We lower the Telluride’s spare tire to create the working room needed beneath the rear of the vehicle. This exposes the hitch-mounting area and allows the receiver to be maneuvered safely into position.

A small driver-side underbody panel is removed, and the rear exhaust is gently lowered from its rubber hangers. The corner of the heat shield above the exhaust is trimmed as required so the hitch hardware has proper clearance.

A small section of the lower plastic bumper cover is measured and trimmed so the receiver can sit in its correct position. The cut is confined to the underside of the bumper and is not visible when standing behind the vehicle.

The hitch is raised above the exhaust and aligned with the Telluride’s factory mounting points. High-strength hardware is installed and tightened to the hitch manufacturer’s torque specifications.

The exhaust is returned to its rubber hangers, the underbody panel is reinstalled, and the spare tire is raised back into place. We finish by checking receiver alignment, exhaust and spare-tire clearance, mounting security, and the overall appearance.