Is Curt Trailer Hitch # 13538 Supposed to Hit Bottom of Bumper on a 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe

Updated 05/19/2014 | Published 05/17/2014

Question:

The hitch hits the bottom of the bumper and when you torque it down it distorts the bumper. How can I fix this. Can I install spacers between the hitch and the frame mounts to provide clearance for the bumper. I have a 2009 Santa Fe Limited

asked by: Kent F

Expert Reply:

I believe something is amiss either with the hitch or the attachment points on your 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited. When we installed Curt trailer hitch # 13538 on a 2009 Santa Fe, see video, we did not have this problem. The bumper remained in its normal position. If the vehicle had ever been hit or otherwise had something occur that moved the fascia position that could have affected the fit.

Also, if the hitch had flexed in the shipping process at all then that could affect the fit as well. Basically, if the hitch did get flexed, then the receiver would likely be angled up quite a bit at the end.

There are no block spacers specifically designed for use with this hitch. If you were to use spacers the hole diameter would be slightly too large and you would also need longer 10mm grade 5 bolts with the same thread pattern as the ones included with the hitch. Altering the instillation will void the hitch warranty and make the capacity unknown.

expert reply by: Michael H