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Authorized Dealer1998 - 2008 Subaru Forester
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Complete CURT Class 2 1-1/4" trailer hitch and 4-flat custom wiring kit engineered for the 1998 - 2008 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 Forester, Legacy, Outback wagon, Tribeca, B9 Tribeca and Impreza WRX wagon (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 888-634-9494Yes, the 98 - 08 Subaru Forester Curt 1-1/4", Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch + 4-flat Wiring Kit 12038 (Part #CHW-2753) is designed to fit the 1998-2008 Subaru Forester.
The 98 - 08 Subaru Forester Curt 1-1/4", Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch + 4-flat Wiring Kit 12038 (Part #CHW-2753) 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 98 - 08 Subaru Forester Curt 1-1/4", Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch + 4-flat Wiring Kit 12038 (Part #CHW-2753) fits the following vehicles: 1998-2008 Subaru Forester. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The 98 - 08 Subaru Forester Curt 1-1/4", Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch + 4-flat Wiring Kit 12038 (Part #CHW-2753) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, Curt part number 12038 is designed for the Subaru Forester. The hitch is designed for use with ball mount D-55003 or 45503. Confirm your vehicle model matches before purchase.
The gross load capacity when used as a weight-carrying hitch is 3500 lbs trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight. However, you must not exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity, which may be lower.
No, drilling is not required. The hitch uses existing weld nuts on the frame rail and the vehicle's existing 12mm fasteners.
You must remove: (1) the carbon canister and its bracket from the passenger-side frame rail, (2) tie-down brackets from each frame rail, (3) the rearmost exhaust hanger and its bracket from the frame rail, and (4) the center fascia bracket if present. The tie-down and exhaust brackets are returned to the customer after installation.
Yes, the tow hook pad must be modified as needed to provide clearance for hitch installation. The specific amount of modification depends on your vehicle's configuration.
The hitch includes one 7/16-14 UNC Grade 8 hex head cap screw (part 10-10497) and one 7/16-14 UNC Grade 8 serrated flange nut (part 20-00103). The vehicle's existing 12mm fasteners are reused to mount the hitch.
The carbon canister 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 rubber exhaust hanger is re-mounted directly to the hitch's left side plate using fasteners provided with the hitch. This is done after the hitch is mounted to the vehicle.
Torque the 12mm fasteners to 79 lb.-ft.
Torque the 7/16" fasteners to 59 lb.-ft.
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 use with ball mount D-55003 or 45503.
Yes, the Curt 12038 is designed for the Subaru Forester and works with ball mount D-55003 or 45503.
No. The hitch uses existing weld nuts and the vehicle's existing 12mm fasteners—no drilling required.
One 7/16-14 UNC Grade 8 hex head cap screw and one 7/16-14 UNC Grade 8 serrated flange nut. Vehicle's existing 12mm fasteners are reused.
Torque 12mm fasteners to 79 lb.-ft. and 7/16" fasteners to 59 lb.-ft.
3500 lbs trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight, but do not exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.
Periodically check that all fasteners are tight and all structural components are sound.
Yes, the 55370 is compatible with Subaru Outback wagons, except for the Sport model. The connector is located behind the passenger side rear access panel (S4 location). The 4-flat connector must be inserted through the existing hole in the panel.
Yes, the 55370 is compatible with Subaru Forester models. The vehicle wiring connector is located in the spare tire area on the passenger side under the threshold or near the passenger side interior trim panel. You will need to remove the fasteners securing the trim panel to access it.
Yes, the 55370 is compatible with Subaru Impreza WRX wagon models. Refer to the wiring location guide in the manual for the specific access location on your vehicle.
No, the 55370 is not compatible with Subaru Outback Sport models. It is designed for Outback wagons excluding the Sport variant.
The signal circuits are rated for 3.0 amps per side. The tail and running circuits are rated for 6.0 amps total. Do not exceed these ratings or the tow vehicle lamp load rating, whichever is lower, as this can cause loss of warranty, overheating and potential fire.
The battery connection must be fuse-protected with a 10-amp maximum fuse. Exceeding this rating can cause loss of warranty, overheating and potential fire.
You only need a Phillips screwdriver. Depending on your vehicle model, you may also need a pry tool to remove plastic panels during access to the wiring harness.
The kit includes the custom wiring connector, a 10-amp inline fuse holder with fuse, cable ties for securing loose wires, and a 4-flat dust cover to help prevent corrosion.
The manual does not specify whether the battery must be disconnected before installation. Contact the manufacturer or consult your vehicle owner's manual for guidance on safe electrical work.
On the Tribeca, the wiring connector is located under the rear trim panel. To access it, remove the cargo nets and roll back the carpet in the rear cargo area, then remove the four plastic fasteners securing the jack compartment.
On the Outback, the wiring connector is located behind the passenger side rear access panel (S4 location). To access it, remove the cargo nets and carpet from the center and left cargo area, then remove the black plastic from that area using a pry tool.
Once you have located the vehicle wiring connector, remove the tape covering the plug. Insert the custom wiring connector end into the vehicle connector. Make sure the connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place. For Outback models, insert the 4-flat through the existing hole in the panel.
When in use, route the 4-flat to the center of the vehicle and out of the trunk. When not in use, roll up and store in a convenient, out-of-the-way location inside the trunk. Secure any loose wires with the provided cable ties.
Insert the provided 10-amp fuse into the inline fuse holder. This fuse protects the battery connection and must not be exceeded.
Yes, install the provided 4-flat dust cover to help prevent corrosion. This should be done during the final reinstallation step after all other components have been secured.
All steps must be followed to ensure the wiring connector will function properly. Once installed, test for proper function by using a test light or connecting a properly wired trailer. The manual does not provide detailed testing procedures beyond this.
Yes, it fits Outback wagons (excluding Sport models). The connector is behind the passenger side rear access panel.
The battery connection must use a 10-amp maximum fuse. Exceeding this can cause overheating, fire and loss of warranty.
Make sure the connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place. The manual recommends testing for proper function using a test light or properly wired trailer after installation.
A 10-amp fuse is provided. Insert it into the inline fuse holder as part of the installation.
1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 - 2008 | Subaru Forester | — |
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