Cost to install trailer hitch depends on the type of vehicle and the hitch type you want to install. Some vehicles have no-drill installation, while others require drilling to make room for the trailer hitch. The installation cost and the cost of a hitch itself can vary based on to the type and class of hitch.
Average Cost To Install Trailer Hitch
How much the average cost to install a trailer hitch?
In general, cost to install trailer hitch starts around $100 and goes up to as much as $900. Keep in mind that you’ll also have to buy the trailer hitch and other parts separately, which will add another cost.
I have installed my own trailer hitches complete with wiring for lights, and it cost about $150–200. One of my friends, who is quite handy, recently DIY installed a hitch and light wiring on his Toyota Sienna for about $200. My other friend, paid $700 to have a hitch added to a newer SUV that he bought. Being that it was a dealer, that was the high end of pricing to install hitch, I’m sure.
If you looking for the best trailer hitch, you can probably get hitch and as well light wiring installed within a $300–500 range. If you have brakes on your vehicle, that will add maybe another $60 in parts and labor. I’m guessing on the hired installation prices based on my knowledge of parts prices but labor will vary from one area to another.
Shops that specialize in towed vehicles are likely to give you a better deal than automotive repair shops. They will also be more knowledgeable about your specific needs based on your model, class and your towed vehicle.
The most common type is probably the class III hitch. This should be enough for any trailer a minivan can tow. If you have a small trailer, then a class II or even a class I might be acceptable. The cost to install trailer hitch will be cheaper and easier to install but if possible, I recommend a class III.
Here are the parts associated with trailer hitch intallation:
- Class 3 hitch
- Hitch ball mount
- Pin and clip
- Wiring harness
Typically, minivans are not going to safely pull more than 3500 lbs, on average, and will be limited to about 100–200 lbs of hitch-tongue weight. A hitch might rated for 200 lbs on the tongue but I would not go over 100 lbs on a minivan without a leveling hitch.
My own pickup has never pulled a trailer but it has a provision for a hitch and it would be easy to mount one in just a few minutes. That settles the physical part.
Now for the electrical trailer hitch installation, the trailer will need to have brake lights and turn signals. If it is a really heavy trailer, it will need a provision for trailer brakes and a very specialized hitch to prevent the driver from sitting on pins and needles all day.
Wiring and connecting your trailer’s brake lights and turn signals to your car can be trickier than you’d think. Don’t be afraid to call in a professional if you start to feel overwhelmed or confused.
Most large heavy duty pickups and vans come from the factory with some provisions for towing already installed. If you have more questions about your own vehicle I’ve found that the people at UHaul are knowledgeable and friendly. U-Haul, Pep Boys, and Amazon Home Services are our top recommendations because they offer service nationwide. Cost to install trailer hitch on there is also cheap and the result is good.
