Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my research and content. Read my full affiliate disclaimer here.
If you plan to tow or carry cargo with a Nissan Murano, the right trailer hitch makes the job safer and more reliable. Choosing a hitch that fits the Murano and matches your towing capacity affects handling, braking, and long-term durability. This guide covers the top shortlisted trailer hitches for the Nissan Murano, selected for fitment, build quality, and load capabilities. Below you will find practical notes on each option and the key criteria we used when evaluating them.
Looking for other parts? See all Nissan Murano parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | CURT Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2" Receiver (fits select Nissan Xterra) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Reese Towpower Class 3 Multi-Fit 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver (Model 37042) |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | CURT Class 4 Trailer Hitch 2-Inch Receiver (Model 14000) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | APS Rear Trailer Hitch Receiver for Nissan Murano (2009–2014) |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | CURT Class 3 Trailer Hitch 2-Inch Receiver (Fits Select Nissan Titan) |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | CURT Class 3 Trailer Hitch 2-inch Receiver (fits select Nissan Murano) |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Draw-Tite Class 3 Trailer Hitch 2" Receiver (75282) |  |
1. CURT Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2" Receiver (fits select Nissan Xterra)
| Receiver size | 2-inch x 2-inch |
|---|---|
| Maximum towing capacity | 4000 Pounds |
| Weight distribution capacity | 6000 Pounds |
| Tongue weight | 400 Pounds |
This CURT Class 3 hitch turns a compatible Nissan into a reliable towing platform by providing a standard 2-inch receiver and a 4,000 lb gross trailer weight rating. It is designed as a vehicle-specific bolt-on, so installation is straightforward for someone comfortable with basic hand tools and following application instructions. The hitch is made from high-strength steel with precise welding and a co-cured liquid undercoat plus powder coat for strong resistance to rust and chipping in everyday use. It accepts weight-distribution setups to increase towing control when needed and is tested to SAE J684 for safety. Limitations include compatibility being vehicle- and year-specific so fitment must be verified for a Nissan Murano, and installation can be tight around exhaust or frame brackets on some models which may require a second person or modest disassembly. The hitch adds a functional receiver for trailers, bike racks, or cargo carriers while prioritizing long-term durability and a factory-quality fit.
Best for: Reliability-focused buyers who prioritize a rugged, factory-quality trailer hitch that stays corrosion-resistant and performs consistently over years of towing.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who need a universal or multi-vehicle hitch solution or who prefer a movable or removable hitch system for occasional use.
- Vehicle-specific design that bolts to factory mounting points for a tight, centered fit
- 2-inch receiver and 4,000 lb GTW rating suitable for boats, campers, and utility trailers
- Durable dual-coat finish (liquid undercoat plus powder coat) for strong rust and chip resistance
- Tested to SAE J684 standards and engineered with precise welding for long-term strength
- Compatibility is limited to specific vehicle years so you must confirm Murano fitment before purchase
- Installation can be awkward in tight undercarriage spaces and may require a helper or minor disassembly
Verdict A sturdy, vehicle-specific Class 3 hitch built for dependable medium-duty towing provided you confirm fitment for your Nissan Murano.
2. Reese Towpower Class 3 Multi-Fit 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver (Model 37042)
| Material | Metal |
|---|---|
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 500 Pounds |
This Reese Towpower Class 3 hitch is a heavy-duty, multi-fit receiver designed to mount a 2-inch ball or cargo accessories. It installs as a vehicle-specific kit and is intended for attaching bike racks, cargo carriers, and light trailers up to the stated capacity. The hitch uses solid all-welded steel construction and a two-part protective coating for long-term corrosion resistance, and Reese says the design is computer-aided and stress-tested to meet V-5 and SAE J684 standards. In practice the hitch gives a secure mounting point and works well with common rear accessories once fitted. Expect a hands-on installation; the multi-fit design means some drilling, precise alignment, and moderate mechanical skill are often required to get a tight, correct fit. Hardware tolerance and the need to fish bolts into frame rails can add time, but the finished installation is sturdy. If you want a durable, conventional 2-inch receiver for everyday accessory use and are comfortable with a more involved DIY fit, this hitch delivers reliable performance.
Best for: Buyers focused on convenience who want a durable, standard 2-inch receiver to add everyday cargo or rack capability and are willing to spend time on a one-time DIY install to avoid specialty shops.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a plug-and-play, no-drill factory-style hitch or who prefer professional installation only should consider a vehicle-specific preinstalled option instead.
- Solid all-welded steel construction for strong, reliable load support
- Two-stage protective coating (E-coat plus powder coat) improves corrosion resistance
- 2-inch receiver works with standard ball mounts, bike racks, and cargo carriers
- Designed and tested to meet V-5 and SAE J684 strength standards
- Includes multi-fit hardware to accommodate a range of vehicle frame layouts
- Multi-fit design often requires drilling and careful alignment during installation
- Some users report inconsistent hardware tolerances that can slow assembly
Verdict A strong, corrosion-resistant 2-inch Class 3 receiver that gives versatile cargo and rack capability if you can handle a hands-on installation.
3. CURT Class 4 Trailer Hitch 2-Inch Receiver (Model 14000)
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 10000 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Tongue Weight | 1000 Pounds |
| Weight Distribution Capacity | 12000 Pounds |
| Receiver Size | 2 inch x 2 inch |
| Finish Type | Liquid A-coat and black powder coat |
This CURT Class 4 trailer hitch is a heavy-duty receiver designed to add a 2-inch, 2×2 hitch opening to a compatible Nissan vehicle for serious towing jobs. It is intended for bolting to the vehicle frame using the supplied hardware and is typically used for towing large campers, boats, or multi-axle utility trailers where higher gross trailer weight is required. Notable features include a 10,000 lb gross trailer weight rating, a 1,000 lb tongue weight rating, and compatibility with weight-distributing hitches up to 12,000 lb GTW. The hitch is made from high-strength steel with a liquid A-coat plus black powder coat finish to resist rust, chipping, and UV exposure, and it is tested to SAE J684 for safety. Practical benefits are clear strength and a factory-style fit that accepts standard heavy-duty towing accessories. Limitations are fitment specificity and installation clearance: it only fits certain vehicle models and may require two people or minor bumper adjustments for alignment during installation.
Best for: Performance-oriented buyers who prioritize towing strength and factory-quality fitment for demanding loads and frequent heavy towing use on their Nissan vehicle.
Less Ideal for: Casual users who only tow light loads or need a universal hitch solution should consider lighter-duty or universal options instead.
- High gross trailer weight capacity (10,000 lb) suitable for heavy trailers
- Accepts weight-distributing hitches to increase towing capacity
- Durable dual-coat finish for improved corrosion and chip resistance
- 2-inch standard receiver fits a wide range of heavy-duty towing accessories
- Vehicle-specific fit limits compatibility to certain model years so verification is required
- Installation can be awkward on vehicles with altered bumper alignment and may need two people
Verdict If you need a robust, factory-style 2-inch receiver for heavy towing, this CURT Class 4 hitch delivers strength and corrosion resistance, but confirm vehicle-year fitment before buying.
4. APS Rear Trailer Hitch Receiver for Nissan Murano (2009–2014)
| Material | Carbon Steel |
|---|---|
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4000 Pounds |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Pull Force | 4000 Pounds |
This APS rear hitch is a vehicle-specific, bolt-on Class 3 receiver built for Nissan Murano 2009–2014 that lets you tow trailers or mount bike racks without modifying the bumper. It installs using the included hardware and no drilling on most Murano models, so DIY installation is practical with two people. The hitch is carbon steel with a triple-layer corrosion protection process and a powder-coated finish, which helps keep road salt and weather from degrading the welds and mounting points. It is rated to handle 4,000 pounds gross trailer weight and 400 pounds tongue weight, and it meets SAE J684 safety guidance for towing. Limitations to consider are that fit and hardware alignment have occasional reports of mismatched bolts, and this is a single-fit hitch for the Murano rather than a universal option. Expect to plan for proper torqueing, a secondary wiring harness purchase if you need trailer lights, and professional help if alignment issues arise during install.
Best for: Budget-conscious Murano owners who prioritize a low-cost, factory-style hitch that bolts on for weekend towing and bike-rack use and who are comfortable with a DIY install or basic shop assistance.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who need multi-vehicle fitment, a plug-and-play wiring solution, or professional-grade fitment guarantees should consider higher-end or dealer-installed options.
- Vehicle-specific design for a precise fit with Nissan Murano 2009–2014 for cleaner integration with the bumper
- 4,000 lb towing capacity and 400 lb tongue weight rating suitable for most small trailers and heavy bike racks
- Triple-layer corrosion protection plus powder-coat finish improves long-term durability in wet or salted conditions
- Bolt-on installation with included hardware allows most owners to install without drilling
- Some buyers report hardware alignment or incorrect bolts, which can require additional parts or shop time
- Does not include trailer wiring or electrical components
Verdict A cost-effective, Murano-specific Class 3 hitch that delivers solid towing capacity and rust protection for budget-focused owners, but double-check hardware fit during installation.
5. CURT Class 3 Trailer Hitch 2-Inch Receiver (Fits Select Nissan Titan)
| Material | Carbon Steel |
|---|---|
| Finish Type | Gloss black powder coat with liquid undercoat |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8000 Pounds |
| Receiver Size | 2-inch |
This CURT Class 3 trailer hitch is a custom-fit receiver intended to add a standard 2-inch hitch to compatible Nissan vehicles. Designed for serious towing, it provides an 8,000 lb gross trailer weight rating and supports weight distribution systems up to 12,000 lb, so it can handle campers, boat trailers, and utility loads when installed on a matching vehicle. The hitch is constructed from high-strength carbon steel with precision welding and finished with a co-cured liquid undercoat plus black powder coat to resist rust, chipping, and UV exposure. Installation is bolt-on to the factory frame points and typically requires two people or a support tool because of the hitch's weight and the need to torque fasteners to spec. Limitations include vehicle-application specificity and the physical effort needed for install; always verify fitment for your Murano and do not exceed the lowest-rated component in your towing setup. For a risk-averse buyer this is a conservative, well-tested choice that emphasizes durability and proven capacity.
Best for: A risk-averse mainstream buyer who prioritizes a tested, factory-style tow solution and long-term durability for occasional to frequent towing duties.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who need a universal hitch or who prefer lightweight, DIY-friendly installations should consider alternatives or professional installation services.
- High towing capacity rated at 8,000 lb GTW for heavy loads
- Vehicle-specific design for a precise bolt-on fit
- Durable dual-coat finish for strong corrosion and chip resistance
- 2-inch receiver matches common hitch accessories and towing hardware
- Designed for specific vehicle applications so fit must be confirmed before buying
- Heavy unit usually requires two people or a lift for safe installation
Verdict A strong, vehicle-specific Class 3 hitch built for dependable heavy towing, but confirm Murano fitment and plan for a two-person install.
6. CURT Class 3 Trailer Hitch 2-inch Receiver (fits select Nissan Murano)
| Receiver size | 2 inches |
|---|---|
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4000 Pounds |
| Tongue Weight | 400 Pounds |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Finish Type | Gloss black powder coat + liquid A-coat |
This CURT Class 3 hitch converts a compatible Nissan Murano rear end into a standard 2" receiver ready for towing or hitch-mounted accessories. It is designed as a vehicle-specific fit so mounting points line up with the Murano frame and the kit arrives with the bolts needed for installation. Built from high-strength steel with a co-cured liquid A-coat plus powder coat finish, it resists rust and chipping in regular road use. The hitch is rated for 4,000 lb gross trailer weight and 400 lb tongue weight, making it suitable for boat trailers, small campers, utility trailers and bike racks that use a 2" receiver. Installation is straightforward for a DIYer with basic tools though some owners recommend cleaning or re-tapping factory threaded holes and lowering the exhaust for easier access. The hitch does not include electrical wiring or mounting plates for trailer connectors, and packaging can leave cosmetic chips in the finish if handled roughly in transit. For a practical buyer seeking reliable towing capacity on a Murano, this is a solid, well-tested factory-style replacement.
Best for: Buyers who want the most towing capability and a factory-style fit at a sensible cost and who prioritize practical, long-lived upgrades over premium add-ons.
Less Ideal for: Those who need an all-in-one kit with wiring and connector mounts or who prefer a universal hitch for multiple vehicle types should look elsewhere.
- Vehicle-specific design for Nissan Murano ensures bolt-on alignment and a snug fit
- 4,000 lb GTW and 400 lb tongue weight rating suitable for common towing tasks
- Durable dual-coat finish (co-cured liquid A-coat plus powder coat) for corrosion and chip resistance
- 2" receiver accepts common hitch accessories like cargo carriers and bike racks
- Constructed from high-strength steel with precise welding and SAE J684 testing for safety
- Does not include trailer wiring or a connector mounting plate
- Some installations require cleaning or re-tapping factory threads and may need lowering the exhaust for access
Verdict A rugged, vehicle-specific Class 3 hitch that gives Nissan Murano owners reliable 4,000 lb towing capacity and strong corrosion protection at a practical price.
7. Draw-Tite Class 3 Trailer Hitch 2" Receiver (75282)
| Material | Alloy Steel |
|---|---|
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5000 Pounds |
| Receiver Size | 2 Inch Square |
This Draw-Tite Class 3 hitch is a solid, all-welded steel receiver designed for straightforward vehicle-specific installation. It provides a 2-inch square receiver opening so you can attach common accessories such as ball mounts, bike racks, or cargo carriers, and the hitch is powder-coated to resist rust. Draw-Tite rates it for 5,000 lb gross trailer weight and up to 750 lb tongue weight, with compatibility for weight-distribution setups up to 8,000 lb. The package includes mounting hardware and is tested to meet V-5 and SAE J684 standards, which simplifies fitting and gives confidence for regular towing. Real-world installers report quick, one-person installs using a floor jack, though a few customers noted occasional bolt-hole alignment issues that may require minor adjustment. It does not include a hitch ball or threadlocker, so plan to buy those separately. For a balanced buyer looking for dependable towing capacity and a near-factory fit, this hitch covers typical light- to medium-duty towing needs well.
Best for: A balanced all-round buyer who wants a reliable, factory-quality hitch that handles typical towing and accessory use without fuss and prioritizes proven fitment and capacity.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who need a hitch specifically listed for the Nissan Murano or who require heavy commercial towing beyond 5,000 lb should look for a different unit.
- Vehicle-specific design intended for direct bolt-on installation
- Solid all-welded alloy steel construction for strength
- Rated 5,000 lb GTW and compatible with weight-distribution systems
- Black powder coat finish helps resist corrosion
- Includes mounting hardware for installation
- Some users report occasional bolt-hole alignment problems requiring adjustment
- Does not include a hitch ball or threadlocker compound
Verdict A sturdy, vehicle-specific Class 3 hitch that delivers dependable 5,000 lb towing capacity and a near-factory fit for everyday towing needs.
Choosing the Right Nissan Murano Trailer Hitch: Key Factors to Consider
Vehicle-Specific Fitment
Ensuring the hitch is designed for the Nissan Murano matters because fitment affects mounting points, bumper clearance, and wiring access. A model-specific hitch reduces the need for drilling or fabrication and helps preserve factory structures.
Poor fit can lead to alignment problems or interference with exhaust, sensors, or body panels. Confirming bolt patterns and recommended installation steps prevents surprises during fitting and helps maintain vehicle integrity.
Towing Capacity And Tongue Weight
Towing capacity and tongue weight determine what you can safely tow and carry on a cargo carrier. These ratings should match or exceed the demands of your trailer, cargo carrier, or bike rack to avoid overstressing the hitch or the vehicle.
Choose a hitch whose rated towing capacity aligns with your typical loads rather than the maximum you might rarely use. Remember that tongue weight matters for vehicle handling and rear suspension loading, so a higher tongue weight rating is beneficial for heavier carriers.
Receiver Size And Class
Receiver size and hitch class dictate which accessories you can use and the kinds of loads the hitch can handle. A 2 inch hitch receiver is the most common size for SUVs and offers broad accessory compatibility and strength for moderate towing.
Higher classes typically provide stronger construction and higher load ratings. Match the receiver size and class to your accessory needs and towing plans to ensure you can mount the right ball mount, cargo carrier, or weight-distribution hardware.
Corrosion Resistance And Materials
Hitches are exposed to road salts, moisture, and debris, so coatings and material quality matter for longevity. Look for durable steel construction and protective finishes such as powder coat or specialized plating to resist rust.
Good corrosion resistance reduces the chance of structural weakening over time and lowers maintenance needs. Consider local climate and winter driving when prioritizing coatings and any included hardware protection.
Installation Complexity And Hardware
Installation difficulty affects whether you can install the hitch yourself or should seek professional help. A bolt-on design with clear hardware and instructions shortens install time and reduces the risk of errors.
Check whether wiring, bumper trimming, or supplemental brackets are required. Some hitches include all mounting hardware; others expect you to reuse factory fasteners. Be realistic about tools and access required for a proper, torque-specified installation.
Accessory Compatibility And Wiring
Compatibility with common hitch accessories impacts future flexibility. Consider whether the hitch allows easy attachment of bike racks, cargo carriers, or towing accessories and whether additional adapters are necessary.
Wiring integration is also important for towing lights and brakes. Ensure the hitch does not obstruct access to wiring harnesses and that any electrical needs can be met without excessive modification.
FAQ
How do I know what class of hitch my Nissan Murano needs?
The right hitch class depends on what you plan to tow and the tongue weight you expect. For most moderate towing and common cargo carriers, a Class III hitch with a 2 inch receiver is often suitable. Check your vehicles towing capacity and match the hitchs rated towing and tongue weight to those limits.
Can I install a trailer hitch on my Murano myself?
Many hitches designed for specific vehicle models are bolt-on and intended for competent DIYers with basic tools. Installation complexity varies, and some jobs require lifting the vehicle, trimming bumper material, or running wiring. If you are unsure or the instructions call for specialized tools, professional installation is a safer choice.
What should I consider about weight ratings when choosing a hitch?
Focus on both the gross towing capacity and the tongue weight rating listed for the hitch. The hitchs ratings should not exceed the vehicle manufacturers limits. Using a hitch with sufficient tongue weight capacity helps maintain stable handling and reduces strain on the rear suspension.
Will adding a hitch affect my Muranos warranty or safety features?
A properly fitted hitch that follows manufacturer or professional installation practices typically does not void unrelated vehicle warranties. However, altering structure or performing unconventional modifications could have implications. Keep records of the hitch specifications, installation method, and any wiring work in case you need to reference them later.
Do all hitches require electrical wiring for towing lights?
Not all hitches require wiring, but any trailer towing scenario that uses lights or brakes will need a compatible wiring connection. Some owners install a separate wiring harness that plugs into the vehicles electrical system without changing the hitch, while others route wiring during hitch installation. Plan wiring needs ahead of time to avoid last-minute complications.
How We Chose the Best Nissan Murano Trailer Hitch
We focused on products that are specifically designed to fit the Nissan Murano and meet common towing and cargo-carrying needs. Our selection criteria prioritized precise vehicle-specific fitment, rated towing capacity and tongue weight support, corrosion resistance of materials and finishes, ease and clarity of installation instructions, and compatibility with common hitch accessories. We excluded universal or one-size-fits-all units that require significant modification, hitches with unclear or undocumented weight ratings, and products lacking corrosion protection suitable for varied climates. We also filtered out options that need extensive vehicle modification or professional fabrication beyond typical bolt-on or weld-on procedures. The result is a curated list emphasizing correct fit, documented load ratings, durable construction, and practical installability for Nissan Murano owners.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
Choosing the right trailer hitch for a Nissan Murano means balancing correct fitment, rated towing and tongue weight, and build quality to match how you intend to use the vehicle. Prioritize a hitch whose receiver size and class support the accessories and loads you expect, and ensure corrosion protection suits your driving environment. Factor in installation complexity and wiring needs when deciding whether to tackle fitting yourself or hire a professional. By matching hitch specifications to your Muranos limits and your towing habits, you get safer handling and longer service life from the hitch.
Explore More:
- Check out all Nissan Murano parts & accessories
- Explore Other Accessories
- Browse all Accessories
