Troubleshooting Trailer Hitch Bolts Not Fitting Weld Nuts on 2012 GMC Terrain

Updated 07/24/2018 | Published 07/22/2018

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(1247)

$148.62

Nylon Tube Brush - 1/2"

(533)

$11.76

Question:

I am putting a hitch on my 2012 gmc terrain and the bolts dont seem to be fitting in the four side holes with the welded nuts the bolts I received are the M12-1.75 x 40mm is that the correct bolt

asked by: Wyatt J

Expert Reply:

The etrailer Class III Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98865 referenced in your question is confirmed to fit your 2012 GMC Terrain. Please just let me know if this is not the hitch model that you have.

This particular hitch does include six M12-1.75 x 40mm bolts for installation, so it appears that you received the correct size bolts. The issue you are experiencing is actually not terribly uncommon. The frame underneath your vehicle is constantly exposed to dirt and grind and this debris can find its way into the open weld nuts. This buildup can lead to issues when it comes to threading in the included bolts for installing a trailer hitch.

I recommend spraying the weld nut with a lubricant like WD-40 and then letting it sit for a bit. Then scrub the bolt hole with a wire brush like # 814092 to loosen up any corrosion or grime. You may need to repeat these steps a couple of times before you can get the bolt started.

I have attached a great article that details this very process that you can also check out. Please let me know if you continue to have issues and I will be happy to look into this further.

expert reply by: Chris R