I live in the UK and installing a tow bar, you need to ensure that the hitch is type approved for the car and the manufacturer has rated the car for towing. I do not know what the towing rating is for the model 3 but I watched a video from another you tube channel, they mentioned that the towing rating for the model S was only 750 kg in Europe a lot lower that for the US market. My advice to anyone would be to check the relevant local regulations. Thank you for providing your time and effort into producing these videos.
Good video. After DIY'ing the hitch install this morning, there are two things that are a PITA. (1) Removing the taillights. I cracked one and I suggest assuring you only pull STRAIGHT back. A slight angle will break the lights. (2) Reinstalling the bumper. I suggest clipping the middle part first then working carefully towards the sides. 4hrs by myself.
I really enjoy your videos. After seeing this one, I purchased a Stealth Hitch (no tow package) for my 2019 Model 3, but had a local auto service center install it for me. It seemed to go well, but when I picked up the car it had a "Park assist not available" warning message and there was no front or rear park assist function at all (sounds or distance to object). All other self driving/driver assist features were fully functional. I returned to the service center, they pulled the bumper, confirmed that the sensor connector was plugged in, reassembled and warning was still on. They called Tesla who had them first do a screen reboot and then a "car reboot"...no luck. They told me that they had tried everything they could think of and were out of options. I got it home, tried the reboots on my own, called Tesla and tried the reboots with them on the phone....no luck. Tesla told me to set up a service appointment. So I parked the car in the garage for night with the "park assist not available warning" still on display. I got up the next morning and went to mount the bike rack. As I pulled out of the garage....no warning message and the parking sensors were fully operational (and have remained so for several days now)!!!??? Gremlins? Other than that fire drill, I am pleased with the hitch. As you'd expect, when the bike rack is in place (but unloaded) the rear park assistance information is meaningless but all other self driving/driver assist features work fine. When loaded with bikes, the cameras detect an object at the the rear, but the the self driving features still work (including auto lane change).
Saludos Frugal Tesla Guy, very good job installing the Stealth Hitch with Tow Package. Just as an observation, I could notice at minute 27:30 of the video, where the lock nuts with nylon insert are seen, the thread of the bolt or the bolt must protrude so that the nylon does its work, in the way it is you can see, the bolt does not protrude, therefore the nuts with the vibration could loosen, causing an incident. In Minute 5:40, when you install the bolts that appear to be long and change them for short ones, it seems that the long ones are correct, in that application. Congratulations on your channel and keep up the good work.
I noted, while installing my StealthHitches Hidden Hitch on my 2020 SR+, that Tesla now has a tow harness already behind the bumper. So good to know you wouldn't have to tap into the tail lights on the newer models. 👌 Thanks for sharing your installation.
I installed this same hitch with tow package on my dual motor model 3(purchased in September 2019) last week. It was difficult, even with 2 people, to re-install the rear bumper but we succeeded on the 3rd try. When testing the wiring, my right turn signal and running lights did not work. I re-opened the right side of the trunk and found one of the connectors not crimped down all the way. I re-squeezed the two connector blocks with pliers and now everything works. I later found out that the grey 3 wire connector we saw under the crash bar has +12V to supply the trailer wiring circuits. This connector is used for the European models with tow package. I wish I had used this +12V connection instead of running a power lead all the way up to the battery. Thanks for the great video!
Thanks so much for making this video. I have the same hitch kit in my garage and I'll be installing it next week. Tutorials such as this are invaluable, even more so because you didn't edit out your missteps. There are a few other videos on UA-cam that show how to run the necessary lead wire all the way up to the 12-volt battery. It's much easier to do than you would think.
DO NOT CONNECT DIRECTLY TO THE 12V BATTERY. There's an energy counter and the vehicle will throw an error code. Use the VCLEFT connection designed for powering the towing lights. Retrofit a 14awg wire there if needed i.e. model year 2018 Model 3, see the Ingineerix video "Tesla Model 3 - How to safely get 12v for accessories" ua-cam.com/video/bXNjgyrcGno/v-deo.html
Having installed the EcoHitch on my Model 3 it is much easier to take off the rear diffuser fascia from the bumper BEFORE removing the bumper. Then on reassembly put bumper on, then diffuser.
I think you may have just answered my question. I installed my Stealth Hitch a long time ago, before the updated rear fascia diffuser. Sounds like I can replace the fascia without having to drop the bumper again?
Wow, worth the $350 do get the rack guys to install it. Thanks for the tip about the difference in racks. I was about to but the Eco Stealth until I saw this.
More power to you, I would deal with the pain of putting the seats down and sticking in the trunk 😜. Seemed like a very big project, especially if you don’t have power already run back there.
Mike you still have to lay on your back to lock / unlock hitch (insert your key) or insure safety chains are located properly and securely or put plastic screws for plastic panel back in when your done using it... Don't want to have that panel door fall off in transit if not secured properly $$$$ Visual and verbal confirmation is best where possible a bit OCD with this..... I use an old yoga mat to roll out to do this work I went with the" eco hitch" on my '19 and love it for trips to the cottage.Nice Work Kindest Regards Wayne
Thank you for your Video. Just got my M3 LR last Tuesday ( so happy!) and need the hitch for my bike rack. I went to a Hitch installation place but they wanted almost $1,000 dollars to install and weld it to the frame. I am concern about the welding might damage some of the electronics if they are not careful. I like this hitch better because you can remove it if you need to, and also has the towing option. I think it looks better on the car, has a nice finish and locks in place very smoothly. Now I need to look at some more videos to see exactly how is done step by step, I am scare of damaging my brand new car.
The stealth hitch attachment method does look superior, but I went with the Ecohitch (it arrived yesterday) No wiring for me as I've got better vehicles for that. I plan to leave the receiver attached during the summer since I'll be using it a couple times a week and so torquing that bolt is something I'll do only two or three times a year.
StealthHitch is the best option for the Model 3 (IMHO). Great choice 👍 Remember, you only have 100lbs tongue weight when carrying bikes, as they're set back from the hitch. 4 bikes is too many. Bikes + rack should = 100lbs total.🙂👍
@@mveziroglu correct. 200lbs tongue weight. However... you see the bike rack weight is actually not over the tongue, it sits further back 18" or so, so the rule of thumb is to half the tongue weight on a bike rack... as they hang behind the attachment. Hope this helps.
This is really complicated and expensive process. I'm very handy but it's so time consuming that I won't be doing this anytime soon to my Model 3. Years ago I installed a hitch on 2007 Prius, it cost $300 and only took me 30 minutes to install.
I have the EcoHitch on my M3, and the bracket attachment process under the car takes about 2 minutes or less to attach/detach. It has a lock washer so I feel is it very secure.
Great work! Looked like a fun project. How much of a drop in range will your rack plus bikes create? Will definitely be helpful when we eventually get out Tesla (hopefully). By the way, I would love to see your experience towing a small uhaul or trailer in a future video.
BTW if you move the "referral code" above the Timeline UA-cam will actually show the timeline as part of the video timeline. By putting the referral code below it, that breaks the Timeline integration with the video.
I spoke to Tesla here in the UK yesterday who advised that installing any aftermarket towbar will invalidate the warranty. Maybe it's different in the US but may be worth checking beforehand.
Thanks Mike. That may very well be the case but to me it's worth it. I have enjoyed the full functionality of the hitch with both the bike rack and towing my teardrop trailer. That being said, I believe they have an option in Europe to have a tow hitch installed on the Model 3?
@@FrugalTeslaGuy Yes, the official towbar option is no longer available online in the UK but can still be ordered over the phone.. It's expensive though at £1300 including taxes so nearly $2000. I'm surprised it wasn't available first in the US to be honest.
How did you go about ordering the new diffuser with the access panel from Tesla? Also, maybe you could do a short video on how the proximity sensors react to having a bike rack and/or trailer attached. Thanks, love your channel.
I actually ended up setting up a service appointment through the app explaining what I need. They called me a few days later and ordered it from them at that point. Normally I would have to pick it up but because of Covid-19 they dropped it off at my front door for me.
Almost seems like an endorsement from Tesla for you to install the hitch. Many people out there are concerned that doing so may cause warranty or service issues. Thanks for the info.
Thanks for the video. i just installed a Stealth hitch on my Model 3. The install went well. The tough part was getting the bumper cover back on. I haven't seen any videos that show how to get that thing back on. Now I understand why, it's a b1tch! The hitch is very solid and should work out quite well.
Do you remember what color the drivers side wire you need to splice into was? You show the passenger side, but on my 2019 the drivers side has different colors.
Wanting Tesla to program the DRL (Daytime Run Lights) so the rears are on as well. (I"ve seen M3 running at night with DRL - fronts only. Not good) My lights are 'always on' anyway so I'm thinking I'll pull 12V from a rear running light and avoid this running to the front of the car for power (to the trailer switch box).
Wow!!! 4-pin plug for trailer?? We use 13-pin (or older 7-pin) in Europe. But our code have more lights for trailer: separated rear, brake, left signal, right signal, optional fog,... Additional with 13-pin: optional reverse, +optional signals/power for caravan.
Thanks for the video but I believe people are going to get into more problems than it's worth with the electrical and software.. Added Harness is going to cost more and who's going to do the software upgrades?
BTW @ 6.10 I notice the Nyloc nuts are not in safety. That means, at least 2x threads past the top of the Nyloc nut. So, they can loosen as they are not into the top nyloc ring. You need to use longer bolts. Oh yes, using a torque wrench. Use a complete fluid single motion, not start/stop and use only the knurled area of the wrench, not 2 hands you are doing sometimes. You also need to torque it a second time to ensure correct torque has been achieved as the washers could move/compress on the 1st torqueing.
nice video there :), i know your the frugal guy :), but i can see that you purchased a lot of tools for the job torque wrench assorted sockets and the such like along with the ramps, just for your future reference for safety if nothing else make sure both ramps are positioned the same against the wheels before backing onto them, i did notice a difference a easy first time mistake( i made that 20 yrs ago), the cable connectors you were using are known as scotchlocks (here in the UK), some people love them some hate them, if you ever get any electric problems, start there first, a observation on the tow hitch that used versus the standard tow hitch, is there a tongue/ ball weight difference between the 2, when i had a standard hitch fitted to my focus the fitter told there was a weight limit difference between the fixed and detachable, might be the same for the Tesla, i could not help but notice you only need a 4 pin plug for towing but here in the UK we have to use a European standard plug of 13 pins(for caravans) with a bayonet fitting or for trailers a 8 pin plug, overall a good video informative well narrated and reasoned as usual keep it up :)
Thanks for posting this. I got mine on but the trailer lights don't light up, althought they work when connected to my Jeep. I'm thinking it's because my trailer lights are 12v and the Model 3 tail lights are LEDs. Could this be the case? And it's as simple as getting LED trailer lights to fix? Thanks!!
I did get the Stealth hitch installed but when I then added the rear bike rack, & 2 RAD electric bike, the rear camera showed this as tooooooo close, and would not let me go in reverse out the driveway. Where is the "de-activation switch" for the rear camera - Or do I simply use duct tape over the lens??
After installing the Stealth Hitch & a 2" 4 bike rack, if the front of the car went up on a driveway or bump, the bike rack would hit the ground. So I took it off and am looking for advise on a 3 or 4 bike rack that curves or lifts the bottom of the bike rack to give me more ground clearance so I don't ruin anything by hitting the ground. Would you have any suggestions for racks that will give me more ground clearance?
I would recommend the 1-Up USA, or even better the Quikrstuff, because each bike is "up" above the previous one, so with 4 bikes, the last bike is well above the ground.
The first two bolts were too short and the nylon locking portion of the nuts were not sufficiently penetrated by the bolts. Looks like you had longer ones but put them aside. The main bolts will rattle loose. Please check them.
Unrelated to anything in your comment, focusing specifically on Nylon locking nuts, I wish people would look into nordlock washers, they'll never rattle loose.
Trying to figure out how to order the replacement under panel w the hitch cover? I’ve looked on the Tesla site but the only one I see is the solid one.
Contacted my local service center and they delivered it. Or you could go pick it up. They will most likely need to order one for you so it might take a few days.
I have noted some people raising the rear of the car, as here, before undertaking the work. Others have not. I'm interested in your assessment of how much help it was to raise the car or having done it, maybe it is not really necessary?
I like you showing the process. But you are overstating the effort for the other style hitch. I've used them on many cars and it's just not as big a deal as you suggest. I agree this stealth is appealing, but you are also on the ground and have to fumble to find the release button. Is that so different from tightening a bolt?
6:43 Mike I hope those are not strength class rated nuts. If the nuts that came with the kit are class rated, make you get a replacement from Stealth Hitch or get a Class 5.8 or 8.8 nut from AutoZone... Those nuts are in direct tension from the tow load. If the original design called for rated nuts and you replace them with unrated soft steel generic nuts from Ace, you can have a serious failure years down the line if someone was towing a trailer. You may never tow a trailer but you may one day sell that car to someone else.
Great video. Did you purchase the rear diffuser facia (splashguard) directly from Tesla? I’m having trouble getting them to sell me the part and am wondering if I need to purchase from a third party? I want the access door as well.
You don't need 3 hands. Just to be 10% smarter than the hitch. You should also stop by walmart and pick up some liquid tape from the automotive section and seal up that grommet you cut a bit better.
Great job on the video! I have my Stealth hitch on Tesla 3 for almost 2 years and love it. Your piece looks much shorter than mine, which is about 8 1/4" overall, 1 1/4" square. How long is your piece? BTW, I have come up with an easy and effective way to cover the opening (to prevent rust) when hitch is not in use. If anybody is interested, let me know.
When I bought my Model 3 this fall, I asked the Tesla salesperson about putting a hitch on for a rack or a carrying platform. He said that putting a hitch on would void the warranty. They would assume I was towing and towing voids the warranty. I didn't follow up on that. Was I misinformed?
Thanks for the video. You need a tiny drone with a camera that an AI keys to where your eyes are to help you with one person videos. I asked tesla insurance about putting a hitch on my new model 3 and they said they couldn't insure me if I did because it would violate the warranty. Any info on that? Does adding a hitch violate your 4 year warranty?
If that's the information you are getting directly from Tesla then I would take that into consideration. My car has exceeded 50,000 miles and the warranty is no longer active.
I actually spliced into the auto trunk power source but didn't highlight that in the video. Otherwise, they supply a wire long enough to run up to the 12V battery.
Same here. I am trying to buy the new diffuser for my 2018, and they won't sell it to me because it is for a newer model year than what I have. I wonder if I just order the part for my VIN and maybe they don't make the old diffuser anymore and the order would be fulfilled with the newer part number with the square cut-out and door. @FrugalTeslaGuy, any ideas on how to get the new diffuser with opening?
Good question. Since the owner’s manual does have a tow rating I would only assume as long as you keep it under that rating the warranty wouldn’t void. Don’t quote me on that.
Do you think the tongue weight of 350 pounds is accurate given how much the bikes extend? I have two electric mountain bikes, roughly 50 pounds each, along with a rack which is about 50 pounds. (150 pounds total). do you think this would be okay on my 2018 m3?
Cutting an "X" in the grommet is a terrible idea. Those cuts will eventually split all the way to the edge, and the wiring will be rubbing on the sheetmetal.
There are several sources. From what I understand, there is one under the rear seat. They supplied a cable long enough to go all the way to the 12 volt battery under the Frunk. Since I have a power source for the power trunk I just spliced into that. Not worried about it because they will never draw power at the same time.
Frugal Tesla Guy , ok thank you. I was surprised this wasn’t mentioned so was wondering if you had some other kit that didn’t require it. Probably the one thing that gives me the biggest reservation on doing this install.
Great video. Thanks. Would you be able to help me with where and how to order the Rear Fascia Diffuser (picture at 2:38) from Tesla. It was not clear to me as to how to order this part from Tesla. Thanks.
@@FrugalTeslaGuy Thank you. Getting hold of someone live has been a challenge. I noticed that you had contacted Chico Huss service center. They are one of the ones that actually have an extension number published that might make it easier to get a hold of. I will try again and see if i can talk to some one live locally in the bay area, otherwise i may have to take a quick trip to chico.
I live in the UK and installing a tow bar, you need to ensure that the hitch is type approved for the car and the manufacturer has rated the car for towing. I do not know what the towing rating is for the model 3 but I watched a video from another you tube channel, they mentioned that the towing rating for the model S was only 750 kg in Europe a lot lower that for the US market. My advice to anyone would be to check the relevant local regulations.
Thank you for providing your time and effort into producing these videos.
Good video. After DIY'ing the hitch install this morning, there are two things that are a PITA. (1) Removing the taillights. I cracked one and I suggest assuring you only pull STRAIGHT back. A slight angle will break the lights. (2) Reinstalling the bumper. I suggest clipping the middle part first then working carefully towards the sides. 4hrs by myself.
I really enjoy your videos. After seeing this one, I purchased a Stealth Hitch (no tow package) for my 2019 Model 3, but had a local auto service center install it for me. It seemed to go well, but when I picked up the car it had a "Park assist not available" warning message and there was no front or rear park assist function at all (sounds or distance to object). All other self driving/driver assist features were fully functional. I returned to the service center, they pulled the bumper, confirmed that the sensor connector was plugged in, reassembled and warning was still on. They called Tesla who had them first do a screen reboot and then a "car reboot"...no luck. They told me that they had tried everything they could think of and were out of options. I got it home, tried the reboots on my own, called Tesla and tried the reboots with them on the phone....no luck. Tesla told me to set up a service appointment. So I parked the car in the garage for night with the "park assist not available warning" still on display. I got up the next morning and went to mount the bike rack. As I pulled out of the garage....no warning message and the parking sensors were fully operational (and have remained so for several days now)!!!??? Gremlins?
Other than that fire drill, I am pleased with the hitch. As you'd expect, when the bike rack is in place (but unloaded) the rear park assistance information is meaningless but all other self driving/driver assist features work fine. When loaded with bikes, the cameras detect an object at the the rear, but the the self driving features still work (including auto lane change).
This video was a lot of work to make! It’s really hard to do a solo video, but you pulled it off, i loved every minute of it.
Saludos Frugal Tesla Guy, very good job installing the Stealth Hitch with Tow Package.
Just as an observation, I could notice at minute 27:30 of the video, where the lock nuts with nylon insert are seen, the thread of the bolt or the bolt must protrude so that the nylon does its work, in the way it is you can see, the bolt does not protrude, therefore the nuts with the vibration could loosen, causing an incident.
In Minute 5:40, when you install the bolts that appear to be long and change them for short ones, it seems that the long ones are correct, in that application.
Congratulations on your channel and keep up the good work.
I noted, while installing my StealthHitches Hidden Hitch on my 2020 SR+, that Tesla now has a tow harness already behind the bumper. So good to know you wouldn't have to tap into the tail lights on the newer models. 👌
Thanks for sharing your installation.
Yes. I agree. Tapping into the wiring was nerve-racking. 😬
I installed this same hitch with tow package on my dual motor model 3(purchased in September 2019) last week. It was difficult, even with 2 people, to re-install the rear bumper but we succeeded on the 3rd try. When testing the wiring, my right turn signal and running lights did not work. I re-opened the right side of the trunk and found one of the connectors not crimped down all the way. I re-squeezed the two connector blocks with pliers and now everything works. I later found out that the grey 3 wire connector we saw under the crash bar has +12V to supply the trailer wiring circuits. This connector is used for the European models with tow package. I wish I had used this +12V connection instead of running a power lead all the way up to the battery. Thanks for the great video!
Thanks so much for making this video. I have the same hitch kit in my garage and I'll be installing it next week. Tutorials such as this are invaluable, even more so because you didn't edit out your missteps. There are a few other videos on UA-cam that show how to run the necessary lead wire all the way up to the 12-volt battery. It's much easier to do than you would think.
i have been looking for those videos and I cant find them anywhere. Do you know how to find them?
DO NOT CONNECT DIRECTLY TO THE 12V BATTERY. There's an energy counter and the vehicle will throw an error code. Use the VCLEFT connection designed for powering the towing lights. Retrofit a 14awg wire there if needed i.e. model year 2018 Model 3, see the Ingineerix video "Tesla Model 3 - How to safely get 12v for accessories" ua-cam.com/video/bXNjgyrcGno/v-deo.html
Excellent walkthrough, extremely informative. Thank you! Really enjoyed this video.
Having installed the EcoHitch on my Model 3 it is much easier to take off the rear diffuser fascia from the bumper BEFORE removing the bumper. Then on reassembly put bumper on, then diffuser.
I think you may have just answered my question. I installed my Stealth Hitch a long time ago, before the updated rear fascia diffuser. Sounds like I can replace the fascia without having to drop the bumper again?
A very nice job. Probably outside my comfort zone.
Nice work. I am looking forward to getting my Cyber Truck and I will install the towing equipment on it.
I prefer the EcoHitch. All one piece. Had it on for over a year and towed a 5x8 enclosed U-Haul trailer from Columbia, MO to Paso Robles, CA.
Good info and great job on the install considering its pretty involved getting that bumper off and back on.
yeah...I'll go with the roof rack. :) Great video!
Wow, worth the $350 do get the rack guys to install it. Thanks for the tip about the difference in racks. I was about to but the Eco Stealth until I saw this.
More power to you, I would deal with the pain of putting the seats down and sticking in the trunk 😜. Seemed like a very big project, especially if you don’t have power already run back there.
Mike you still have to lay on your back to lock / unlock hitch (insert your key) or insure safety chains are located properly and securely or put plastic screws for plastic panel back in when your done using it... Don't want to have that panel door fall off in transit if not secured properly $$$$ Visual and verbal confirmation is best where possible a bit OCD with this..... I use an old yoga mat to roll out to do this work I went with the" eco hitch" on my '19 and love it for trips to the cottage.Nice Work Kindest Regards Wayne
Thank you for your Video. Just got my M3 LR last Tuesday ( so happy!) and need the hitch for my bike rack.
I went to a Hitch installation place but they wanted almost $1,000 dollars to install and weld it to the frame. I am concern about the welding might damage some of the electronics if they are not careful.
I like this hitch better because you can remove it if you need to, and also has the towing option.
I think it looks better on the car, has a nice finish and locks in place very smoothly.
Now I need to look at some more videos to see exactly how is done step by step, I am scare of damaging my brand new car.
With the multi meter having the alligator clip really helps for staying connected to the body for the negative side.
Put it down no need to hold it their were plenty of flat surfaces in the boot and you could still see it and have a hand for each probe.
The stealth hitch attachment method does look superior, but I went with the Ecohitch (it arrived yesterday)
No wiring for me as I've got better vehicles for that.
I plan to leave the receiver attached during the summer since I'll be using it a couple times a week and so torquing that bolt is something I'll do only two or three times a year.
Thanks so much for sharing your experience. Your video provided the inspiration I needed to go for it.
StealthHitch is the best option for the Model 3 (IMHO). Great choice 👍
Remember, you only have 100lbs tongue weight when carrying bikes, as they're set back from the hitch. 4 bikes is too many. Bikes + rack should = 100lbs total.🙂👍
I thought its 200lbs with this hitch on our car.
@@mveziroglu correct. 200lbs tongue weight. However... you see the bike rack weight is actually not over the tongue, it sits further back 18" or so, so the rule of thumb is to half the tongue weight on a bike rack... as they hang behind the attachment.
Hope this helps.
Great work and very informative!!
Bravo pour vos vidéos toujours aussi bien détaillées.
This is really complicated and expensive process. I'm very handy but it's so time consuming that I won't be doing this anytime soon to my Model 3. Years ago I installed a hitch on 2007 Prius, it cost $300 and only took me 30 minutes to install.
Great video... I will definitely preorder my Tesla 3 with tow hitch
Great Job, top Video! thanks a lot. Greetings from Bavaria😃👍.
Great video. I don't like to tow anything with my sedans as for the bikes, they go on top. Thank God We have an ICE SUV for towing.
I have the EcoHitch on my M3, and the bracket attachment process under the car takes about 2 minutes or less to attach/detach. It has a lock washer so I feel is it very secure.
Great work! Looked like a fun project. How much of a drop in range will your rack plus bikes create? Will definitely be helpful when we eventually get out Tesla (hopefully).
By the way, I would love to see your experience towing a small uhaul or trailer in a future video.
BTW if you move the "referral code" above the Timeline UA-cam will actually show the timeline as part of the video timeline. By putting the referral code below it, that breaks the Timeline integration with the video.
Good idea to splice in for 12V power instead of running wires all then way to battery under the hood. All still working good?
I spoke to Tesla here in the UK yesterday who advised that installing any aftermarket towbar will invalidate the warranty. Maybe it's different in the US but may be worth checking beforehand.
Thanks Mike. That may very well be the case but to me it's worth it. I have enjoyed the full functionality of the hitch with both the bike rack and towing my teardrop trailer. That being said, I believe they have an option in Europe to have a tow hitch installed on the Model 3?
@@FrugalTeslaGuy Yes, the official towbar option is no longer available online in the UK but can still be ordered over the phone.. It's expensive though at £1300 including taxes so nearly $2000. I'm surprised it wasn't available first in the US to be honest.
How did you go about ordering the new diffuser with the access panel from Tesla? Also, maybe you could do a short video on how the proximity sensors react to having a bike rack and/or trailer attached. Thanks, love your channel.
I actually ended up setting up a service appointment through the app explaining what I need. They called me a few days later and ordered it from them at that point. Normally I would have to pick it up but because of Covid-19 they dropped it off at my front door for me.
Almost seems like an endorsement from Tesla for you to install the hitch. Many people out there are concerned that doing so may cause warranty or service issues. Thanks for the info.
very cool to see this process, but 4:18 is the moment I decided to have this done professionally.
I got a 2019 Tesla Model 3 Delivered in May 2019, but my RR Fascia Diffuser does not have the cover :-( So I'm buying it.
Thanks for the video. i just installed a Stealth hitch on my Model 3. The install went well. The tough part was getting the bumper cover back on. I haven't seen any videos that show how to get that thing back on. Now I understand why, it's a b1tch! The hitch is very solid and should work out quite well.
Yes. That bumper is a total pain in the arse!
Do you remember what color the drivers side wire you need to splice into was? You show the passenger side, but on my 2019 the drivers side has different colors.
Howdy I'm having trouble purchasing the part you describe at 2:47 from Tesla. How did you get yours? Thanks and love the channel!
Contact your local service center and they should be able to order it for you.
Cant wait to get my electric truck
Wanting Tesla to program the DRL (Daytime Run Lights) so the rears are on as well. (I"ve seen M3 running at night with DRL - fronts only. Not good)
My lights are 'always on' anyway so I'm thinking I'll pull 12V from a rear running light and avoid this running to the front of the car for power (to the trailer switch box).
Very cool.
Can't believe they force you to splice into the wiring to install the hitch power. 😦
My 2020 Model 3 has a plug for trailer lights. Maybe his car is an older model. 🤔
Wow!!! 4-pin plug for trailer?? We use 13-pin (or older 7-pin) in Europe. But our code have more lights for trailer: separated rear, brake, left signal, right signal, optional fog,... Additional with 13-pin: optional reverse, +optional signals/power for caravan.
Great video, what's the torque used for the aluminum bumper bolts?
Nice thanks Mike !
Thanks for the video but I believe people are going to get into more problems than it's worth with the electrical and software.. Added Harness is going to cost more and who's going to do the software upgrades?
BTW @ 6.10 I notice the Nyloc nuts are not in safety. That means, at least 2x threads past the top of the Nyloc nut. So, they can loosen as they are not into the top nyloc ring. You need to use longer bolts.
Oh yes, using a torque wrench. Use a complete fluid single motion, not start/stop and use only the knurled area of the wrench, not 2 hands you are doing sometimes. You also need to torque it a second time to ensure correct torque has been achieved as the washers could move/compress on the 1st torqueing.
I the same thing 3 years ago with a 2013 Prius. For my bicycle carrier
nice video there :), i know your the frugal guy :), but i can see that you purchased a lot of tools for the job torque wrench assorted sockets and the such like along with the ramps, just for your future reference for safety if nothing else make sure both ramps are positioned the same against the wheels before backing onto them, i did notice a difference a easy first time mistake( i made that 20 yrs ago), the cable connectors you were using are known as scotchlocks (here in the UK), some people love them some hate them, if you ever get any electric problems, start there first, a observation on the tow hitch that used versus the standard tow hitch, is there a tongue/ ball weight difference between the 2, when i had a standard hitch fitted to my focus the fitter told there was a weight limit difference between the fixed and detachable, might be the same for the Tesla, i could not help but notice you only need a 4 pin plug for towing but here in the UK we have to use a European standard plug of 13 pins(for caravans) with a bayonet fitting or for trailers a 8 pin plug, overall a good video informative well narrated and reasoned as usual keep it up :)
Now we just need some examples of trailer towing with a model 3.
Thanks for posting this. I got mine on but the trailer lights don't light up, althought they work when connected to my Jeep. I'm thinking it's because my trailer lights are 12v and the Model 3 tail lights are LEDs. Could this be the case? And it's as simple as getting LED trailer lights to fix? Thanks!!
I did get the Stealth hitch installed but when I then added the rear bike rack, & 2 RAD electric bike, the rear camera showed this as tooooooo close, and would not let me go in reverse out the driveway. Where is the "de-activation switch" for the rear camera - Or do I simply use duct tape over the lens??
After installing the Stealth Hitch & a 2" 4 bike rack, if the front of the car went up on a driveway or bump, the bike rack would hit the ground. So I took it off and am looking for advise on a 3 or 4 bike rack that curves or lifts the bottom of the bike rack to give me more ground clearance so I don't ruin anything by hitting the ground. Would you have any suggestions for racks that will give me more ground clearance?
I would recommend the 1-Up USA, or even better the Quikrstuff, because each bike is "up" above the previous one,
so with 4 bikes, the last bike is well above the ground.
Keep an eye on stealth hitch moving side to side which is kinda scary.. had mine replaced 2x in 1 year and it’s not normal
The first two bolts were too short and the nylon locking portion of the nuts were not sufficiently penetrated by the bolts. Looks like you had longer ones but put them aside. The main bolts will rattle loose. Please check them.
I agree. I came here to post this. I highly recommend checking them out, FTG.
Unrelated to anything in your comment, focusing specifically on Nylon locking nuts, I wish people would look into nordlock washers, they'll never rattle loose.
Trying to figure out how to order the replacement under panel w the hitch cover? I’ve looked on the Tesla site but the only one I see is the solid one.
Contacted my local service center and they delivered it. Or you could go pick it up. They will most likely need to order one for you so it might take a few days.
Yes super cool project. But I’m not sure if the sr+ will tow well.
I have noted some people raising the rear of the car, as here, before undertaking the work. Others have not. I'm interested in your assessment of how much help it was to raise the car or having done it, maybe it is not really necessary?
I’m sure it could be done without raising it but definitely a lot harder.
is it possible just to have this installed? i have zero desire to do this kind of work..?
Where's the video to Larry Lee taking the bumper off? 4:07
I like you showing the process. But you are overstating the effort for the other style hitch. I've used them on many cars and it's just not as big a deal as you suggest. I agree this stealth is appealing, but you are also on the ground and have to fumble to find the release button. Is that so different from tightening a bolt?
6:43 Mike I hope those are not strength class rated nuts. If the nuts that came with the kit are class rated, make you get a replacement from Stealth Hitch or get a Class 5.8 or 8.8 nut from AutoZone... Those nuts are in direct tension from the tow load. If the original design called for rated nuts and you replace them with unrated soft steel generic nuts from Ace, you can have a serious failure years down the line if someone was towing a trailer. You may never tow a trailer but you may one day sell that car to someone else.
Good info. Thx.
@ 8:31 Nuts with nylon inserts cannot be reused after it's been installed (torqued). New nuts must be used.
Great video. Did you purchase the rear diffuser facia (splashguard) directly from Tesla? I’m having trouble getting them to sell me the part and am wondering if I need to purchase from a third party? I want the access door as well.
I did purchase it directly from Tesla. I’m fact, mobile service delivered it to my front door.
You don't need 3 hands. Just to be 10% smarter than the hitch. You should also stop by walmart and pick up some liquid tape from the automotive section and seal up that grommet you cut a bit better.
On a 2018 Model 3 will installing the wire harness enable tow mode in the software?
Unfortunately no. I even asked the service center and they said that was a no go.
Great job on the video! I have my Stealth hitch on Tesla 3 for almost 2 years and love it. Your piece looks much shorter than mine, which is about 8 1/4" overall, 1 1/4" square. How long is your piece? BTW, I have come up with an easy and effective way to cover the opening (to prevent rust) when hitch is not in use. If anybody is interested, let me know.
Yes please!!
Big operation , I can imagine how hard to hold camera and install .
When I bought my Model 3 this fall, I asked the Tesla salesperson about putting a hitch on for a rack or a carrying platform. He said that putting a hitch on would void the warranty. They would assume I was towing and towing voids the warranty. I didn't follow up on that. Was I misinformed?
Honestly, I never looked into it. I have 70,000 miles on my car so I’m not worried about it. But I can certainly see their point.
@frugaltesla What size hitch did you get? 1-1/4 or 2inch ?
Where did you order the rear diffuser. I could not find it on the Tesla site. Please link.
Thanks for the video. You need a tiny drone with a camera that an AI keys to where your eyes are to help you with one person videos. I asked tesla insurance about putting a hitch on my new model 3 and they said they couldn't insure me if I did because it would violate the warranty. Any info on that? Does adding a hitch violate your 4 year warranty?
If that's the information you are getting directly from Tesla then I would take that into consideration. My car has exceeded 50,000 miles and the warranty is no longer active.
Quick Q -did you also connect the black Power wire? I may have missed that.. (it's the wire that connects to the 12v battery)
I actually spliced into the auto trunk power source but didn't highlight that in the video. Otherwise, they supply a wire long enough to run up to the 12V battery.
How has this been working for you? Range loss and what were you towing?
How did u run the power wire? I didn’t see you cover that.
I am trying to buy The rear fascia deffuser, Tesla Says that is not available, do you have a link?
It may not be available anymore. I just called my service center and picked one up. Sorry about that
Same here. I am trying to buy the new diffuser for my 2018, and they won't sell it to me because it is for a newer model year than what I have. I wonder if I just order the part for my VIN and maybe they don't make the old diffuser anymore and the order would be fulfilled with the newer part number with the square cut-out and door. @FrugalTeslaGuy, any ideas on how to get the new diffuser with opening?
Do the bikes interfere with the rear camera or sensors to the point that navigate by autopilot is inoperative?
Very good questions. I have yet to do any testing but plan on it in future videos.
We’re are u located and do you help and fix others who own a Tesla
How did you get a hold of Tesla to purchase the Rear Diffuser? I've tried calling mine, left a message, no callback yet. Argh!
Nevermind, I scheduled a service call and that was much faster!
Does installing a hitch on your Model 3 and perhaps occasionally hauling a small utility trailer void the warranty?
Good question. Since the owner’s manual does have a tow rating I would only assume as long as you keep it under that rating the warranty wouldn’t void. Don’t quote me on that.
Do you think the tongue weight of 350 pounds is accurate given how much the bikes extend? I have two electric mountain bikes, roughly 50 pounds each, along with a rack which is about 50 pounds. (150 pounds total). do you think this would be okay on my 2018 m3?
I personally wouldn’t worry about it. I just towed a 1,000 pound teardrop behind it with no issues at all.
Per the manual it looks like the tongue weight is 55kg (120lbs)
so I have a question for you...re electric cost of running my T3. Is this the place to ask?
I thought the model 3 was not rated for towing? Wouldnt this void the warranty?
They actually offer a towing package in Europe for the M3.
those cross bolts dont have enough engagement into the nylocks. need to be longer.
Which bike rack did you get that fits into the 2" by 2" mount? Link please!
I’m actually using a 10 year old Thule rack that needs and adapter.
Why did you decide to go with the Stealth hitch? The Ecohitch is $378. It seems like that would have been the more frugal option?
The Ecohitch is less convenient to install and remove the receiver since it required being torqued every time you install it.
I have the same stealth hitch and the instructions specify it is not for towing.
It's not for towing if you're using receiver for bike racks etc.. They also sell the ball that's for towing.
Cutting an "X" in the grommet is a terrible idea. Those cuts will eventually split all the way to the edge, and the wiring will be rubbing on the sheetmetal.
Did your tow light package require a 12v source? If so, where did you wire it in?
There are several sources. From what I understand, there is one under the rear seat. They supplied a cable long enough to go all the way to the 12 volt battery under the Frunk. Since I have a power source for the power trunk I just spliced into that. Not worried about it because they will never draw power at the same time.
Frugal Tesla Guy , ok thank you. I was surprised this wasn’t mentioned so was wondering if you had some other kit that didn’t require it. Probably the one thing that gives me the biggest reservation on doing this install.
Did you have to tap into any 12v power source for your flat 4 trailer wiring?
Yes. The control box needs a power source.
@@FrugalTeslaGuy how did you tap into the power from your hansshow trunk? I also have a powered trunk installed and putting in the stealth hitch.
what is max towing capacity (for SR)? thx
Why not just use a trunk mounted bike carrier like every other car can use?
Can you provide info on how to buy the rear fascia from Tesla
Contact your Tesla Service Center and they can order one for you.
Great job and video but this is an expensive, detailed, and time consuming endeavor. It’s wayyyy past my comfort zone.
Does adding a trailer hitch void the warranty?
Not sure on that one.
Wow. Way too complicated for me. I had an Eco Hitch installed a few weeks ago. It took them less than 2 hours.
why does this video feel like it was recorded in the 90s
Great video. Thanks. Would you be able to help me with where and how to order the Rear Fascia Diffuser (picture at 2:38) from Tesla. It was not clear to me as to how to order this part from Tesla. Thanks.
epc.tesla.com/#/systemGroups/47312 and i am not able to click to order.
I contacted my local Tesla Service Center and they ordered it for me.
@@FrugalTeslaGuy Thank you. Getting hold of someone live has been a challenge. I noticed that you had contacted Chico Huss service center. They are one of the ones that actually have an extension number published that might make it easier to get a hold of.
I will try again and see if i can talk to some one live locally in the bay area, otherwise i may have to take a quick trip to chico.
@@mveziroglu Good luck!
@@FrugalTeslaGuy Success. Thanks.