Fascia Removal for Trailer Hitch Installation on a 2011 Honda Odyssey

Updated 04/22/2011 | Published 04/21/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(1851)

$197.74

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(468)

$61.61

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2597)

$11.62

Draw-Tite Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 2-3/4" Rise, 4" Drop - 9" Long - 7.5K

(3381)

$36.36

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(1343)

$13.60

2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(2597)

$15.49

Pin and Clip for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - 5/8" Diameter x 3-1/4" Span

(887)

$17.06

Question:

I ordered this trailer hitch for my new 2011 Honda Odyssey. The rear bumper is different that what is shown on the installation video for the older models 2000 or 2004, I think. My rear bumper has panels underneath that wrap completely to the gas tank on either side, so the mounting holes for the hitch are not exposed. However, it looks like there are black connectors that I can remove on the bottom of the rear bumper so that the undercarriage is exposed and I dont need to remove the entire bumber or cut it. Do you have any idea how the panels under the bumper can be removed so that I can install the hitch? Thanks!

asked by: Shawn C

Expert Reply:

On the 2011 Honda Odyssey, some models will have a plastic fascia cover that hides the frame rails where the hitch will mount. It sounds like that is what is present on your van. There should be something like 5 fasteners that hold this cover on. You will just need to remove the fasteners and the cover to gain access to the frame rail. You should be able to remove the fasteners with a flathead screwdriver.

If you plan on doing some towing the recommended ball mount is # 2753 and you can use pin and clip # PC3. For a ball you can use # 19260 (1-7/8 inch diameter), # 19247 (2 inch diameter), or # 63847 (2-5/16 inch diameter). For trailer wiring, use Tow Ready Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring, # 118521. I have included a link to the installation instructions for the hitch and the wiring for you to view.

expert reply by: Michael H