Which hitch and wir...
 
Notifications
Clear all

Which hitch and wiring kit fits 2025 Buick Enclave?

6 Posts
7 Users
0 Reactions
134 Views
0
Topic starter

Hey everyone! I recently traded in my old SUV for the redesigned 2025 Buick Enclave, and I’m absolutely loving the new look and the tech inside. However, I realized after bringing it home that I didn't opt for the factory towing package, and now I’m in a bit of a bind. I have a small utility trailer and a couple of jet skis that I need to move around this summer, so I’m looking to install an aftermarket hitch and wiring kit as soon as possible.

Since the 2025 model year features a pretty significant redesign, I’m running into some confusion regarding compatibility. I’ve checked a few of the major online retailers, but many of them haven't updated their fitment guides for the 2025 specs yet. I’m concerned about whether the hitch frame for the 2024 model will bolt up correctly, or if the rear fascia on the 2025 requires a completely different design to clear the bumper.

Specifically, I’m looking for a Class III hitch with a 2-inch receiver. I also need to figure out the wiring situation—does the 2025 Enclave come pre-wired with a plug-and-play port tucked away somewhere, or am I going to have to splice into the taillight harness? I really want to avoid cutting into the factory wiring if I can help it to keep the warranty intact. My budget for the parts is around $300-$400, and I’m planning on doing the installation myself in the driveway.

Has anyone here already managed to install a hitch on their 2025 Enclave? If so, which brand/model number worked for you, and did you run into any issues with the hands-free liftgate sensor? I’d love to hear which wiring kit you used and if the installation was straightforward. Any advice or links to the right parts would be a huge lifesaver!


6 Answers
15

yo, congrats on the 2025! Honestly, I feel u on the frustration. I’ve been towing with Enclaves since the first generation and I was so hyped for the redesign, but man, the aftermarket support for the 2025 is definitely lagging behind right now. I recently went through this same headache trying to get mine ready for lake season and it was kinda a nightmare... but I managed to figure it out eventually!

For your situation, here's what I recommend:

* **Stick with Curt or Draw-Tite:** Seriously, dont even bother with the off-brands for this year. I tried a cheaper hitch first and it literally wouldnt clear the new bumper fascia. Just get any Class III from Curt or Draw-Tite once they flag them for the 2025.
* **Check the spare tire area:** The frame rails are slightly different than the 2024 model, so unfortunately, the old hitches wont bolt right up without some sketch modifications that I totally wouldnt recommend.
* **Wiring is a mixed bag:** Look for a T-connector kit from Tekonsha. I had issues with splicing on my last SUV and it ruined the harness, so basically you gotta find the plug-and-play port. It’s usually tucked behind the driver-side rear wheel well liner, but it's a tight fit.

I mean, it really sucks that the hands-free liftgate sensor is so finicky now. Mine barely works with the hitch installed, which is highkey annoying. But yeah, if you stay within that $300-$400 range for parts, you should be fine doing it in the driveway... just maybe have a buddy help you lift the hitch cuz it’s heavy af, right? gl! 👍


14

Sooo, similar situation here - I just picked up my 2025 Enclave last month and spent way too much time crawling under the bumper trying to figure this out. Since the redesign is basically brand new, I found that the frame mounting points actually shifted slightly compared to the 2024. I tried testing a few setups and here is basically what I found:

1. Curt 13493 Class 3 Trailer Hitch vs Draw-Tite 76516 Class III Receiver: Honestly, the Curt seemed like a better fit for the new rear fascia, but the Draw-Tite has a bit more clearance for the hands-free sensor. I noticed the sensor gets a bit finicky if the hitch bar is too thick, so be careful with that!!

2. Tekonsha 118861 T-One Connector vs Curt 56475 Custom Wiring Harness: I really wanted to avoid splicing too, and basically, I found a hidden plug-and-play port behind the driver side rear wheel well liner. The Tekonsha felt more solid, but both should keep your warranty safe since they don't require cutting.

It's a bit of a tight squeeze in the driveway, but definitely doable! gl!


11

Seconding the recommendation above! Honestly, I had a nightmare with my previous SUV's wiring, so I totally get the hesitation. Before you pull the trigger, I have a couple of questions:

* Are you planning to tow long distances or just local trips?
* Does your Enclave have the hands-free liftgate feature?

Knowing that helps because some setups interfere with the sensors, which is super annoying if you're on a budget!!


8

Check out the etrailer website or the Buick Enclave forums on Reddit... honestly they're such a lifesaver when fitment guides are outdated! I'm pretty sure you gotta prioritize a harness with a built-in circuit protector cuz modern ECUs are sooo sensitive to voltage spikes.

1. Look for "no-drill" install videos—most 2025 frames are similar but have weird clearance for the liftgate sensor.
2. Use a circuit tester to verify the pre-wire plug before you start!

Safety first so ur warranty stays intact! 👍


3

Jumping in here because I've spent way too many weekends under various GMs lol. Before I give you my final thoughts on the setup, do you know if your Enclave has the V92 trailering provisions from the factory? Even if it didnt come with the actual hitch, sometimes the fuse block and the connector are already there tucked behind the driver side rear bumper cover, which totally changes the wiring game. I have always been a fan of REESE over Curt just because their powder coating seems to hold up better against road salt in my experience. You should look at the REESE Towpower 44781 Receiver if you want a super clean look that stays hidden. For the wiring, if you dont have the factory plug, the Hopkins 41165 Plug-In Simple Wiring Kit is a solid alternative to the usual Tekonsha stuff. Hopkins usually builds in a bit more heavy-duty circuit protection which is a must on these new 2025s with all the sensitive sensors and the infotainment screens sharing the same power bus. It basically draws power directly from the battery via a separate lead so you arent taxing the actual lighting circuit at all, which keeps your warranty folks happy.


2

Would love to know this too


Share:
CarForumTalk.COM is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Contact Us | Privacy Policy | Auto Accessory Picks