Difficulty of Hitch Installation on 2010 Mini Cooper S  

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Expert Reply:

The light-duty Class I hitch we offer for the 2010 Mini Cooper S, Curt hitch # C11130, installs without drilling but will require heat shield modification (if it has a center exhaust) and will also require you to trim the rear valance. You will need to temporarily remove the bumper to provide access to the hitch mounting points.

This Curt hitch comes complete with all installation hardware and the linked installation instructions detail the tools required, which include a torque wrench. Many of our customers do handle their hitch installation themselves. We do not have a video for this particular hitch/vehicle combination but I have linked a video showing hitch installation on a different Mini model. I also included two helpful articles with guidance for hitch installation.

If you are installing the hitch to enable use of a hitch-mount bike rack, please note you can transport only two bikes. A Class I hitch has a tongue weight (downward force) rating of only 200-lbs so only 2 bikes can be transported even if the rack itself holds more. With this Curt Class I hitch in place you can choose from among the compatible Class I bike racks shown on the link at right.
An article on hitch racks is included to help you select one that suits your bikes and that will provide enough clearance at the back of the Mini.

Last, please note that Curt requires you to use a stabilizing strap # 18050 with a bike rack in order to retain your warranty.

expert reply by: Adam R

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