What size hitch is on a Honda Odyssey?

Most Honda Odyssey models use a 2-inch receiver (Class III) when equipped with the factory accessory hitch or common aftermarket hitches; expect a 350 lb maximum tongue weight and up to 3,500 lb towing capacity when properly equipped. Because hitches can be dealer- or owner-installed, the actual size on your van can vary—verify by reading the label on the hitch or measuring the receiver opening.

Factory/OEM hitch size and class by model years

The Odyssey’s official towing setup has evolved, but Honda’s OEM accessory hitch for recent generations centers on a 2-inch, Class III receiver to match the van’s 3,500 lb rating. The points below summarize what you’ll typically find by model year.

• 2018–2025 Odyssey (5th gen): OEM accessory is a 2-inch Class III receiver; rated to 3,500 lb towing and about 350 lb tongue weight when the vehicle is properly equipped per the owner’s manual.
• 2011–2017 Odyssey (4th gen): OEM accessory is also a 2-inch Class III receiver; towing up to 3,500 lb when equipped with the appropriate Honda tow components (consult manual for required coolers and wiring).
• 2005–2010 Odyssey (3rd gen): Typically a Honda OEM 2-inch Class III receiver was offered; many aftermarket 2-inch Class III hitches are common.
• 1999–2004 Odyssey (2nd gen): Aftermarket options include both 2-inch Class III and 1-1/4-inch Class II receivers; the installed size depends on the kit chosen at the time.

Across generations, a 2-inch Class III hitch is the norm for towing, but earlier vans and accessory-focused installations (bike racks/cargo carriers) may use 1-1/4-inch Class II receivers. Always confirm what’s on your vehicle.

Towing capacity and tongue weight considerations

When properly equipped, most Honda Odysseys are rated to tow up to 3,500 lb, with a maximum tongue weight of roughly 350 lb (about 10% of the trailer weight). Payload in the van—passengers and cargo—reduces available tongue weight and towing headroom. Honda’s manuals may specify additional requirements (such as transmission fluid coolers on certain years) and speed/grade limitations. Your final limit is the lowest-rated component among the vehicle, hitch, ball mount, and ball.

How to confirm the hitch size on your van

If you’re unsure what’s installed, these quick checks will tell you the receiver size, rating, and any special requirements.

1. Measure the inside opening of the receiver: 2 inches square indicates Class III; 1-1/4 inches square indicates Class I/II.
2. Read the hitch label: It should list receiver size, class, maximum trailer weight, and tongue weight.
3. Check the owner’s manual and the accessory paperwork: Honda lists towing and tongue limits and any required tow-package components.
4. Look up the part number: OEM and aftermarket numbers can be cross-referenced on the manufacturer’s site for specifications.

These steps ensure you match the right ball mount, wiring, and trailer to the specific hardware on your Odyssey.

Ball mount, ball size, and wiring notes

Receiver size determines which ball mounts fit, but the correct hitch ball depends on your trailer’s coupler. Wiring also matters for legal lights—and often for trailer brakes.

• Ball mount and ball size: A 2-inch receiver accepts 2-inch shank ball mounts; many light trailers use a 2-inch ball, while small utility trailers may use 1-7/8-inch, and heavier trailers often use 2-5/16-inch. Always match the ball to the trailer coupler and ensure the mount’s drop/rise levels the trailer.
• Wiring: Honda offers a 7-pin harness on many model years, and a 4-pin flat adapter is commonly used for light-duty trailers. If your trailer has brakes, you’ll likely need a brake controller and the appropriate wiring to stay within regulations and Honda guidance.

Matching the right ball and wiring to your trailer helps maintain safe handling, proper braking, and legal lighting.

Summary

The Honda Odyssey commonly uses a 2-inch Class III receiver, especially on 2011–2025 models with OEM or mainstream aftermarket hitches, supporting about 350 lb tongue weight and up to 3,500 lb towing when properly equipped. Earlier models and accessory-focused setups may have a 1-1/4-inch receiver. Confirm your specific hitch by measuring the opening and reading the label, and always match ball size and wiring to your trailer.

What size is a Honda trailer hitch?

Honda Pilot hitches are available in two standard sizes: 1-1/4” x 1-1/4” and 2” x 2” receiver tube openings.

What size bolt is a Honda Odyssey hitch?

Secure the hitch into position using M12-1.25 x 35mm bolts and 1/2″ conical toothed washers.

How do I know what size my hitch is?

To measure a trailer hitch, first, determine your receiver hitch size by measuring the inside of the receiver tube, which is commonly 2 inches but can also be 1-1/4″, 2.5″, or 3″. Next, find your ball hitch size by reading the size stamped on your trailer’s coupler, or by measuring its diameter. Lastly, you need to know the drop or rise for your ball mount by leveling the trailer and measuring the height difference between the bottom of the coupler and the top of the receiver hitch.
 
1. Measure the Receiver Hitch Size
This measurement is for the square tube on your vehicle where the ball mount slides in. 

• Method: Measure the inside diameter of the receiver tube.
• Common Sizes: 1-1/4″, 2″, 2-1/2″, and 3″.

2. Measure the Ball Hitch Size
This measurement is for the round portion of the hitch that fits into the trailer’s coupler. 

• Method: Look for a size stamped on the trailer coupler. If not visible, use a tape measure or caliper to find the diameter of the round ball. 
• Common Sizes: 1-7/8″, 2″, 2-5/16″, and occasionally 3″. 

3. Determine the Drop or Rise Needed
This measurement ensures your trailer tows level. 

• Method:
  1. Park both the tow vehicle and the trailer on a level surface. 
  2. Use a level on the trailer jack to ensure the trailer is level. 
  3. Measure the distance from the ground to the bottom of the trailer coupler. 
  4. Measure the distance from the ground to the top of the inside of your vehicle’s receiver hitch. 
  5. Subtract the coupler height from the receiver height. 
• Result: The difference tells you the required drop or rise for your ball mount. 

Important Considerations:

• Weight Capacity: Check the weight capacity on the ball mount and ensure it exceeds the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and Tongue Weight (TW) of your trailer. 
• Towing Capacity: Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine its maximum towing capacity. 
• Compatibility: Always verify that your new hitch components are compatible with your vehicle and trailer’s specifications. 

What class is a 2.5 inch receiver?

A 2.5-inch receiver is a Class 5 hitch, specifically designated as the commercial duty or “Xtra Duty” version of Class 5. These heavy-duty receivers are designed for high towing capacities, often ranging from 17,000 to over 20,000 pounds, and are commonly found on heavy-duty trucks and SUVs.
 
Hitch Classes Explained
Trailer hitches are categorized into classes based on their receiver opening size and towing capacity. 

• Class 1 and 2: Have a 1.25-inch receiver and are for light-duty towing. 
• Class 3 and 4: Both use a 2-inch receiver, but with different towing capacities, for medium to heavy loads. 
• Class 5 (2.5-inch): Features the larger 2.5-inch receiver opening for extremely heavy-duty commercial applications and is designed for very high trailer weights. 

Why the 2.5-inch Size Matters
The 2.5-inch receiver is the most common size for Class 5 hitches, indicating it’s the standard for high-capacity towing. It is designed to accept 2.5-inch hitch accessories and is typically found on larger vehicles such as heavy-duty pickups, which need the increased strength and towing capability.