Seconding the recommendation above! Honestly, Curt 13447 Class 3 Trailer Hitch is the absolute winner for the Aviator. I just did this install last month and it's basically a bolt-on dream. While some shops might charge you $200+ for labor, you can snag the hitch for around $180-$210 online and save that cash for a better rack.

Here is why it's the most practical move:
- No trimming: It tucks right under the bumper without hacking the fascia.
- Bolt-on: It uses existing frame holes, so literally no drilling required.
- Value: It's way cheaper than the OEM part from the dealer but just as sturdy.

One quick technical tip: definitely get a MaxxHaul 70440 Exhaust Hanger Removal Pliers to save your knuckles when dropping the mufflers. It makes the job way faster. I'm SUPER happy with how mine turned out, looks totally professional and didn't break the bank! gl!!

For your situation, I would suggest looking at the Stealth Hitches Hidden Rack Receiver for 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator. Honestly, if you're worried about the look and safety, this is the way to go. It's a bit pricier than the ones mentioned, but it's a total no-drill install and actually maintains the factory safety ratings better than most. Plus, it's completely hidden when the rack is off, so no hacking ur bumper!

oh man, I totally get wanting to DIY this. I'm pretty sure the Curt brand is gonna be your best bet for a clean look. IIRC, it fits better without hacking up the rear fascia compared to some others, but you might want to consider having a buddy help cuz it's HEAVY.

* Mostly bolt-on
* No major drilling
* Watch the exhaust hangers!

Honestly, just take it slow and you'll be fine. gl!

Seconding the recommendation above! Honestly, Curt 13447 Class 3 Trailer Hitch is the absolute winner for the Aviator. I just did this install last month and it's basically a bolt-on dream. While some shops might charge you $200+ for labor, you can snag the hitch for around $180-$210 online and save that cash for a better rack.

Here is why it's the most practical move:
- No trimming: It tucks right under the bumper without hacking the fascia.
- Bolt-on: It uses existing frame holes, so literally no drilling required.
- Value: It's way cheaper than the OEM part from the dealer but just as sturdy.

One quick technical tip: definitely get a MaxxHaul 70440 Exhaust Hanger Removal Pliers to save your knuckles when dropping the mufflers. It makes the job way faster. I'm SUPER happy with how mine turned out, looks totally professional and didn't break the bank! gl!!

Seconding the recommendation above! Honestly, Curt 13447 Class 3 Trailer Hitch is the absolute winner for the Aviator. I just did this install last month and it's basically a bolt-on dream. While some shops might charge you $200+ for labor, you can snag the hitch for around $180-$210 online and save that cash for a better rack.

Here is why it's the most practical move:
- No trimming: It tucks right under the bumper without hacking the fascia.
- Bolt-on: It uses existing frame holes, so literally no drilling required.
- Value: It's way cheaper than the OEM part from the dealer but just as sturdy.

One quick technical tip: definitely get a MaxxHaul 70440 Exhaust Hanger Removal Pliers to save your knuckles when dropping the mufflers. It makes the job way faster. I'm SUPER happy with how mine turned out, looks totally professional and didn't break the bank! gl!!

Seconding the recommendation above! Honestly, Curt 13447 Class 3 Trailer Hitch is the absolute winner for the Aviator. I just did this install last month and it's basically a bolt-on dream. While some shops might charge you $200+ for labor, you can snag the hitch for around $180-$210 online and save that cash for a better rack.

Here is why it's the most practical move:
- No trimming: It tucks right under the bumper without hacking the fascia.
- Bolt-on: It uses existing frame holes, so literally no drilling required.
- Value: It's way cheaper than the OEM part from the dealer but just as sturdy.

One quick technical tip: definitely get a MaxxHaul 70440 Exhaust Hanger Removal Pliers to save your knuckles when dropping the mufflers. It makes the job way faster. I'm SUPER happy with how mine turned out, looks totally professional and didn't break the bank! gl!!

Seconding the recommendation above! Honestly, Curt 13447 Class 3 Trailer Hitch is the absolute winner for the Aviator. I just did this install last month and it's basically a bolt-on dream. While some shops might charge you $200+ for labor, you can snag the hitch for around $180-$210 online and save that cash for a better rack.

Here is why it's the most practical move:
- No trimming: It tucks right under the bumper without hacking the fascia.
- Bolt-on: It uses existing frame holes, so literally no drilling required.
- Value: It's way cheaper than the OEM part from the dealer but just as sturdy.

One quick technical tip: definitely get a MaxxHaul 70440 Exhaust Hanger Removal Pliers to save your knuckles when dropping the mufflers. It makes the job way faster. I'm SUPER happy with how mine turned out, looks totally professional and didn't break the bank! gl!!

Sooo I went through this last year when I was trying to save some cash on my Aviator build. Ngl, I was super stressed about the fascia trimming thing too because I didn't want to hack up a luxury SUV. I looked into the Draw-Tite options, but in my experience, they sometimes sit a bit lower and don't always tuck as neatly as the Curt models mentioned above.

Just sharing my experience with the budget side of things:

1. I found that shopping around for the Curt 13447 Class 3 Trailer Hitch saved me a ton. I got mine on a warehouse deal for about $175, which is way better than the $450 the dealer quoted for parts alone.
2. One thing I learned? You don't actually need fancy tools. I skipped the specialized pliers and just used some soapy water and a crowbar to pop the exhaust hangers—totally free.
3. Also, check out the Draw-Tite 76301 Class 3 Trailer Hitch if you want a slightly different price point, but honestly, the Curt usually has the cleaner "no-trim" fit for the Aviator.

Basically, if you take your time, it's a sub-2-hour job and you save like $200 in labor. Definitely worth the DIY effort! Cheers.

Wait really?? Thats actually super helpful. I always thought it was the other way around.