFs below to get an idea of the steps involved. Be sure to follow the instructions included with your specific hitch.

2018 Subaru outback trailer hitch installation2018 Subaru outback trailer hitch installation
2017 subaru outback trailer hitch installation2017 subaru outback trailer hitch installation
2024 Subaru outback trailer hitch installation2024 Subaru outback trailer hitch installation

Subaru Outback Towing Essentials

To prepare your Subaru outback for towing, you'll need to outfit your trailer hitch with essential towing accessories. You'll need a wiring harness to connect your trailer lights and a ball mount to secure the trailer coupler. Always check compatibility with your specific model year before purchasing any accessories.

Trailer Wiring Harnesses for Subaru Outback


Essential Hitch Accessories for your Subaru Outback

Subaru Outback Ball MountSubaru Outback Ball Mount

1. Ball Mount

A ball mount fits into the receiver tube of your Subaru outback hitch and provides a secure connection point for the trailer coupler through the trailer ball. Be sure to choose a ball mount that meets your needs in terms of shank size, ball diameter, weight capacity, and drop or rise.

Subaru Outback Trailer Hitch Pin and ClipSubaru Outback Trailer Hitch Pin and Clip

2. Hitch Pin

A hitch pin secures the ball mount or other hitch accessories in the receiver tube of your Subaru Outback hitch. Make sure you select a hitch pin that matches the hole diameter of your receiver.

Subaru Outback trailer Hitch CoverSubaru Outback trailer Hitch Cover

3. Hitch Tube Cover

A hitch tube cover protects your hitch when it's not in use. While the Subaru Outback hitch is designed with an open back for easier cleaning, adding a cover simplifies maintenance even further. Always choose a trailer hitch cover that fits the receiver tube opening precisely.


Subaru Outback Hitch Upgrades

Every Subaru Outback towing setup benefits from a few upgrades. A receiver hitch increases your Outback's versatility by letting you add useful accessories like a bike rack or cargo carrier. When selecting a hitch accessory, be sure to check the shank size and weight rating. This will ensure that the accessory is a good match for your vehicle's towing capacity.

2012 Subaru Outback Trailer Hitch2012 Subaru Outback Trailer Hitch

Subaru Outback Tow Hitch FAQs

1. Can you put a trailer hitch on a Subaru Outback?

Yes, you can install a trailer hitch on a Subaru Outback. Many Outback models are designed to accommodate a trailer hitch, making it easy to tow a small trailer, mount a bike rack, or add a cargo carrier.

When choosing a hitch, ensure it is compatible with your specific model year and meets your towing needs. CURT offers custom-fit hitches that bolt directly onto the vehicle with minimal modifications. 

2. How much does it cost to install a hitch on a Subaru Outback?

The cost to add a trailer hitch to a Subaru Outback depends on several factors, including the hitch type, installation method, and any additional accessories needed. Here’s a rough breakdown:

  • Trailer Hitch: $150 – $400 (depending on brand, class, and weight rating)
  • Wiring Harness: $50 – $150 (needed for trailer lights)
  • Ball Mount & Hitch Ball: $30 – $100 (if towing a trailer)
  • Professional Installation: $100 – $300 (varies by location and labor rates)

In total, expect to pay $300 – $900 for parts and installation. If you install it yourself, you can save on labor costs.

3. How big of a trailer can I tow with a Subaru Outback?

The size of the trailer you can tow with a Subaru Outback depends on your model year and engine type. Some Subaru Outback models can tow up to 3,500 lbs. which would make them great for small utility trailers, teardrop campers, po-up campers, or a small boat trailer. Always check your owner’s manual for exact towing specs and ensure your hitch and accessories are rated appropriately.

4. Does a Subaru Outback have a tow hitch?

A Subaru Outback does not come standard with a tow hitch, but it can be equipped with one. Some trims, like the Outback Wilderness, may include a factory-installed hitch, but most models require an aftermarket hitch installation.

If your Outback doesn’t have a hitch, you can add one from manufacturers like CURT. Just make sure the hitch matches your vehicle’s towing capacity and receiver size.

5. How do I know which trailer hitch will fit my Subaru Outback?

The best way to know which hitch fits your specific Subaru Outback is to use the CURT vehicle lookup tool at the top of our trailer hitch page. Regardless of your year, sub-model, style, or trim package, the lookup will guide you to your available options.

6. Can I install a Subaru Outback hitch myself?

You can install a hitch on your Subaru Outback yourself, but you'll need the right tools. Installation difficulty varies —some hitches require no modifications, while others may be more complex. CURT’s custom-fit design makes the process as simple as possible with minimal modifications. In general, Installation takes anywhere from 1 to 2.5 hours depending on the hitch being installed and your vehicle. Before starting, review the installation instructions for the specific hitch you're considering to determine if it's a job you can handle. If you'd rather have a professional install your tow hitch, a local hitch shop can take care of that for you.  

Disclaimer: These photographs, recommendations, and approximations are intended for demonstration purposes only and do not reflect the specifications of any particular tow vehicle, recreational vehicle, or trailer. Always consult the manufacturer’s Owner's Manual. All third-party product names, logos, brands, and other trademarks shown are the property of their respective trademark holders, and use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.