Does Curt Trailer Hitch Install on 2020 Kia Telluride Require Removing the Spare Tire

Updated 03/06/2020 | Published 01/10/2020

Question:

For the 2020 Kia Telluride, the Curt hitch requires removing the spare tire? Correct? It goes back on though correct? Is there anything else to know about the install?

asked by: Henry E

Expert Reply:

When installing the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C13420 on a 2020 Kia Telluride you do have to remove the spare tire; that is the first step but it does get put back into place at the end of the installation.

The install of this hitch is relatively straightforward with a number of different steps but nothing that requires any specific technical savvy. You will need to (temporarily) lower the exhaust and remove an underbody panel on the driver side, but apart from that you just raise the hitch into place, bolt it in and do some light fascia trimming on the underside of the vehicle (which won't be noticeable).

I have added links to the installation instructions as well as linked an installation video for you to check out of the Curt Trailer Hitch # C13420.

expert reply by: Kyle S

Mrwianno

3/5/2020

Distance from ground to top of 2 hitch square opening is 17 on factory hitch. What is the technical reasoning for Curt and Draw-Tite to have this dimension at 15 1/2? I would assume that it would be preferred to have hitch higher off the ground. Should be a very good reason for this difference.

Chris R.

3/6/2020

The higher ground clearance for the OEM hitch is just a result of the receiver protruding more through the bumper fascia (instead of resting directly below it like the aftermarket models). This is the case with a lot of factory hitches because it creates a sleeker appearance. Curt and Draw-Tite likely have the receiver below the bumper just so the customer doesn't have to cut as much on the bumper during installation. You're right that it's always nice to have more ground clearance, but you still shouldn't have any issues with the 15-1/2" dimension on the aftermarket hitches.