As summer rapidly approaches, you might be eager to hitch your trailer to the back of your vehicle and begin adventuring. However, upgrading to a vehicle without a hitch can leave your plans halted. Thankfully, professional trailer hitch installation options are available to help you get your adventures back on track. Learn more here about trailer hitch services in Chapel Hill.
What is a Trailer Hitch?
A trailer hitch (also called a tow hitch or a receiver hitch) is an extra part connected to the back of your vehicle. It allows you to attach a trailer to your vehicle and tow a wide range of heavy-to-move items such as boats, lawnmowers, heavy machinery, and more. If your vehicle has the capacity, you can even tow other vehicles using a hitch. These installations are also perfect for bike racks and other unique purposes.
Can My Car Tow a Trailer?
Before installing a trailer hitch, you will want to ensure that your vehicle is capable of towing your desired items. You might think that the lack of a pre-installed trailer hitch is a sign that your vehicle is unable to tow. However, you will find that even smaller vehicles are often capable of towing 1,000-1,500 lbs. Larger vehicles with plenty of towing power also sometimes come without this added attachment.
You can find information about your towing capacity in your owner’s manual. If you are still unsure if your car can tow a trailer, speak with your mechanic for further insight. Your mechanic will install a hitch that is compatible with your vehicle’s towing capabilities. This means that it is essential to never exceed your towing limit—as both your vehicle and your hitch will be susceptible to failure. You can also view our trailer hitch installation FAQ page for more information.
Professional Trailer Hitch Installation
Once you are ready for a trailer hitch, a professional will be able to complete this installation quickly and easily. Using professional-grade equipment, an expert will clean any rust and debris off of the mounting frame underneath the back of your vehicle. This allows them to attach the hitch safely and help your trailer stay secure as you tow. They will then attach a compatible trailer hitch to your mounting frame. Finally, an expert will equip your hitch with the necessary receiver, ball mount, trailer ball, and hitch pin.
Electrical Wiring of Trailer Hitches
Safety is key when it comes to taking advantage of your towing capacity. A trailer will likely block your brake lights and turn signals from view to the drivers behind you. During a professional trailer hitch installation, a technician will complete the wiring necessary to ensure that the brake lights and turn signals on your trailer respond to your vehicle commands.
Not only can improper wiring lead to a ticket, but it can also pose serious safety risks on the road. This is why it is essential to partner with a reliable and experienced mechanic you can trust.
Trailer Hitch Installation in Chapel Hill
If you are ready for a new trailer hitch installation, the experts at Chapel Hill Tire are here for you. The mechanics at all eight of our Triangle-area locations—including Raleigh, Durham, Carrboro, and Chapel Hill—specialize in trailer hitch service. You can make an appointment here online or give our vehicle service experts a call today to get started!