Trailer Hitch Recommendation for a 2009 Toyota Matrix

Updated 06/14/2011 | Published 06/11/2011

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)

$59.06

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

(667)

$15.80

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2634)

$16.89

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

(29)

$196.96

Question:

I have regular 2009 Toyota Matrix, not the s, not the xrs. Im confused as to what class of hitch to use. I see that Curt hitches have a class I and Class II for my car. Im not quite sure which one will benefit me better. Let me add more confusion. Supposedly this is a 2009 Matrix but the car was built in Canada 10/18/2008 according to the sticker on the side of the door

asked by: Fernando P

Expert Reply:

First, where the car was built is not as important as what market the car was built for. If it was built for the U.S. market, it does not matter if it was made in Canada, Mexico, or Japan. You have probably noticed that many cars for any given year come out about a year early, so it is not unusual to see a model year 2009 car with a build date of 2008.

A Class II hitch is going to be the better option and out of the 2 Class II hitches, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch # 12228 because it will be slightly more hidden than the other hitch. A Class II trailer hitch has a higher capacity and will give you more options in terms of accessories like bike racks. A Class I trailer hitch by comparison is limited to just 2 bikes.

For any non-trailer load like a bike rack or cargo carrier, Curt requires the use of a stabilization strap, # 18050, to be in compliance with their warranty. If you plan to do some towing, this hitch comes with the correct ball mount, pin, and clip. For a ball, use # 19256 (1-7/8 inch diameter) or # 19258 (2 inch diameter). And for trailer wiring, use # 118460.

I have included a link to the installation details for the hitch and wiring along with installation videos for each showing typical installations.

expert reply by: Michael H