Recommended Trailer Hitch and Wiring for 2005 Honda Accord

Updated 08/30/2017 | Published 08/29/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"

(219)

$219.09

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

(101)

$39.78

Draw-Tite Drawbar for 1-1/4" Hitch - 2-1/8" Rise, 2-3/4" Drop - 9-3/4" Long - 2K

(2328)

$32.46

Question:

Hi there! I am going to be pulling a small trailer that weighs about 1000 pounds. I was going to pull it with my 2013 Hyundai Elantra sedan, but since it is a 4cyl, I thought it might be a better idea to tow it with my 2005 Honda Accord which is a V6. Before I go buying the hitch and necessities to tow, I would like a second opinion. I understand they are both cars, but is would in fact, the V6 Honda Accord make it easier to tow because it has more power? Or is it safe to go with the Hyundai Elantra because it is a newer vehicle. Thanks so much!

asked by: Madison

Expert Reply:

I did some research on both your 2013 Hyundai Elantra Sedan and 2005 Honda Accord.

You are correct that towing with your older 2005 Accord will be the better option, primarily because of its V6 engine. According to the online owner's manual for your 2013 Hyundai Elantra, this vehicle is actually not designed to tow any size trailer and Hyundai does not recommend doing this. Your 2005 Accord, on the other hand, is able to tow a light trailer up to 1,000 pounds.

Since you will be very close to or at the absolute capacity on the Accord with your 1,000 pound trailer, I recommend doing everything you can to reduce some of its loaded weight by removing some cargo or accessories. I also recommend verifying the loaded weight of your trailer before going on a trip since it will be very close to exceeding the vehicle's capacity.

For your 2005 Honda Accord, I recommend the Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver # 24787. This Class I trailer hitch is confirmed to fit this vehicle and will use existing holes in the vehicle frame to ease the installation process. Just note that on V6 models like yours, you will need to drill a small hole in the heat shield to properly attach the hitch. I have included the installation details for you to check out.

You will also need to install a 4-Way connector at the rear of the vehicle to connect with and power the trailer's signal lights. I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118302. This is a custom fit harness that will connect directly to built-in ports located inside the trunk behind the driver side tail light. I have attached an installation video on the 2006 Honda Accord that you can use for reference.

Lastly, you will need a ball mount. I recommend looking at the Draw-Tite Drawbar # 3592, which features a 2-1/8 inch rise or 2-3/4 inch drop. You will want to choose a ball mount that has sufficient rise or drop to tow your trailer level. If this unit does not have the needed rise or drop, I have attached an article that will help you in choosing the correct ball mount along with our available selection.