How much does it cost to have a hitch installed?
In brief, installing a trailer hitch typically costs a few hundred dollars. For a standard bolt-on hitch with basic wiring, expect roughly $150–$600, depending on the vehicle and location. More complex jobs, dealer-installed options, or gooseneck/fifth-wheel setups can push costs higher, potentially into the $1,000s. Prices vary by region and shop, and some installers charge by the hour.
What determines the cost
Several factors influence the final price of hitch installation. Understanding these can help you compare quotes and avoid surprise fees.
- Hitch class and capacity (e.g., Class I/II, Class III/IV, Class V, gooseneck or fifth-wheel)
- Vehicle compatibility and installation complexity (some vehicles require bumper removal, exhaust work, or frame access)
- Labor rates in your region and the shop’s hourly charge
- Whether a wiring harness is needed (4-pin, 7-pin, or integration with trailer brakes)
- Additional parts or accessories (anti-rattle devices, weight-distribution components, locking pins)
- OEM/dealer versus aftermarket parts and installation
- Any required modifications or re-routing of fluids or components
- Taxes, disposal fees, and shop certifications
Prices can vary widely by shop and region; the ranges below reflect typical markets in the United States as of 2024–2025.
Estimated price ranges by hitch type
Below are typical installed-price ranges for common hitch configurations. These figures assume a standard bolt-on installation without major modification.
- Bolt-on hitch for light-duty vehicles (Class I/II): about $150–$300 installed
- Class III/IV hitch: about $250–$450 installed
- Class V hitch (heavy-duty): about $350–$650 installed
- Gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch: about $800–$1,600 installed
- Wiring harness (4- or 7-pin, basic): about $50–$250 installed
- OEM or dealer-installed hitch: about $400–$1,000+ (depends on vehicle and setup)
Note that labor costs and regional differences can shift these numbers, and adding features like a brake controller or a weight-distribution system will increase the total.
DIY vs professional installation
Do-it-yourself installations can lower costs but require tools, instructions, and careful work to avoid damage. Typical DIY part costs range from $100–$500 for the hitch, plus $20–$200 for a wiring harness, depending on the hitch class and whether you add a brake controller. Professionals provide warranty on parts and labor and ensure the installation meets safety and vehicle specifications.
Important considerations before you buy
Before committing to an installation, consider your towing needs, hitch compatibility with your vehicle, whether a weight-distribution or brake controller is necessary, and the total warranty coverage. Also ask about labor hours, what is included in the price (wiring, mounting hardware, and braking integrations), and what happens if adjustments are needed after installation.
Where to get quotes and what to ask
To ensure you’re getting a fair price, collect multiple quotes from different sources and ask targeted questions. Options include:
- Trailer-hitch specialty shops
- Vehicle dealerships/service departments
- General auto repair shops with hitch experience
- Mobile installers who come to your location
When comparing quotes, request the total installed price, itemized parts, typical installation time, warranty terms for parts and labor, and whether the price includes wiring and brake-controller installation if required.
Summary
Cost to install a hitch usually ranges from a few hundred dollars for a simple bolt-on setup with basic wiring to well into the thousands for heavier-duty or dealer-installed configurations. For most everyday applications, plan on roughly $150–$600 for a standard install, with higher-end or OEM installations climbing toward $1,000 or more. Getting multiple quotes and understanding what's included will help you lock in a fair price.
Can you install a hitch yourself?
Yes, you can install a trailer hitch yourself, but it requires having the right tools, a safe workspace, and careful attention to the installation instructions to ensure a secure and safe installation. Some vehicles may also require drilling new holes for the hitch, and proper torqueing of the bolts is critical.
Before you begin
- Check the vehicle's capability: Confirm your vehicle is rated for towing and that the hitch is compatible.
- Read the instructions: Carefully read all manufacturer instructions for your specific hitch and vehicle before you start.
- Gather your tools: Ensure you have all necessary tools, including a torque wrench and potentially a drill and special sockets.
- Prepare the vehicle: Park on a level surface, chock the wheels, and lift the vehicle with a jack and secure it with jack stands for safety.
This video demonstrates the entire process of installing a trailer hitch: 1mTheory of Simple (Adventure Favors The Prepared!)YouTube · Sep 28, 2020
Step-by-step installation
- Clear the area: Remove any obstructions, like the spare tire if necessary.
- Position the hitch: Align the hitch with the pre-drilled holes in the vehicle's frame.
- Attach the bolts: Insert the bolts through the hitch and frame, hand-tightening them initially to ensure proper alignment. If your vehicle doesn't have pre-drilled holes, you'll need to drill them according to the instructions.
- Torque the bolts: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the specific torque requirements listed in the instructions. Overtightening or undertightening can be dangerous.
- Install the hitch ball: Insert the ball mount into the receiver and secure it with the hitch pin.
When to seek professional help
- If you are unsure: If you have any doubts about your ability to perform the installation correctly, it's best to have a professional do it to ensure safety.
- If you lack the tools: A torque wrench is essential for proper installation, and if you don't have one, a professional installation is a safer option.
- If the vehicle is difficult: Some installations can be challenging due to rust or a lack of pre-drilled holes. If you run into significant difficulties, take it to a shop.
You can watch this video to learn about the tools needed for installing a trailer hitch: 1mYour Favorite CyclistYouTube · Jan 24, 2019
How long does U-Haul take to install a hitch?
U-Haul hitch installations generally take 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the vehicle and the specific hitch being installed. While a standard installation can take about an hour, a more complex or custom hitch can take up to three hours.
- Average time: Most installations fall within a 1 to 2.5-hour window.
- Wait onsite: If you wait with your vehicle, the installation should be completed within a 3-hour period.
- Drop off: If you drop off your vehicle, the installation will typically be finished by the end of the business day.
- Custom hitches: More specialized or custom hitches may take up to three hours.
- Varies by location: The exact time can vary depending on the specific U-Haul location and the installer's expertise, so it's best to check with your professional for a more precise estimate.
What is the average cost to install a hitch?
1 hitch installer, the average cost to install a trailer hitch is $100–$600, depending on the parts' price and availability. AutoZone cites a price range of $250–$1,300 or more.
Is it illegal to have a hitch without a trailer in any state?
Contrary to popular belief, it isn't illegal to have a ball hitch if you're not towing anything, and while there are no specific laws for trailer hitches in the United States at the time of writing, there are laws that you may be breaking by leaving a trailer hitch exposed.
