Roof crossbeams and hitch receiver

[Covu]

Hi all!

While I was at the dealership today they mentioned there isn’t a hitch receiver or roof crossbeam set (for an eventual roof rack or bike rack) for the 2015 Legacy and that I’d have to go aftermarket. Does anyone have any recommendations for ones that have held up well for them over the years?

 

[Ecmbuster]

The best aftermarket hitch assemblies are Curt or Reese. Mine is a Curt mounted on a 09 Tribeca.
These are frame mounted and it takes some work to install.
Next will be the installation of the trailer wiring harness.
On my model, the trailer harness connection to the trailer is kept inside the vehicle.

Roof racks are hit and miss but you can try "rackattack" and aftermarket sales shops or the local parts distributor.

Every non-OEM model takes a great deal of care because of how the brackets are mounted around the roof edge.
If left on permanently, the attaching mounts need to be checked for movement and paint damage. Use a protective plastic like 3M around the mounting points.
The preference is a system that is physically / bolted to the roof panel with gusset plates to ensure strength and reliability. If that is performed, take care of any drilled holes with paint and sealers.