Hello everyone,

Long time member here (back when I had a third generation TL).

Purchased a 2015 MDX AWD Tech early this year and just got the OEM trail hitch with harness on eBay.

Any recommendations where I should have it installed?

I didn't find much info using the search feature. I've read that some members used U-HAUL for installation but not sure about the quality of their work (Do they need to cut the rear bumper?).

Any advice is appreciated!

 

Are you handy with a wrench? Its not that hard with OEM. If you did not get any instructions just follow this link, year, then model, then the accessory. If you know a local mechanic, they can do it. I installed it myself.

Acura online store - Select your vehicle to view the installation or DIY instructions for an Accessory

 

It is indeed a very easy install. Any "qualified" mechanic can do it with ease. Not so sure that U-Haul, Sears, Firestone, etc. hire qualified technicians.


We all know that dealerships have a bad rep. as far as pricing, but it wouldn't hurt to get a quote from your local Honda or Acura dealer. They shouldn't charge more than 1 hour for labor.

 

Thanks very much guys!

The hitch is delivered today, I will give it a shot.

 

I have a 2014 with dealer installed hitch. After less than 18 months, already starting to see some surface rust. This is occurring around the bolt holes, weld points and opening where I install bike rack.


Planning to try some select touch-up with matte black Rustoleum, as the dealer does not offer any paint match.


You might look into having it repainted and/or clear coated before mounting to presumably avoid a similar issue down the road. I see this often, so by no means exclusive to Acura hitches.


Good luck and please report back.

 

The hitch and wire harness were very easy to install. Just installed one on my 2016 MDX without any trouble.

Also installed the fog lights, this was a bit more involved than the hitch. It required about 2 hours for the install.

Purchased both from DCH Automotive via Amazon.

 

Just a quick update. Got the trailer hitch installed but it took longer than I thought (3 hours). May be I was not handy as I thought

If anyone plans to do it, I definitely recommend to have a helper. Especially when you try to mount the hitch.

Here is the obligatory picture

 

Everyone works at their own speed. 3 hours is not bad at all. If you had to do it again, you would get it done in half the time. Wasn't too bad to do.

 

speaking of rust, I'm buying a early 2014 MDX that has the factory trailer hitch installed early in it's life. When I looked underneath, there is definitely some decent sporadic rust that i'm planning to touch up once I get the vehicle. Anyone here know of a good paint to use? I was just going to use rustoleum/underbody coating (rubberized coating), after removing the current rust with a wire wheel/brush.

 

I noticed some rust in the receiver so far on my OE Acura hitch (expected) and would probably recommend Rustoleum Ceramic (Barbeque/Outdoor Metal) paint - the black should match better and based on other ceramic paints i've used, has worked really well under abuse. Prep of course is a must (light sanding + alcohol wipe)