How to Install a Trailer Hitch on a 2014 – 2018 Subaru Forester
Installing a trailer hitch on a 2014 - 2018 Subaru Forester requires a few tools, a Draw-Tite 76182 trailer hitch, and about 60 minutes to complete the installation. Follow these basic steps to start hauling with your Subaru Forester today.
About the Draw-Tite 76182
The Draw-Tite 76186 is a class 3, bolt-on trailer hitch designed for the 2014 - 2018 Subaru Forester. It has a 3,500 lb. max trailer weight and 525 lb. max tongue weight, capable of hauling a variety of hitch-mounted accessories, like bike racks, cargo carriers or ball mounts.
Tools needed:
- Air saw
- Exhaust pliers
- Safety glasses
- Torque wrench
- Socket wrench
- 10mm long socket
- Flathead screwdriver
- 11/16 in. socket
- 5 in. extension
- Stability strap
- Power drill
- Tin snips
Subaru Forester (2014 – 2018) hitch installation steps
1. Support the exhaust
Attach the center exhaust pipe to a sturdy engine component under the body, like a cross member, using the stability strap. You can also support the exhaust system with a jack.
2. Lower the exhaust
Remove the isolator rods from the rubber exhaust hangers using the exhaust pliers. For single exhaust, there are two rods above the muffler on the passenger side and another in the center of the vehicle behind the rear axle. Dual exhausts have rods on the driver-side muffler as well.
3. Remove the heat shield
The heat shield is found above the exhaust muffler. Use a 10mm socket or Philips screwdriver to remove it. Once removed, use the flat head screwdriver to remove the three-hole plugs on the bottom of the frame. If there are two exhaust mufflers, repeat this step on the driver's side.
4. Trim the heat shield
Using the tin snips, cut away the small squares on the top of the heat shield labeled “M” and “R.” This will allow the hardware to come through the frame. Repeat this step if there are two heat shields.
5. Thread the carriage bolts into the frame
Start by feeding a piece of fish wire coil end first through the rearmost frame hole and out of the access hole toward the front. Attach a bolt and spacer to the coil, and pull the wire back through the access hole until the bolt drops through the rearmost frame hole. Repeat this step for the next frame hole, and again for the other side of the vehicle.
6. Remove the bumper push tabs
Remove both rubber push tabs found on the bottom of the bumper fascia using a flathead screwdriver. Once removed, pry the metal push tabs up until they at about a 90-degree angle.
7. Cut a square out of the bumper
Using the air saw, cut away a small square from the center of the rear bumper where the hitch will be exposed. The cutting dimensions are in the instructions that came with your hitch. You may want to mark the dimensions with masking tape or a marker for a more accurate cut.
8. Attach the hitch
Lift the hitch into position and remove the fish wire from all six bolts. You may need a second pair of hands to assist you. With the hitch in position and fish wire removed, attach the nuts and conical washers with toothed side facing toward the hitch. Tighten the bolts with the 10mm socket.
9. Replace the heat shield(s)
Return the heat shield(s) to the frame using the 10mm socket or Philips screwdriver and the same bolts that were in place previously.
10. Tighten and torque the bolts
Tighten the carriage bolts using the 11/16-inch socket with the 5-inch extension. Use the torque wrench to torque the bolts to 50 ft. lb. You should hear a clicking sound after the correct amount of torque has been applied.
11. Raise the exhaust
Return the isolator rods to the rubber exhaust hangers using the exhaust pliers. For dual exhaust, be sure to replace the rods on the driver side. You may need to lubricate the hangers with soapy water. With the exhaust back in place, you can remove the stability strap.
12. Bend the pushpin tabs back into place
Bend the metal push tabs back into place underneath the rear bumper. Return the rubber push tabs to secure the bumper.
You should now have your Draw-Tite 76182 trailer hitch installed on your Subaru Forester (2014 – 2018).
How much does it cost to add a hitch for a Subaru Forester (2014 – 2018)?
The price range of a hitch for a Subaru Forester ranges from $150 to $193 U-Haul carries several different classes of hitches and offers different sizes to accommodate both 1¼ to 2-inch receivers. U-Haul offers both installation services at local U-Haul service centers and will ship your hitch to your home.
How much does it cost to have a hitch installed on a Subaru Forester (2014 – 2018)?
Installation costs are normally under $100 but you should check with your local U-Haul Moving Center® as prices can differ based on location, the hitch model you are installing, and your vehicle. All U-Haul Moving Centers can install a hitch to your vehicle and with over 1,500 U-Haul centers throughout the country, you can have your hitch installed and be back on the road in no time.
All trailer hitches sold and installed at a U-Haul Moving Center® come with the option of a lifetime warranty plan guaranteed to replace your hitch with no limitation for any damage, including collision, corrosion, accidental overload, jackknifing, and vehicle theft.
How long does it take to install a hitch on a Subaru Forester (2014 – 2018)?
Installation takes anywhere from 1 to 2 ½ hours depending on the hitch being installed and your vehicle. We recommend making an online appointment from our website to accommodate your busy schedule. In addition, U-Haul service centers offer an extensive line of towing accessories (Ball mount, Hitch ball, Pin, and Clip, Wiring) to help you safely tow your boat, camper, or trailer.
Do you need a wiring kit for Subaru Forester (2014 – 2018)
If you are planning to tow a trailer or camper with brake lights, running lights, and turn signal, you will want a wiring kit to power the lights on your trailer. The most common lighting harness comes in a 4 pin and 7 pin connector. The 4- way connector has basic lighting functions (running lights, brake lights, turn signal) while the 7-way connector adds a 12-volt circuit, circuit for electric trailer brakes, and reverse lights. U-Haul offers both 4-way and 7-way connectors. Find out which option is best for your Subaru Forester.
Wiring Kits for Subaru Forester
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