Hitch Receiver and Trailer Wiring for 2017 Lexus RX350

Updated 08/31/2026 | Published 08/23/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness for Factory Tow Package - 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(480)

$28.93

Curt Mounting Bracket for 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(1241)

$6.34

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

(60)

$213.91

Curt No-Drill Bracket for 4-, 5-, or 6-Way Trailer Connector Mounting Brackets - Short

(21)

$25.11

Question:

I have a 2017 Lexus RX350. Sticker says it has a Towing Prep Package consisting of transmission cooler, heavy duty alternator/radiator. Two questions: 1 Will the Curt C73DR hitch work and be concealed behind bumper with only the 2 receiver showing? 2 Will the 4-pin wiring harness 56083 work without removing interior panels to access rear lights etc. Looks like one connector to the pre-installed wiring harness on the frame in the rear. Thanks!!!

asked by: Rick D

Expert Reply:

Thanks for letting us help Rick. The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C73DR is a confirmed fit for your Lexus RX350 as long as you do not have the F Sport model. Once installed, the main cross tube is concealed behind the rear bumper, leaving only the 2-inch receiver visible for a nice, clean appearance. I've included an installation video we completed on a 2017 Lexus RX350 so you can see what the finished installation looks like and what's involved.

Since your RX350 has the factory tow package, the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # 56083 will also be a great option. This is about as simple as trailer wiring installations get. There's a factory connector underneath the rear bumper on the driver's side that the harness plugs directly into. There may be a protective cap or dummy plug covering the connector that you'll need to remove first. You won't need to remove any interior trim panels or access the tail lights to install the wiring.

For storing the 4-way connector, you can simply loop its protective dust cap around the safety chain opening on the # C73DR when it's not in use. If you'd prefer a cleaner, permanent mounting solution, you can use the No-Drill Mounting Bracket # C83DR along with the Curt 4-Way Flat Mounting Bracket # C42CR to securely mount the connector next to the receiver.

Are you planning on towing with your RX350 or just looking to carry a bike rack or other cargo?

expert reply by: Christopher H

George

8/29/2026

Is your Lexus the base model? You'll know if you don't have memory buttons for your seats. If it is, you may need C36PQ, Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector. Mine is the base model and I thought all I needed was the connector that runs behind the driver's side rear tire to the hitch but that didn't work so I had to buy what I listed instead. Good luck.

Christopher H.

8/31/2026

@George Appreciate you hopping in here. I wasn't aware the seat memory feature was something that dictated the base model.

George

8/31/2026

@ChristopherH honestly, that was the case with my Lexus and is an assumption on my part that the absence of seat memory buttons indicates the base model. We bought it used, saw the connector on the rear driver's side and thought that meant it had the factory tow package. Nope.

Christopher H.

8/31/2026

@George Gotcha. I would have assumed the same thing with the connector being at the bumper. Any issues once you installed the # C36PQ?

See All (5) Replies to George ∨

Kevin

8/30/2026

I purchased this connecter for my 2019 Lexus rx with factory tow package and it worked perfectly just as shown in videos. All you have to do is remove the protective cap on the wiring behind the bumper.