Is Bumper Trimming Required to Install a Trailer Hitch on a 2013 Kia Sorento, V6 w/Tow Package

Question:

Hello and have reviewed many of the comments regarding the installation of the this hitch. My Kia Sorento has the stainless steel skid plate on the back. Some of the owners that installed suggested the bumper had to be cut. Many did not include the vehicle they were installing. Does the bumper have to be trimmed for the receiver on the 2013 Kia Sorento, V6? Thanks.

asked by: AJ

Expert Reply:

Trimming of the rear fascia is required on some models of the Kia Sorento to install Curt trailer hitch # C13073. Curt does not specify which specific models require trimming and states that you will need to check fit to determine if trimming is needed prior to actually trimming anything. They have told us in the past that trimming is required on 2010 and 2011 models but did not say that it was necessary on all 2012 and 2013 models.

The heat shield will have to be trimmed regardless of model in order to get the hitch to install properly. I have included a link to the installation instructions for you to view which includes even more specific information.

To complete your towing set up I recommend etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts, 2 balls, a hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag. For trailer wiring, since you have the tow package, use # C56332. I have included links to instructions and videos for the hitch and wiring for you.

expert reply by: Michael H