How to Install a Trailer Hitch on a Nissan Leaf
Adding a trailer hitch to a Nissan Leaf requires only a few tools, an ECO Hitch X7221, and a short amount of time to complete the installation. This trailer hitch and installation process will work for Nissan Leaf model years 2016-2023.
Follow these basic steps to begin hauling trailers and other kinds of hitch-mounted accessories for your Nissan Leaf today.
Tools needed:
- Safety Glasses
- Torque Wrench
- Ratchet
- Flat Screwdriver
- Power Drill
- Tin Snips
- 10mm, 9/16”, & ¾” Sockets
Nissan Leaf Hitch Installation Steps
1. Remove Rear Underbody Panel
To begin our hitch installation process, we will need to prep the vehicle for the addition of the hitch to its frame. To start, we will remove the large underbody panel covering the rear half of the vehicle. This panel features twelve attachment points - seven 10mm bolts and five push clips. These push clips can be removed with a flathead screwdriver.
2. Install Provided Hardware
With the underbody panel removed, we can now install our hardware for the hitch. On the vehicle’s frame there will be three attachment points on both the passenger and driver’s sides. Once these have been located, we will be using the fish wire method to install our hardware to each access hole.
3. Raise Hitch Into Position
We are ready now ready to put our hitch into place. While we raise the hitch into its proper position, we want to be careful to avoid pushing our bolts back into the vehicle’s frame. Once the hitch is in place, we will install our nuts and washers to each bolt.
4. Tighten and Torque Hardware
Now with the hitch and its six attachment points in place, we can tighten and torque our hardware according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
5. Trim and Re-Install Underbody Panel
Before we re-install the underbody panel we removed earlier, we will need to make a trim to allow for the hitch to come through. The exact measurements for this incision can be found in the instruction manual. Once our trim is complete, we can re-install this rear underbody panel with its factory bolts and push clips.
You should now have your trailer hitch installed on your Nissan Leaf.
How Much Does it Cost to Add a Hitch for a Nissan Leaf?
The price range of a hitch for a Nissan Leaf ranges from $350 to $375. U-Haul carries several different classes of hitches and offers different sizes to accommodate both 1¼ to 2-inch receivers. U-Haul offers both installation services at a local U-Haul Moving Center® and will ship your hitch to your home.
How Much Does a Hitch for a Nissan Leaf Cost?
Installation costs are normally $100 to $200 but you should check with your local U-Haul Moving Center® as prices can differ based on location, the hitch model you are installing, and your vehicle. All U-Haul Moving Centers can install a hitch to your vehicle and with over 1,500 U-Haul centers throughout the country, you can have your hitch installed and be back on the road in no time.
All trailer hitches sold and installed at a U-Haul Moving Center® come with the option of a lifetime warranty plan guaranteed to replace your hitch with no limitation for any damage, including collision, corrosion, accidental overload, jackknifing, and vehicle theft.
How Long Does it Take to Install a Hitch on a Nissan Leaf?
Installation takes anywhere from 1 to 2 ½ hours depending on the hitch being installed and your vehicle. We recommend making an online appointment from our website to accommodate your busy schedule. In addition, U-Haul service centers offer an extensive line of towing accessories (Ball mount, Hitch ball, Pin, and Clip, Wiring) to help you safely tow your boat, camper, or trailer.
Do You Need a Wiring Kit for Nissan Leaf?
If you are planning to tow a trailer or camper with brake lights, running lights, and turn signal, you will want a wiring kit to power the lights on your trailer. The most common lighting harness comes in a 4 pin and 7 pin connector. The 4- way connector has basic lighting functions (running lights, brake lights, turn signal) while the 7-way connector adds a 12-volt circuit, circuit for electric trailer brakes, and reverse lights. U-Haul offers both 4-way and 7-way connectors. Find out which option is best for your Nissan Leaf.