removing stock Mazda 1.25" hitch

[klicks]

Has anyone removed the stock Mazda 1.25" hitch? If so, is it just bolted on like most aftermarket hitches or will I need to do some surgery on it? Thanks!

 

[paris1]

All hitches for the CX-5 (including the Mazda unit) mount pretty much the same way with 4 bolts (positioned either horizontally or vertically through "frame members" on either side of the muffler (which you will need to drop down for clearance). Tricky part on yours is you'll be left with an ugly notch in the bottom of the bumper cover which is a peculiarity of the OE hitch.