Available Trailer Hitch for 2009 Audi A8 for Use with Cargo Carrier

Question:

I am considering buying item 11199 for my 2009 audi A8. Is there a product that fits my car with a higher tong weight? I will be carrying about 150 Lbs and the limit on this item is 150. Id like to be on the safe side and get something stronger. Thanks

asked by: Fred

Expert Reply:

The only hitch option for your 2009 Audi A8 is the light-duty Class I hitch # C11199, which is indeed rated for a low 150-lbs of tongue weight (TW).

Hitch makers design their hitches based on the weight capacity of the host vehicle's frame; if a car can handle only 150-lbs of TW then there is no way to bolt-on more capacity by installing a higher-rated hitch. It is the old rule of the weakest link in the chain; even if there were a 300-lb-rated hitch for your car it would not help since the car itself cannot handle that same load.

If you plan to use a hitch-mounted accessory carrier like a bike rack or cargo carrier it MUST be a Class I-rated item and in the case of bike racks this means only a 2-bike rack. Class I cargo carriers and Class I bike racks are linked for you.

Keep in mind that your 150-lb limit is the sum of the weights of your chosen carrier plus what you put on it. So, if you need a cargo carrier use a light one like # C18110 which weighs only 30-lbs. For a lightweight bike rack I suggest the Swagman XC # S64650, which weighs only about 25 lbs. It also offers 10-1/2 inches of clearance from the hitch pin hole, 70-lbs of total bike weight capacity and 4-inches of rise in the shank for good ground clearance.

With it you can use hitch lock and cable # S64031.