Underbody Trim Removal for 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring Hitch Installation

Updated 06/02/2021 | Published 06/01/2021

Question:

Hi etrailer. I had a question about the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2inch Item # e98902 for my 2016.5 Mazda CX-5. I saw in the description that it will require the permanent removal of a trim piece if installing on a Grand Touring model. Could you describe the piece? It says underbody, but nothing more. Id hate to permanently remove anything, but as I have a grand touring I guess its unavoidable. Cheers

asked by: Rory K

Expert Reply:

The etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" # e98902 is a confirmed fit for your 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring. As you noted, some Grand Touring models have an additional underbody trim piece that will need to be permanently removed for hitch installation. The installation steps describe it as a plastic underbody panel under the rear bumper held in place with two plastic fasteners.

We have not seen this piece on any of the installs we have performed. Therefore, I do not have a better description of the piece that must be removed. I also reached out to Curt who manufactures this hitch and they had no additional information.

I have attached a video of the installation that may help you identify the panel that may need to be removed during installation.

expert reply by: Robin H