Does anyone have an opinion about whether I should get a Lexus hitch installed versus an aftermarket hitch? I have the towing prep package already, but Lexus wants to charge almost $1000 to order and install the hitch. I was quoted a little less than $400 for an aftermarket hitch to be ordered and installed, but I wanted to see what other people thought.

 

From a functionality standpoint, so long as they are comparable units (both class III, or whatever), a hitch is a hitch is a hitch. The OEM unit tucks up nicely under the truck, and that's really nice, but not $600 premium nice IMO. I'd have a look at what you get with the aftermarket unit, make sure it includes the wiring you'll need, and if it is a round tubing design that tucks up nicely, I'd have no reservations about going that route.

 

$1000?! Go somewhere else! You can buy the OEM hitch for $276 from Sewell - they are a CL sponsor. Then pay an indy to install it for $100+.

http://lexus.sewellparts.com/accesso...2005/3825.html


When I was in the market many years ago, I decided to go with the OEM hitch - I prefer the way it looks vs the aftermarket hitches.

 

Or get pintle hitch receiver. You can easily install it yourself for under $250. Simply order the parts (receiver + bumper cover) since you already have wiring, mounting bolts and all necessary relays:

http://lexus.sewellparts.com/accesso...2008/4229.html

 

Cool. Just ordered the pintle hitch and the matching cover from them for $254.00. Saved $100 with the CL discount!

 

Other than appearance, is there a benefit to one over the other between the Pintle hitch or Regular hitch? The Pintle is cheaper also.....

 

After some digging I ended up getting an aftermarket one.

http://www.hitchsource.com/lexus-gx4...i-p-25951.html

 

It depends on the purpose and what you plan on towing.

Pintle Hitch:
- looks better
- will require a new bumper piece
- rated up to 5,000 lbs

Regular Hitch
- doesn't look as good
- lower departure angle (if you care)
- rated up to 6,500 lbs

 

Send the extra money on the regular hitch. It distributes the weight much better and the extra 1500 lbs rating makes a big difference when towing close to the max rating. If all you are doing is mounting a bicycle rack or basket (or towing 2K lbs) the Pintle is fine.

Koz