How to Install a Trailer Hitch on a Nissan Sentra (2020-2022)
Adding a trailer hitch to a Nissan Sentra requires only a few tools, a Draw-Tite 24997 trailer hitch, and a short amount of time to complete the installation. This trailer hitch and installation process will work for Nissan Sentra model years 2020-2022.
Follow these basic steps to begin hauling trailers and other kinds of hitch-mounted accessories for your Nissan Sentra today.
Tools Needed:
- Safety Glasses
- Power Drill
- Rachet
- 1/2” Drill Bit
- Step Bit
- 11/16” Socket
- 18mm Socket
- Torque Wrench
Nissan Sentra Hitch Installation Steps
1. Remove Factory Tow Hook
Our first step in this hitch installation process will be to remove the vehicle’s factory-installed tow hook. This tow hook is found on the passenger side of the vehicle and features four bolts that can be removed with an 18mm socket.
2. Raise Hitch Into Position
Once the tow hook has been removed we can begin raising our hitch into its proper position. The hitch will be lined up with the weld nuts that were used for the tow hook.
3. Install Bolts on Passenger Side
After the hitch is in place we will be installing two of the four bolts from the tow hook on the passenger side attachment points. These bolts will hold the hitch in place while we work on the driver’s side.
4. Drill Bolt Holes on Driver's Side
On the driver’s side there are no attachment points, so we will need to drill our own access holes. We will be creating these holes with a half-inch drill bit.
5. Enlarge Access Hole
To install the provided carriage bolts we will need to enlarge an access hole to a size that properly allows the hardware to be fish wired. We will be using a step bit to enlarge this access point on the vehicle’s frame.
6. Fish Wire Driver Side Bolts
Now with a proper access hole, we can fish wire our driver-side carriage bolts to the holes we drilled.
7. Tighten and Torque Hardware
With all of our bolts in place, we will be installing the provided washers and nuts to each bolt. Following this, we will tighten and torque our hardware to the manufacturer’s specifications. The provided hardware will need an 11/16” socket and the factory bolts on the passenger side will need an 18mm socket.
You should now have your trailer hitch installed on your Nissan Sentra.
How Much Does It Cost to Add a Hitch for a Nissan Sentra?
The price range of a hitch for a Nissan Sentra ranges from $165 to $175. 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 Sentra 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 Sentra?
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 a Nissan Sentra?
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 Sentra.