Do I Have to Bend the Heat Shield to Install a Hitch on a 2025 Volkswagen Taos?
Updated 10/22/2025 | Published 04/10/2025
Question:
Will the hitch fit between the exhaust and the heat shield? I have a 2025 Taos S 4motion. I am wondering if the heat shield needs to be hammered out in the two spots that are bumped out. That space is only 4cm wide and I think the hitch crossbeam is at least 5cm wide up to 8cm in the center. Is it a problem that the hitch will be in contact with the exhaust regardless? I highlighted the spots in blue thanks
asked by: Matt
(click to enlarge)
(click to enlarge)
Expert Reply:
Hey Matt thanks for the pictures! I took a look at the installation instructions and a video we made on the Curt item # C38JR hitch. You don't need to bend the heat shielding or mess with it in any way, unless it's been deformed from use. It looks like yours might be bent out some. It's going to be a tight fit but the only trimming required on your 2025 Volkswagen Taos is on the lower fascia as shown in step 4 of the instructions.
I have linked the installation instructions along with a video below. If you have any additional questions feel free to throw them into the comment box and I'll be happy to help you.
What are you planning on using your hitch for?
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class III
- 200 lbs TW
- 2000 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Video: Curt Class III Trailer Hitch Complete Installation - 2023 Volkswagen Taos
- Q&A: What is a confirmed hitch to fit a 2022 Volkswagen 4WD SEL?
- Q&A: What Hitch and Wiring do I Need for My 2025 Volkswagen Taos?
- Q&A: Trailer Hitch Recommendation for 2025 Volkswagen Taos
- Q&A: Will Adding a Trailer Hitch To My 2022 Volkswagen Taos Void My Warranty?
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Video: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness Review C56040
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Q&A: Recommended Bike Rack and Dual Hitch Adapter for Carrying E-Bikes While Flat Towing
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Shop: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Shop: Base Plate for Tow Bar
- Shop: etrailer Anti-Rattle Hitch Collar for 2" Hitch Receivers
- Search Results: trailer hitch ball mount
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
on Trailer Hitch
Jerred H.
10/22/2025
Hey Matt, how did the fit turn out with the Curt hitch on your Taos after checking the heat shield and fascia trim? Your update could make it easier for the next person working with that tight space around the exhaust.