Best trailer hitch accessories for the Lincoln Aviator?

Question

Hey everyone! I recently picked up a 2023 Lincoln Aviator with the factory tow package, and I’m absolutely loving the ride so far. It’s such a refined SUV, but now that I’m looking at that empty hitch receiver, I want to make sure I’m getting accessories that actually match the quality and capability of the vehicle.

I’m planning on using it for a variety of tasks this summer. We do a lot of mountain biking, so a solid, wobble-free bike rack is high on the priority list—something that doesn't block the backup camera too much if possible. I’m also looking for a high-quality ball mount for towing a small utility trailer and maybe a cargo carrier for those longer family road trips where the third row is actually in use.

One thing I’m a bit nervous about is the proximity of the rear sensors. I’ve heard some hitch accessories can go haywire with the parking assist or the hands-free liftgate feature. I’d love to find gear that plays nice with the Aviator’s tech. I’m also looking for something that looks sleek; since the Aviator has such a polished aesthetic, I’d prefer to avoid anything that looks like it belongs on a rusty old farm truck. I’m willing to spend a bit more for premium brands (looking at a budget of around $400-$700 for the right setup) if it means better durability and ease of use.

Has anyone here found a specific brand of bike rack or cargo tray that fits the Aviator perfectly without interfering with the liftgate or sensors? Also, are there any particular hitch locks or anti-rattle devices you’d recommend to keep things quiet back there? I’d really appreciate any recommendations or photos of your setups!

mqwqfxeeqo · Accepted Answer

Honestly, you gotta be careful with the proximity sensors on these newer Lincolns. I use the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 2-inch Bike Rack and its great because its low profile, but it still triggers the backup alarm sometimes... i mean, you can mute it, but its annoying. Definitely get the Kuat Hi-Lo Pro 2-inch Hitch Extension to help with clearance. For the towing part, id suggest the Weigh Safe Drop Hitch 180 Hitch with 2-inch Shank cuz it looks sleek and handles the weight safely. Just make sure ur sensors are calibrated or itll drive u crazy lol.

NubbklerRisee · Answer

Seconding the recommendation above for Kuat—they're sleek. But honestly, I've had issues with the sensors on my Aviator even with 'low profile' racks. If you wanna save some cash without sacrificing the look, check out the 1UP USA Quik Rack Single. It's super modular and way less bulky than the Sherpa, so it might play nicer with your backup cam. For towing, skip the fancy stuff and get the Curt 45036 Ready-Tow Ball Mount Kit. It's solid, quiet, and way more budget-friendly than a Weigh Safe if you're just doing a small utility trailer. Definitely get a Let's Go Aero Keyed-Like Silent Hitch Pin to stop that annoying rattle tho!! basically essential imo. gl!

eorinqmijt · Answer

> I’m also looking for a high-quality ball mount for towing a small utility trailer and maybe a cargo carrier for those longer family road trips where the third row is actually in use.

Oh man, congrats on the new Aviator! It’s seriously such a smooth ride, but honestly, I feel u on the hitch struggle. For your situation, I would suggest looking into brands like Kuat or Thule for the rack and cargo stuff. Basically, just go with Kuat for anything bike-related and you literally can't go wrong. I've had issues with cheaper brands in the past where they just rattle like crazy and it totally ruins the "luxury" vibe of the Lincoln, which is honestly so disappointing when ur trying to enjoy a quiet drive.

I’ve tried a few different setups and unfortunately, the sensors on these things are highkey sensitive. Like, my backup camera and parking assist definitely freak out if I leave the rack on. It’s annoying, but you kinda just get used to disabling the rear sensors manually when you're loaded up. Also, definitely look into getting a hitch lock from a brand like Bolt or even just any locking pin from WeatherTech. I learned the hard way that people will swiper ur gear if it’s not locked down tight...

For the ball mount, seriously just get anything from Curt or B&W. They make stuff that looks way more polished than those rusty farm truck hitches you mentioned lol. It’s not as good as expected when it comes to the hands-free liftgate tho—usually, the sensors get blocked by the hitch, so don't be surprised if that feature stops working. But yeah, if you stick with the premium brands, the aesthetics will definitely match ur Aviator. Good luck! 👍