Installing a hitch on the 2010- 2019 Outback requires partial removal of the rear bumper assembly. We begin by removing the tail lights so we can access the fasteners that secure the bumper cover. Once those are removed, the bumper cover is carefully released from the vehicle, including several fasteners located inside the rear wheel wells and along the top edge of the bumper.
With the bumper cover removed, we can access the factory bumper beam. The foam energy absorber behind the bumper is removed to expose the bumper beam bolts. The bumper beam itself is then unbolted and temporarily removed so the hitch can be positioned using the vehicle’s factory mounting points.
The hitch installs between the frame and the bumper beam, allowing it to bolt directly to the vehicle structure. Because the hitch occupies the same space as the factory foam absorber, that foam piece cannot be reinstalled once the hitch is in place.
Once the hitch is aligned, the bumper beam is reinstalled over the hitch and all hardware is torqued to manufacturer specifications. In some cases, a small trim section may be required on the bumper cover to allow proper clearance for the hitch.
Finally, the bumper cover, mud flaps (if equipped), and tail lights are reinstalled, returning the vehicle to its factory appearance with the hitch neatly integrated underneath.
2010- 2019 Outback Hitch Installation Overview
Towing Capacity: 4000 lbsTongue Weight: 600 lbs