Our in-house experts typically reply within one business day.
CURT
Verify Fitment
Select your vehicle to confirm this part fits.
2014 - 2018 Subaru Forester
Confirmed to Fit
Always the correct part
We know our products
Quality Products
Free Shipping!
Always the correct part
We know our products
Quality Products
Free Shipping!
Complete CURT Class 3 2" trailer hitch and 4-flat custom wiring kit engineered for the 2014 - 2018 Subaru Forester. Vehicle-specific fit, plug-and-play installation, all hardware and instructions included.
This custom kit fits the following vehicles:
All Hardware and Installation Instructions Included!
Whatever your task at hand -- whether it's launching that boat before daybreak, setting up your camper before the rush or getting a final load to the dump before close -- CURT class 3 trailer hitches offer the strength needed for serious towing. They make it easy to hitch up and Bring It, offering a vehicle-specific fit and the weight capacity to handle a variety of trailers. Custom class 3 hitches are the most common type of receiver hitch for pickup trucks and SUVs. Because of their weight range, they are also found on full-size cars, crossovers and minivans. Each custom-fit class 3 hitch package is made for vehicle-specific mounting. This particular kit fits certain years of the Subaru Forester (see application info to verify vehicle compatibility). It provides a weight carrying capacity of 3,500 lbs. GTW and 525 lbs. TW. CURT class 3 trailer hitches are typically used to attach and haul utility trailers, boat trailers, campers, snowmobile or ATV haulers and more (NOTE: Never exceed the lowest-rated towing component). Each class 3 hitch has a 2" receiver tube and is tested in accordance with SAE J684 for safety. To ensure that CURT class 3 receiver hitches have what it takes for serious trailering, they are designed using a hands-on approach and are constructed with rugged, high-strength steel and precise welding. We also protect our class 3 hitches in a co-cured finish of liquid A-coat and black powder coat for superior resistance to rust, chipping and UV damage.
CURT custom wiring connectors are the easiest way to outfit your vehicle with a CURT trailer wiring connection. They are built with some of the most advanced technology in the industry, and each one is custom-fitted to work with a specific make and model. Some automotive manufacturers install a special socket on the vehicle to be used for vehicle-to-trailer wiring. Although this special socket is not equipped on every vehicle, a CURT custom wiring connector -- also called a T-connector -- utilizes the socket for simple, stress-free installation. Rather than requiring you to cut, splice and solder into your vehicle's wiring system, the custom wiring connector uses a single OEM-compatible plug and instantly provides a standard, universal vehicle-to-trailer wiring connection, typically in the form a 4-way flat. All CURT custom wiring connectors are made vehicle-specific for the easiest possible installation and the best fit. This particular plug-in connector provides a 4-way flat socket and is designed to be a custom wiring option for certain years of the Subaru Ascent, Forester, Outback, Crosstrek and XV Crosstrek (to verify your vehicle compatibility, see application info). It comes with all necessary hardware to establish a solid connection. It also comes with a dust cover to keep the connector socket clean when not in use. To ensure long-lasting reliability, all CURT custom wiring connectors are thoroughly tested for optimal functionality. Stress is the last thing you should feel when towing a trailer -- whether you're hauling your RV to that favorite camping destination, your ATVs up to the hunting grounds or your fishing boat to the new hidden hotspot. At CURT, we think your towing equipment should add to the enjoyment of your experience, not detract from it.
CURT offers a variety of high-quality trailer hitches and accessories for select vehicle models. Find the perfect fit for your towing needs at TowUniverse.
CURT, a Lippert brand, offers a complete line of towing products and is the leading manufacturer of custom-fit trailer hitches. We offer the broadest selection of custom-fit hitches, and each one is designed, welded, and coated in Wisconsin.
CURT is also a leader in flat towing products, as well as 5th wheel, gooseneck, and weight distribution hitches, ball mounts, electrical components, cargo solutions, and other towing accessories.
For everything from passenger cars and vans to full-size pickups and SUVs, CURT is 'The First Name in Towing Products®.'
Experts available to answer your questions
Call 888-634-9494One-Year Limited Warranty
1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 - 2018 | Subaru Forester | — |
Absolutely! The CURT Class 3 hitch kit (Part #13144) is specifically designed for 2014-2018 Subaru Foresters, so your 2016 is a perfect fit. This complete kit includes the 2" receiver hitch rated for 3,500 lbs GTW/525 lbs TW, plus the 4-flat wiring harness with all necessary mounting hardware and installation instructions.
This kit (Part #13144) is custom-made for 2014-2018 Subaru Forester models only. The hitch features vehicle-specific mounting points for a perfect fit, and the 4-flat wiring connector plugs directly into your Forester's existing OEM socket. Always double-check your specific year and model before ordering to ensure compatibility.
Yes, your 2018 Forester is covered by this kit since it fits 2014-2018 model years. You'll get the full setup including the Class 3 hitch with 2" receiver tube and the 4-flat wiring harness. The 2018 is actually the final model year this particular part number covers, so you're getting the right kit.
Installation is pretty straightforward since this is a vehicle-specific design with all necessary hardware included. The wiring is especially easy - it's a plug-and-play setup that connects to your Forester's existing socket without any cutting or splicing required. Complete installation instructions are provided for both the hitch and wiring components.
Yes, CURT part number 13144 is designed for 2014-Current Subaru Forester SUV models. The manual confirms fitment for this vehicle range.
The CURT 13144 is rated for a maximum of 3500 lbs trailer weight and 525 lbs tongue weight when used as a weight-carrying hitch. However, you must never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity, which may be lower.
The hitch weight is 35 lbs.
The kit includes: 6 carriage bolts (1/2-13 x 1 3/4, Grade 8), 6 hex flange nuts (HFN 1213, Grade 8), 6 square hole spacers (.250 x 1.00 x 2.50 inch, part CM-SP10), and 6 pieces of 1/2 inch fishwire.
Required tools are: ratchet, 10mm socket, 3/4 inch socket, 6 inch socket extension, Phillips head screwdriver, die grinder or drill, torque wrench, and jack stands. Safety glasses must be worn at all times during installation.
The manual does not mention disconnecting the battery. No battery disconnection is required for this installation.
Two people may be required to ease installation. The manual notes that using proper tools will greatly improve the quality of the install and reduce the time required.
Professional installation time is approximately 60 minutes. Novice (DIY) installation time is approximately 60 minutes.
Yes. The center hole on each side of the frame must be enlarged to approximately 1 1/8 inch diameter to allow the mounting hardware to pass through. This enlargement is required on both sides of the frame.
The center hole on each side of the frame should be enlarged to approximately 1 1/8 inch (1.125 inch) diameter.
You do not need to remove the entire exhaust system, but you must remove the exhaust hangers. For single exhaust vehicles, remove 2 exhaust hangers from the passenger side muffler and 1 from the center front. For dual exhaust vehicles, also remove 2 exhaust hangers from the driver side muffler. Support the lowered exhaust with a jack stand during installation.
You do not need to remove the heat shield completely. Remove the 4 heat shield attachments using a Phillips head screwdriver or 10mm socket. If your vehicle is equipped with dual exhaust, remove heat shield attachments from both sides.
Three hole plugs are located on each side of the frame. These plugs must be removed to expose the mounting holes. The manual instructs you to return all removed items (plugs, exhaust hangers, and heat shield attachments) to the customer after installation.
Fishwire is a technique for routing fasteners through frame holes. Step 4 instructs you to fishwire the 1/2 inch carriage bolt and spacer through the front and rear frame holes on both frame sides, then reverse fishwire the center hole on both sides. This allows the hardware to be positioned before the hitch is raised into place.
All hardware must be torqued to 110 ft-lb. This applies to the 1/2-13 carriage bolts and hex flange nuts that secure the hitch to the frame.
Never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity. The hitch itself is rated for 3500 lbs trailer weight and 525 lbs tongue weight, but your vehicle's manufacturer may specify a lower limit. Always follow the more restrictive specification.
Yes. CURT recommends the use of 18050 stabilizing straps for all non-trailer (wheel-less) loads. Failure to properly support non-trailer loads with these straps will void the product warranty. For further information, see the CURT catalog or visit www.curtmfg.com.
Safety glasses must be worn at all times while installing this product.
After installation, raise the exhaust back into place and reattach the exhaust hangers. The manual emphasizes that you should periodically check the receiver hitch to ensure all fasteners are tight and all structural components are sound.
The manual recommends that you periodically check the receiver hitch to ensure all fasteners are tight and all structural components are sound. A specific inspection interval is not provided.
CURT Manufacturing LLC warrants this product to be free of defects in material and/or workmanship at the time of retail purchase by the original purchaser. If the product is found to be defective, CURT may repair or replace the product at their option when returned prepaid with proof of purchase. Warranty is voided by alteration, misuse, or improper installation. CURT's liability is limited to repair or replacement and excludes incidental or consequential loss or damage.
Yes, the CURT 13144 is designed for 2014-Current Subaru Forester SUV.
The CURT 13144 is rated for 3500 lbs trailer weight and 525 lbs tongue weight. Never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
You will need: ratchet, 10mm and 3/4 inch sockets, 6 inch socket extension, Phillips head screwdriver, die grinder or drill, torque wrench, and jack stands. Safety glasses are required.
Yes. The center hole on each side of the frame must be enlarged to approximately 1 1/8 inch diameter to allow the mounting hardware to pass through.
No, but you must remove the exhaust hangers and support the lowered exhaust with a jack stand. For single exhaust, remove 2 hangers from the passenger side muffler and 1 from the center front. For dual exhaust, also remove 2 from the driver side muffler.
All hardware must be torqued to 110 ft-lb.
Yes. CURT recommends 18050 stabilizing straps for all non-trailer loads. Failure to use them voids the warranty.
Periodically check the receiver hitch to ensure all fasteners are tight and all structural components are sound.
Yes, the Curt 56040 vehicle-to-trailer connector fits Subaru Forester models from 2009 onwards, including 2009–2013 and 2014+ versions. However, the wiring harness location differs between these model years, so follow the instructions specific to your year. The connector does not fit Subaru Crosstrek or XV Crosstrek Hybrid models.
No. The Curt 56040 is designed for Subaru Crosstrek and XV Crosstrek models, but explicitly excludes Hybrid versions. If you have a Hybrid model, contact Curt Manufacturing or your vehicle manufacturer to confirm compatibility.
The Curt 56040 is rated for Signal Circuits at 3.0 amps per side and Tail/Running Circuits at 6.0 amps total. The battery connection must be fuse-protected with a 10-amp maximum fuse. Do not exceed the product rating or your tow vehicle's lamp load rating, whichever is lower, as exceeding it can cause loss of warranty, overheating and potential fire.
You will need a 10mm socket, a ratchet, and a panel trim removal tool. These are the only tools specified in the manual. Additional tools such as a drill may be needed if you must drill a pilot hole for the ground screw, depending on whether a suitable existing screw is available in your vehicle.
Yes. The first step of installation is to locate the vehicle battery on the driver side under the hood and disconnect the negative battery terminal. This must be done before proceeding with any other installation steps.
On 2009–2013 Forester models, the vehicle wiring harness connectors are located on the driver side under the trays in the trunk. You must first remove all trunk floor coverings and the plastic fasteners securing the trays in the center and on the driver side to access them.
On Subaru Outback models, the vehicle wiring harness connectors are tucked up behind the driver side inner fender trim, visible near the rubber grommet in the floor and the cargo anchor. You must first remove trunk floor coverings and trays to access this area.
On 2014+ Forester and XV Crosstrek models, the vehicle taillight wiring harness connectors are located on the driver side behind the rear trim panel. Pull back on the rear trim panel to locate them.
Insert the custom connector end into the vehicle connector. Make sure the connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place. Do not proceed until the connection is secure and the locking tabs are engaged.
Not necessarily. First, locate a suitable grounding point near the connector, such as an existing screw with nut in the vehicle frame. If no suitable existing screw is available, you may drill a 3/32" pilot hole for the provided screw. Before drilling, check for miscellaneous items that may be hidden behind or under any surface to avoid damage and personal injury.
Locate a suitable grounding point near the connector, such as an existing screw with nut in the vehicle frame, or drill a 3/32" pilot hole for the provided screw if needed. The area should be free of rust, dirt and paint. Secure the white ground wire using the ring terminal and provided screw.
Locate a flat spot inside the vehicle, near the taillight, and adhere the black converter box using the provided double-sided tape. Ensure the surface is clean and flat to allow the tape to bond securely.
Install a red 10-amp fuse into the in-line fuse holder. This is the maximum fuse rating allowed; do not use a fuse with a higher amperage rating.
When in use, route the 4-flat to the center of the vehicle. When not in use, roll it up and store in a convenient, out-of-the-way location. Secure any loose wires with the provided cable ties to prevent tangling and damage.
After installation, reinstall all items removed during the install and reconnect the negative battery terminal. Install the provided 4-flat dust cover to help prevent corrosion. Test the connector for proper function by using a test light or connecting a properly wired trailer.
Test the connector for proper function by using a test light or connecting a properly wired trailer. All steps must be followed to ensure the wiring connector will function properly.
Yes, the Curt 56040 fits Subaru Ascent, Forester (all years), Outback, Crosstrek, and XV Crosstrek—but excludes Hybrid models. Confirm your model year and drivetrain before purchasing.
You need a 10mm socket, ratchet, and panel trim removal tool. A drill may be needed if no existing ground screw is available.
Yes, disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting installation.
Drilling is not required if an existing screw with nut is available in the vehicle frame for the ground connection. If not, drill a 3/32" pilot hole for the provided screw.
The maximum fuse rating is 10 amps. Do not exceed this rating or the tow vehicle's lamp load rating, whichever is lower.
Total for 4 items:
$354.98$458.41
On Sale Today
Original price was $350.90. Current price is $249.98.You save $100.92 (29%)
Free Shipping
Ships free on all orders
Authorized Dealer
Quick Ship
In stock and ready to ship — order now!
FREE ShippingFREE SHIPPING
Estimated delivery Tue, Sep 1 - Fri, Sep 4
Order before 2 PM EST Monday–Friday for same-day processing
Guaranteed safe & secure checkout
No reviews have been added for this product.