EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
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2012 Mazda 3
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2012 Mazda 3
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A lot of hitches stick out and look bulky under the rear bumper. This one doesn’t. The EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver hides the cross tube behind the bumper so only the 2" receiver shows. It’s a Class III hitch with a 5,000-lb gross trailer weight rating and a 750-lb tongue weight rating, giving you plenty of strength without changing the look of your vehicle. The concealed design keeps things neat and helps maintain ground clearance while still letting you tow or mount accessories like bike racks and cargo carriers.
EcoHitch builds this hitch from a mix of aerospace-grade aluminum, steel, and stainless steel, using recycled materials to keep it strong and eco-friendly. The alloy is sturdy enough to handle towing stress but lighter than traditional all-steel designs. It’s finished with a black powder coat that resists rust, so it stays looking sharp even after years of use in different weather.
You don’t need to drill or weld anything to get this hitch installed. It bolts straight to factory mounting points with included hardware, so it’s simple to mount in your own driveway using basic tools. Once installed, you’ve got a 2" receiver ready for ball mounts, cargo baskets, or bike racks—anything that fits a standard Class III hitch.
This hitch isn’t just built tough—it’s been tested that way too. EcoHitch uses Finite Elemental Analysis (FEA) to check for stress points and ensure every part meets SAE J684 towing safety regulations. That means it’s engineered for reliable performance on the road whether you’re hauling gear for work, heading out on a trip, or taking bikes to the trailhead.
Customer Satisfaction Score:
97% were satisfied with this product
3% of customers were not satisfied
Ratings & Reviews
5 stars for product and etrailer service. Installed product in about 45 mins. Didn’t uninstall anything but tow loop on passenger side of my 2024 RAV4 prime and 4 stickers covering install holes. That is, didn’t cut bumper or lower muffler. I could live with the bend. Basically, threw tarp on ground, laid down under back of parked vehicle and used arms, knees and toes to maneuver into place and finish install. After install, I mistakenly used faulty shank that didn’t fit in the 2” hitch opening. Thinking I was right, I complained to etrailer who in turn immediately started the return process and began process to send out a replacement. The next day, I wanted to be sure it was not the shank with the defect so I bought another shank. Sure enough, the shank was the problem, not the hitch. I called etrailer and resolved all. 5 stars for product and 5 stars+ for etrailer customer service. Will be using hitch for bike rack and possibly trailer - within spec of course. Very happy and prepared to start my Summer adventures with my new hitch.
This hitch was very easy to install on my RAV4 Hybrid. I didn’t drop the exhaust or anything and was able to get it into position and held up wi the a floor jack while I started the bolts. It sits up higher than some cheaper options and I’ve had no issues while towing trailers or using a bike rack with two e-bikes on it.
Just installed on my 2021 RAV4 Prime. I watched a few YouTube videos ahead of time, and got it done in about 90 minutes with no major problems. As others have noted. 1) You need to remove the factory installed towing hitch first. 2) WD40 and a pry bar helped to release the rubber supports for the muffler. I supported the muffler using some foam blocks while installing the hitch. 3) It is heavy, but I am AARP age, only moderately fot and handy, and did the whole job by myself. 4) I supported the heavy hitch on an upside down plastic bin while scooting it rought into place, then elevated it a bit more with some dense packing foam to get the bolt holes within a few inches of those in the frame. From there it was not too bad to lift on at a time and get them in loosely. 5) Space around the frame is very tight on the passaned side, and I was not able to use a socket or torque wrench here. 6) I did not trim the plastic hanging down from the bumper.
I have not towed with it yet, but it seems solid.
The hitch itself is heavy duty and install video was very helpful. The small paper booklet instructions had pictures in black and white, the pictures were small and not clear. Disappointed the hitch itself had scrapes in multiple areas, which may be prone to rusting more easily, scrapes looked like they were on hitch before shipping out.
Product is perfect and functioning as expected. The packaging from e-trailer is sub-par and resulted in several scuffs, scrapes, and exposed edges of hitch during shipping.
Very nice addition to my 2024 XLE hybrid AWD RAV4. I followed the printed directions that came with the hitch but one point that was not covered was the seam welding on the right side that required trimming so the hitch would slide into place. Left side no issue, right side took some sorting out. Took over an hour to do it right. The videos from Ecohitch were only semi-helpful for my RAV4 model.
Very rapid shipping. Solid product. Fits well. Installation instructions are straightforward. A floor jack helps in positioning the hitch during installation.
Fit like a glove (or in this case like a shoe) on my 2024 RAV4 Prime. Installed it myself using a furniture dolly and 10 2X4 blocks of wood. Removed factory bolt hole stickers, removed the factory tow bracket (as suggested in the written instructions), slid it underneath my RAV4 Prime (no blocks), walked it up adding a block on each side “shoe horning” the trailer hitch over the muffler and pushing it through the bumper material edge. Aligned the trailer hitch bolt holes with the RAV4 Factory threaded bolt holes. Installed hardware and torqued as required using a torque wrench and crows foot socket wrench. I did not have to disconnect the muffler mounts or cut away the bumper material around the hitch.
Installed on 2025 RAV4 Hybrid. Did by myself in about 1.5 hrs, used wood blocks to lift it into place, dropped muffler to access bolts, used crow-foot attachment for torque wrench. Did not cut bumper, it's not noticeable unless you are up close and down low. Quality appears good, only bad thing is that the little square frame at the end of the hitch opening is welded on crooked and makes it look like attachments will be tilted but the receiver tube seems level so all works ok. Works well with bike rack.
Gwendolyn Y.
7/8/2025
I see what you mean about the receiver. If you experience any issues with the hitch like that let me know, and I can help out. But, I'm glad the hitch bolted right up and that you didn't have to do the trimming. I cant tell at all that you even need to.
Looks great. Install was fast and simple and got it done by myself. Shipping was fast. Box was annihilated upon arrival cuz the hitch had come out the side and delivery guy stuffed it back in, but the hitch only had scuffs where you wont see so I dont care. Maybe putting a little protection on the corners that will be visible would be a good idea in case others pop out the box. Good product. Quick shipping. Happy with my purchase.
Fit perfectly on my 2022 RAV4 Hybrid can be installed by yourself but much quicker with two. Fit without cutting bumper and looks great.
Lazer S.
3/3/2026
Glad you are liking it, Zach! Having an extra pair of hands definitely makes the install easier. ^___^ What are you going to be using the hitch for?
This is by far the best hitch you can get for your Rav4. This the second one I have purchased from etrailer. The first was for a 2021 Rav4, the second for my 2024 Rav4 hybrid. You gain an additional 1" of clearance over other aftermarket hitches. Installation is a breeze, I highly recommend putting the car on ramps to give you plenty of clearance to work. I also put the hitch on a floor jack and simply jacked it up into position. The only complaint is the same as other purchasers which is damage from delivery. Only scratches and exposed metal from the box being damaged and exposing the hitch corners and edges. I purchase a can of Rustoleum semi gloss black paint and coat the entire hitch before installation.
This hitch is solid. Probably more than I need for ny two e-bikes, but maintaining the ground clearance on my 2024 Rav4 Hybrid was my criteria. The hitch fit perfectly. I installed it by myself despite being eight weeks post-shoulder (rotator cuff) surgery on my dominant arm. I used two plastic ramps to raise the rear of the vehicle. I used one axle stand (I have four) to support the exhaust during dismounting from the three rubber hangers. I used two axle stands to slowly raise the hitch until it was within reach to locate the forward bolt on one side, using my knee to push up on one side of the hitch to hold it in place to locate the first bolt. I repeated this process to locate the opposite forward bolt. I then had a self-supporting pivoting mass and I used my knee again to push the pivoting hitch to locate both rear bolts. The rear hatch kick-open doesn't work but I didn't use that feature before , and I didn't cut any plastic material, so I am probably permanently compressing the switch. Anyway, so far, so good.
Kate F.
9/24/2025
Install looks great Andrew! I am glad that you did not damage your shoulder being that close to your rotator cuff surgery! Do you have a specific trail you like to ride? We have the Katy Trail here in Missouri and it is always loaded with bikes.
Hitch was solid and easy to install. I only take 1 star away as I did receive it with the common complaint of damage in transit. I had to address those damaged parts before installing as I live in the rust belt and the damaged parts would rust immediately. Awesome hitch overall.
Mike
4/21/2026
Hitch is still working out great, not a single complaint.
Gwendolyn Y.
4/21/2026
Absolutely horrible packaging. Basically a hitch thrown in a box with zero packing materials to support the hitch from flopping around. Package arrived with large holes and one end of the hitch completely outside the box.
Hitch itself fits with no issues. Would give 4 stars.
Shipping was super quick! This is a sturdy and well built hitch. Installation was pretty easy and that was even with cutting the bumper trim. The only reason I didn't give a full 5 stars is that the hands free kick function for the rear hatch no longer works. It only beeps 2 times indicating that there is an obstruction. Which the only obstruction now is the hitch. So if not having the hand free function is a deal breaker for you, then I would look for a different hitch.
2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XSE recently purchased
What a boom boom process Etrailer has good job guys & gals
Ordered ground on Wed 10am shipped same day received about 10am Fri got home early @ 2pm
Backed car onto my ramps in driveway layed on flat cardboard
Didn't drop exhaust just finessed hitch around side pipes
I layed hitch receiver on my chest and used my arms & knees to hold unit up high enough to start 1st bolt then preceded to start all 4 (last one was a little tricky so don't tighten any of them until all 4 all started fyi)
Passenger side bolt definitely harder to tighten only had wrench (19mm or 3/4)
Receiver was cranked down to 70 ft. lbs on large bolts
Didn't have to cut the bottom of bumper thank goodness barely touches & kick sensor still works but we turned it off because of bicycle rack
Overall great experience and solid built hitch receiver
Thanks for fast service
Hitting the bike trails tomorrow
Kate F.
10/22/2025
Wow Kevin, thanks for such a detailed review! This is going to be most helpful for others installing themselves. What trails do you like to ride? We have the Katy Trail here in Missouri and it is always jam packed with bikes.
Very happy I got the Hidden hitch. Looks factory and only took 30 minutes by myself. A+ (2025 Toyota Rav 4)
Lazer S.
4/28/2026
Glad you like it! Definitely looks factory on there. ^___^ What are you going to be using the hitch for now that it's on?
Lazer S.
4/28/2026
Followed your YouTube video for a smooth installation. Great hitch for my 2023 RAV4 Prime.
Heather A.
4/11/2026
Install looks great on the Rav4! What are you going to be using it for? bike rack?
This hitch exactly fit my 2025 RAV4. The rear fascia cut out was easy to do with a tape outline, small tin snips and a utility knife. The depth of the cut out would be a great to addition to the directions. The 2 5/8” cut out width worked very well. All the bolt holes lined up easily. Put one bolt in on the left front first which will make the cramped right side easier to align. When complete, everything is hidden above the rear fascia except for the receiver. Looks very nice.
Wade
5/12/2026
I like the EcoHitch mechanically, however, the paint and corrosion coatings should be improved. There was rust on it after one winter. I had to repaint the receiver. I may have to it down and repaint the entire hitch after a few hears. I am going to keep it sprayed with a rusrproofing oil for now.
Ecohitch receiver arrived with no packaging on it, and parts kit shrink wrapped to it. Loses a star for ZERO protection during shipping. Receiver itself fit perfectly on a 2023 Rav4 Hybrid Woodland Edition. Used a dremel to cut the bumper fascia as directed in the instructions. Removed (3) Rearmost exhaust hangers and hung the exhaust from a ratchet strap. I’d recommend starting on the driver’s side when bolting up, as passenger side is tight.
The whole process took me about 2 hours working solo. A (recommended) second installer would make the job go a lot faster.
I have to go back and touch-up some paint, and the install is done.
Finished install looks good. No complaints.
Mgm
4/6/2025
The hitch itsekf is working fine with zero issues. Towing and hauling my e-bike without issue. The bracket that holds the plug perfectly blocks easy installation of a locking hitch pin. Its trivial... definitely not a deal breaker, but I though worth mentioning.
This was an extremely install! All holes lines up and plastic trimming was minimal. I definitely recommend the Ecohitch for the Rav 4. Yes it costs a little more, but it is easy to put on and looks like the factory did it. etrailer videos are concise, thourough and to the point.
William
6/10/2025
Love it, love it, love it! Works very well.
I just finished installing this hitch on a 2021 RAV4 Hybrid XLE. Etrailer says this shouldn't fit, but it fits perfectly. Their database just isn't up to date. It took me about 1 hour to install, but I did it by myself by stacking 2x4s ontop of each other. I didn't lower the muffler either. It took a little bit to wiggle the hitch past the tail pipes and the sides of the bumper, but the hardest part was simply getting the bolts in, there's not alot of room and you have to angle them just right, once started, it's fine. I installed a bolt on one side, then the other side, and tightened them that way too. I didn't put a torque wrench on the passenger side, not enough room. But I gauged how much torque I needed from torquing the driver's side. The answer is, a lot! I have a 1 foot long 19mm wrench and I just did as hard as I could. I've included pictures of how the hitch fits on my 2021 Rav4 Hybrid before tightening up the bolts. The hitch sits about 12.75 inches off the ground measured to the top of the hitch, less than the 14 inches etrailer indicated in their installation video. But maybe that's because I have a hybrid XLE. I also didn't cut the bumper, the picture shows how the bumper bends since it's not cut. Maybe I'll cut it later. Overall, extremely pleased with this hitch. I wanted the extra few inches this hitch gives you in mounting height because I've had my bike rack scrape when getting in and out of bumpy parking lots. I'm hopting the extra 1.5 inches will help. I do wish it was the listed 14 inches.
Excellent hitch. As per the photo I didn't trim the lower bumper facia. Because I didn't put the back axle on ramps I did need to disconnect the exhaust at the three rear most hangers. With my Swagman bike rack installed and tilted I can open the rear hatch easily. When the rack is empty and folded down the hatch also has clearance to open so I don't need to find a place to store it while out of town.
Clear instructions and easy to install.
My daughter's husband and I installed the hitch receiver and wiring harness and took our time. It still took half as long as the Toyota dealership said it would take them.
Mike L.
7/9/2026
Happy to hear your install went well Joe, good job! Thanks for the photo...
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Gwendolyn Y.
6/4/2025
We really appreciate you sharing your experience with your review, Ronald! The install on your 2024 RAV4 Prime looks great and glad everything got sorted out with the shank. What kind of summer adventures do you have lined up?