Install Tips for Installing Trailer Hitch M10 bolt on a 2022 Hyundai Tucson

Updated 06/15/2026 | Published 06/09/2026

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etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

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Question:

I have a Hyundai Tucson 2022 and I cannot for the life of me thread in the 2 bolts that go at the bottom. The side bolts go in with some difficulty, but no dice for the bottom 2. To the point where I started searching to see if they should be a smaller bolt. The hole doesnt seem too misaligned, but it could be, I suppose. Any tips on how to get the M10 bolts to fit in there?

asked by: Marcos C

Expert Reply:

Glad you reached out Marcos, happy to help!

If the side bolts will start but the bottom bolts won't, the most common causes are either slight hitch misalignment or debris in the factory weld nuts.

I'd recommend loosening the side bolts and leaving them just finger tight so the hitch has a little room to move. Sometimes tightening any of the hardware too early can pull the hitch slightly out of position and make the remaining holes difficult to line up. Supporting the hitch with a floor jack can also help take the weight off and make it easier to start the bottom bolts.

Another thing worth checking is the weld nuts themselves. Even on newer vehicles, it's not uncommon for paint, undercoating or debris to get into the threads. If you haven't already, try threading one of the M10 bolts directly into the bottom weld nut without the hitch in place. If the bolt won't start by hand, the issue is likely with the threads rather than the hitch alignment.

Can you tell me whether the bottom bolts won't start threading at all or if they go in a turn or two before binding up? That will help determine whether we're dealing with a thread issue or an alignment issue.

expert reply by: James D

Marcos C.

6/10/2026

I haven't even tried to add the hitch to the mix. I was testing out the bolts by hand and they don't go in. So the bolts won't start threading at all. Can you recommend a fix? I was thinking of trying a good brush, but I can't think of anything else. Thanks!

James D.

6/10/2026

@MarcosC that's exactly what I would suggest. Try spraying the bolt holes with penetrating oil first, then use a small round wire brush or tube brush to scrub inside the threaded holes. Work the brush in and out, spray again, and blow the holes out with compressed air if you have it. Then test the bolt by hand. It should start threading without force. If it still won’t go in, please let me know.

Joei

6/11/2026

I had no problems with the bolt holes. This may be because the vehicle is/was brand new 2025 when I installed the hitch. Here are my ideas, try to like e trailer said clean out the holes a small brush and wd 40. Check the bolts and see if they ore stripped try new similar grade bolts. If the damage is to the treads I’m not sure what the fix is. My installation took less than a half hour. The hitch itself works great. Good luck.

Dan W.

6/15/2026

On less than new cars the weld nuts get pretty crudded up. I was able to cranky the bolts in and out, in and out, gradually going deeper, till you get through. A proper sized thread tap probably be better and quicker.