Trailer hitch: to buy or not?
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
RX400h
HELP: Trailer hitch and other options being considered
Greetings all. New to the site and about to order a 450.
I will in all likelihood have a very small probability of ever towing something.
However, my local (cheesy) sales guy said it would help with resale and I assume there is something to be said for the added strength that it could lend to a rear collision.
Does it stick out on the rearview camera at all?
Do others feel it is the right move to buy it even if I have a very, very small chance of ever using it? But I must admit, the chance is there.
Thoughts, tirades, opinions?
Thanks!
I will in all likelihood have a very small probability of ever towing something.
However, my local (cheesy) sales guy said it would help with resale and I assume there is something to be said for the added strength that it could lend to a rear collision.
Does it stick out on the rearview camera at all?
Do others feel it is the right move to buy it even if I have a very, very small chance of ever using it? But I must admit, the chance is there.
Thoughts, tirades, opinions?
Thanks!
Last edited by shinobi; Mar 13, 2014 at 12:06 AM.
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 62
Likes: 0
GL
I don't even see why the factory makes it an option (maybe to squeak through curb weight and emissions testing.)
Definitely check that box.
Even if all you do is carry a bike rack, it's certainly a deal-breaker on resale to a high percentage of SUV buyers.
The receiver is completely hidden under the rear bumper -- if you never use it, you won't know it's there.
Definitely check that box.
Even if all you do is carry a bike rack, it's certainly a deal-breaker on resale to a high percentage of SUV buyers.
The receiver is completely hidden under the rear bumper -- if you never use it, you won't know it's there.
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 297
Likes: 4
From: Bay Area CA
2014 GL 350 blue tec
I don't even see why the factory makes it an option (maybe to squeak through curb weight and emissions testing.)
Definitely check that box.
Even if all you do is carry a bike rack, it's certainly a deal-breaker on resale to a high percentage of SUV buyers.
The receiver is completely hidden under the rear bumper -- if you never use it, you won't know it's there.
Definitely check that box.
Even if all you do is carry a bike rack, it's certainly a deal-breaker on resale to a high percentage of SUV buyers.
The receiver is completely hidden under the rear bumper -- if you never use it, you won't know it's there.
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 599
Likes: 6
From: Maryland
2022 E450 Prior:2021 S580 2012 E350BT, 2013 GL350BT, 2009 ML320BT, 2006 E320CDI, 1987 260E
I would get it as others said for bike racks etc. I didn't get it on our previous ML, inquired about MB putting one on after the fact and they quoted me like $2k and said they would have trouble even getting the parts...
Member
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 107
Likes: 2
From: Weston, Florida
2014 GL350BT
Definitely get it. It should be a standard option, i.e. included. It is $550 factory installed, about $2k to do so afterwards. You'll never know it's there unless you need it to tow or very useful for bike racks, or sometimes that carry all that fits on the hitch as well. You never know.
Added bonus, of someone rear ends you in a minor fender bender, you'll have much less damage due to the extra steel back there.
Plus you'll get the electrical connector plug, a huge plus if you do ever two a trailer and need lights, brakes, etc....
Added bonus, of someone rear ends you in a minor fender bender, you'll have much less damage due to the extra steel back there.
Plus you'll get the electrical connector plug, a huge plus if you do ever two a trailer and need lights, brakes, etc....
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 6,130
Likes: 1,117
A gaggle of MB's
It's cheap for what it is = hitch + connect + rear module for towing.
BIG plus on added rear end safety.
Plus - Marboro Man cool factor.
You haven't mentioned other options oft mentioned here" ie MBTex wrapper lower dash.. heated windshield washer... etc..
BIG plus on added rear end safety.
Plus - Marboro Man cool factor.
You haven't mentioned other options oft mentioned here" ie MBTex wrapper lower dash.. heated windshield washer... etc..
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Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
RX400h
Thanks for the input fellas. I'll definitely get it. I was on the fence about the hitch but am now resolute.
Ok, so here goes: here are the other options I'm considering/debating:
Panoramic roof (I think I want it, if it comes down to it being too bright with too much transparency, I'll just tint the glass more...I've heard about the third row removable screen and can live with it)...?
I'm going black MB-Tex with anthracite poplar wood (black on black), chrome hood and door handle inserts...I'm set on these with Arctic White color.
Other options I'm curious about besides the roof:
RSE prewiring
Power Easy-Entry 2nd row seats
In-vehicle hotspot
Parking Assist Package
Anybody love/hate/opine on the 3rd zone climate?
There are a host of other options I'm set on but at this point they're not debatable (e.g. the new for 2014 available factory-installed oil slick with rocket launchers).
Input always appreciated. Thanks!
Ok, so here goes: here are the other options I'm considering/debating:
Panoramic roof (I think I want it, if it comes down to it being too bright with too much transparency, I'll just tint the glass more...I've heard about the third row removable screen and can live with it)...?
I'm going black MB-Tex with anthracite poplar wood (black on black), chrome hood and door handle inserts...I'm set on these with Arctic White color.
Other options I'm curious about besides the roof:
RSE prewiring
Power Easy-Entry 2nd row seats
In-vehicle hotspot
Parking Assist Package
Anybody love/hate/opine on the 3rd zone climate?
There are a host of other options I'm set on but at this point they're not debatable (e.g. the new for 2014 available factory-installed oil slick with rocket launchers).
Input always appreciated. Thanks!
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Member
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 200
Likes: 10
2024 GLS450, Previously 2020 GLS450, 2017 GLS450, 2014 GL450, 2012 GL450
Panoramic roof (I think I want it, if it comes down to it being too bright with too much transparency, I'll just tint the glass more...I've heard about the third row removable screen and can live with it)...?
I'm going black MB-Tex with anthracite poplar wood (black on black), chrome hood and door handle inserts...I'm set on these with Arctic White color.
Other options I'm curious about besides the roof:
RSE prewiring
Power Easy-Entry 2nd row seats
In-vehicle hotspot
Parking Assist Package
Anybody love/hate/opine on the 3rd zone climate?
I'm going black MB-Tex with anthracite poplar wood (black on black), chrome hood and door handle inserts...I'm set on these with Arctic White color.
Other options I'm curious about besides the roof:
RSE prewiring
Power Easy-Entry 2nd row seats
In-vehicle hotspot
Parking Assist Package
Anybody love/hate/opine on the 3rd zone climate?
2. Panorama I personally love, specially if it's a black interior, keeps it nice and airy.
3. Power EZ Entry is nice, but make sure you don't fall into the headrest issue that has been pointed out by numerous members, specially for short occupants.
4. In-vehicle hotspot is a waste of money in my humble opinion. Get an iPad with LTE, will cost the same, is mobile and maintains a resale value.
5. I love the Park Assist package.
6. 3rd zone climate is highly highly recommended if you have occupants sitting in the back. It increases the vent count from 2 to 8. However, there are some issues like some vents only blowing air when A/C is on.
