What Causes Rattling Noise After Trailer Hitch Install

Updated 08/27/2020 | Published 08/26/2020

Question:

Hey there, I bought an EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch # 306-X7317 for my 2015 Prius c a month ago and had it installed as I didnt have the right tools on hand. The hitch is quiet for the first few minutes driving, after which I hear a rattle when accelerating and when turning. The rattle is not connected to road conditions bumpy roads dont make it any worse. The sound persists whether only the hitch is on or even if something is attached. Ive taken the car to another mechanic to check the work of the first, but the sound persists. You can hear the sound here: especially in the first and last 4 seconds. Im not sure what yall can so, since the bolts are definitely correctly torqued and there arent any pieces that could be making the sound, but any advice you can offer would be great.

asked by: Austin S

Helpful Expert Reply:

Exhaust rattling against a trailer hitch is a common occurrence but it is easily fixed. Exhaust pipes and mufflers hang on rubber isolators. The hangers can usually be manipulated to gain more clearance between the exhaust and the hitch. I have included a link on this page that covers the different fixes for this problem.

expert reply by: Jameson C