Installation Details for a CURT Trailer Hitch on a 2011 Kia Sorento LX

Question:

I have a 2011 Kia Sorrento LX 4 cyl with a spare tire under the vehicle and have some concerns about trimming the heat shield to install the Curt hitch # C13073. We are installing the hitch to carry bikes not for towing. Will trimming the heat shield damage the frame? Will it cause the a fire under the vehicle or damage the spare tire? We will be using Rack n Road to install and if there is an issue will Curt be responsible for repairs or Rack n Road? Need a response asap. Your input would be much appreciated.

asked by: Ryan T

Expert Reply:

Trimming the heat shield will not damage the frame of your 2011 Kia Sorento when installing CURT Trailer Hitch, # C13073. The heat shield is a separate piece of thin metal that you can bend by hand. It is used to dissipate heat from the exhaust.

The area that will be trimmed will leave a gap taken up by the trailer hitch bracket. The heat shield will still function without that removed section and the hitch will be perfectly fine. It will not cause a fire under the vehicle or damage the spare tire.

If there is a problem with the hitch then it would be an issue for CURT and their warranty. If something was installed correctly it would be the entity that installed it that would be responsible.

When using this CURT hitch for a non-trailer load, like a bike rack, CURT states that you also have to use a stabilization strap, # 18050. The strap helps support the bike rack. One end attaches to the rack, the other end has a hook that fits into the gap between the top of the hatch and body of the vehicle.

I have included a link to the installation instructions for the hitch as well as a link to a video showing a typical installation.

expert reply by: Michael H