Buying used tow bar?

Jezzabell

Just bought a new used car and want to get a tow bar and parking sensors fitted. Just wondering about buying a used tow bar from eBay? Is it a no no or generally ok. Could save some £££ as will need to pay to get it fitted. Also does it matter if it's the propper one for my car, ie x-trail tow bar? Thanks.

Herzlos

A used one is fine, assuming it's the correct fit and in good condition. Ideally you want one that comes with a relay unit so you don't need to buy one separately.


Have a look at pfjones.co.uk and see how much you can get a new one for, first.


The towbar doesn't need to come from the car manufacturer or be an official one, but it does need to be designed for that particular car and by type approved.

Gloomendoom

If buying used, make sure all the correct nuts and bolts come with it.

Steve_KK

A note in the installation. Ask whomever is fitting how they will connect the wiring to your car. Hopefully they can us a spare connector within the existing loom, but if that is not available make sure they are not using scotch lock type connectors, as these are just a problem waiting to happen. Ideally the wires should be soldered together to make a reliable connection that will last.

As mentioned you will need one that is designed to fit your car (X-Trail?) as the bars the tow hitch is mounted to will be bespoke to your car. For example the tow bar kit for my car needed to fit a Mk3 Mondeo Estate - a Mk3 Mondeo Saloon or Hatchback kit wouldn't necessarily fit.

Regards,
Steve

Jezzabell

thanks all, very helpful

forgotmyname

Just be sure you don't buy one that came off something like this...

iainscomputer

Hi, when buying a 2nd hand tow bar, bear in mind who is going to fit it. I bought one for my car & have had difficulty finding a fitter.
All the local tow bar places only want to fit tow bars that they have supplied.
I have fitted them myself in the past as they aren't that hard usually all the bolt holes are already there, it's just the tow bar wiring that is harder these days with dedicated looms for each car.

sheslookinhot

Is the saving that great, compared to the peace of mind of a new bar ?

Jackmydad

I'd get a new kit complete. You're sure it'll fit, and hasn't been abused that way.
And all the bits and pieces will be there.
I'm all for money saving, but I'm for hassle saving as well.

Jezzabell

Thanks, we are going to go for a new one, but so many choices? Are there particularly recommended brands? We have a T31 x-trail and an experienced friend will help to fit it. Also want to install parking sensors.

Herzlos

If you're going for parking sensors, you probably want a swan neck or detachable as there's less risk of interference.

How often are you going to be towing? Is it 7, 14 or 13 pin?

Personally I'd go with whatever involves the least bumper cutting, or whatever the local fitting place recommends. Go detachable if you rarely tow and care about aesthetics.