HattoriHonda

etrailer.com just came out with this trailer hitch, which is a bolt-on install. Trailer Hitch for 2015 Acura TLX - Curt C11409

I like to bike and am considering putting a hitch mount on the back of my TLX (Advanced SH-AWD). I've considered putting roof racks but I cringe at the thought of the clamps digging into the door seals and the post feet rubbing up against the roof paint. A hitch would allow me to easily mount and remove the rack as needed... plus it would be a lot more secure than a strapped-on rack sitting on the trunk (my bikes are expensive).

I know the TLX is not rated for towing. This mount would be strictly for carrying a bike rack + 2 bikes. I've seen many TL's with hitch mounts, so I'm thinking that it'd be fine...

Has anyone attempted to put a hitch on their TLX? Is this a horrible idea? Any Acura employees want to confirm that this won't nullify any warranties?

TLtrigirl

iTrader: (1)

Putting a hitch on your TLX will NOT nullify your warranty. The dealer would need to prove that the hitch is causing the issue (if any).

As far as using a hitch rack on your TLX, plenty of guys use them on their TLs to haul bikes. The only thing to be concerned with is how the car may handle with it hanging off the rear end loaded with bikes.

I used a roof rack on my TL for most of it's life (first 6 years or so) and have since acquired an MDX for bike and travel duties. The TL has been retired from bike duty and relegated to garage queen. Like you, I have some rather pricey toys hanging off the rear of the car.

HattoriHonda

Thanks for the reply. I'm gonna look under the car and see if it looks easy for me to install and give it a try.

TLtrigirl

iTrader: (1)

etrailer might have a video DIY of the install.

NHTLXFAN

I would be curious how you thing the hitch looks. I am thinking about installing one as well. I installed one on my wife's Honda Crosstour, and the directions look very similar. It took me about 45 minutes.

pmartone

I wonder if that trailer hitch is designed for SH-AWD version of the TLX, or if the mounting "situation" is the same for the front wheel drive TLX?

MarcDavidoff

You should have no problem with carrying a bike. I have one on my 02 TL (I know a few generations ago) and it works great. I would only carry a max of two bikes though. I used to have a Thule roof rack on it but even without the bikes on it, it would decrease gas mileage. I am not sure on the TLX but on the previous generations you have to drill two holes through where the spare tire is in the trunk. I just sealed around the bolts with some silicon to prevent any possible rusting

HattoriHonda

Ah, yeah, definitely will only be carrying 2 bikes. Figure 2 bikes + hitch rack = ~115lb tongue load at the hitch.

I also had racks for years on my other cars and the reduced mileage was annoying, especially now that I do more highway commuting.

I spoke to the hitch manufacturer and they said this design was fabricated to not require any new drilling but I will need to detach/reattach part of the exhaust to get it properly installed.

merejo

Hey I know this is years after you posted, but it is worth a shot. Did you ever end up installing the hitch for your bikes? how did it go?

dbnm

Here is the factory hitch and bumper cover.
I have the 1Up Equip-D rack coming on Monday. It's about 6 weeks early.


RDX PMC and factory hitch