Trailer Hitch and Wiring Recommendation for 2012 GMC Acadia

Updated 08/22/2016 | Published 08/20/2016

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1791)

$160.94

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

(173)

$41.45

Battery Post and Terminal Cleaner - Wire Brush

(15)

$5.02

Question:

I am after some assistance in choosing a hitch make and model and wiring package make and model for my 2012 GMC Acadia AWD SL. I do not have an existing tow package and would like a 2 inch HIDDEN hitch with either the existing or an aftermarket fascia cover. would you know if existing fascis cover will workso the hitch when not towing is hidden. I would prefer an easy plug and play install for both the hitch and wiring and also request whether any fuse block or trans/oil cooler packages are either recommended or necessary.

asked by: Don K

Expert Reply:

The trailer hitch I recommend for your 2012 GMC Acadia is the Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Round Tube Receiver # 75528 because it offers a greater towing capacity at an economical price for you. This hitch will also offer a more streamline look for your Acadia when it is exposed than the square and boxier framed Curt hitch.

We have found that the original fascia cover on the 2012 models of the Acadia is not able to be reinstalled after an aftermarket hitch is installed. Other customers have mentioned that fascia inserts are available that can accommodate the hitch, but this is not an accessory that we offer. I have attached an install photo from the underside of a 2010 Acadia showing where the hitch will sit in relation to the bumper.

I have attached an installation video and the installation instructions for the # 75528 trailer hitch for you. No drilling or welding is required to install the hitch, as the included bolts will install into weld nuts in the vehicle frame. It is likely you will need to give the weld nuts a good cleaning with a spray lubricant and a wire brush # DW00254 before the hitch bolts will feed into the weld nut. I've attached a help article on cleaning weld nuts for you.

For a plug-and-play wiring harness option, I recommend the Tow Ready T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Connector # 118451. This harness will install behind your Acadia's taillight housings in line with the factory wiring. I've attached an installation video and the instructions from this harness for you.

I was not able to find any listing of a required fuse block or transmission or oil cooler for your Acadia to tow. Your vehicle does have a tow/haul mode to help ease the transmission's job while you are towing.