Hitch Capacity Limits & Recommendations For 2005 Honda Pilot

Question:

I have a 2005 Honda Pilot with a max tow capacity of 4,500 lbs, but i can only find class III hitch receivers that are said to fit my pilot, and they only have a GTW of 3,500. Would this class IV fit/damage my pilot as long as I stay within my 4,500 tow capacity?

asked by: Austin

Expert Reply:

We do offer a solution to your application.

It sounds like you're looking for a hitch that is compatible with your 2005 Honda Pilot's max towing capacity of 4500 lbs. Please be advised that a max towing capacity of 4500 lbs. gross trailer weight is indicative of a Class III 2" trailer hitch, which has tongue weight capacities that can range from 300-800 lbs., and gross trailer weight capacities that can range from 3500 to 8000 lbs.

A Class III hitch that is designed to work with your Pilot, such as the Draw-Tite # 75599, is able to tow up to 5,000 lbs when paired with a compatible weight distribution hitch like the Fastway # FA92-00-0600. So if you're looking to tow beyond 3500 lbs. and reach that maximum capacity for your Pilot, using a weight distribution hitch system is the safe way to accomplish that. I've linked some videos and articles that explain hitch classes and weight distribution systems in more detail.

Class IV hitches such as the # 14080 you were considering are for heavier duty applications that range from 5000 lbs. to as high as 12000 lbs., which at the lowest capacity is still more than Honda's recommended max towing capacity of 4500 lbs. Ultimately it's up to you, but hitch manufacturers do not recommend using a Class IV hitch with this vehicle.