Can Trailer Hitch Receiver be Used for Towing on 2013 Buick Encore

Updated 05/26/2015 | Published 05/22/2015

Question:

Is it safe to put trailer hitch on Buick Encore without damageing car and what is the towing capacity thanks

asked by: Bruce W

Expert Reply:

Many Buick Encore owners elect to install a hitch receiver, like the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver, # C11527, on their vehicle in order to transport their bicycles with a hitch mounted rack. Due to the fact that the owner's manual for your 2013 Buick Encore states that this vehicle is neither designed nor intended to tow a trailer, a towing or tongue weight capacity for your vehicle is not provided.

While many people do it, I cannot recommend going against the owner's manual when it comes to towing but if you should choose to use the hitch to transport bikes or a cargo carrier, the best advice that I have would be to not exceed the tongue weight capacity of the hitch or the vehicle capacity weight which includes the weight of all occupants, cargo, and all nonfactory-installed options.

expert reply by: Leah S