My Trailer Hitch Does Not Appear To Fit Due To The Bracket Being Bent

Updated 01/24/2022 | Published 01/23/2022

Question:

Hello, I received my Curt hitch for my 2007 Nissan Xterra and tried to install today order #112552129. Everything went well until I tried to bold the hitch in place. The overall width of the hitch does not match the frame, it appears to be 1.5inch or so too narrow. When it is bolted flush to one side photo 1, there is a large amount of space on the other side photo 2 where the new M12 bolt should go. It appears like it might be bent on that side photo 3? The packaging was undamaged, however. I dont see any way to make it work, unless torquing down on the one side somehow straightens it. Seems like a bad idea.

asked by: Jeff K

Expert Reply:

I will start by saying the Curt # 13514 hitch is a fit for your 2007 Nissan Xterra, so you definitely have the correct part. As to the flange not sitting flush like it should, this is actually a fairly common occurrence with hitches. The frame brackets on hitches are a mild steel so they can flex with the frame of your vehicle when it twists over bumpy terrain. This is intentional as if it was too hard a steel, it would end up breaking. So all you need to do is bend it back into place.

There are a few ways of accomplishing this feat and I included an article on this subject for you to check out. I prefer the method involving wedging the bracket/flange under a step as you can but your body weight into it and go in small increments, but not everyone has access to a step like this. If you do not, check out the article. It will definitely help.

With all that being said, if flexing it back into place doesn't get it corrected or if you are not comfortable doing this, you can contact our Customer Service to get a replacement. I do have to mention that you may still receive a hitch that has the same kind of bend in it though, so just a heads up on that.

expert reply by: Lazer S