Should Factory Bumper Beam be Reinstalled for 2024 Audi S5 Stealth Hitches Installation
Updated 12/15/2025 | Published 11/16/2024
Question:
Install question Re: Stealth hitch SHT25002 for 2024 Audi S5 with towing package. The online installation video shows the factory bumper beam reinstalled over the stealth hitch beam. The pdf file for written instructions says discard the factory reinforcement beam. Is discarding the factory beam required, because it would appear to reduce support for the rear fascia and compromise rear impact safety ?
asked by: Jim R
Expert Reply:
Hey Jim,
If you have room to reinstall the factory reinforcement beam on your 2024 Audi S5 and fit the Stealth Hitches Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver # 391AUDA5S518T then by all means go for it. Usually when the instructions say to discard the beam that means there physically isn't room, but every once in a while, we find that there is a little wiggle room so we add it back in just because it won't hurt anything.
Since trailer hitches are stiff pieces of metal they are good substitutes for bumper beams so if you can't get it to fit back on it will still be safe!
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Stealth Hitches Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver w/ Towing Kit - Custom Fit - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing - 4-Way Wiring Included
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Completely Hidden
- Stealth Hitches
more information >
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on Trailer Hitch
Bud M.
12/15/2025
Hey Jim, how did things turn out with the Stealth Hitches receiver on your Audi S5? Were you able to refit the factory reinforcement beam or did you end up leaving it off? Your results could really help others deciding how to handle that step.