If you have several hundred dollars invested in a receiver-type trailer hitch, there is one more item we want you to consider adding to the purchase. Yes, you have spent a considerable amount of money already, because in addition to the hitch, you bought a ball mount, trailer ball, hitch pin, and electrical wiring. Presuming that this is your first experience with a rear hitch, we feel obligated to point out to you that the ball mount and ball should not be left in the receiver tube all the time!
First, there is nothing securing these items in place, and they can be easily stolen. Second, and probably of greater concern, is that you will find the ball mount to be an obstruction every time you need to access the rear of your vehicle. At best, it will leave your shins black-and-blue; at worst, you will trip and fall. Neither scenario is desirable, and both are easily remedied by removing the ball mount/ball and storing them in the rear of your car or truck.
That part was easy. You will now find yourself staring at the empty receiver tube. You can drive around like that, inviting water, road grime, and other environmental hazards into the opening. Or, you can purchase a hitch cover, which serves the dual purpose of protecting that opening from corrosion, as well as adding a small but stylish dash of good taste to the rear of the vehicle.
Hitch Covers Types
The most important qualifying point to remember when looking for a hitch cover is knowing the size of the receiver tube on your vehicle. In the U.S., the vast majority of passenger car trailer hitches have either a 1 1/4" opening, OR a 2" opening. If you do not know, please measure! Place a ruler or tape measure along any one of the sides of the square. Do NOT measure diagonally! Your measurement result should be one of these numbers.
From here, the next decision will be a choice of a cover that is either an "interference fit" or one held in place with the hitch pin. It's up to you, and you will find a greater variety of designs with the covers needing the hitch pins.
Curt makes some basic hitch covers, staring with rubber, and also offering plastic and metal material. Similarly, Draw-Tite can provide a cover either in rubber or chrome-plated plastic.
Hitch Covers With Automotive Logos
Automotive logos are certainly the most popular category for hitch covers. After all, you're proud of your vehicular taste, and want the world to know it. Automotive logo style covers are available from AutoGold, DWD, DefenderWorx, and Eurosport Daytona.
Custom Hitch Covers
Of course, there are as many additional choices as there are customers. If you are looking for something truly unique for your hitch cover, consider this miniature propeller. DefenderWorx offers everything from autobots to flags, crosses, skulls, and more. For the ultimate patriotic display, put the American flag in your hitch.
Think of the hitch cover as the crowning touch to your trailer hitch set-up. Protection, style, and personalization all can be yours at a price that is the most reasonable amount possible.