Why Does Factory Hitch Look Different Than The Curt Trailer Hitch, # C13043, On A 2010 Lexus GX460

Updated 07/01/2010 | Published 06/30/2010

Question:

The receiver you show is very different from Lexus accessories picture. My truck has the wiring and plug under rear bumper and the brake controller plug as well. Just concerned about picture, Lexus site looks like there is much more to the receiver however yours looks like it will bolt up to what is under there now which does not hang below bumper. 2010 Lexus GX460 Hitch

asked by: Craig C

Expert Reply:

On the 2010 Lexus GX460, the Curt Trailer Hitch, # C13043, will bolt to existing holes underneath the bumper beam. The holes in the bumper beam bracket will have existing weldnuts already in the bracket, so you will just line up the holes on the hitch to the holes in the bumper beam bracket and bolt it down.

The Curt hitch and the other hitches I have listed are the same style. The manufacturers (Curt, Draw-Tite and Hidden Hitch) say the reason their hitch looks different than the factory Lexus Hitch is because they design it for ease of installation. Which is being done for most of the new vehicle applications.

The factory Lexus hitch is usually installed at the factory or the dealership, so ease of installation is not as much of a factor as the aftermarket trailer hitch.

As far as strength, sometimes the aftermarket hitches are rated higher than some of the factory hitches. The Curt hitch is a Class III hitch and is rated for 5,000 lbs. Gross Towing Weight and 500 lbs. tongue weight.

I am sending you the installation instructions for the Curt Hitch in a separate email.

expert reply by: Jeff D