Will The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C11028 Fit A 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata With Aftermarket Exhaust

Updated 01/20/2026 | Published 08/09/2024

Question:

I have nc Miata but has aftermarket exhaust. How can I make sure I have needed clearance before purchasing class 1 hitch.

asked by: Sean G

Expert Reply:

Hey Sean,

The crosstube for the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C11028 sits about 4" down and 4" back towards the rear of the vehicle from the first mounting hole (closest to the back of the car) in the brackets. The square crosstube measures roughly 1-3/4" x 1-3/4". You can find the mounting hole on the frame and then measure down and back to see if it's going to interfere with the aftermarket exhaust.

expert reply by: Kevin C

Gwendolyn Y.

1/19/2026

Hey Sean, were you able to measure the clearance around your Miata’s aftermarket exhaust using those mounting hole points? Knowing if the hitch cleared everything could really help others with similar setups. Your update could make it easier for the next person checking fitment.

Sean G.

1/20/2026

@GwendolynY Ha, it was a disaster. The dimensions given from etrailer were fine, directions were fine, drilling frame and fishing bolts all fine, but.... The parts that bolt onto the frame ran into the exhaust pipes on each side and I had to lengthen the horizontal bar 1" on each side by making aluminum spacers and longer bolts. The parts that bolt onto the frame on each side also needed modification. The exhaust grows in length as it heats so I removed, modified, and reinstalled several times. I also had to go from 4 bolts to 3 on one side for clearance. It works and I was able to take my bicycle trip which is why I did all this.

Gwendolyn Y.

1/20/2026

@SeanG Oh no! I'm sorry to hear about all the road bumps you ran into for the install. I'm glad it worked out in the end. Where did you take off to with your bike?