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Hitch Install ... Dealer vs Aftermarket

B

bph0772

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Curious if anyone has had an integrated hitch installed aftermarket and what it cost vs dealer quote
 
It's pretty easy to install yourself. I found the OEM hitch and bumper cover online for about $400 shipped (I'm just mounting a bike rack so I'm not putting in the wiring harness). I've seen people say that having the dealer do it totals out to over $1000.
 
Is there any issue with aftermarket hitches and ground clearance when loaded since the aftermarkets hang below the bumper lower than the OEM?
 
RDel90 said:
Is there any issue with aftermarket hitches and ground clearance when loaded since the aftermarkets hang below the bumper lower than the OEM?
Click to expand...
If your Telluride is so loaded that your rear bumper is within 2.5" of the ground, you've got bigger problems.
 
RDel90 said:
Is there any issue with aftermarket hitches and ground clearance when loaded since the aftermarkets hang below the bumper lower than the OEM?
Click to expand...
Potentially, yes. You already knew that. My aftermarket unit, Curt, is not as tucked in as factory unit. Hangs down at least 1” more, to my disappointment. However, my AWD drive unit is already lacking ground clearance as built. Offroad travel will be risky if you venture beyond fire roads and sand washes. Hence, not that concerned about hitch height.
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My dealership (Oakes Kia in Kansas City) will install the hitch on my Telluride S trim for $500.
 
RogersMJ said:
If your Telluride is so loaded that your rear bumper is within 2.5" of the ground, you've got bigger problems.
Click to expand...
I was more concerned with when hitting bumps, speed bumps, or even pulling out of my driveway where it has a rolling curb so I definitely get some bounce. And the lower hang would hit the road.
Regardless, I am moving forward with the DrawTite hitch and standard 4-pin for now. Local shop is doing it for $400 installed.
1624622340486.webp
 
ronniebell said:
My dealership (Oakes Kia in Kansas City) will install the hitch on my Telluride S trim for $500.
Click to expand...
Follow up on this. The $500 is for the hitch only. The 7-pin connector and installation totals about $1,000. The sales person gave me wrong info 5 weeks ago.
 
ronniebell said:
Follow up on this. The $500 is for the hitch only. The 7-pin connector and installation totals about $1,000. The sales person gave me wrong info 5 weeks ago.
Click to expand...
That's seems like they don't want the business unless you overpay.

Parts
Labor
  • The DIY job takes maybe an hour, so without any installation you can do it all for under $600 (tax not included)
  • UHaul only charges $142.50 plus tax for installation.
  • I would think you could buy the parts and go to a camper dealer and all in spend under $750.
Sounds like the dealer is implying their installation is valued at $400/hr. I'm in the wrong business especially since they are still making money on the parts.
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2020Telly said:
That's seems like they don't want the business unless you overpay.

Parts
Labor
  • The DIY job takes maybe an hour, so without any installation you can do it all for under $600 (tax not included)
  • UHaul only charges $142.50 plus tax for installation.
  • I would think you could buy the parts and go to a camper dealer and all in spend under $750.
Sounds like the dealer is implying their installation is valued at $400/hr. I'm in the wrong business especially since they are still making money on the parts.
Click to expand...
Thank you very much 2020Telly for this info. It's very helpful. Now I know exactly what parts are necessary. I know someone with experience that can do the install, probably for about $80. Once I get the parts, I'll get them to him and he can do it.
 
I was able to get a drawtite class 3 hitch and 4pin harness installed at a local shop all in for $385. They did cut a little of the bumper but you can’t even tell looking at it. I won’t be doing anything that would need a 7pin or brake controller. Any of the uhaul cargo trailers are all surge breaks and only need 4pin. If I do decide to ever tow a camper down the road I’ll just get the brake controller and 4-7pin conversion later on when I’m ready for it.

I just googled trailer hitches near me and found a few places to get quotes from.
 
ronniebell said:
Thank you very much 2020Telly for this info. It's very helpful. Now I know exactly what parts are necessary. I know someone with experience that can do the install, probably for about $80. Once I get the parts, I'll get them to him and he can do it.
Click to expand...
If you have a 2021-2022, just don't forget that if you plan to tow something with a 7-pin you will still need a electronic brake controller. If you plan to tow something with a 4 or 5-pin flat you are fine but you still need an adapter to go from the Kia 7-pin down to a 4 or 5. This is what I mean: Amazon.com: WOFTD Trailer Plug Adapter 7 Pin Flat Blade to 4 and 5 Round Trailer Connector Trailer Adapter 7 Way to 4 Way 5 Way 2-in-1 Flat Blade Plug: Automotive

If you don't need a 7-pin right now and just plan to tow using a 4-pin, you can do what also works on the 2020 and save $100 by getting just the 4-pin harness right now: https://www.etrailer.com/Custom-Fit...de/2021/118784.html?vehicleid=202120215002308
 
Very helpful thread. Has anyone gone dealer route and been happy with it? I am tempted to go with dealer for bumper integration and height.
______________________________
 
2020Telly said:
That's seems like they don't want the business unless you overpay.

Parts
Labor
  • The DIY job takes maybe an hour, so without any installation you can do it all for under $600 (tax not included)
  • UHaul only charges $142.50 plus tax for installation.
  • I would think you could buy the parts and go to a camper dealer and all in spend under $750.
Sounds like the dealer is implying their installation is valued at $400/hr. I'm in the wrong business especially since they are still making money on the parts.
Click to expand...

Sorry if I'm being dense, but with this info, you could buy the hitch & bumper cover, and then take those to Uhaul to be installed? Trying to figure out best way to add bike rack/cargo carrier, but wouldn't be towing.
hjoconor said:
Very helpful thread. Has anyone gone dealer route and been happy with it? I am tempted to go with dealer for bumper integration and height.
Click to expand...

Have the same thoughts......
 
I can't emphasize how easy the install! Even you don't want to do it, a friend was some skills could handle it for a case of beer. The car doesn't even need jacked!
 
My car came with tow package and the hitch receiver tube (correct name?) is in a separated box but I don’t see any pin for the tube. Is that something I have to buy on my own? I haven’t towed anything in my life and don’t know anything about towing, yet.

thx
 
The OE hitch comes with the ball mount and the pin. I you want to tow, you would need the ball that mounts and I would purchase a lockable hitch pin.

1627331087727.webp
 
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