How Much Ground Clearance Will Curt Hitch Have for a 2009 Kia Optima

Updated 09/05/2024 | Published 08/31/2024

Question:

Hello! We’d like to fit this tow bar onto our 2009 Kia Optima because we typically tow our Optima behind our Class A motorhome on a dolly. However, we store the motorhome offsite at a storage facility and we keep our EZ Haul tow dolly in our garage. We’d like to be able to tow the dolly behind the Kia up to the storage site, then hook the dolly up to the camper and load the Kia onto it. My concern is whether there will be enough clearance beneath the back bumper of the Kia once we load it onto the dolly, which sits about 8 inches above the road. Thanks for any insight you can provide.

asked by: Veronica H

Expert Reply:

Hey Veronica, thanks for reaching out!

When we installed the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C11351 on a 2009 Kia Optima we found that from the ground to the top inside of the hitch receiver was 9-1/4" so from the ground to the bottom of the receiver is going to be about 7-3/4" so you'll want to test this out to see if you'll have adequate clearance or not.

You'll also need to install the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118433 and pick up a ball mount. I'm attaching a helpful article that goes over choosing a ball mount for your reference.

expert reply by: Jon G