A: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Subaru Forester. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the muffler.
Remove the trailer hitch harness.

Fig 1: Identifying Trailer Hitch Harness
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Remove the rear bumper face. < Refer to REAR BUMPER FACE , REMOVAL, Rear Bumper. >
Remove the bolts, then remove the side plate lower.

Fig 2: Locating Side Plate Lower Bolts
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the nuts, and then remove the trailer hitch main frame assembly.
CAUTION: The trailer hitch main frame assembly is heavy. Be careful when removing.

Fig 3: Locating Trailer Hitch Main Frame Assembly Nuts
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the side plate upper from the vehicle.