How to Install a Trailer Hitch on a Subaru Ascent
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Adding a trailer hitch to a Subaru Ascent requires only a few tools, a Curt 13448 trailer hitch, and a short amount of time to complete the installation. This trailer hitch and installation process will work for Subaru Ascent model years 2019-2022.
Follow these basic steps to begin hauling trailers and other kinds of hitch-mounted accessories for your Subaru Ascent today.
Tools needed:
- Safety Glasses
- Torque Wrench
- Flat Head Screwdriver
- Rachet
- Hammer
- Power Drill
- 17mm, 10mm, & 8mm Sockets
Subaru Ascent Hitch Installation Steps
1. Remove Rear Bumper Cover
To begin this hitch installation, we will need to prepare the vehicle for the addition of our hitch to its frame. First, we will need to remove the rear bumper cover. The bumper cover features several plastic clips which can be removed with a small screwdriver. The vehicle’s mudguards are attached with two fasteners which can be removed with an 8mm socket. With all the fasteners removed, we can carefully peel away the rear bumper cover.
2. Remove Bumper Beam
With our bumper cover removed, we can now start removing the rear bumper beam. The hitch will replace this beam on the vehicle and will not be re-installed. Prior to removing it, we will need to detach its two sensor wires. The bumper beam features a 17mm nut and three 17mm bolts on each side that will need to be removed. Once the bumper beam is removed you will see two metal hangers which will need to be hammered in to get them out of the way for the hitch.
3. Install Hitch and Hardware
Now that the hardware is installed, we will tighten and torque according to the manufacturer’s specifications. We will be torquing with a 17mm socket. To finish this step we will be re-installing the sensor wires we previously detached.
4. Tighten and Torque Hardware
Use a 19mm socket to tighten and torque all of your bolts to the manufacturer's specification. There's not enough room on the passenger side to bring a socket into place, so use a crow's foot adapter.
5. Re-Install Bumper and Remove Hitch Cover
Our final step in this hitch installation will be to re-install the bumper we removed in our first step. To re-install we will be attaching all of its plastic clips and the mud flaps we removed. To expose our installed hitch all we need to do is pull and remove the hitch cover on the bumper.
You should now have your trailer hitch installed on your Subaru Ascent.
How Much Does it Cost to Add a Hitch for a Subaru Ascent?
The price range of a hitch for a Subaru Ascent ranges from $180 to $185. 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 a local U-Haul Moving Center® and will ship your hitch to your home.
How Much Does a Hitch for a Subaru Ascent Cost?
Installation costs are normally $100 to $200 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 Ascent?
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 a Subaru Ascent?
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 Ascent.