Is It Normal For A Trailer Hitch To Get Very Hot When Driving?
Updated 02/04/2026 | Published 06/24/2024
Question:
Hello is just installed your eTrailer hitch on my 2023 Mazda CX-5. I noticed that the hitch got extremely hot today and was wondering if this is normal and the hitch will last ok. It is mounted right near the muffler. Thanks
asked by: Stephen C
Expert Reply:
Hello Stephen, thanks for reaching out. It is normal for trailer hitches to get hot after a long drive. With the hitch on your 2023 Mazda CX-5 being so close to the exhaust (like most every other trailer hitch), this is expected. The trailer hitches are designed to withstand this kind of heat. There are even some cars where hitch installation requires removal of the muffler heat shield, and the hitch itself assumes the functionality of the heat shield. So, the steel is going to hold up fine and it can "take the heat" so to speak. You can rest assured that this will not cause any issues with the hitch itself.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class III
- 600 lbs TW
- 4000 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Q&A: What Is The Best Trailer Hitch Receiver For My 2021 Mazda CX-5?
- Q&A: Recommended Hitch and Wiring Harness for a 2025 Mazda CX-5
- Q&A: What is the Best Hitch for a 2024 Mazda CX-5?
- Q&A: E-Bike Rack Recommendation for 2016 Mazda CX-5
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Q&A: Recommended Hitch and Wiring for Carrier Platform on a 2020 Mazda CX-5
- Q&A: Comparing Trailer Hitch Receiver Options for 2019 Mazda CX-5
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Article: Which Hitches are Made in the USA
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: How to Correct Noise from Exhaust Rattling Against a Trailer Hitch
- Article: Routing the Power Wire for a Trailer Wiring Harness
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
Jesse M.
2/3/2026
Hey Stephen, how has the hitch on your CX-5 been holding up since you noticed the heat near the muffler? It’d be great to hear if everything’s stayed solid after a few more drives. Your update could help others wondering about the same thing.