Recommended Hitch and Wiring Harness for a 2025 Mazda CX-5

Updated 12/15/2025 | Published 10/21/2024

Products Featured in This Question

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

(495)

$190.89

Curt Mounting Bracket for 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(833)

$5.94

Curt Towing Starter Kit for 2" Hitches - 2" Ball - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 7.5K

(785)

$76.37

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

(78)

$86.64

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

(641)

$190.89

Question:

What parts do I need to tow a small jet ski trailer with a 2025 Mazda CX-5. Thank you!

asked by: Brock L

Expert Reply:

Hey Brock congrats on the new vehicle! To tow a small trailer with your 2025 Mazda CX-5 you're going to need a hitch, a wiring harness, a couple of mounting brackets, and a ball mount kit.

The best hitch for your CX-5 is going to be the etrailer item # e98902. This hitch is custom fit and bolts to your Mazda with included hardware. It is a class III hitch with a 2" receiver that has a 4,000 lbs towing capacity and a 600 lbs maximum tongue weight. I really like this hitch because the entire crossbar mounts behind the rear bumper leaving only the 2" receiver exposed. This not only looks better it helps with ground clearance.

For a wiring harness, I recommend the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness item # C45FV. This custom-fit T-connector plugs into your Mazda's wiring harness, which is located behind the tail lights. It will provide you with a 4-way connector that controls your trailer's lighting functions.

I recommend using the No-Drill Mount Bracket item # 18136 and the item # C42CR to secure the 4-way connector to your hitch. This will put it in an easy to reach spot and prevent the risk of it falling onto the road.

To round out your towing setup, I recommend the Curt Towing Starter Kit for 2" Hitches item # C45534. This towing kit will provide you with a 2" ball and a fixed ball mount with a 3/4" rise and 2" drop. It also includes a hitch pin and clip, hitch receiver lock with keys, hitch cover, and a storage case.

I have linked a couple of installation videos below so you can see how to get these parts set up.

expert reply by: Jerred H

Jerred H.

12/15/2025

Hey Brock, how did everything go getting your CX-5 ready to tow your jet ski trailer? I'm curious if the hitch and wiring setup came together smoothly. Your update could make it easier for others setting up a similar tow rig.