Installing a trailer hitch on your Subaru Ascent dramatically expands its utility, allowing you to tow trailers, campers, or simply attach a bike rack for your outdoor adventures. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for installing a trailer hitch, empowering you to complete the project yourself with confidence.
Understanding the Benefits and Preparation
Before diving into the installation process, let’s briefly touch upon the advantages and necessary preparations.
Why Install a Trailer Hitch Yourself?
The primary advantage is cost savings. Professional installation can be expensive, adding significantly to the overall cost of the hitch itself. By tackling the project yourself, you save on labor costs and gain a valuable skill. You also have complete control over the process, ensuring it’s done to your specifications. Furthermore, you gain a deeper understanding of your vehicle.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. This will streamline the installation process and prevent frustrating delays. You’ll need:
- Trailer Hitch: Specifically designed for the Subaru Ascent (verify year and trim level).
- Socket Set: Including sockets for the hitch bolts (typically metric).
- Torque Wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Wrench Set: Standard open-end and box-end wrenches.
- Screwdrivers: Phillips head and flathead.
- Pry Bar (optional): Can be helpful for maneuvering exhaust components.
- Penetrating Oil (optional): For loosening stubborn bolts.
- Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes.
- Work Gloves: To protect your hands.
- Car Ramps or Jack and Jack Stands: To safely elevate the vehicle.
- Marker or Pencil: For marking trim locations.
- Trim Removal Tool (optional): For removing plastic fasteners without damage.
Safety First!
Safety is paramount. Before starting any work on your vehicle, ensure it is parked on a level surface, the parking brake is engaged, and the wheels are chocked. Use car ramps or a jack and jack stands to safely elevate the vehicle. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Now, let’s walk through the installation process. These steps are generally applicable, but always refer to the specific instructions provided with your trailer hitch for any model-specific variations.
Step 1: Preparing the Vehicle
- Elevate the Vehicle: Using car ramps or a jack and jack stands, safely elevate the rear of your Subaru Ascent. Ensure the vehicle is stable and secure.
- Locate Mounting Points: Identify the factory-drilled holes in the vehicle’s frame where the trailer hitch will be mounted. These are usually located on the underside of the rear of the vehicle, near the bumper.
- Remove Any Obstructions: Depending on your Ascent’s trim level, you may need to temporarily remove the rear bumper fascia, plastic trim pieces, or the exhaust system hangers. Refer to your hitch’s instructions and vehicle’s service manual for specific guidance. Typically, removing exhaust hangers involves lubricating them with penetrating oil and using a pry bar or large screwdriver to gently separate them from the rubber mounts.
Step 2: Installing the Trailer Hitch
- Position the Hitch: Carefully lift the trailer hitch into position, aligning the mounting holes on the hitch with the corresponding holes in the vehicle’s frame. It’s helpful to have an assistant for this step, especially with heavier hitches.
- Install the Hardware: Insert the provided bolts and washers through the hitch mounting holes and into the vehicle’s frame. Hand-tighten all bolts before fully tightening them. This allows for slight adjustments to ensure proper alignment.
- Torque the Bolts: Using a torque wrench, tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque values. This is a critical step; over-tightening can damage the threads or the vehicle’s frame, while under-tightening can lead to the hitch loosening over time. Double-check the torque specifications in your hitch’s instructions.
Step 3: Reassembly and Final Checks
- Reinstall Any Removed Components: If you removed any trim pieces, exhaust hangers, or the rear bumper fascia, carefully reinstall them in the reverse order of removal.
- Inspect the Installation: Thoroughly inspect the installed hitch to ensure that all bolts are securely tightened and that the hitch is properly aligned.
- Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the ramps or jack stands.
- Test the Hitch (optional): Consider performing a short test tow with a light trailer to ensure the hitch is functioning correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about installing a trailer hitch on a Subaru Ascent:
FAQ 1: What size trailer hitch does the Subaru Ascent use?
The Subaru Ascent typically uses a Class III trailer hitch, which has a 2-inch receiver opening. However, always verify the hitch’s compatibility with your specific year and trim level of Ascent.
FAQ 2: How much does it cost to have a trailer hitch installed on a Subaru Ascent?
Professional installation costs typically range from $150 to $400, depending on the shop and the complexity of the installation. Purchasing the hitch yourself and doing the installation can save you a significant amount of money.
FAQ 3: What is the towing capacity of a Subaru Ascent with a trailer hitch?
The Subaru Ascent has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Ensure the hitch you install is rated for at least this capacity.
FAQ 4: Do I need to install wiring for trailer lights?
Yes, if you plan to tow a trailer, you will need to install a trailer wiring harness to connect the trailer’s lights to the vehicle’s electrical system. This harness typically plugs into existing connectors in the vehicle’s wiring.
FAQ 5: Where can I find the correct trailer wiring harness for my Ascent?
You can find the correct wiring harness online from retailers like etrailer.com, Amazon, or from your local auto parts store. Ensure the harness is specifically designed for your Subaru Ascent’s year and trim level.
FAQ 6: Is it difficult to install the trailer wiring harness?
Installing the wiring harness is generally straightforward. Most harnesses are plug-and-play, meaning they connect directly to existing connectors in the vehicle’s wiring without requiring any cutting or splicing.
FAQ 7: What is the tongue weight capacity of the Subaru Ascent?
The Subaru Ascent’s tongue weight capacity is typically 500 pounds.
FAQ 8: Can I install a trailer hitch on a Subaru Ascent with self-leveling suspension?
Yes, you can install a trailer hitch on a Subaru Ascent with self-leveling suspension. The installation process is generally the same. However, be mindful of the suspension components during the installation.
FAQ 9: Will installing a trailer hitch void my Subaru Ascent’s warranty?
Installing a trailer hitch will not void your vehicle’s warranty, unless the installation is performed incorrectly and causes damage to the vehicle. However, Subaru might deny warranty claims related to towing if you exceed the vehicle’s towing capacity or fail to follow proper towing procedures.
FAQ 10: Do I need to remove the spare tire to install the hitch?
Generally, no, you do not need to remove the spare tire to install a trailer hitch on a Subaru Ascent. The hitch is designed to fit around the spare tire.
FAQ 11: What should I do if I encounter rusted bolts?
If you encounter rusted bolts, apply penetrating oil and let it soak for several hours, or even overnight. Use a breaker bar or impact wrench to help loosen the bolts. If the bolts are severely rusted, you may need to heat them with a torch or cut them off.
FAQ 12: How often should I check the trailer hitch bolts after installation?
It’s a good practice to re-torque the trailer hitch bolts after the first 50 miles of towing, and then periodically thereafter, such as during routine vehicle maintenance. This ensures that the bolts remain properly tightened and the hitch remains securely attached.
By following these steps and consulting the specific instructions included with your trailer hitch, you can confidently install a trailer hitch on your Subaru Ascent and enjoy the added utility it provides. Remember to always prioritize safety and double-check your work to ensure a secure and reliable installation.