Will the Curt Hitch for a 2011 Mini Cooper Work With Third Brake Light In Bumper

Updated 07/27/2021 | Published 07/24/2021

Question:

It is unclear what needs to happen with the center mounted backup light where the hitch will protrude from. I would also like to know if this hitch will work with the spare tire mounted underneath as it is. Several photos on your site show the spare tire in place. The backup light is the bigger concern. I have attached 2 photos of the actual car I am looking to add a hitch to and 1 photo of another car that I found on another website that does mention the light being an issue. The car is a 2011 MINI Cooper base. Center mounted in the bumper is the backup light and spare tire is mounted under the bumper. Will the Curt hitch work with this car? Thank you.

asked by: Duane C

Expert Reply:

In regards to the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # C11160 which is a fit for a 2011 Mini Cooper, the third brake light will need to be removed if present. The light can be kept for reuse if the hitch is removed and you can simply zip-tie the harness off to the side. Most models simply have a knockout panel present but the hitch will still work on models with third brake light. The spare tire will not be an issue.

expert reply by: Conner L