[[email protected]]

I attempted to install a Hidden Hitch today on my wife's CX-3. I never worked on cars before but am mechanically inclined, and overall it seemed like a straight-forward matter.

So I got the the 4 bumper bolts off, and lowered the exhaust. Then I brought the hitch into position by hanging it over the 4 bumper bolts. At that point I no longer had access to the 4 bumper bolts, because they were covered by the hitch and the plastic part of the rear bumper. I could not see how I could secure the bolts and move forward from that point.

It does not say anything about having to remove any part of the rear bumper in the instructions. But it seems to me you would have to. Can anyone share therir experience in installing a hitch on the CX-3?
Any input would be much appreciated!
Best regards,

Rick

 

[cosailor]

I installed the hitch a few months ago and I didn't even have to drop the muffler, I could wiggle the hitch into place. I did remove several of the bumper cover fasteners as laid out in the instructions, that allowed me to pull them out enough to install the hitch and get to the bolts. It's a bit confined in there but it can be done, I used a 3/8 ratchet handle with a swivel built into the handle; it was designed as a spark plug socket wrench. There are a number of box end wrenches now with the swivel built in as well.

It was a very quick install, maybe 20 minutes tops and I'm pretty pleased with the results.

Jeff

 

[blockhead]

Good stuff guys...can someone tell me what hitch you bought?

Thanks in advance...

 

[Playthru]

Good stuff guys...can someone tell me what hitch you bought?

Thanks in advance...

I haven't bought a hitch for the cx 3 but I only know of two brands.There is hidden hitch and Curt.
I don't like the Curt because if you use it with a bike rack they recommend a stabilizer strap from the bike rack to the back of whatever your driving..
I always use e trailer for my hitches.There is one called draw tite too but I think it is that same as hidden hitch just branded under a different name.

 

[[email protected]]

I purchased the Hidden Hitch. It seems to be well made and prob weighs about 40lbs. However, the instructions did not say anything about loosening the bumper cover. I eventually brought it to my mechanic who installed it for $50. It really is hidden and looks very unobtrusive.

 

[Playthru]

I purchased the Hidden Hitch. It seems to be well made and prob weighs about 40lbs. However, the instructions did not say anything about loosening the bumper cover. I eventually brought it to my mechanic who installed it for $50. It really is hidden and looks very unobtrusive.

With the bikes on the rack does it mess with your warning system of cars behind you and cars on the side?

 

[ITS]

For removing bumper the black wheel trim has to be removed. Anybody advice how to remove safely.

 

[ITS]

Found this

http://youtu.be/ljMEHbBxq54

Easy job.

 

[Cbus_cx3]

I just did this with the draw-tite/cequent hitch. I definitely had to take the bumper cover off, which involved partially prying off the wheel trim as mentioned. Then there are fasteners and or screws under the wheel trim, along the bottom, and under the license plate.

It was a bit of a hassle. With what I know now if I found someone to do it for $50 I would do that for sure.