Subaru Outback Towbars Sydney

Which Outback Tow Bar Do You Need?

Subaru changed the Outback's body, rear structure and electrics with each generation, so start with your build date and match it to the product titles above:

• Outback 09/2003–08/2009: ratings depend on the engine. The 3.0L is rated to 1800kg / 180kg, while the 2.5L is rated to 1500kg / 150kg.
• Outback 09/2009–01/2015: rated to 1800kg towing capacity and 180kg ball weight.
• Outback Gen 5 (01/2015–01/2021): rated to 1800kg towing capacity and 180kg ball weight.
• Outback Gen 6 (01/2021 onward): rated to 2000kg towing capacity and 200kg ball weight, with a 50mm square hitch receiver.

Gen 5 vs Gen 6: Different Platforms

The Gen 6 Outback moved to a new platform, so its tow bar has different mounting points from the Gen 5, and the two aren't interchangeable. The Gen 6 bar also steps up to a 2000kg rating and a 50mm square hitch receiver, which suits hitch-mounted bike racks and carriers as well as trailers. If you're not sure which generation you have, check your build plate or contact us with your vehicle details.

Ball Weight and Touring Loads

Outbacks usually tow with a full car. Passengers, luggage, a fridge, roof-mounted gear and the dog all count against the vehicle's payload, and so does the weight on the tow ball. On a holiday or camping trip, it's easy to reach the Outback's limits before the trailer reaches its own.

Before you tow, check your loaded ball weight and your vehicle's own towing capacity, not just the trailer's empty weight. Trailers over 750kg ATM also need their own brakes.

Wiring and Stop/Start Electronics

Outback trailer wiring changes by generation. Earlier models use simpler wiring, while the Gen 6 needs a specific ECU and wiring harness, and later vehicles with stop/start technology need the correct socket setup so trailer lights and the car's electronics work together without fault codes. Our installers fit the right harness and 7-pin socket for your Outback.

If your camper or caravan has electric brakes, we can fit an electric brake controller at the same time as your tow bar.

Supplied and Fitted by Coldys

Tow bars are heavy, model-specific parts, and freight can cost more than you'd expect. Buying and fitting through Coldys means one team handles the right bar, the wiring and the installation, and every tow bar we supply and fit is backed by our lifetime installation warranty. Fitting is done at our Mulgrave workshop, or our mobile team can come to you within 50km of the Hawkesbury.

To get a fast, accurate quote, tell us your Outback's build year, its engine (especially on 2003–2009 models), and what you plan to tow. Learn more about our tow bar installation service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does engine size affect Outback towing?
Yes, on 2003–2009 models. The 3.0L is rated to 1800kg and the 2.5L to 1500kg, so check your engine before ordering.

Does a Gen 5 Outback tow bar fit a Gen 6?
No. The Gen 6 uses a new platform with different mounting points, so choose a tow bar listed for your build year.

Can an Outback tow a caravan?
Later models can tow compact caravans and camper trailers, provided the loaded van weight, ball weight and braking setup stay within rating. With a full car, payload is often the real limit, so we can help you check before you tow.

Can you fit a tow bar I bought elsewhere?
As a rule, we only fit tow bars supplied by Coldys, so we can guarantee the fit and back the installation for life. If you've already bought one, contact us with the details and we'll let you know if we can help.