Parts Needed to Equip 2016.5 Mazda CX-5 for Towing Small Tear Trailer With Brakes

Question:

Hi, I own a 2016.5 Mazda CX5 Touring model. I am looking at purchasing a tear camper with brakes. I am looking at the Curt Class II hitch # C13315. What other equipment do I need to complete my setup? Thanks, Wayne

asked by: Wayne B

Expert Reply:

For your 2016.5 Mazda CX-5, the Curt Class III # C13315 is a great choice. From what I read in the online copy of the owner's manual, your vehicle has a 2000 lb towing capacity.

In addition to the hitch, you'll need a trailer wiring harness, a ball mount and trailer ball and a brake controller to actuate the trailer's brakes.

For a wiring harness, I'd recommend the Tekonsha # 118563. For a ball mount, you'll need to figure out the coupler height of the trailer when it's jacked up so it's level. When we installed the # C13315 hitch on your vehicle, we found that the receiver height was 13 inches. The height difference between the hitch and the coupler is the amount of rise or drop the ball mount you choose will need. I've linked you to our selection of ball mounts for a 2 inch hitch that have the proper weight capacity. Just figure out the rise or drop you need, and then choose the ball mount with the closest rise or drop. I'll also link to an article that describes how to determine this. For a trailer ball, use # 19260 for a 1-7/8 inch ball or # 63845 for a 2 inch ball. The coupler on the trailer will have the necessary ball size stamped into it.

For a brake controller, I'd recommend the easy to install Curt Echo, part # C51180. This wireless controller allows you to control the trailer braking using your smartphone. You'll also need the install kit, part
# ETBC7L.The kit includes the 4-pole to 7-way trailer connector adapter plus everything else needed for the installation.

I've linked to install videos for the hitch and the trailer wiring, as well as a video showing the # ETBC7L being installed on a different vehicle. The installation isn't vehicle specific, so you'll still find the video helpful even though the installation isn't on a CX-5.