How to Install a Trailer Hitch on a Subaru Outback (2010-2018)
Installing a trailer hitch on a 2010-2018 Subaru Outback requires a few tools, a Draw-Tite 75673 custom trailer hitch, and about 45 minutes to complete the installation. Follow these basic steps to begin hauling all kinds of hitch-mounted accessories with your Subaru Outback today.
About the Draw-Tite 75673
The Draw-Tite 75673 is a class 3, bolt-on trailer hitch designed for the 2010-2018 Subaru Outback. The hitch has a max trailer weight of 4,000 lb. and a max tongue weight of 675 lb. making it capable of hauling small and large loads. No welding is required for installation.
Tools Needed:
- Flat and Phillips head screwdrivers
- Tape
- 10mm and 11/16 in. sockets
- 6 in. socket extension
- Ratchet
- 1-1/8 in. hole saw
- Exhaust pliers
- Drill
- Safety glasses
- Torque wrench
- Tin snip
Subaru Outback (2010-2018) Hitch Installation Steps
1. Support the Exhaust System
Tie a rope or strap around the center exhaust pipe and attach it to a sturdy engine component under the body, like a cross-member. Make sure the strap or rope can be adjusted.
2. Lower the Exhaust
Remove the isolator rods from the rubber exhaust hangers using the exhaust pliers. There are two above each exhaust muffler and another above the center exhaust pipe. You may need to use soapy water to loosen the rods.
3. Remove the Heat Shields
Use a 10mm socket or Phillips head screwdriver to remove the heat shields found above each muffler. Save the bolts, as you will be reinstalling the heat shields after the hitch is installed. Take out the rubber plugs from the holes on the bottom of the frame after the heat shields are removed. There are two on each side.
4. Drill Access Holes in the Frame
Using the 1 ?-inch hole saw, drill an access hole in the frame on the driver and passenger side roughly two inches from the forwardmost plug hole. The access holes will be used to fish-wire the provided carriage bolts into the hitch attachment holes.
5. Thread Carriage Bolts through the Access Holes
Thread the fish wire through the hitch attachment hole and out of the access hole. Attach the carriage bolt and large spacer to the fish wire coil and pull it back through the access hole so the bolt thread drops through the attachment hole and the spacer is between the frame and bolt head. Repeat this step for all other hitch attachment holes. Use the larger spacers for the forward attachment holes and the small spacers for the rear holes.
6. Tape Washers to the Hitch
Tape the provided flat washers over the forward attachment holes on both sides of the hitch.
7. Position the Hitch
Lift the hitch into position, lining up the bolts and the attachment holes. You will need to thread the fish wire through the holes on the hitch. With the hitch in position, remove the fish wire, then attach the conical washers and hex nuts to the bolts and tighten them by hand.
8. Torque the Hex Nuts
Torque each hex nut to 50 ft. lb using the torque wrench. The wrench should make a clicking sound when it has reached the correct amount of torque.
9. Trim the Heat Shields
With the hitch firmly secured, the heat shields must be trimmed to fit above the exhaust mufflers. Using the tin snips, cut away the rectangular area near the forward attachment bolt. The heat shield should be able to fit flush against the hitch bracket with the nut in place.
10. Return the Heat Shields
After both heat shields have been trimmed, reattach them to the frame using the 10mm socket or Philips screwdriver and the same bolts that were in place previously.
11. Raise the Exhaust
Raise the exhaust system by reattaching the isolator rods to the rubber hangers. This can be done by hand or using exhaust pliers. Be sure that all six are reattached and that they are firmly in place. Remove the strap or rope used for support.
Once installed, the hitch will measure:
- 14 ¾ in. from the inside of the receiver the ground
- 6 in. from the pinhole to the end of the bumper
- 4 in. from the end of the receiver to the end of the bumper
Whatever vehicle you drive, we have a trailer hitch that will fit your needs. Don't have enough time to do the installation yourself? Schedule a professional trailer hitch installation and we'll do the work.
For more information visit uhaul.com, and be sure to check out more tips on trailer hitches
How Much Does It Cost to Add a Hitch for a Subaru Outback (2010-2018)?
The price range of a hitch for a Subaru Outback ranges from $155 to $235 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 a Hitch for a Subaru Outback (2010-2018) 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 Outback (2010-2018)?
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 a Subaru Outback (2010-2018)?
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 Outback.
Wiring Kits for Subaru Outback
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