Folding Cargo Carrier and Light Kit Recommendation for a 2004 Honda Pilot

Updated 07/01/2013 | Published 06/27/2013

Products Featured in This Question

24x60 etrailer Cargo Carrier for 2" Hitches - Steel - Tilting - Folding - 500 lbs

(643)

$235.99

Cargo Carrier Light Kit For 52017 and 52018

(47)

$27.74

Question:

I want to add this to my 2004 Honda Pilot, I noticed it will work on newer models of Pilots but did not see anything on fitting with an older model Pilot. Also, what are the laws about having light kits, most likely only carrying lawn mower but never know what else we might be carrying. We live in Pennsylvania.

asked by: Lee

Helpful Expert Reply:

The etrailer Folding Cargo Carrier, # e98874, will fit on your 2004 Honda Pilot as long as you have a 2 inch trailer hitch receiver. The main problem that we find with folding cargo carriers is bumper clearance when the carrier is in the folded position, but this carrier offers 9-1/2 inches of clearance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest part of the carrier when folded.

To verify if this cargo carrier will fit in the folded position, you can measure the distance from the center of the hitch pin hole on your trailer hitch to the rearmost point of your rear bumper (see photo). On Honda Pilots, we have found this measurement to be between 3-1/4 inches to 4-1/2 inches depending on the brand of your trailer hitch and the year of the vehicle.

You will only need a light kit if the load you are carrying blocks your tail lights. If you think you may need a light kit, then you can use the Cargo Carrier Light Kit, # 52014.

expert reply by: John H