Install a Subaru Outback Trailer Hitch
Installing an after-market trailer hitch kit to a Subaru Outback yourself instead of using the services of a mechanic will save you money. Outback trailer hitch kits can be found at most auto parts stores, or you can find them online. Installing a Subaru Outback trailer hitch can be done by one person, but it will be easier with a helper.
Steps
- Purchase the appropriate after-market trailer hitch kit for your model year Subaru Outback.
- Inspect the parts for damage and to ensure that they are all in the kit.
- Raise the rear of the Outback and place it on car jacks. You could do your work while the Outback has all 4 wheels on the ground, but it is much easier to raise the rear end.
- Remove the 4 hangers, 2 per side, supporting the exhaust pipe. Silicon grease applied to the hangers and allowed to soak in will help in removing the hangers. The pipe should be hanging free now.
- Use a breaker bar or a 1/2 inch ratchet to remove the 2 forward bolts under the plastic covers.
- Move the hitch into place. It will probably take some trial and error to get it positioned correctly. Check the instructions that came with the kit for hints on placement.
- Use the dual mufflers to help support the hitch during the installation. This will help prevent it falling on you as you work.
- Install the 4 matched spacers on the hitch, 2 per side, by screwing on the 1st spacer and moving to the opposite side to screw on the 2nd spacer. Alternate sides for the remaining 2 spacers, and then bolt the hitch to the car frame.
- Purchase an after-market wiring kit. Get one with enough power to accommodate the trailer you will be hauling. If you're not sure what size to buy, seek professional advice.
- Clear the cargo area enough to allow you to lift the carpet and padding to locate the wire harness hidden under the cubbyhole on the driver's side of the Outback. Strip the tape and insulation back 5 inches (12.7 cm) and identify the following colored wires:
- Blue is a 12V wire
- Black with blue is for tail lights
- Blue with green is the left turn signal
- Red with green is the right turn signal
- Brown is for the brake lights
- Black is the grounding wire
- Use crimp/splice connectors, from the hardware store, to splice the wires in the harness to the matching wires in the wiring kit.
- You can also solder/fuse the wires together if you prefer, but using the connectors will allow you to take the wires apart more easily if necessary.
- Cut a hole in the wall of the tire well with a utility knife, and thread the trailer wire plug through. Attach the adapter to the tire well wall.
- Test the lights. If everything works, replace the carpet and padding.
- This set of instructions including the location of the wire harness and the colors of the wires does not correspond to the 2012 model Outback.
Things You'll Need
- Trailer hitch kit
- Car jacks
- Silicon grease
- Breaker bar or 1/2 inch ratchet
- After-market trailer wiring kit
- 6 or more crimp/splice connectors
- Utility knife
