Towing A Small Trailer With A 2007 Acura RDX SH-AWD - What Are My Best Options?

Question:

Hello, I own a 2007 Acura RDX SH-AWD, and it’d be extremely helpful if I could use it to pull a utility trailer, or a small camper, etc.. I saw a kit on here but I am lost. What is the best option? Will either class fit any accessory? Are there different types of forgive my naivety attachment styles and sizes? Can I get a pros and cons for options available, and a recommendation for the best kit to purchase. I am ready to buy and have a few diff trailers that I’ll be utilizing. Are they always the sphere shaped male attachment on the trailer and the vehicle it’s just the inverse? you lower the trailer attachment and line it up raise it etc etc? Thank you to whoever has to deal with my ignorance regarding this. I appreciate your time and I’m looking to buy now so hope to hear back soon. Regards, Tyler Ozment

asked by: Tyler O

Expert Reply:

Hey Tyler, those are a lot of great questions, and I am happy to help.

According to the online manual, a 2007 Acura RDX can tow up to 1,500 lbs. Meaning you can definitely pull small trailers as long as you stay under 1,500 lbs total.

Your best option for a hitch is the Curt Class 3 Hitch # 13536. This hitch has a 2" receiver which is very much standard. There is one other common hitch size, the 1-1/4" hitch, but the 2" is extremely common. You can easily find accessories like ball mounts or bike racks for both hitch sizes.

The 2" receivers are stronger, and rated for more weight, so we will always recommend these options when available. The 1-1/4" hitches are generally for smaller cars or sedans like my Toyota Corolla. You can tow with them but they are more for bike racks and stuff like that.

Since you will be towing multiple trailers, I suggest you get an adjustable ball mount. This way you can make sure each trailer is level when you tow. My recommendation is the etrailer Adjustable 2-Ball Mount # e66PR. It can be adjusted up to 6" of rise or drop and it has both a 1-7/8" and 2" ball. Both of the ball sizes are also standard.

The ball coupler is the standard attachment method for trailers. Any trailer you could pull with and RDX will use one of those two ball sizes. You would use the trailer tongue jack to raise the trailer coupler, then lower it down over the ball. Most couplers will have a latch or pin to keep the coupler secure on the ball.

Since you plan to tow a trailer, you will also need the Tekonsha T-One Wiring Harness # 118500. This uses a 4-flat trailer plug which is the standard for small trailers without brakes. You will find links to a few install videos below. Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions for me.