What Area Needs to be Trimmed on a 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan SE to Install a Trailer Hitch

Updated 08/13/2012 | Published 08/11/2012

Products Featured in This Question

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

(2620)

$16.53

2" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 3,500 lbs

(2620)

$18.47

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

(45)

$95.15

Pin and Clip for 1-1/4" Hitches - 1/2" Diameter

(895)

$11.49

Question:

Ive read about the hitch requiring some cutting of the plastic on my 2012 Tiguan SE and wondering what tools are required and where and what is actually cut?

asked by: Mkb

Expert Reply:

You are correct, there is some trimming required on the rear fascia on a 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan to install a trailer hitch like # 36474. The area that needs to be trimmed is shown in the isntructions I have linked and I have also included a picture that shows the diagram.

As far as tools, you can use a sharp utility knife, slowly make an initial cut as indicated in the instructions, just to score the area. Then make progressively deeper cuts until the blade goes all the way through. Once you have the area trimmed out, use the knife to make the area clean by removing any burrs or strands of material.

If you plan on doing some towing, the correct ball mount is # 36051 and you can use pin and clip # PC2. For a 1-7/8 inch diameter ball use # 19256 and for a 2 inch ball use # 19258. For trailer wiring, use # CU26FR.

expert reply by: Michael H