Trailer Hitch, Wiring, and Brake Controller for a 2015 Mazda CX-5

Question:

Hello, I was pleased to find that you have Class II and Class III hitches available for Mazda CX-5 75748, C13127, 87623, and 90229. All of these warn that they are notinch compatible with weight distribution systems. I am buying a 1700 lb streamlined travel trailer with 200 lb tongue weight Safari Condo Alto F1743. The manufacturer says it can be towed with a compact car but strongly recommends a 2inch receiver and a weight distribution system. What do you advise? Thank you,

asked by: Andrew H

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are some Class III trailer hitches available for your 2015 Mazda CX-5. The most popular option is # C12170. But even though the hitch is rated for 3,500 gross trailer weight, your CX-5 is only rated for 2,000 pounds (see the towing section in the owner's manual for additional information) so you will be limited to 2,000 pounds gross trailer weight and up to 300 pounds tongue weight.

This works out since the trailer you are buying weighs less.

Like you said, none of the hitches are rated for use with weight distribution.

In addition to the trailer with I recommend ball mount kit # EBMK4. It comes a ball mount with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop, an interchangeable ball system, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

The manual for the CX-5 states that if the trailer is 1,000 pounds or more it will need to have brakes. I looked up your trailer online and it does have electric brakes so you will need to add a 7-Way trailer connector and a brake controller to activate the trailer brakes.

First, you will need to install a 4-Way trailer connector, # 118563. Then you can install the 7-Way connector using # ETBC7 which also comes with the accessories needed to install a brake controller. For a brake controller I recommend the P2 # 90885 because its easy to set up and use and its reliable. I have included some links that show and explain the ETBC7 installation for you.