Is There Vehicle Modification Needed to Install Draw Tite Hitch 2014 Toyota Camry

Updated 01/27/2025 | Published 01/06/2025

Question:

Does the hitches you have require any modification to the Cars bumper? 2014 camry xle. Mounting hardware. So as I understand all mounting hardwarebolts, washers, nuts all come with it correct? Any drilling required in framework to mount? How long to install?

asked by: Rick

Helpful Expert Reply:

Hey Rick, the Draw Tite hitch part # 36540 that you referenced does not require any frame drilling to install, comes with all needed install hardware, would take about an hour to install, and does require heat shield and underbody panel trimming.

I should mention that the underbody panel is not the rear bumper panel.

If you let me know what you plan to use the hitch for I can see what other items you might also want!

expert reply by: Jameson C

Rick

1/9/2025

Small camper and small trailer. And a mast mount hitch setup for antennas. Is there directions on the trimming of heat shield and bumper

Jameson C.

1/9/2025

@Rick So you'll need trailer wiring too which the best option for that is the part # 118405 since it's custom fit and has most reliable converter box. If you check out the attached link to this message you can scroll down and see the heat shield trimming instructions. Do you have a hitch ball and ball mount setup already?

Helpful Links

instructions.aspx?pn=36540

Rick

1/10/2025

@JamesonC yes I have hitch ball and mount. Thankd

Jameson C.

1/12/2025

@Rick Sounds like your good to go!

Rick

1/10/2025

Yes so primarily we have a hitch that has where you can places mast for antennas and etc. We do ham radio and want a quick setup option this will give us. We may also pull a small camper or small trailer like for a lawnmower or something.

Jameson C.

1/12/2025

@Rick I did not expect that use for the hitch at all but that's really cool! When you plan to tow the trailer you'll want trailer wiring too which we have with the Tekonsha part # 118405. I like this kit the best as it installs the easiest and has most reliable converter box.

Rick

1/13/2025

@JamesonC So looking at the install piece I see nothing about trimming heat shield but do see drilling taking place on muffler side. Is the curt hitch any different as to install?

Jameson C.

1/13/2025

@Rick I'm really sorry about that. I looked at our fit tips for that hitch and they are incorrect. There is frame drilling like you noted in the install instructions. Looks like a rear appearance panel gets removed permanently as well and the heat shield gets holes drilled through it too. I attached a link to the instructions to this message as well.

Helpful Links

instructions.aspx?pn=36540

Rick

1/24/2025

Okay what's another option for our 14 camry where I don't have to do any drilling or cutting on car?

Jameson C.

1/27/2025

@Rick Due to the design of the vehicle there isn't a way to totally get away from some modifications. The Curt # C12107 allows you to either trim or totally remove the panel but also does require trimming the heat shield.