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Do all Subaru Foresters have a hitch?


Subaru Foresters are popular SUVs known for their reliability, versatility, and off-road capabilities. If you're considering purchasing a Subaru Forester or already own one, you might be wondering whether all models come equipped with a hitch. This article will clarify this question and provide insights into the hitch options available for Subaru Foresters.


Do Subaru Foresters Come Standard with a Hitch?


No, not all Subaru Foresters come with a hitch as a standard feature. While the Forester is designed to be a capable vehicle for towing and carrying gear, the inclusion of a hitch depends on the trim level and whether the vehicle has been equipped with optional towing packages. Typically, Subaru Foresters are sold without a hitch, but one can be added as an accessory.


How to Determine if Your Subaru Forester Has a Hitch


If you're unsure whether your Subaru Forester has a hitch, here are a few steps to check:



  • Inspect the rear of your vehicle: Look underneath the rear bumper for a metal receiver. This is where a hitch would be installed.

  • Check your vehicle's specifications: Review the owner's manual or the window sticker (if available) to see if a hitch is listed as part of the equipment.

  • Contact your dealership: If you're still unsure, your Subaru dealership can confirm whether your Forester was equipped with a hitch at the time of purchase.


Adding a Hitch to Your Subaru Forester


If your Forester does not have a hitch but you need one for towing or carrying accessories like bike racks, you can have one installed. Subaru offers OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) hitches that are specifically designed for the Forester. Alternatively, aftermarket hitches are also available and can be installed by professional mechanics or auto service centers.


When adding a hitch, it’s important to consider the towing capacity of your Subaru Forester. Most Foresters have a towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds, but this can vary depending on the model year and trim. Always ensure that the hitch and any towing equipment you use are compatible with your vehicle's specifications.


Conclusion


In summary, not all Subaru Foresters come with a hitch as a standard feature. However, a hitch can be added either through Subaru's OEM options or aftermarket solutions. If you plan to tow or use hitch-mounted accessories, make sure to verify your vehicle's towing capacity and consult with a professional to ensure proper installation. At Kevin's Autos, we’re here to help with all your vehicle accessory and maintenance needs—feel free to reach out for expert advice or installation services!


Frequently Asked Questions

Is adding a tow hitch worth it?


This installation can protect your belongings and help give you peace of mind on the road. Trailer hitches can also make the process of strapping down your cargo easier than non-hitch alternatives. If you frequently find yourself carrying overhead cargo, a trailer hitch might be for you.



What are the downsides of a Subaru Forester?


A list of some of the most common issues Forester owners have to deal with.

  • CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery.
  • Unintended Acceleration.
  • Brake Light Switch Defect.
  • Cracked Windshields.
  • Lineartronic CVT Reliability.
  • Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires.
  • Subaru EyeSight Problems.
  • Subaru Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags.



Do foresters come with a hitch?


2024 Subaru Forester Towing Capacity by Trim
It's important to note that the hitch receiver is an add-on extra, and is not included with every 2024 Subaru Forester.



Is Subaru discontinuing the Forester?


Subaru Corporation will continue to produce the Forester in Japan for its domestic customers and customers in Europe, Asia, and Australia. That means all Forester made in the U.S. will stay here. Forester production is going up. Subaru Corporation's production of the all-new 2025 Forester has increased.



Does the Forester come with a hitch?


It's important to note that the hitch receiver is an add-on extra, and is not included with every 2024 Subaru Forester. This tow hitch can be ordered from our parts center and installed on-site, meaning your 2024 Subaru Forester is ready to tow from day one.



What comes with the Subaru Forester?


Standard Forester Touring features include:

  • DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System.
  • Subaru STARLINK™ 8.0-inch Multimedia Navigation.
  • 10-way/8-way power-adjustable front driver's/passenger's seats with power lumbar support.
  • Heated rear outboard seats.
  • Heated steering wheel.
  • Two-position driver's seat and mirror memory.



How much does it cost to add a hitch to a Subaru Forester?


How Much Does It Cost to Add a Hitch for a Subaru Forester (2019-2024)? The price range of a hitch for a Subaru Forester ranges from $150 to $175. U-Haul carries several different classes of hitches and offers different sizes to accommodate both 1¼ to 2-inch receivers.



How do I know if I have a tow hitch?


And what the receiver is is this guy right here. So it's where the hitch slides into. So this is actually the hitch. The thing that comes equipped on the truck is called a receiver.



Does the Subaru Forester Wilderness come with a hitch?


It's important to note that the hitch receiver is an add-on extra, and is not included with every 2024 Subaru Forester.



Do all subarus have a hitch?


The answer's that while the new Subaru Outback does not come standard with a trailer hitch, the option to add and install one is always present and the following accessories are also available for purchase from Subaru: 2-Inch Thule Hitch Adapter.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.