Before installation begins, we confirm the hitch application for the vehicle and inspect the enclosed rear frame rails and factory mounting locations.

The 2018–2023 Crosstrek generally accepts a frame-mounted hitch without removing the rear bumper fascia or lowering the exhaust system. This inspection confirms the mounting area is ready and identifies any conditions that could affect fitment.

Factory rubber plugs are removed from the rear frame-rail locations needed for installation, while the center plugs remain in place.

Removing only the required plugs preserves the remaining factory closures and provides controlled access to the enclosed mounting area.

The required access holes are carefully enlarged just enough for the supplied carriage bolts and reinforcement spacers to enter the enclosed frame rails.

This work is performed precisely so the mounting hardware can be installed without unnecessarily opening or altering the vehicle’s frame structure.

Specialized fishwires guide the carriage bolts and reinforcement spacers through the frame rails and into the designated hitch mounting locations.

The wires keep the hardware controlled inside the enclosed frame and help prevent bolts or spacers from being lost or positioned incorrectly.

Where required, the remaining hardware is reverse-fishwired directly through the prepared access openings.

This technique seats the bolt and spacer inside the frame while keeping the threaded end correctly positioned for the hitch, allowing secure installation without cutting open the frame rails.

The hitch is raised into position while the fishwires are guided through its mounting holes. The hardware is protected from being pushed back into the frame as the hitch is seated.

Leveling spacers are used when needed so the hitch sits evenly against the frame rails and the receiver remains properly aligned beneath the vehicle.

Once the hitch is aligned, all mounting hardware is tightened and torqued to the hitch manufacturer’s specifications.

We then inspect the receiver position, hardware seating, frame contact, and overall fitment. Most 2018–2023 Crosstrek hitch installations are completed in up to one hour.

The Crosstrek’s enclosed frame rails make correct hardware routing and access-hole preparation especially important. Professional installation helps avoid:

• Lost or misaligned hardware inside the frame
• Incorrectly seated reinforcement spacers
• Unnecessary frame modification
• An uneven or improperly torqued hitch

We use the correct fishwire techniques, alignment process, and calibrated torque tools to produce a secure, clean installation at your home.