Does the Subaru Forester come with a tow hitch?
The Forester does not automatically arrive with a hitch installed, but you can add one and tow up to about 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. Availability and installation options vary by year and trim.
Hitch availability and installation options
If you plan to tow with a Forester, there are several routes to get a hitch and wiring working correctly with the vehicle:
- Factory-installed towing package (optional) that includes a 2-inch hitch receiver and wiring harness, designed to integrate with Subaru systems and maintain warranty coverage.
- Dealer-installed hitch and wiring harness options offered by Subaru or approved dealers, which may require a professional installation and provide official compatibility guidance.
- Aftermarket hitch options that fit the Forester, typically a 2-inch receiver paired with a vehicle-specific wiring kit; ensure the setup is compatible with your model year and towing needs and consider professional installation to protect warranty and safety.
Consult your Subaru dealer to confirm current availability for your model year and trim, and to ensure proper installation and warranty coverage.
Towing capacity and practical considerations
- Maximum towing capacity is up to 1,500 pounds when the Forester is properly equipped with the factory tow package and has the 2.5-liter engine with CVT.
- Tongue weight and hitch setup matter: a typical guideline is around 10-15% of the gross trailer weight as tongue weight, though exact figures depend on the hitch and trailer design.
- Safety and compliance: towing may require additional equipment or features in some regions (such as trailer brakes or sway control), and it’s important to follow the owner’s manual and local regulations for safe operation.
Always verify the specific towing limits for your exact vehicle configuration with your dealer and refer to the owner’s manual for guidance on hitch installation, weight limits, and maintenance.
Summary
The Subaru Forester does not come with a hitch preinstalled by default, but an official towing package or dealer/aftermarket hitch can enable towing up to about 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. Check with a Subaru dealer for availability, installation requirements, and warranty implications, and plan your towing setup according to the vehicle’s weight limits and safety recommendations.
