Is OEM or Aftermarket Hitch Better Quality for a 2011 Honda CR-V

Updated 12/22/2025 | Published 10/10/2024

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(82)

$204.31

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

(424)

$35.93

etrailer Ball Mount w/ Pre-Torqued 2" Ball - 2" Hitch - 2-3/4" Rise - 7,500 lbs

(390)

$42.29

Question:

I have a 2011 Honda CRV, too. Looking to get a tow hitch so that I can pull a small 1200 pound star craft popup camper. I was looking at a genuine Honda part hitch, priced around $250, but have considered aftermarket. I don’t plan to tow anything heavier than the popup. I think the tow weight limit for my Honda is 1500 pounds. Can you offer recommendations or information regarding quality comparison? Thanks

asked by: Judy W

Expert Reply:

Hey Judy, thanks for reaching out!

The quality of OEM vs aftermarket hitches is usually pretty comparable. The pricing on what you're looking at seems to be okay, but what you're likely going to see is a pretty big price tag on the labor involved in the installation - that's how they really get you.

An aftermarket hitch like the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e39AR will save you a little on the hitch side of things, which you can then turn around and give to a local trusted shop to do the install for you, or you can even install this on your own if you're up to the task. I also recommend getting the T-One Wiring # 118427 installed at the same time as the hitch so your vehicle is trailer tow ready right away.

Be sure to also pick up a ball mount kit so you can actually connect the CR-V to your trailer. I recommend checking out the etrailer # e38NR which will put the hitch connection at about 17-3/4" which is pretty standard for trailer connections.

Attached are a handful few videos for your reference as well as an installer locator link so you can see what shops we do business with in your area are comfortable doing hitch installations if you're looking for someone else to do the work for you!

expert reply by: Jon G

etrailer Hitch Receiver Installed on a 2010 Honda CR-V
(click to enlarge)

Jameson C.

12/22/2025

Hey Judy, how did things go with the hitch setup on your CR-V for towing your popup camper? Your experience could point others in the right direction when choosing between the Honda and aftermarket options. Sharing what worked might help others planning a similar tow.