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
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?
(click to enlarge)
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.
Kate F.
5/11/2026
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class III
- 900 lbs TW
- 6000 lbs GTW
- 6000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 900 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Video: DIY Install Curt T-Connector 4-Pole Wiring Harness - 2023 Infiniti QX60
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: Recommended Hitch, Trailer Wiring, and Brake Controller for a 2026 Nissan Pathfinder
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Video: etrailer Class III Trailer Hitch DIY Installation - 2025 Nissan Pathfinder
- Shop: Roof Rack
- Video: Curt Mounting Bracket for 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector Review
- Video: Review of CURT Hitch Accessory Mount for Bike Racks and Hitch Cargo Carriers - C87NR
- Video: Installing the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver on a 2022 Infiniti QX60
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Curt Mounting Bracket for 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Shop: Yakima SkyLine Roof Rack for Fixed Mounting Points - JetStream Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - Qty 2
- Shop: Curt Rack Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"
- Search Results: brake controller
- Video: The Low-Down on the Roadmaster Rollaway Trailer Hitch Protector
- Video: Curt Trailer Hitch Complete Installation - 2024 Nissan Pathfinder
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Search Results: receiver hitch
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Search Results: heavy duty receiver hitch
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Bug Shield
- Shop: Nerf Bars - Running Boards
- Q&A: My Vehicle has a 4-Pin Trailer Plug, but Trailer has 7-Pin Trailer Plug
- Q&A: Recommended Wiring Harness and Relays for a 2025 Nissan Frontier
on Trailer Hitch
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.