Installing a trailer hitch on your 2019 Chevrolet Equinox is a manageable DIY project that significantly expands your vehicle’s utility, allowing you to tow trailers, cargo carriers, and even bike racks. This guide provides step-by-step instructions, essential tools, and crucial safety tips to ensure a successful installation.
Why Install a Trailer Hitch Yourself?
While professional installation is always an option, installing a trailer hitch yourself on your 2019 Equinox can save you a significant amount of money on labor costs. With the right tools, a little patience, and this comprehensive guide, you can confidently tackle this project in your own driveway. Beyond the cost savings, you gain a deeper understanding of your vehicle and the satisfaction of completing the task yourself.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. Having everything readily available will streamline the process and prevent frustrating delays.
- Trailer Hitch: Ensure you purchase a hitch specifically designed for the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. Class III hitches are generally recommended for their versatility. Verify the weight capacity and towing specifications match your needs and the Equinox’s limitations.
- Socket Set: A comprehensive socket set with various sizes (metric is crucial for your Equinox) is essential for loosening and tightening bolts.
- Torque Wrench: Absolutely vital! Correct torque is critical for safety and to prevent damage. Consult the hitch’s instructions for specific torque specifications.
- Wrench Set: For holding nuts in place while tightening bolts.
- Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from debris.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp edges and dirt.
- Penetrating Oil: WD-40 or similar product to loosen stubborn bolts.
- Measuring Tape: For accurate alignment and marking.
- Utility Knife: For trimming the fascia (if required).
- Drill (Optional): Some hitches may require drilling additional holes, though this is rare for the 2019 Equinox.
- Car Ramps or Jack Stands: To safely elevate the vehicle. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
- Marker or Paint Pen: For marking areas to be trimmed.
- Wire Brush: For cleaning corroded bolt threads.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
This guide assumes a relatively straightforward installation, common for many 2019 Equinox hitches. Always refer to the specific instructions provided with your hitch for the most accurate guidance.
Step 1: Preparation and Safety
- Park the Vehicle: Park your Equinox on a level surface.
- Engage the Parking Brake: Ensure the parking brake is firmly engaged.
- Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for added safety.
- Raise the Vehicle: Use car ramps or jack stands to safely elevate the rear of the vehicle. Ensure the vehicle is securely supported before proceeding. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
- Safety Glasses and Gloves: Put on your safety glasses and gloves.
Step 2: Identify and Prepare the Mounting Points
- Locate the Mounting Holes: Underneath the rear of the vehicle, identify the factory-drilled mounting holes on the frame rails. These holes are where the hitch will attach.
- Clean the Threads: Use a wire brush to thoroughly clean the threads of the mounting holes. This is crucial for ensuring proper bolt engagement and preventing cross-threading. Spray penetrating oil if the threads are corroded or rusty.
Step 3: Attach the Trailer Hitch
- Position the Hitch: Carefully lift the trailer hitch into position, aligning the mounting holes on the hitch with the mounting holes on the vehicle’s frame.
- Install the Hardware: Insert the provided bolts and washers through the hitch and into the frame. Start by hand-tightening the bolts to ensure proper alignment.
- Tighten the Bolts: Using your socket and wrench set, gradually tighten the bolts. Then, using your torque wrench, tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque. This step is critical for safety. Check the hitch’s instructions for the exact torque specifications. Double-check all bolts after the initial tightening.
Step 4: Trimming the Fascia (Potentially Required)
- Inspect the Fascia: Depending on the hitch model and your Equinox’s trim level, you may need to trim a small section of the rear fascia (the plastic bumper cover) to accommodate the hitch receiver.
- Mark the Cut: Use a measuring tape and marker to accurately mark the area to be trimmed. Consult the hitch’s instructions for precise measurements.
- Trim the Fascia: Carefully use a utility knife or rotary tool (like a Dremel) to trim the fascia along the marked lines. Take your time and make small, precise cuts.
- Test Fit: After trimming, test fit the hitch to ensure it fits properly and the receiver is accessible. Make any necessary adjustments to the trimming.
Step 5: Final Inspection and Lowering the Vehicle
- Inspect All Connections: Thoroughly inspect all bolts and connections to ensure they are properly tightened.
- Double-Check Torque: Double-check that all bolts are torqued to the correct specifications.
- Remove Supports: Carefully remove the car ramps or jack stands and lower the vehicle to the ground.
- Final Visual Inspection: Perform a final visual inspection to ensure the hitch is properly installed and secure.
Post-Installation Checks
After installation, perform these checks to ensure everything is working correctly.
- Check Lighting: If you installed a wiring harness (separate installation), test your trailer lights (brake lights, turn signals, and running lights) to ensure they are functioning correctly.
- Initial Tow Test: Before towing any significant load, take your Equinox for a short test drive with a small trailer. Monitor the hitch for any signs of looseness or unusual noises.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about installing a trailer hitch on a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox.
FAQ 1: What class of hitch is best for my 2019 Equinox?
Generally, a Class III hitch is the most suitable for a 2019 Equinox. It offers a good balance of towing capacity and versatility for various applications, such as hauling bikes, cargo carriers, or small trailers. Always check your Equinox’s owner’s manual for the maximum towing capacity and tongue weight limitations.
FAQ 2: How much can my 2019 Equinox tow?
The maximum towing capacity of a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox varies depending on the engine and trim level. Consult your owner’s manual and the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the exact towing capacity of your specific vehicle. Never exceed the manufacturer’s recommended towing capacity.
FAQ 3: Do I need to install a wiring harness?
Yes, if you plan to tow a trailer with lights, you must install a wiring harness. This harness connects your Equinox’s electrical system to the trailer’s lights, allowing you to signal turns, brake, and provide running lights for safety.
FAQ 4: Where does the wiring harness plug in?
The wiring harness typically plugs into a factory-provided connector located near the rear of the vehicle, often behind the driver-side rear taillight. Refer to the wiring harness instructions for the exact location and connection procedure.
FAQ 5: Will installing a hitch void my warranty?
Installing a trailer hitch generally does not void your vehicle’s warranty, unless the installation causes damage that is directly related to the hitch. However, exceeding the vehicle’s towing capacity can void the warranty if it leads to mechanical failure. Consult your dealership for clarification.
FAQ 6: Do I need special tools to install a hitch?
While you can technically install a hitch with basic tools, a torque wrench is essential for ensuring proper bolt tightening and safety. Other recommended tools include a socket set, wrench set, safety glasses, and gloves.
FAQ 7: How long does it take to install a hitch?
For a DIY installation, expect to spend 2-4 hours installing a trailer hitch on your 2019 Equinox. This timeframe can vary depending on your experience level and the complexity of the hitch installation.
FAQ 8: What if I can’t find the mounting holes?
The mounting holes are usually pre-drilled on the frame rails of the Equinox. If you’re having trouble locating them, consult the hitch’s instructions or a vehicle-specific forum for guidance. You may need to remove some underbody panels for better access.
FAQ 9: What if a bolt is stuck or stripped?
If a bolt is stuck, apply penetrating oil and let it soak for a while before attempting to remove it again. If a bolt is stripped, you may need to use a bolt extractor or re-tap the hole. Consider seeking professional assistance if you are not comfortable with these techniques.
FAQ 10: How do I determine the correct hitch ball size?
The correct hitch ball size depends on the coupler size of your trailer. The coupler size is typically stamped on the trailer’s coupler. Common sizes include 1-7/8 inch, 2 inch, and 2-5/16 inch. Always use the correct ball size for safe towing.
FAQ 11: What is the tongue weight capacity?
Tongue weight is the amount of weight the trailer exerts on the hitch ball. It’s critical to stay within the vehicle’s and hitch’s tongue weight capacity. Exceeding this capacity can cause instability and unsafe towing conditions. Consult your owner’s manual and the hitch’s specifications.
FAQ 12: Where can I buy a trailer hitch for my 2019 Equinox?
You can purchase a trailer hitch for your 2019 Equinox from various sources, including online retailers (e.g., Amazon, etrailer.com), auto parts stores (e.g., AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts), and trailer supply stores. Be sure to verify the hitch is compatible with your vehicle model and trim level.