Does etrailer Hitch Require Trimming Rear Bumper for Install on 2020 Mazda CX-5

Published 07/20/2020

Question:

Hi John, I got my e98902 hitch installed on my 2020 CX 5! I need a ball mount and ball. I'm not good at math, and the whole rise/drop thing has me befuddled, so maybe you can help me.The height to the top of the coupler on my trailer is 17 inches when the trailer is level. It takes a 2-inch ball. The height from the ground to the top inside of my 2-inch hitch is 12 1/2 inches. Can you recommend a good ball mount and ball combination for me? If you need any more information or any photos I'd be glad to supply them. Thanks!

asked by: Cliff L

Expert Reply:

I'm not sure how the OEM hitch installs on your 2020 Mazda CX-5, but the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98902 requires zero trimming of the bumper. It is designed to fit around the muffler and the receiver hangs just below your bumper as you can see in the attached photo.

We actually had the chance to install this hitch on a 2020 CX-5 so you can check that out as well. If you let me know what you plan on using the hitch for I can make some recommendations for you.

expert reply by: Jon G

click to enlarge

Cliff L.

7/20/2020

Jon G.

7/20/2020

Glad to hear that you were able to get the etrailer Hitch # e98902 installed! Choosing a ball mount can be a little confusing but I can definitely help you out. The measurements you took are very helpful but you'd want to measure to the bottom of your trailer coupler instead of the top. Since you said the coupler is for a 2" ball that means the bottom of your coupler is going to be around the 15" height. Since your hitch sits lower than your trailer coupler this means you'll need a ball mount with a 2-1/2" rise for your rig to be level. For your application I recommend the Ball Mount Kit # 989900 which includes everything you need plus an extra ball mount, hitch ball, pin and clips, plus a storage bag to keep everything together. You'll also need some wiring and for that I recommend the T-One # 118746 which plugs in behind your tail lights and then draws power directly from your vehicle battery. This means that you won't be splicing in or drawing power from your OEM wiring so it will be protected. Attached is an installation video for the wiring and a review video of the ball mount kit for you to check out.