Trailer Hitch Recommendation For 2013 Toyota RAV4

Question:

Trailer hitch I got for my 2013 Toyota RAV4 does not fit my vehicle, the holes are not lined up properly

asked by: Senudin

Expert Reply:

I'm sorry to hear there's an issue with your hitch installation on your 2013 Toyota RAV4, but this doesn't necessarily mean your hitch # e98864 doesn't fit your vehicle. It is a confirmed fit unless you have the electric model of the Rav4. Because of their size and shape, sometimes trailer hitches get flexed during shipping or transport. This is due to hitches being crafted from mild steel.

This flex can cause the on-center bolt hole spacing to change, meaning it may appear that the hitch's bolt holes will not line up with the weld nuts on your vehicle frame. If the entire hitch was rigid steel, there would be a greater chance of the hitch being damaged and experiencing stress cracks. Such cracks could cause the hitch to malfunction.

The mounting brackets need to be able to flex with the vehicle frame as the vehicle travels over the road and hits bumps or potholes. The hitch also needs to be able to withstand changes in temperature without being damaged.

The trailer hitch can be flexed back into the correct position so the bolt holes will line up with those on your vehicle frame for installation. There are several ways to help flex your hitch back into position, and I've linked an article that explains all of these methods in detail.

expert reply by: Aaron A