Why Are Class I Hitch Adapters Not Recommended for 2012 Mini Cooper Hardtop

Question:

Don’t know where I am, assuming I am piggybacking the question I clicked on which shows a picture of the hitch. My question is why can’t I add a hitch extension and then strap that up to the bumper Beneath the license tag overhang? It looks like any load will torque hitch bar?

asked by: Doc H

Expert Reply:

Curt's Trailer Hitch Receiver # C11272 for the 2012 - 2013 Mini Cooper Hardtop with single exhaust is a light-duty Class I hitch that really should not be used with any sort of hitch adapter.

The reason is that on any hitch on any vehicle hitch extensions like # HTAD, # HT5R and # HES6 move the actual load far enough away from the hitch tube to increase the leverage and stress on it. These adapters also tend to allow for more random motion of whatever is mounted in them and this again tends to add more stress to the system.

Using any of these Class I-compatible extensions will reduce the hitch's rated capacity by 50%. Any of them will make your hitch rating drop to only 100-lbs. The Mini Hardtop owners manual does not mention a tongue weight capacity for the vehicle. If you do intend to use an adapter I suggest two support straps # 18050.

expert reply by: Adam R