Ground Clearance Measurement on 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport with Curt Class III Trailer Hitch

Question:

Hi, I am considering adding a hitch to a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, namely part C13152. But I was curious what impact that would have on ground clearance and/or bumper room when dealing with inclines/declines? I couldnt quite tell from the photos on this. So any extra information would be appreciated.

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

When we installed the Curt Class III Trailer Hitch Receiver # C13152 that you referenced on a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, we found the inside top of the receiver to the ground measured 13 inches. I've attached a photo showing this measurement for you.

For the vehicle we installed the hitch on, from the bottom of the hitch receiver to the ground would measure 10-1/2 inches. These measurements will help give you a good idea of how far off the ground your hitch receiver will sit.

I can't say when or if the hitch or accessory would make contact with the ground, but with 10-1/2 inches from the bottom of the receiver you will want to be careful with going up or down steep inclines/declines. One way to help improve ground clearance for hitch accessories is to use an accessory with a rise in the shank. Some bike racks and cargo carriers come with a shank that has a rise for this very reason.

From the furthest edge of the bumper, the center of the hitch pin hole sits 5-1/4 inches back. This measurement will help you determine if a hitch accessory will clear your Santa Fe's rear bumper once installed. I've attached a photo showing this measurement for you as well.

The installation video of the # C13152 hitch on a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is linked for you, as well as the hitch's installation instructions.

If you are looking to use a bike rack in the hitch, I highly recommend the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE2 2-Bike Platform Rack # HR1450Z. This bike rack features adjustable wheel hoops to fit a variety of bikes; ratcheting, locking hooks to firmly secure your bike, an anti-rattle handle to prevent movement of the rack in the hitch receiver; a hitch lock for security, and the ability to tilt the bike rack away from the vehicle while the bikes are loaded so you can better access the rear cargo area. The shank on this bike rack as a raise of 7 inches to allow your bikes to sit that much higher above the receiver.

All of our hitch bike racks are linked for you.