What Is Needed To Tow With a 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Recommendations for a class 3 hitch and wiring At least 7500 gross trailer weight Wiring harness
asked by: Ryan
Expert Reply:
The highest rated trailer hitch we have for your 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL450 is the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C13102 which does have a class III rating but is limited to only 3,500 lbs. The reason that this trailer hitch is rated so low is because it is designed to fit other GL models like the GL350 which has a much lower towing capacity when compared to the GL450. Therefore, in order to receive a trailer hitch that is capable of your vehicle's maximum trailer towing capacity of 7,500 lbs you will need to use a factory trailer hitch which can be obtained from your dealer.
For a trailer wiring harness, I recommend the ZCI Circuit Protected Vehicle Wiring Harness part # 119250KIT because it has zero contact technology which essentially means you will not need to splice into any wires for installation. It will simply clamp around wires behind the tail light housing.
In order to complete your towing setup you will also need a ball mount and hitch ball. There is an article that walks you through this process which I have attached for you. However, if you do not already have the trailer it will be hard to determine which is correct therefore I recommend an adjustable option like the B&W Tow & Stow 3-Ball Mount part # BWTS10047B which will allow you to tow many different trailers. It also has a unique storage design for a clean look which is not present on any other ball mounts.
I have attached some install and review videos for you below.

Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Recommended Wire Gauge to Wire 8 Marker Lights and 2 Taillights on a Homemade Camper
- Q&A: Recommended Hitch for 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML350 4matic
- Q&A: Dexter Equivalent Replacement for Lippert 148627 Hub/Drum
- Q&A: Trailer Hitch and Wiring for 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML350
- Q&A: Removing Rear Bumper To Install Curt Trailer Hitch # 13342 on 2007 Mercedes ML350
- Q&A: Trailer Hitch that Fits 2010 Mercedes Benz 350ML BlueTEC
- Q&A: Recommended Adapter To Connect 500-lb Propane Tanks To 20-lb Tanks
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Article: How to Install a Brake Controller on Chevrolet / GMC 1999-2006 Pickups