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Complete CURT Class 2 1-1/4" trailer hitch and 5-flat wiring kit (with 4-way to 5-way adapter for surge brakes) engineered for the 2019 - 2026 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 the next checkpoint is on your adventure -- whether it's getting your bike on the trail before sunrise or making it to the campground before dark -- CURT class 2 hitches let you Bring It with confidence. These receiver hitches are made to handle most light-duty towing applications and offer a custom fit for your vehicle. Typically used on full-size cars, crossovers, compact SUVs, minivans or even compact pickup trucks, a CURT class 2 trailer hitch complements the design of smaller vehicles. This particular class 2 hitch is made to be a custom hitch for certain years of the Subaru Forester (to verify vehicle compatibility, see application info). It offers a weight carrying capacity of 3,500 lbs. GTW and 350 lbs. TW. Class 2 trailer hitches can typically be used to tow a variety of lightweight trailers, such as a small utility trailer, small fishing boat trailer or popup camper (NOTE: Never exceed the lowest weight capacity of any towing component). They are also perfect for adding cargo space to your vehicle with a bike rack or cargo carrier. This class 2 hitch features a 1-1/4" receiver tube to accept a ball mount shank or other hitch-mounted accessory. For safety, it is tested in accordance with SAE J684. A custom trailer hitch design requires extra care, and as such, CURT class 2 hitches are engineered using real vehicles and hands-on research. We use high-strength steel, robotic welding and rigorous testing to produce hitches that are built to fit your lifestyle. To ensure that each hitch will be a reliable extension of your vehicle, we also finish our hitches in a co-curing of liquid A-coat and black powder coat, giving them long-lasting rust and wear resistance.
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
The 19 - 24 Subaru Forester Curt 1-1/4" Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 12198 (Part #5W-CHW-2745) fits the following vehicles: 2019-2024 Subaru Forester. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The 19 - 24 Subaru Forester Curt 1-1/4" Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 12198 (Part #5W-CHW-2745) fits 2019-2024 Subaru Forester models. The 2024 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
Yes, the 19 - 24 Subaru Forester Curt 1-1/4" Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 12198 (Part #5W-CHW-2745) is designed to fit the 2019-2024 Subaru Forester.
The 19 - 24 Subaru Forester Curt 1-1/4" Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 12198 (Part #5W-CHW-2745) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, the CURT 12198 is designed for 2019-current Subaru Forester SUVs. Verify your vehicle year and model match this range before purchasing. The hitch is a weight-carrying type with a 3500 lbs trailer weight capacity and 350 lbs tongue weight capacity.
Yes, the installation procedure accommodates both single and dual exhaust configurations. For single exhaust vehicles, you remove 2 exhaust hangers from the passenger side muffler and 1 from the center front. For dual exhaust vehicles, you also remove 2 exhaust hangers from the driver side muffler. The manual specifies different heat shield attachment removal for dual exhaust systems.
The CURT 12198 has a maximum trailer weight capacity of 3500 lbs and a tongue weight capacity of 350 lbs when used as a weight-carrying hitch. You must never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity, which may be lower than these specifications.
Required tools are: ratchet, 10mm socket, 3/4" socket, 6" socket extension, screwdriver (Phillips head), die grinder or drill, torque wrench, and jack stands. Safety glasses must be worn at all times during installation.
The kit includes 6 carriage bolts (1/2-13 UNC, 1-3/4", Grade 8, part 10-10272), 6 square hole spacers (0.250 x 1.00 x 2.50", part CM-SP10), 6 flange nuts (1/2-13, Grade 8, part 20-00062), and 6 pieces of 1/2" fishwire (part 1_2 FISHWIRE).
The manual does not specify whether battery disconnection is required. Contact CURT Technical Support at 877-287-8634 for clarification on this step.
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 120 minutes. Actual time may vary depending on experience and familiarity with the vehicle.
Yes. You must enlarge the center hole on each frame rail to approximately 1 1/8" to allow the mounting hardware to pass through. This is done using a die grinder or drill. Additionally, you may optionally drill 5/8" clearance holes in the heat shield using dimples as guides.
Yes. You must remove exhaust hangers to allow the exhaust to be lowered. For single exhaust vehicles, remove 2 hangers from the passenger side muffler and 1 from the center front. For dual exhaust vehicles, also remove 2 hangers from the driver side muffler. The exhaust is then supported in the lowered position during installation and reinstalled at the end.
Yes. You must remove the underbody panel from the driver side frame rail by removing 2 screws and 5 push fasteners. Save these fasteners and the panel for reinstallation after the hitch is installed.
All 1/2" hardware must be torqued to 110 ft-lbs. Use a torque wrench to ensure proper tightening.
The center hole on each frame rail must be enlarged to approximately 1 1/8" diameter to allow the 1/2" carriage bolts and spacers to pass through. The front and rear holes remain at their original size.
After installation, verify that all fasteners are tight and all structural components are sound. The manual recommends periodically checking the receiver hitch to ensure all fasteners remain tight and structural components remain sound during ownership.
Safety glasses must be worn at all times during installation. Use jack stands to safely support the vehicle. If you are hesitant to undertake this task on your own, contact an authorized CURT installer for additional assistance.
Yes. The CURT 12198 complies with safety specifications and requirements for connecting devices and towing systems of the state of New York, V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5 and SAE J684.
The CURT 12198 is designed for 2019-current Subaru Forester SUVs only. It works with both single and dual exhaust configurations.
Maximum 3500 lbs trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight. Never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
Ratchet, 10mm and 3/4" sockets, 6" socket extension, screwdriver, die grinder or drill, torque wrench, jack stands, and safety glasses. Two people may be required.
Yes. You must enlarge the center frame rail holes to 1 1/8" diameter. You must also remove exhaust hangers and the underbody panel. Optional 5/8" heat shield holes may be drilled.
All 1/2" hardware must be torqued to 110 ft-lbs using a torque wrench.
Professional installation: 60 minutes. DIY installation: 120 minutes. Actual time varies by experience.
Periodically check that all fasteners are tight and structural components are sound. Retorque fasteners as needed.
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.
1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 - 2024 | Subaru Forester | — |
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