Comparing Trailer Hitch Receivers For 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV

Question:

In the Chevy Bolt forum several people have commented on a receiver with a 2inch opening being more stable/stiff than the 1 1/4inch opening. Also, the Class II and III receiver frames seem to be different in stiffness. Even though I only want to tow light loads, I care about stability when hauling anything, either a light trailer or a rear mount bike rack. Any thoughts? Im comparing the Curt Class III C13315 and the EcoHitch 306-X7359 with 2inch receivers to the Curt Class II C12170 and Draw-Tight Class I 24956 with 1 1/4inch openings. Also, with any of these, do I have a choice of wiring harnesses, between Chevy, Curt and Draw-Tight? how do I know which one will fit my car best? I just want the 4 wire variety. Thank you for any enlightenment you can share!

asked by: Louise D

Expert Reply:

I would be happy to go over the trailer hitch receiver options for your 021 Chevrolet Bolt EV, but the Curt # C13315 and # C12170 you were looking at are designed for certain years of the Mazda CX-5 and will not fit your vehicle.

For your Bolt EV there is the Curt # C11457 that has a 1-1/4" receiver, Draw-Tite # 24956 that has a 1-1/4" receiver, and the EcoHitch # 306-X7359 that has a 2" receiver.

Between these options I recommend the EcoHitch due to it having a 2" receiver that gives you a wide variety of options for accessories, but also since it has the highest tongue weight rating at 300lbs making it the strongest hitch.

A 2" receiver by itself does not make a hitch stiffer or more stable, but hitches with 2" receivers typically have higher tongue weight and/or trailer weight ratings which can make them stiffer and more stable.

You can use any vehicle wiring harness that is confirmed to fit your vehicle, no matter which brand it is but since there is not a custom fit harness confirmed to fit your vehicle you will need to use a universal harness. I recommend the Vehicle Wiring Harness # C59496 which will give you the 4-way connector you need, and includes all of the components needed to complete the install.

To complete your towing setup you will need a ball mount, hitch ball, and hitch pin and clip which can all be found in the etrailer Ball Mount Kit # 989900.

I included a few video reviews of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.