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1998 - 2008 Subaru Forester
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Select your vehicle to find the exact plug-and-play parts that fit — no cutting or splicing.
This fits: 1998-2008 Subaru Forester All
A CURT trailer hitch is the key to pursuing your passions, whether you're taking the family boat out for an afternoon on the water or packing up the mountain bikes for a day on the trails. This CURT class 2 hitch is perfect for towing a small trailer, such as a boat trailer, lightweight camper or utility trailer. It can also be used to mount a hitch cargo carrier or bike rack (never exceed the lowest-rated towing component). Like all CURT custom hitches, this class 2 trailer hitch is made for a vehicle-specific fit. It is engineered to seamlessly integrate with select years of the Subaru Forester (see application info to verify fitment). It is rated for 3,500 pounds gross trailer weight and 350 pounds tongue weight. It is also equipped with 1-1/4" x 1-1/4" hitch receiver to accept the included ball mount. The ball mount that comes with this hitch kit has a 3/4" trailer ball hole and can be positioned in the drop or rise orientation for level towing with your specific trailer (trailer ball not included). Like all CURT custom receiver hitches, this class 2 hitch is designed, manufactured, finished and tested with the utmost care. It is engineered for a precise fit, easy installation, maximum towing strength and an integrated look on the vehicle. It is also tested to SAE J684 protocols for safety. This class 2 trailer hitch is finished with our industry-leading dual-coat process for unparalleled rust, chip and UV resistance. It is descaled for a smooth surface, submersed in liquid A-coat for rust prevention inside and out, covered with a highly durable powder coat, and finally co-cured for a dependable shield against the elements. This class 2 hitch comes with a ball mount, hitch pin and mounting hardware for a complete installation.
Trailer hitch weight ratings are limited to vehicle manufacturer's stated capacities
Not compatible for use with vertical hanging bicycles (bike racks that require the bicycles to be hung / mounted vertically)
Includes ball mount #45503, installation hardware, pin & clip
1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 Subaru Forester All Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Ball Mount, Select Subaru Forester
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 888-634-9494The 1998-2008 Subaru Forester All Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Ball Mount (Part #CHD-120383-001) fits 1998-2008 Subaru Forester models. The 2008 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The 1998-2008 Subaru Forester All Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Ball Mount (Part #CHD-120383-001) fits the following vehicles: 1998-2008 Subaru Forester. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
Yes, the 1998-2008 Subaru Forester All Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Ball Mount (Part #CHD-120383-001) is designed to fit the 1998-2008 Subaru Forester.
The 1998-2008 Subaru Forester All Class 2 Trailer Hitch, 1-1/4" Ball Mount (Part #CHD-120383-001) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, Curt part numbers 12038, 36311, and 367038 are designed for the Subaru Forester. This is a weight-carrying receiver hitch with a gross load capacity of 3500 lbs trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight. Do not exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
This hitch is designed for use with ball mount part number D-55003 or 45503.
The gross load capacity when used as a weight-carrying hitch is 3500 lbs trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight. You must not exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
The hitch includes one 7/16-14 x 2.00" hex tap bolt and one 7/16-14 large hex flange nut. The installation also reuses the vehicle's existing 12mm fasteners (seven total) to mount the hitch to the frame rail.
Yes. You must lower the carbon canister and its bracket from the passenger-side frame rail, remove tie-down brackets from each frame rail, disconnect the rearmost exhaust hanger and remove its bracket from the frame rail, and remove the center fascia bracket if present. The tie-down and exhaust brackets are returned to the customer after installation.
Yes. The carbon canister is lowered and its bracket is sandwiched between the hitch and the right frame rail during installation. After the hitch is mounted, the carbon canister is re-mounted to its bracket.
The exhaust hanger is reused. After disconnecting and removing the rearmost exhaust hanger bracket from the frame rail, the rubber exhaust hanger is re-mounted directly to the hitch's left side plate using fasteners provided with the hitch.
No drilling is required. The hitch mounts to existing weld nuts on the frame rail and uses the vehicle's existing 12mm fasteners.
The tow hook pad must be modified as needed to provide clearance for hitch installation. The extent of modification depends on your specific vehicle; consult the installation diagram or contact Curt Manufacturing for guidance on your Forester.
Torque the 12mm fasteners to 83 lb.-ft.
Torque the 7/16" fasteners to 70 lb.-ft.
Curt Manufacturing Inc. warrants this product to be free of defects in material and workmanship at the time of retail purchase by the original purchaser. If the product is found to be defective, Curt may repair or replace it at their option when returned prepaid with proof of purchase. Warranty is voided by alteration, misuse, or improper installation.
Periodically check the receiver hitch to ensure that all fasteners are tight and that all structural components are sound.
The Curt 12038 is designed for the Subaru Forester. It has a 3500 lbs trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight capacity.
Yes. You must lower the carbon canister and remove tie-down and exhaust brackets from the frame rails. These are reused or returned to the customer after installation.
No. The hitch mounts to existing weld nuts and uses the vehicle's existing 12mm fasteners. No drilling is required.
Torque 12mm fasteners to 83 lb.-ft and 7/16" fasteners to 70 lb.-ft.
1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 - 2008 | Subaru Forester | — |
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