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2019 - 2026 Subaru Forester
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Complete CURT Class 3 2" trailer hitch and 4-flat custom wiring kit 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 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®.'
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1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 - 2026 | Subaru Forester | — |
Absolutely! The Curt 2" Class 3 Trailer Tow Hitch + 4-flat Wiring Kit 13409 is specifically designed for 2019-2024 Subaru Forester models, so your 2022 is perfectly compatible. This complete kit includes everything you need - the hitch rated for 3,500 lbs GTW/525 lbs tongue weight, custom wiring harness, mounting hardware, and installation instructions.
This Curt kit (Part #13409) is engineered specifically for 2019-2024 Subaru Forester models only. It features a vehicle-specific design that ensures a perfect custom fit for these exact model years. The kit won't work on other Subaru models or years outside this range.
Yes, this Curt kit covers 2019-2024 Subaru Forester models, so your 2024 is included in the fitment range. You'll get the full Class 3 setup with 2" receiver tube, plus the custom 4-way flat wiring that connects your tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals. The kit even includes a dust cover to keep your connector clean when not in use.
Installation is pretty straightforward thanks to the vehicle-specific design and plug-and-play wiring. The wiring harness plugs directly into your Forester's existing OEM socket - no cutting or splicing required. The kit includes all mounting hardware and detailed instructions for both the hitch and 4-way flat wiring connector.
Yes, CURT part number 13409 is designed for 2019-current Subaru Forester SUV models. The hitch is a Class II weight-carrying receiver hitch with a gross load capacity of 3500 lbs trailer weight and 525 lbs tongue weight. Always verify your vehicle's year and model match before purchasing.
Yes, the hitch is compatible with both single and dual exhaust systems. Installation differs slightly: for single exhaust, you remove 1 exhaust hanger from the center front of the vehicle; for dual exhaust, you remove 2 exhaust hangers from the driver side muffler in addition to 2 from the passenger side. The exhaust must be supported with a jack stand during installation.
The gross load capacity when used as a weight-carrying hitch is 3500 lbs trailer weight and 525 lbs tongue weight. However, you must never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity, which may be lower than these figures.
The hitch weight is 60 lbs.
The hitch includes: 6 bolts (1/2-13 UNC, 1-3/4", Grade 8, yellow zinc, part 10-10272); 6 square hole spacers (0.250 x 1.00 x 2.50", part CM-SP10); 6 serrated flange nuts (1/2-13 UNC, Grade 8, yellow zinc, part 20-00062); and 6 pieces of 1/2" fishwire (part 1_2 FISHWIRE).
Required tools are: ratchet; 10mm and 3/4" sockets; 6" socket extension; screwdriver (Phillips head); grinder or drill; torque wrench; and jack stands. Safety glasses should be worn at all times during 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 30 minutes. Novice (DIY) installation time is 60 minutes. Actual time may vary depending on your experience level and familiarity with the tools required.
The manual rates this installation as 'moderate' difficulty. It states: 'If you are hesitant to undertake this task on your own, contact an authorized CURT installer for additional assistance.' The installation involves exhaust removal, heat shield work, hole enlargement, and fishwire techniques, which may be challenging for inexperienced installers.
Yes. You must enlarge the center hole on each side of the frame rail to approximately 1 1/8" to allow the mounting hardware to pass through. This enlargement is required. Additionally, there is an optional step to drill 5/8" clearance holes in the heat shield using dimples as guides if you choose to reinstall the heat shield without the rear most frame attachment.
The center hole on each side of the frame rail must be enlarged to approximately 1 1/8" diameter to allow the 1/2" mounting hardware to pass through. The frame rail has three existing hole plugs on each side; you will remove these plugs to expose the mounting holes, then enlarge the center hole.
This is optional. You may drill 5/8" clearance holes in the heat shield using dimples as guides, then reinstall the heat shield without the rear most frame attachment. This allows the heat shield to remain in place while accommodating the hitch installation.
Fishwire is a technique to route fasteners through frame holes. In Step 4, you fishwire the 1/2" carriage bolt and spacer through the front and rear frame holes in both frame sides, then reverse fishwire the center hole on both sides. The 1/2" fishwire (included) is used to guide the hardware through the frame rail holes before the hitch is raised into place.
Follow this sequence: (1) Remove exhaust hangers and support the lowered exhaust with a jack stand; (2) Remove heat shield attachments and underbody panel from the driver side frame rail, saving all fasteners for reinstallation; (3) Remove three hole plugs from each frame rail to expose mounting holes; (4) Enlarge the center hole on each frame rail to 1 1/8"; (5) Fishwire the mounting hardware through the frame holes; (6) Raise the hitch into place and secure it with 1/2" hardware torqued to 110 ft-lbs; (7) Reinstall the underbody panel and exhaust.
You do not need to completely remove the exhaust, but you must remove the exhaust hangers and lower the exhaust system. 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. Support the lowered exhaust with a jack stand during installation.
Yes, you must remove the heat shield attachments. In Step 2, remove 4 heat shield attachments using a Phillips head screwdriver or 10mm socket (or 8 attachments total if equipped with dual exhaust). You may then optionally reinstall the heat shield without the rear most frame attachment after drilling 5/8" clearance holes using dimples as guides.
Yes. In Step 2, remove the underbody panel from the driver side frame rail by removing 2 screws and 5 push fasteners. Save all fasteners for reinstallation. The panel is reinstalled in Step 5 after the hitch is secured.
All 1/2" hardware must be torqued to 110 ft-lbs. This includes the 6 bolts, 6 spacers, and 6 nuts that secure the hitch to the frame rails.
The hitch uses six 1/2-13 UNC carriage bolts, 1-3/4" long, Grade 8, yellow zinc plated (part 10-10272). These are torqued to 110 ft-lbs.
The hitch uses six square hole spacers, 0.250 x 1.00 x 2.50" (part CM-SP10). These spacers are placed between the frame rail and the bolt head to distribute load.
The hitch uses six serrated flange nuts, 1/2-13 UNC, Grade 8, yellow zinc plated (part 20-00062). These are torqued to 110 ft-lbs with the bolts.
After installation, periodically check that all fasteners are tight and all structural components are sound. The manual emphasizes this as an ongoing maintenance requirement, not just a one-time check. Verify that all 6 bolts are torqued to 110 ft-lbs and that the hitch is securely attached to the frame.
The hitch has a gross load capacity of 3500 lbs trailer weight and 525 lbs tongue weight. However, you must never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity, which may be lower. Check your Subaru owner's manual for the vehicle's specific towing limit.
Safety glasses must be worn at all times during installation. The exhaust system must be supported with jack stands while lowered. Use proper tools and follow all installation steps in order. If you are hesitant to undertake this task, contact an authorized CURT installer for assistance.
Yes. CURT 13409 is designed for 2019-current Subaru Forester SUV. It is a Class II weight-carrying hitch with 3500 lbs trailer weight and 525 lbs tongue weight capacity.
You need: ratchet, 10mm and 3/4" sockets, 6" socket extension, Phillips screwdriver, grinder or drill, torque wrench, jack stands, and safety glasses.
Yes. You must enlarge the center hole on each frame rail to 1 1/8" to allow hardware to pass through. Optional: drill 5/8" holes in the heat shield to reinstall it without the rear attachment.
All 1/2" hardware must be torqued to 110 ft-lbs.
Professional installation: 30 minutes. DIY (novice): 60 minutes. Difficulty level is moderate.
3500 lbs trailer weight, 525 lbs tongue weight. Never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
No, but you must remove exhaust hangers and lower the exhaust system, supporting it with jack stands. Single exhaust: remove 2 hangers from passenger side muffler and 1 from center front. Dual exhaust: also remove 2 from driver side muffler.
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.
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