How To Restore A Rusty Trailer Hitch Receiver On Your Vehicle

Updated 11/11/2024 | Published 11/10/2024

Question:

My 2012 Highlander trailer hitch is rusting and black coating has come off. Any suggestions how to fix it? Thank you for your help in advance.

asked by: Mark M

Expert Reply:

Hey Mark,

You'll just want to clean off any excess rust with a wire brush and then use some automotive grade spray paint to touch up the hitch. Since you have the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98858 you'll want to get a matte black paint to match its gloss style. Every now and then hitches get dinged up in transit from the manufacturer so I'll touch it up before installing it. On ones where it's already installed I'll use a large piece of cardboard to prevent overspray from getting on the car or if minor just a paint marker.

expert reply by: Kevin C