Recommended Trailer Hitch For 2004 Toyota Matrix

Updated 04/18/2017 | Published 04/16/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(93)

$205.43

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

(69)

$45.20

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(667)

$15.80

Nylon Tube Brush - 1/2"

(534)

$12.42

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Stainless Steel - 2,000 lbs

(343)

$34.49

2" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Stainless Steel - 3,500 lbs

(343)

$36.80

Curt Class II Drawbar - 2-5/8" Rise, 3-1/4" Drop - 7-1/4" Long - 3,500 lbs

(2281)

$46.11

Curt Hitch Pin and Clip for 1-1/4" Hitches - 1/2" Diameter x 2" Span

(2948)

$3.38

Question:

I have a Toyota Matrix 2004 and need to install a hitch for a long trip from Ontario to Colorado. I looked under my car today to find that the weld nuts were significantly rusted. I would first like to know if it is possible they are too rusted to be salvageable? I can send pictures if needed. What tap will I need to re thread the weld nuts if it is possible to repair the treads? Thanks

asked by: Jon

Expert Reply:

The trailer hitch I recommend for your 2004 Matrix is the Curt, part # C12221. This is a Class ll hitch and it has a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening. Per Curt all non-trailer loads - bike racks, cargo carriers and so forth - should be supported with stabilizing straps like part # 18050. Failure to properly support these loads will void your hitch warranty from Curt.

I have attached a helpful article that explains how you can clean the rusty weld nuts on your vehicle. You can use something like Blaster Lubricant or WD-40 and spray the weld nuts on your vehicle. Then you can use a brush like part # 814092 to clean the weld nuts on your Matrix.

If you are planning on towing a small trailer with the hitch I recommend a ball mount like part # C45521. This ball mount has a 2-5/8 inch rise and 3-1/4 inch drop. You will also need a hitch pin like part # F-4.

For a 2-inch hitch ball I recommend part # A-82, and for a 1-7/8 inch hitch ball I recommend part # A-80.

If you need a trailer connector I recommend part # 118386.