Is Bumper or Fascia Trimming Required to Install a Trailer Hitch on a 2012 Chevy Cruze  

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To install Curt trailer hitch # C11282, you will not need to make any modifications to the bumper or rear fascia. You will need to temporarily lower the exhaust by simply removing the affected area off of its hangers while supporting the pipes with a strap. And there is a heat shield that has to be modified as well but it is under the vehicle and not visible.

Once installed the receiver will be below the rear fascia. I have included a link to a video showing installation of the hitch on a 2012 Cruz and a link to the instructions so you can see what all is involved.

If you plan on doing some towing first consult the vehicle owners manual to determine if the vehicle can tow a trailer. The correct ball mount for the hitch and vehicle is # C45522 and you can use pin and clip # PC2. For hitch balls you would need # 19256 for a 1-7/8 inch or # 19258 for a 2 inch. For trailer wiring use # 118508. This harness plugs in line with the vehicle tail light wiring and powers the trailer lights via a direct connection to the vehicle battery. I have linked a video showing the wiring install as well.

If you want to use the hitch for a bike rack or cargo carrier then make sure that the accessory is compatible with a Class I trailer hitch. And for bike racks you are limited to 2 bikes on a Class I trailer hitch. Curt also states that any non-trailer load like bike racks and cargo carriers will also need a support strap, # 18050, for their warranty. The strap reduces some of the stress on the hitch.

expert reply by: Michael H

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