What size hitch for Subaru Forester?
When it comes to towing with your Subaru Forester, selecting the appropriate hitch size is crucial for safety and performance. The hitch size you need will depend on the weight of the trailer or cargo you plan to haul. This article will guide you through the process of determining the right hitch size for your Subaru Forester.
Recommended Hitch Size for Subaru Forester
The recommended hitch size for a Subaru Forester is a Class III hitch. This hitch is capable of towing trailers up to 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) gross trailer weight and 500 pounds (227 kg) tongue weight.
Understanding Hitch Classes
Hitch classes are determined by the maximum weight the hitch can safely support. Here's a breakdown of the different hitch classes:
- Class I: Up to 2,000 pounds (907 kg) gross trailer weight and 200 pounds (91 kg) tongue weight
- Class II: Up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg) gross trailer weight and 350 pounds (159 kg) tongue weight
- Class III: Up to 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) gross trailer weight and 500 pounds (227 kg) tongue weight
- Class IV: Up to 7,500 pounds (3,402 kg) gross trailer weight and 750 pounds (340 kg) tongue weight
It's important to note that the Subaru Forester's maximum towing capacity may be lower than the hitch class rating, so always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for the specific towing capacity.
Measuring for the Correct Hitch
To ensure you get the right hitch for your Subaru Forester, you'll need to measure the following:
- Receiver Tube Opening: The receiver tube opening on your Forester's frame should be 2 inches (50.8 mm) in diameter to accommodate a Class III hitch.
- Hitch Mounting Location: The hitch should be mounted to the frame of your Forester, typically near the rear bumper. Consult your owner's manual or a professional installer to determine the best mounting location.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently select and install the appropriate hitch for your Subaru Forester, ensuring safe and reliable towing performance.
How do I tell what size hitch I need?
To measure a hitch size, first measure the inside of the receiver tube to determine its width, as common sizes are 1-1/4", 2", 2-1/2", and 3". Next, measure the ball size needed by checking the trailer coupler for a stamped size (1-7/8", 2", or 2-5/16") or by measuring its internal diameter. Finally, determine the required "rise" or "drop" by measuring the vertical distance between the ground and the top of the receiver tube, and the ground and the bottom of the trailer coupler.
This video demonstrates how to measure your receiver hitch size: 35sRHRSwagYouTube · Oct 22, 2021
Receiver tube size
- Measure the inside: Use a tape measure to get the inside width of the receiver tube on your vehicle. Do not measure the outside.
- Note the size: Common receiver sizes are 1-1/4", 2", 2-1/2", and 3".
Trailer ball size
- Check the coupler: Look for a stamped size (like 1-7/8", 2", or 2-5/16") on the trailer's coupler, which is the part that latches onto the ball.
- Measure if needed: If the size is unreadable, measure the internal diameter of the coupler with a ruler or caliper.
This video demonstrates how to measure the rise or drop needed for your hitch: 1metrailerYouTube · Aug 1, 2023
Rise or drop for the ball mount
- Measure receiver height: Park on level ground and measure the distance from the ground to the bottom, inside edge of the receiver tube.
- Measure coupler height: With the trailer also on level ground, measure the distance from the ground to the bottom of the trailer's coupler.
- Calculate the difference: Subtract the coupler height from the receiver height.
- A positive result means the receiver is higher, and you need a ball mount with that amount of "drop".
- A negative result means the receiver is lower, and you need a ball mount with that amount of "rise".
Can you pull a trailer with a 1.25 hitch?
Comments Section The 1.25 inch factory hitch puts some limits on what you can do, as most accessory carriers use a 2'' receiver. The 1.25 inch receiver can still tow 3500 pounds. I used it for a 1700 pound empty, 12' cargo trailer.
Does the Forester come with a tow 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. 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 size hitch does a Subaru Forester have?
A Subaru Forester tow hitch comes in two size options: 1-1/4” or 2”. This means you can choose between a 1-1/4” x 1-1/4” receiver tube opening or a 2” x 2” receiver tube opening. Both are standardized options and will accept a variety of hitch accessories.
