Last Updated on July 9, 2023 by Will Sabel
Looking to boost your Nissan Frontier’s towing power? Finding the right trailer hitch can be tough, but we are here to help!
Dive headfirst into our handpicked list of the best hitches for Nissan Frontier owners. Get ready for expert recommendations, helpful installation advice, and answers to all your hitch queries.
What to Look for in Nissan Frontier Hitch
Let’s face it; trailer hitches aren’t something people buy every now and then. It’s an investment for a long time, and you need to make sure it’s top-notch to enjoy years of uninterrupted service. The first thing you should check is the versatility of the hitch.
Of course, it should fit your Nissan Frontier without any modifications. The hitch should also be capable of carrying various types of trailers, cargo, bike racks, boats, tow hooks, ball mounts, and other hitch accessories.
All our picks can accommodate common towing accessories and medium to heavy weights, depending on the specifications.
The next thing you should pay attention to is the construction quality. All-metal construction is a must if you want maximum durability and safety. I have chosen only steel-made hitches for this review as they are the strongest and most reliable ones.
However, iron is also a good material for trailer hitches.
Whichever material you choose, make sure it meets the SAE J684 safety standards for strength. Trailer hitches with this safety label will not crush or bend during transportation.
Another crucial thing is the anti-corrosion coating. Although I only picked industry-leading powder-coated hitches, you can also go for other durable coatings or thoroughly painted ones.
Finally, check the customer reviews and product details to see if the package includes the installing hardware or not. After all, you don’t want any missing bolts or brackets, do you?
Nissan Frontier Trailer Hitch Options
Now that you know what things you should look for in a hitch, it’s time to meet our top picks. Carefully go through the details of each trailer hitch and pick one as per your needs.
1. CURT Class 3 Hitch (13241)
CURT is one brand that never fails to impress when it comes to providing the best-engineered hitching tools. The brand’s class 3 trailer hitches are specifically designed to fit the 2015 to 2022 Nissan Frontier models.
Whether it’s a truck, van, or SUV, it doesn’t matter; this versatile hitch works perfectly with fill-size vehicles. It can easily carry utility trailers, fish boats, and ATVs. The one also offers more storage for towing cargo carriers and bike racks.
To provide the highest quality parts, the hitch is made in the US. You’ll be able to fit it on particular Nissan Frontier models without any modifications. It has a vehicle-specific design which makes the installation process super-easy. Plus, the package ships with all the necessary hardware.
This hitch is tested according to the SAE J684 safety standards to ensure the highest safety on the road. It can carry up to 5,000 lbs of gross weight and 500 lbs of tongue weight. I love the fact it supports weight-distributing hitches for level towing. And it’s rated at 8,000 lbs WD in that case.
For ball mount fittings, the hitch has a 2″ tube opening. What makes the CURT hitches great is their industry-leading co-curing process. The steel frame of it is dipped in liquid Bonderite, and then a black powder coating is used for co-curing.
With this durable protection, the hitch can withstand weather changes, rust, and corrosion. Finally, it weighs only 16 pounds making it easy to store and transport. What else can you ask for?
Pros
- Suitable for large vehicles like trucks and SUVs. Strong enough to carry a wide range of heavy trailers and cargo
- Requires 2″ receivers for connection. Specific Nissan Frontier models and ball mounts with 2″ x 2″ shank fits without drilling
- Has a 5,000 pounds weight capacity rating and 500 pounds tongue weight rating. With weight-distributing hitches, it carries up to 8,000 pounds
- Steel construction with liquid-A and black powder coating provides strength, durability, and protection against environmental changes
- Easy to install. Comes with all the required hardware
Cons
- Some users complained that the bolt holes were rusted
2. Reese Towpower Class III Trailer Hitch
If you want to combine style and convenience in one hitch, this class 3 hitch by Reese Towpower will be an ideal choice. With its excellent build quality and metal shield protective coat, the one will give you a hassle-free towing experience for a lifetime.
Thanks to the custom-built design, you can install it on specific Nissan Frontier models without trimming your car frame or bumper. The hitch fits 2″ receivers and is compatible with all Reese Towpower accessories like locks, couplers, safety chains, clips, pins, hitch balls, etc.
Since it’s a class 3 heavy-duty trailer hitch, it can easily carry 5,000 lbs gross and 500 lbs tongue weight. The all-welded metal construction makes it incredibly strong and long-lasting. It has been examined thoroughly according to the USA government protocol to ensure maximum safety.
In fact, the hitch meets the CSA, SAE J684, and V-5 safety standards for its incredible strength. So, no need to worry about bending, cracking, or sudden crashing while driving on rough terrains.
Constructed from robust steel, the frame has a computer-aided design and is tested for stress and fatigue in real-world situations. Reese Towpower has used a unique metal shield technology to protect it against rust and road abuses.
The hitch has an OEM-compatible finish consisting of 3 protective layers. The first layer is of a rust-inhibiting primer which is further dipped in an E-coat electrostatic coating to deliver complete coverage. A black powder outer coating is also provided for a high-gloss look and durability.
Altogether, this construction is one of the best in the market. However, unlike the previous CURT model, this hitch might not come with some necessary bolts and washers. Hence, the installation might be a bit difficult for new users.
Pros
- Offers a custom fit for most Nissan Frontier models. Attaches with 2″ receivers without any trimming or drilling on the car frame
- Meets the V-5, SAE J684, and CSA safety standards. Compatible with all the Reese Towpower towing accessories
- Computer-assisted design for the solid metal frame. Tested in real-world conditions for maximum safety
- Features a unique Metal Shield protective coat consisting of 3 different layers. It protects against rust, corrosion, dents, and road abuses
- A black powder outer coating provides a high-end finish that offers both style and protection
Cons
- Heavy, weighs around 40 pounds. It makes the installation process difficult for one person
3. Draw-Tite Class 3 Hitch (75282)
To wrap up our list, we have another reliable, well-known brand. The Draw-Tite class 3 hitch is compact, lightweight, and compatible with a wide range of Nissan Frontier models.
Let’s talk about its compatibility first. The hitch is made with a vehicle-specific design and offers a custom fit for the 2005-2016 Nissan Frontier models. This means it features drilled holes on the metal frame, and it’s also pre-tapped for the installation of bolts and nuts.
So, you don’t have to spend hours mounting the hitch on your vehicle. Even if you fail to fit it properly, you don’t have to worry about valuable items. The safety chain allows you to connect the trailer and keep it hooked in case the ball mount or coupler fails.
With its standard 2″ receiver, the hitch can accommodate ball mounts, bike carriers, and weight distribution. Plus, it features an electric bracket that allows turn signals, taillights, and other electrical systems. If you want versatility, this is the hitch you should go for.
As for construction, the whole frame is made of high-grade alloy steel to offer strength and longevity. The frame is further welded to ensure a lifelong service. It also has a powder coat finish, preventing corrosion, chipping, scratches, and harmful UV rays.
Overall, the build quality is pretty solid and allows the hitch to carry up to 5,000 lbs of gross weight. My only gripe is that the packaging for the product isn’t very good. Many users have complained that some washers and bolts were missing. So, installation won’t be as easy as the previously mentioned CURT trailer hitch.
Pros
- Application-specific design provides a custom fit for Nissan Frontiers. Supports a wide range of towing accessories, including ball mounts
- Comes with a pre-drilled and pre-tapped frame that directly attaches to specific vehicle models
- The all-welded alloy steel body is super strong and capable of carrying 5,000 pounds of gross weight
- Features safety chain loops to provide additional safety and electric bracket for the attachment of some necessary electrical systems
- A black powder coating gives a sleek look and protects against UV damage, corrosion, and scratches
Cons
- Bolts and washers might go missing. You need to spend extra to buy the correct-sized hardware
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Nissan Frontier good for towing?
Absolutely! The Nissan Frontier is good at towing. Boasting a hefty tow rating of 6,690 lbs. and a robust payload of 1,620 lbs. It’s a game-changer when it comes to towing!
Can a Nissan Frontier pull a trailer?
Yes, Nissan Frontiers can pull a trailer with a strong hitch within the vehicle’s weight limit. The highest towing capacity for a Nissan Frontier is around 6,720 lbs.
However, it also depends on what engine you’re using. With the standard 4.0L V6 engine, you’ll be easily able to carry medium-sized trailers. If the car has another engine, its towing capability will surely decrease.
How do I know what kind of hitch I need?
It depends on the towing capacity and hitch receiver of your vehicle. Manufacturers have categorized it under 5 classes known as hitch classes. Class 1 and 2 hitches connect to 1-1/4″ receivers and carry up to 2000 lbs and 3500 lbs, respectively.
Consequently, class 3 and 4 hitches receive 2″ opening tubes. Class 3 hitches have a weight capacity of 8,000 lbs, while class 4 hitches are rated at 12,000 lbs.
What size hitch does a Nissan Frontier have?
Your Nissan Frontier will have a standard 2″ hitch receiver opening. This means it’s compatible with class 3, 4, and 5 trailer hitches. However, class 4 and class 5 hitches have a greater weight capacity than 6,720 lbs. So, it’s better to go for a class 3 hitches for a perfect fit.
Last Words
So, there you have it all. As you already know the features and benefits of each trailer hitch, it’s time to give my final verdict. With its handy features, amazing construction, and versatility, the CURT Class 3 Hitch is my top pick.
While the other two are compatible with comparatively newer or older models, this hitch is perfect for both old and new Nissan Frontiers. The installation is easy with the provided nuts, brackets, bolts, and washers. And it’s rated according to the US government safety standards to carry up to 5,000 lbs.
Finally, the co-cured metal construction with a black powder finish ensures that the hitch will last a lifetime. And that’s why the CURT 13241 is the best trailer hitch for Nissan Frontier.
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