Tow Package for 2026 Nissan Pathfinder. What Hitch, Wiring, and Brake Controller do I Need?

Updated 05/11/2026 | Published 05/07/2026

Products Featured in This Question

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

(55)

$312.85

Universal Mounting Panel for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controller Control Knob

(430)

$13.00

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

(29)

$48.27

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(3471)

$118.67

Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness - Dash Knob - Proportional

(2858)

$217.00

Question:

I have a 2026 Nissan Pathfinder that has the spare tire underneath the back. Do you have a trailer hitch that will work?

asked by: Ric D

Expert Reply:

Hello Ric,

Thanks for writing in.

The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # C46DR is a great fit for your 2026 Nissan Pathfinder, and it will work just fine with the spare tire mounted underneath the vehicle.

For installation, you will just need to temporarily lower or remove the spare tire, but it can be reinstalled once the hitch is in place.

This hitch has a 2" receiver opening and a concealed cross tube, which gives it a clean, factory-style look once installed.

If you’re planning to do some light towing or use a hitch-mounted accessory like a bike rack, I recommend the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # C95ZV.

If you plan to tow a trailer with brakes, you’ll still start with the # C95ZV, then add the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires # ETBC7. This installation is a bit more involved since you’ll need to run a power wire from the battery and a brake output wire from the front of the vehicle to the rear. It’s not difficult, just a bit time-consuming, so be sure to route all wiring away from moving parts.

If you are towing something with brakes, the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness - Dash Knob - Proportional # RED52VR is a great brake controller. It can not only handle electric brakes, but electric over hydraulic as well. Make sure to grab a Universal Mounting Panel for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controller Control Knob # 331-TPSI-001 for a clean looking install.

What are you planning to tow with your Pathfinder, or are you setting it up for something like a bike rack?

expert reply by: Kate F

Curt Hitch Installed
(click to enlarge)

Stephen G.

5/9/2026

I installed this on my 2024 Pathfinder. I just had to lower the spare to where it was hanging tilted with it barely touching the ground. Raised it back after install and it's been a 10/10 2 years strong.

Kate F.

5/11/2026

@StephenG Thanks for the response Stephen. After 10 years of use, I would definitely say you got your moneys worth =)

Kenneth S.

5/11/2026

I have a 2023 Pathfinder and installed the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver with a friend (you will need a second set of hands for install). The spare tire slips right in after installation (and no issues getting the tire to drop). This is a quality receiver and works great with my cargo carrier.