How Much Does It Cost to Install Trailer Hitches?  (2024)

Installation cost for different types of trailer hitches

What type of trailer hitch do you require? That’s one of the primary factors for determining how much you’ll pay for the parts and installation. They split into three broad categories: receiver hitches, gooseneck hitches, and fifth-wheel hitches.

Receiver hitches

Reciever Hitch Buy Now

By and large, receiver hitches are the type you’ll find on almost all vehicles towing a trailer for non-commercial purposes. These hitches install underneath the rear bumper and bolt to the chassis or frame. Receiver hitches are manufactured from high-grade carbon steel in most cases, and they’re painted or powder coated black to protect them from the harsh environment they’re exposed to.

A receiver hitch is available in five grades for non-commercial use:

  • Class 1 hitches are for compact cars and sedans for up to 2,000 pounds of gross trailer weight.
  • Class 2 hitches are for passenger vehicles like crossovers and have a GTW of up to 3,500 pounds.
  • Class 3 trailer hitches are intended for mid-size and full-size SUVs and trucks with a GTW of up to 8,000 pounds.
  • Class 4 hitches are for full-size vehicles and are rated to haul a gross trailer weight up to 10,000 pounds.
  • Class 5 hitches are for 3/4 ton and 1-ton trucks with GTW of up to 17,000 pounds.

Parts cost

Generally, receiver-style hitches increase in price as the class gets higher, but minimally considering the capacity differences. Depending on the model you drive and the class you need, you can expect to pay between $150 and $400 for most receiver hitches.

Service cost

Installing a receiver hitch is usually a straightforward job. They’re almost always fitted and pre-drilled for fasteners that use existing bolt holes in the frame, and they’re commonly vehicle-specific. Some models might need a section of the rear bumper trimmed for the receiver to extend out of, but there aren’t many models that require intensive modifications. Installation tends to be between $75 and $150, although some shops may charge less or significantly more.

5th-Wheel hitches

Some trailers have a coupler that drops down from an elevated segment, and one type is a 5th-wheel coupler. These are for heavier-duty trucks, mostly 1-ton models and up, and the trailer coupler slides and locks into a yoke head with a U-shaped wear plate mounted in the truck box.

5th-wheel hitches range up to about 30,000 pounds capacity, so they naturally need to be secured extremely well. The hitch is usually bolted through the truck bed to the chassis over the rear axle, which requires drilling and/or cutting.

Parts cost

The parts for a fifth-wheel hitch are the biggest part of the job. Expect to pay between $700 and $1,500 for a standard 5th-wheel trailer hitch kit that includes the hardware and mounting rails, although there are some models that are quite a lot more.

Service cost

Installing a 5th-wheel hitch can be a relatively fast job that can cost as little as $75 or it could be hours of work including cutting. If it’s a complex installation, it could be a few hundred dollars to get it fitted, adding up to $400 or more.

Gooseneck trailer

Gooseneck Trailer Buy Now

A gooseneck trailer hitch is used for very similar functions and trailers as a 5th-wheel, but the major difference is that the ball mount is in the truck bed and the coupler is on the trailer. The hitch is fastened to the truck chassis through the bed, and a ball extends upward for the trailer to connect to. Gooseneck hitches tend to be more for commercial or agriculture usage, and the parts and installation ranges from about $700 to $1,000 or so.

Parts cost

Depending on the kit you choose, the parts for a gooseneck trailer hitch range from around $300 to $800 or so.

Service cost

For most types of gooseneck hitches, you’ll need to cut and/or drill through the bed to fasten the hitch to the frame. Similar to the 5th-wheel installation, you can expect it to cost a few hundred dollars to fit this type of hitch.

Can I install my own trailer hitch?

For a DIYer, the job of installing a trailer hitch is certainly possible at home. You’ll need space to work under your vehicle’s back end as well as tools that can securely torque the bolts in the frame. But since safe towing requires that the trailer hitch is installed properly, you shouldn’t do it yourself if you have any doubts about your capabilities.

If you decide that it’s too big a job to tackle on your own, let AutoZone help you find qualified professional mechanics through our Shop Referral Program. 

FAQ/People Also Ask

Is it worth it to install a trailer hitch?

If you plan on towing a trailer or using a bike carrier, a trailer hitch is an excellent investment.

Can I install a trailer hitch by myself?

You can install a trailer hitch yourself, but you’ll need to follow the procedure in the instructions exactly so the hitch works like it should.

How long does a hitch installation take?

Installing a hitch could be something that takes an hour or less, although some vehicles need modifications that can extend it by an hour or two.

Is installing a hitch difficult?

Most hitches are direct-fit and use existing bolt holes in the frame. Installation isn’t difficult per se, but it needs to be done correctly.

Is it illegal to drive around with a hitch?

It typically isn’t illegal to drive with a ball hitch installed in a receiver. However, you could be held liable should it cause excessive damages in a collision.

What is the difference between a tow hitch and a trailer hitch?

A tow hitch and a trailer hitch are simply different terms for the same thing.

Does installing a hitch damage your car?

Since trailer hitches use factory mounting locations, there usually isn’t any damage to your car unless the bumper needs a cutout.

How Much Does It Cost to Install Trailer Hitches?  (2024)

FAQs

How Much Does It Cost to Install Trailer Hitches? ? ›

To get this extra capacity, a hitch needs to be bolted to your frame that allows a trailer to be connected to your vehicle. What does trailer hitch installation cost? There's a large range in price from around $250 to $1,300 or more. Naturally, it varies depending on the vehicle and the type and class of hitch.

How long does it take to install a tow hitch? ›

Installation time varies across vehicles, but the whole process typically ranges anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours.

How hard is it to add a tow hitch? ›

Installing a trailer hitch is a relatively easy automotive job. A typical tow hitch installation may involve some of the following steps: removing the spare tire, lowering the exhaust, removing existing vehicle hardware, lifting the hitch into position and torqueing the hitch hardware to the correct values.

How much does it cost to install a class 3 trailer hitch? ›

Receiver hitch
Hitch classTow capacity (pounds)Average cost installed*
Class 12,000$300 – $400
Class 23,500$400 – $500
Class 38,000$550 – $650
Class 410,000$650 – $750
1 more row
Oct 20, 2023

Is adding a tow hitch worth it? ›

This installation can protect your belongings and help give you peace of mind on the road. Trailer hitches can also make the process of strapping down your cargo easier than non-hitch alternatives. If you frequently find yourself carrying overhead cargo, a trailer hitch might be for you.

How fast can you drive with a trailer hitch? ›

California. Maximum speed for any vehicle towing another vehicle is 55 mph.

Do you need wiring for a trailer hitch? ›

Any vehicle towing a trailer requires a trailer wiring harness to safely connect the taillights, turn signals, brake lights and other necessary electrical systems. If your vehicle is not equipped with working trailer wiring, there are a number of different solutions to provide the perfect fit for your specific vehicle.

What is the difference between a tow hitch and a trailer hitch? ›

A tow hitch is simply another name for a trailer hitch. It is a hitch used for towing a trailer. Usually, tow hitch refers specifically to a receiver hitch. However, a 5th wheel hitch, gooseneck hitch and other hitches may be called tow hitches.

Does a hitch add value? ›

Though adding a tow hitch can increase your car's value and utility, always check your owner's manual for your vehicle's tow rating before installing a car hitch.

How much can a 2-inch hitch tow? ›

Class 4 hitches have 2-inch receiver sizes, and have a GTW capacity of up to 10,000 lbs. and a TW capacity up to 1,000 lbs. They also have a WD capacity of up to 12,000 lbs. and WDTW capacity of up to 1,200 lbs.

Are tow hitches expensive? ›

What is the average cost of a trailer hitch? The cost of your trailer hitch will vary depending on your vehicle make and model, and the hitch package itself. Generally, a trailer hitch will cost anywhere from about $150 to $300.

Is Class 2 or Class 3 hitch better? ›

Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to 3,500 lbs in GTW and up to 525 lbs in TW. Class III, on the other hand, have a 2 inch receiver and have up to 8,000 lbs GTW and 800 lbs TW.

How do I know if my hitch is Class 3 or 4? ›

Hitch classes are separated by their maximum weight capacity rating and receiver opening size. Classes range from I to V, and each class has its own unique capacity and applications. To find: Read the label on your hitch, or measure the size of the opening.

Can I install my own trailer hitch? ›

A trailer hitch can be installed by yourself at home, and we've developed instructional content for most vehicles that will guide you through a hitch installation (and wiring installation) – however, it's a lot easier (and less time-consuming) to have a professional do it.

Does tow hitch affect gas mileage? ›

Hitch racks generally cause less aerodynamic drag compared to roof racks. Ensuring that the hitch rack is properly installed and that the load is evenly balanced can further minimize any negative impact on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

What is the most common hitch for towing? ›

The most common size trailer hitch ball is the 2-inch diameter ball. The 2-inch ball is used on a variety of popular trailers, such as boat trailers, utility trailers and campers. 2-inch trailer balls have a wide weight capacity range from 3,500 pounds to 12,000 pounds gross trailer weight.

How long does a tow bar fitting take? ›

Generally, towbar fitting takes between two and four hours depending on the vehicle and the parts being fitted. (This includes installing and fitting the electrics.) How much weight can my vehicle tow? You can find this information in your vehicle handbook.

How long does it take to hook up a tow? ›

On average, properly hooking up a car for towing can take 15 minutes to an hour.

How long does it take to install a Tesla tow hitch? ›

Installation takes anywhere from 1 to 2 ½ hours depending on the hitch being installed and your vehicle.

How long does a tow hitch last? ›

If its been over five years since you purchased your ball mount, consider the possibility of getting a replacement. Whether you're dealing with visible cracks or standard wear and tear, knowing when to trade up is vital to a safe and secure towing experience.

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