What is the Purpose of the Underbody Panels on 2014 Nissan Rogue that Get Removed to Install Hitch

Updated 05/15/2014 | Published 05/14/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(517)

$188.26

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1375)

$93.56

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(325)

$62.33

Question:

What is the purpose of these two underbody panels? Do they protect the underbody from stones, snow, slush, rust?

asked by: Greg D

Expert Reply:

The purpose of the underbody panels on modern vehicles including your 2014 Nissan Rogue is to aid in decreasing wind resistance while traveling at highway speeds to increase gas mileage and to give a cleaner look underneath the car.

Some of those panels will need to be permanently removed in order to install the Curt Hitch part # C13204 that you referenced. Honestly though, you should not see any change in your fuel mileage. I attached an install video for this hitch.

For trailer wiring you would want the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # C56033.

For a ball mount, hitch ball, and pin and clip, I would recommend the etrailer Ball Mount Kit, part # 989900. This is a kit which includes 2 ball mounts, a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, and a hitch pin and clip.

expert reply by: Jameson C