Tow Hitches on Sedans

So I want to install a hitch on my Avalon and want to know what your experiences are with installing hitches on sedans that aren't OEM equipped for towing. I understand they might have to drill into the frame to install the hitch according to UHaul's website. I want to have a clear picture if this would affect resale value (if any) as well as any other issues I'm overlooking. I'll be pulling one bike with spares/tires at the most.

For reference, I have seen Corollas with a 1500 TOW rating so I think a V6 Camry/Avalon would have no trouble with it.

 

Had a hitch installed on a Chrysler sedan back in 1999. It was leased. Did not detract from the resale value (it was a Chrysler, after all).

 

I’ve installed them. Some manufacturers will have sleeves through the rear framerails and the hitch bolts right up. Others you have to drill through the trunk floor and they simply sandwich the floor between backing plates on top and the hitch on the bottom. Either way, I don’t see any decrease in value or marketability, as they’re very handy for stuff like hitch-mount bike racks (default reason for a hitch ). Step up your transmission maintenance, since you’re adding more load to the drivetrain. Disclaimers are: ensure you routinely check the bolts if you regularly use it and don’t be hooking your buddy’s toy hauler to it for a trackday. Lastly, enjoy cruising in a very nice tow vehicle.

Edit: If you go to hitchfinder.com and look up your Avalon, the installation instructions are usually available for download and you can see exactly what is involved for that vehicle.

 

Hitches are one thing... Brakes are another... if it hilly where your towing consider boiling them up.

 

At least, the Avalon has nice sized discs on all 4 corners, unlike shitty econoboxes with their 8” rotors and drums.

 

I should have clarified, I'm looking into this for trackday duty, I'm hauling a track bike.

 

What year Avalon? I’d be shocked if etrailer.com didn’t have a no drill option for it. Generally an hour or two to install the hitch and run the wiring and you’re done.

Main issue with hitches on sedans is sometimes dragging when going up a steep incline.

 

I used my 93 Accord to tow my bike quite often back in the day. Norther Hydraulic (Northern Tool now I think) trailer 4 x 8. Still have the trailer, the car was sold many years ago to a guy that worked for me. N problems whatsoever, but it was a 5 spd manual.

 

And a Harbor Freight trailer.

 

2015.

Alright then, U-Haul is the closest place to me, should I trust them with a hitch install in your opinions?

You're buying? How generous of you Mongo.

 

I used the local Uhaul in Raleigh. They did a good job, but there was no bumper modification required. If that is necessary, then Uhaul isn’t the place to go.

 

https://www.etrailer.com/hitch-2015_Toyota_Avalon.htm

Two options, both involve drilling. By all means then.

Thanks for the feedback, no bumper modification required in my case.

 

i saw a dude show up with a mini cooper and a "trailer in a bag" setup.
no joke... cbr1000rr and a mini cooper

 

And you didn't take a photo?! That's epic!

 

I know that. A little sarcasm in there, brother. And, the bike rack comment is a great answer if a buyer questions what you’ve towed with the car.

A buddy pulls his Daytona 675 behind a Civic with one those trailers. Looks sketchy as hell, but, whatever works for him. At least he goes to the track.

 

I would avoid letting Uhaul install anything at all costs.
Opt for the standard class 3 2" receiver vs 1" 1/4

 

No problem usually. Easier on hoist though. Wiring can likely get plug and play.

 

A open trailer will be fine behind a Avalon, same engine trans as a Highlander and virtually the same brakes.
I’d bet the hitches are bolt on, be wary of the trailer harness though and make sure you get a quality plug and play one that doesnt butcher the harness.

Now if you start trying to pull a 7x16 enclosed it may be a different story.