Can etrailer Hitch # e65AR for 1st Generation Murano be Installed on 2nd Generation 2010 Murano

Updated 03/05/2014 | Published 03/02/2014

Question:

I read a post on using a 75148 hitch on a 2010 Nisson Murano The answer was no. I kept the 75148 to put on the 10 car or do I have to swith to the e65AR I really did not want to spend more money for a new hitch. The post answer did not say why it would not fit. All we haul is bicycles Any way I could make it work? Even with a modification?

asked by: Jim C

Helpful Expert Reply:

Both of the hitches you referenced, Draw-Tite # 75148 and the etrailer # e65AR, are intended for the Nissan Murano but for different model years. The # 75148 is intended for model years 2003 - 2007. It is not intended for use on a 2010 Murano; the etrailer hitch # e65AR is a fit for your 2010 Murano.

Hitch manufacturers design their hitches for bolt-on installation to a vehicle frame based on the position of the weld nuts installed by the manufacturer. Nissan made changes to the vehicle between the first generation (2002-2007) and the current generation (2009 and later). These changes mean that the hitch for the first generation cannot directly bolt on to the second generation.

Hitch receivers are designed to deliver their rated performance when installed as intended by the hitch manufacturer. Any deviations from the standard fit and installation will result in an untested/unknown capacity. For example, if new holes were drilled in the hitch mounting flanges to allow installation on a vehicle for which it was not intended there could potentially be changes to the hitch capacity resulting from those additional holes. Also, the mounting position on the frame may be different between the two generations, meaning that the hitch might not sit in the correct position relative to body trim components.

Also, if you were to install a hitch on a vehicle for which it is not intended you would expose yourself to potential liability issues in the event of a mishap.

For these reasons we cannot suggest modifying the old hitch to fit the new vehicle. For reference I have linked you to our page for all hitches for your 2010 Murano.

expert reply by: Adam R