Hi All,

Long time lurker, First time Poster. I spent a significant amount of time researching this topic and looking through many posts. I also spoke to the dealer several times. Here is the a collection of my experience.

I wanted to install a hitch on my GLK250. I had to decide between after mark vs OEM. After market was cheap but very exposed. I knew it will likely rust after a few years with our Canadian winters and Salt. I was planning on keeping the car for a long time. I decided to go with OEM. My issue is that i refuse to pay the dealer cost. They quote me 2200 CAD (1600 USD). Here is a list of the part numbers they said i needed. 204-310-0000 Hitch Kit 1256 CAD (850 USD). They wouldn't tell me what the individual component part numbers in the kit. They also said i would need a new plastic cover for under the car that allows for the hitch 204-885-8438 489 CAD (250 USD). I didn't buy the cover personally. I had my mechanic cut my current cover. to allow for the hitch. See final picture

I end up buying a hitch i found on E-bay for a dismantler form 165 USD plus shipping. My hitch came with the electrical harness. If you are missing the harness the part number is 204-440-8709 282 CAD (118 USD) - I also have a used one if you want to buy it. PM me if you want it for 40 USD



The last item you need is Trailer control module. I found on e-bay for 100 CAD ( 70 USD). You can buy a new one for 266 USD if you would like. Part number A 204-900-7905. Seems like this was replace by 212-900-71-25. Either one works.


Hitch Control Module


I paid my mechanic 175 CAD (125 USD to install it) I also ask a body shop for a quote. They quoted 250 CAD (180 USD) if you wanted someone more careful with body panels (bumper removal is required)

My final cost for OEM 646 CAD (460 USD). I know its still more money that after market but looks significantly better. Here is the final product



I'm no expert but if you have questions i can help. I also have my original bumper support available for sale. PM me if you want it. I have it listed on ebay.

 

Right on and thanks for the share!!! Really helpful info for those of us curious about putting a hitch on, but don't want to spend dealer prices....

There's a similar page running concurrently to this dialogue, but it focuses mostly on aftermarket trailer mods and options....thanks for adding to the OEM knowledge base

 

I think you are missing the side rails that go into the unibody of the car. The load rating for the hitch will be severely reduced without those. I have one for sale that includes the side rails if you are interested.

 

FS: Perfect Condition GLK Hitch (Towbar)

Comes with all mechanical components including siderails. See images.

$550 Local Pickup Danbury, CT USA