2016 CX-5 Dealer Installed Tow Package

[TimelessMazda]

I swear I looked for this.

Anyway, for those that had this added from the dealer, did they have to cut a notch out of the bumper?

Just seeing if this is normal or if I need to bring this up as being done wrong?

Thanks!

 

[fdew]

The dealer installed hitch requires a notch. Many other brands including the Curt brand do not. Many have installed the Curt hitch and it is not hard. A hour or two and no drilling. Normal hand tools and a roll around jack is handy if you have one.

 

[Kedis82ZE8]

IMO... go with 3rd party... cheaper and no notch cuts either.. higher tongue weight ratings too...


https://www.etrailer.com/hitch-2016_Mazda_CX-5.htm

 

[TimelessMazda]

Unfortunately it is too late as the dealer installed it already. Was making sure the notch they cut was normal.

Thanks for the replies!

 

[halfast3]

My 2015 has a small cutout for the factory hitch. It looks fine to me and I appreciate the higher ground clearance vs aftermarket installations.

 

[paris1]

What Mazda should have done is provide a template for cutting the notch and trim to cover the raw edge. Shame on them for dropping the ball on this!

 

[TimelessMazda]

^^^ totally agree.

 

[Kedis82ZE8]

My 2015 has a small cutout for the factory hitch. It looks fine to me and I appreciate the higher ground clearance vs aftermarket installations.

I'll have to check on mine.. I thought exhaust was nearly at the same height but I could be wrong.

 

[Kedis82ZE8]

Official install instructions do contain a template on page 10.

 

[erhayes]

I guess some of the dealer experts just toss the templet and that is why so many complain about the bumper cut-out looking like a 2 year old did it. )

 

[halfast3]

I'll have to check on mine.. I thought exhaust was nearly at the same height but I could be wrong.

I was referring to the height of the hitch receiver which controls the height of things like bike racks. They tend to stick out a ways and can scrape at times. (eek2)

My cutout is unobtrusive and very clean...no ragged edges.

 

[Kedis82ZE8]

I was referring to the height of the hitch receiver which controls the height of things like bike racks. They tend to stick out a ways and can scrape at times. (eek2)

My cutout is unobtrusive and very clean...no ragged edges.

Oh ok.. I've only used mine for utility trailers and rear cargo carriers