What Hitch do I Need to Replace Mine on My 2013 Toyota Tacoma?  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hello Kyle,

We should probably change the wording on that because I can definitely see how it would be confusing. When we say the etrailer and Curt hitches do not fit models with a factory hitch, it means they cannot be installed while the factory hitch is still in place. There are some hitch setups out there that work along with an existing hitch to give you an additional receiver, so we're just pointing out that these are not designed to do that.

Since you're removing the factory hitch from your 2013 Toyota Tacoma, you can use either our etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98850 or the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # 13323. Both are Class III hitches with a 2" receiver and are rated for 5,000 lbs of gross trailer weight, so either one will meet the hitch capacity you're looking for.

Personally, I like our etrailer # e98850. Not just because I work here, but because it has a nice matte black finish that I think blends in really well with the Tacoma and gives it more of an OEM look. I attached an image so you can see for yourself =)

As far as the installation goes, you won't need to drill through the frame or do any welding. The bumper brackets will need to be loosened and the bumper supported during the installation, but once the factory hitch is removed, the # e98850 is designed to bolt onto the truck.

One other thing I always recommend is checking your Tacoma's owner's manual to see exactly what Toyota says your specific truck can tow. Sometimes a hitch is rated for more weight than the vehicle itself, and adding a higher-capacity hitch does not increase the truck's towing capacity. You'll always want to follow the lowest-rated component in your towing setup and stay within Toyota's limits for your Tacoma.

What are you planning on towing with the Tacoma once you get the new hitch installed?

expert reply by: Kate F

0

etrailer Hitch on Toyota Tacoma
(click to enlarge)

Dano

8/18/2026

There were no issues with this hitch. It bolted up perfectly and has been well used. I have purchased several hitches and running boards from etrailer and they are well versed at this. They always work and they have great customer support.

Kate F.

8/18/2026

@Dano Thanks for the response Dano, and the kind words =)

Brian B.

8/18/2026

Hey The only issue I had was that the factory hitch has a bracket for the plug receptacle, the Curt hitch does not. I had to fabricate a new bracket and clamp it to the new hitch. Otherwise, installation was pretty straightforward

Kate F.

8/18/2026

@BrianB Nice call out Brian. For a 4 flat: Curt Mounting Bracket for 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # C42CR, for 7 round Curt Easy Mount Bracket for 4- or 5-Way Flat and 6- or 7-Way Trailer Connectors - 2" Hitch # C58000.