Appearance Panel Trimming to Install Draw-Tite Class III 75676 Trailer Hitch on 2010 Lexus RX 350

Question:

I just purchased the hidden hitch for my 2010 Lexus RX-350. Guess I should have researched it more. It appears that installation requires cutting the vehicles appearance panel. Kinda scary!!! What should I use to do the cutting? Will the cut on the panel be visible ugly? I would appreciate you input. Thanks

asked by: Larry M

Expert Reply:

If you carefully follow the instructions, and follow the old woodworkers advice to measure twice and cut once, you should have no problem.

There are many possible ways of making the cuts in the plastic appearance panel, including tin snips, a utility knife with a fresh blade or a Dremel tool. Your best bet would be to use whichever tool you feel most comfortable with. The cuts you make in the panel are meant to allow the hitch to pass through it, and the cut portions of the panel will not be visible unless you are under the vehicle, as you can see by looking at the photo I provided.

I provided a link to the install instructions as well as an install video for the Draw-Tite hitch for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Mike L