Need Info on Lexus Tow Hitch
Thread Starter
Rookie
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 32
Likes: 15
From: AZ
Need Info on Lexus Tow Hitch
I just leased a 2011 RX350 AWD. I am getting a tow hitch for it. I already have the tow prep package.
I found the Lexus hitch at Sewell, but I cannot find any info that tells me the sized of the carrier bar. Is it 1.5" or 2"? I need to order a power chair lift for my wife's power chair, and of course this is needed info before ordering the lift.
Also if anyone has any experience with chair lifts and can recommend or warn me off of any particular ones -- please chime in. I am considering the scooter store right now.
I found the Lexus hitch at Sewell, but I cannot find any info that tells me the sized of the carrier bar. Is it 1.5" or 2"? I need to order a power chair lift for my wife's power chair, and of course this is needed info before ordering the lift.
Also if anyone has any experience with chair lifts and can recommend or warn me off of any particular ones -- please chime in. I am considering the scooter store right now.
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 20
Likes: 1
From: WI
It's a 2" but most people on here usually don't go with the Lexus hitch because it's up around $400.
Most go with the Curt I believe.
http://www.etrailer.com/hitch-2011_Lexus_RX350.htm
Most go with the Curt I believe.
http://www.etrailer.com/hitch-2011_Lexus_RX350.htm
Pit Crew
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 110
Likes: 0
From: VA
Welcome to the community. You may want to take a look at this thread...
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...0-rx350-4.html
Although it mentions "Trailer hitch on 2010 RX350" but it should be applicable for 2011 RX 350 as well.
I've also installed a 2" Curt Class III receiver myself on 2011 RX 350 AWD - some pics posted here...
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...rx350-awd.html
and here...
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...tow-hitch.html
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...0-rx350-4.html
Although it mentions "Trailer hitch on 2010 RX350" but it should be applicable for 2011 RX 350 as well.
I've also installed a 2" Curt Class III receiver myself on 2011 RX 350 AWD - some pics posted here...
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...rx350-awd.html
and here...
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...tow-hitch.html
Last edited by timlrx11; May 16, 2011 at 12:53 PM. Reason: Adding more links
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 18
Likes: 0
From: md
I negotiated purchase and install when I bought my 450H. I think the full price was about $1100.00 parts and labor. I paid $500. Looks like an easy install. 2 inch receiver. I don't know about the aftermarket hitches, but this one looks like it was meant to be there.
Pole Position
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 204
Likes: 1
From: MD
I did the Lexus tow hitch and it is a 2 inch. I use it to tow a 19 foot open bow boat and it does great. The ramp we use gets slippery at the end of the season and the AWD made it a breeze with the RX. My brother in law has a rwd Honda Pilot and it struggled on the slippery ramp.
Trending Topics
Intermediate
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 288
Likes: 1
From: TN
I have the Curt hitch and wouldn't want any other. With the draw-bar, wiring, and receiver cover it was less than $200 and easy to install. It is heavy duty, black powder coated and fits to a tee.
ClubLexus Stories
Celebrating Lexus & Toyota from Around the Globe
Top 10 Most Confusing Things Lexus Has Ever Done!
Joe Kucinski
2026 Lexus ES Review: Lexus Re-Embraces Founding Principles
Michael S. Palmer
10 Lexus Bargains That are Cheaper Than a New Toyota RAV4
Joe Kucinski
8 Weirdest Things Lexus Has Ever Built
Verdad Gallardo
10 Lexus Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine
Verdad Gallardo
8 Tips for Improving Your Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid's Efficiency!
Michael S. Palmer
10 Best Lexus Models No One Remembers
Joe Kucinski
TRD Off-Road Premium: Best 2026 4Runner, Except This One Thing
Michael S. Palmer
Top 10 Lexus & Toyotas to Drive Before You Die!
Joe Kucinski
Pit Crew
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 110
Likes: 0
From: VA
Pole Position
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 286
Likes: 1
From: MA
I installed the Curt, also and am very happy with it. However, I just use it for a bike rack. I know absolutely nothing about chair lifts and scooters, but I'm assuming you're talking about some substantial weight! From what I understand, the Lexus hitch is an entirely different animal from the Curt--MUCH heavier-duty--which you might need. I'd look into it before installing the Curt.
Just my 2 cents.
Just my 2 cents.
Driver School Candidate
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 14
Likes: 1
From: MA
I have read thru all the posts in both threads. What I can't understand is the directions for the Lexus hitch says nothing about cutting a hole in the fascia. Not sure how you get the hidden look without making a hole. Also does the wiring plug just "hang" there?
Attached is the directions from the Lexus Hitch.
Attached is the directions from the Lexus Hitch.
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
From: WA
Check out Step 10 on page 6 of the instructions "Trim LH Cover". That's where the cutting is involved; not in the fascia. Even though it says use tin snips; you're cutting a piece of rubber like material. The wiring plug is attached to a metal bracket that is part of the Lexus towing hitch assembly.
Intermediate
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 288
Likes: 1
From: TN
[QUOTE=BlackDog;6408435]I have read thru all the posts in both threads. What I can't understand is the directions for the Lexus hitch says nothing about cutting a hole in the fascia. Not sure how you get the hidden look without making a hole. Also does the wiring plug just "hang" there?
You have to route your wiring harness to the end of the receiver where you want it, and secure in place with plastic wire ties. I bought a receiver cover that has a place to store the end of the harness.
You have to route your wiring harness to the end of the receiver where you want it, and secure in place with plastic wire ties. I bought a receiver cover that has a place to store the end of the harness.
Last edited by mac12; May 22, 2011 at 09:01 AM.
