Can I put a hitch on my Acura MDX?
Yes — you can install a hitch on your Acura MDX, and it can enable towing up to about 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The exact limit depends on the year, trim, and whether you use the factory towing package or an aftermarket hitch.
Here’s how to understand your options, what capacity means for your SUV, and how to install and tow safely.
Options to add a hitch
There are two primary pathways: using Acura’s factory towing package or choosing an aftermarket hitch. Each path has implications for towing capacity, warranty, and installation.
Factory towing package
Most MDX models built with the factory towing option can tow more weight and come with a ready-made hitch and wiring harness designed to fit the vehicle and support warranty coverage.
- Class III hitch with a 2-inch receiver is typically included or offered as part of the towing package.
- Wiring harness for trailer lights (often supporting 4-pin and 7-pin connectors) is included or available through the package.
- Possible cooling upgrades (engine oil cooler and/or transmission cooler) to support higher towing loads.
Choosing the factory option can simplify installation and warranty coverage, but it may cost more upfront and often requires dealership involvement for installation and integration with vehicle systems.
Aftermarket hitch options
Aftermarket hitch kits from brands like Curt, Draw-Tite, or Reese offer compatible 2-inch Class III receivers and wiring options. They can be cheaper and more flexible but require careful selection to ensure fit and to avoid warranty issues.
- 2-inch Class III hitch receiver is standard for MDX-compatible aftermarket kits.
- Trailer wiring harness options (4-pin or 7-pin connectors) compatible with MDX requirements.
- Professional installation is often recommended to protect sensors, bumper integrity, and electronics; verify compatibility with AWD and towing software.
Before purchasing aftermarket parts, verify fitment for your exact model year and trim, and check with Acura about any potential warranty implications.
What to know about towing capacity and safety
The MDX’s towing capacity varies by year and whether the towing package is installed. In the current generation (2022–present), the MDX can tow up to around 5,000 pounds with the factory towing package, while without it the cap is commonly around 3,500 pounds. Tongue weight and trailer brakes requirements should be considered, as well as payload limits on the vehicle.
- Max towing capacity: up to 5,000 pounds with proper equipment; about 3,500 pounds without the towing package.
- Tongue weight typically around 10–15% of the trailer weight (e.g., roughly 500 pounds on a 5,000-pound trailer).
- Payload includes passengers, cargo, hitch equipment, and trailer tongue weight; exceeding GVWR reduces safety and warranty protection.
- Trailer brakes may be required for heavier trailers according to local regulations and manufacturer guidelines.
- Ensure the towing package includes the required electrical harness and receiver; confirm compatibility with the MDX’s sensors and electronics.
Always verify the exact numbers for your year and trim with the owner’s manual or a dealer before towing anything.
Installation and safety tips
Whether you opt for the factory towing package or an aftermarket hitch, proper installation is essential for safety and warranty. The MDX’s bumper design and rear sensors can complicate installation, and AWD variants may have specific torque specs or fitment considerations.
- Confirm the exact towing capacity for your vehicle’s year, trim, and drivetrain with Acura/Honda documentation.
- Select a hitch with a 2-inch receiver that matches Class III load ratings and your trailer’s weight; include a compatible wiring harness.
- Have the hitch installed by a qualified technician or dealer to ensure correct alignment, torque specs, and electrical connections.
- Test the trailer connection and lighting before towing; inspect the hitch mount, safety chains, and overall installation.
- Follow braking and weight-distribution guidelines; do not exceed the trailer or vehicle’s payload and towing limits.
When in doubt, consult an Acura dealer or a trusted installer to avoid warranty conflicts or damage to the MDX.
Summary
In short, you can fit a hitch to most Acura MDX models, using either a factory towing package or a reputable aftermarket kit. The key is to know your exact towing capacity, install a proper 2-inch Class III hitch, and ensure wiring and safety systems are correctly integrated. Always verify model-year specifics with the dealer and follow the owner's manual to tow safely.
