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Authorized DealerComplete CURT Class 2 1-1/4" trailer hitch and 5-flat wiring kit (with 4-way to 5-way adapter for surge brakes) engineered for the 2016 - 2025 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan. Vehicle-specific fit, plug-and-play installation, all hardware and instructions included.
This custom kit fits the following vehicles:
All Hardware and Installation Instructions Included!
Whatever the next checkpoint is on your adventure -- whether it's getting your bike on the trail before sunrise or making it to the campground before dark -- CURT class 2 hitches let you Bring It with confidence. These receiver hitches are made to handle most light-duty towing applications and offer a custom fit for your vehicle. Typically used on full-size cars, crossovers, compact SUVs, minivans or even compact pickup trucks, a CURT class 2 trailer hitch complements the design of smaller vehicles. This particular class 2 hitch is made to be a custom hitch for certain years of the Buick Regal Sport and Chevy Malibu (to verify vehicle compatibility, see application info). It offers a weight carrying capacity of 3,500 lbs. GTW and 350 lbs. TW. Class 2 trailer hitches can typically be used to tow a variety of lightweight trailers, such as a small utility trailer, small fishing boat trailer or popup camper (NOTE: Never exceed the lowest weight capacity of any towing component). They are also perfect for adding cargo space to your vehicle with a bike rack or cargo carrier. This class 2 hitch features a 1-1/4" receiver tube to accept a ball mount shank or other hitch-mounted accessory. For safety, it is tested in accordance with SAE J684. A custom trailer hitch design requires extra care, and as such, CURT class 2 hitches are engineered using real vehicles and hands-on research. We use high-strength steel, robotic welding and rigorous testing to produce hitches that are built to fit your lifestyle. To ensure that each hitch will be a reliable extension of your vehicle, we also finish our hitches in a co-curing of liquid A-coat and black powder coat, giving them long-lasting rust and wear resistance.
If your vehicle is not equipped with wiring for towing a trailer, CURT custom wiring is the ideal solution. A custom wiring harness -- also called a T-connector -- is a simple, plug-and-play electrical device that plugs into your automotive electric system and provides a standard, universal trailer wiring connection. This is done using two or more vehicle-specific, OEM-compatible connectors to plug into the taillight assembly, eliminating the need for cutting, splicing and soldering during installation. Custom wiring harnesses are made vehicle-specific, and while they are not available for all vehicles, they do offer one of the fastest, easiest and most secure ways to wire a vehicle for towing. This particular plug-in harness provides a 4-way flat connector socket and is designed to be a custom wiring harness to fit certain years of the Chevy Malibu (to verify your vehicle compatibility, see application info). It comes with all necessary wiring components to establish a reliable trailer wiring connection, as well as a dust cover to keep the connector clean when not in use. You have a picture in mind of your next destination -- maybe it's the boat landing at your favorite fishing spot, maybe it's a campsite that overlooks one of nature's masterpieces, or maybe it's the next big jobsite. However, turning that picture into a reality takes more than just daydreaming. It takes a solid connection and the right amount of power. CURT custom wiring is made with some of the most sophisticated technology in the industry and is designed to install with ease, giving you a long-lasting electrical connection for your towing hitch setup.
CURT offers a variety of high-quality trailer hitches and accessories for select vehicle models. Find the perfect fit for your towing needs at TowUniverse.
CURT, a Lippert brand, offers a complete line of towing products and is the leading manufacturer of custom-fit trailer hitches. We offer the broadest selection of custom-fit hitches, and each one is designed, welded, and coated in Wisconsin.
CURT is also a leader in flat towing products, as well as 5th wheel, gooseneck, and weight distribution hitches, ball mounts, electrical components, cargo solutions, and other towing accessories.
For everything from passenger cars and vans to full-size pickups and SUVs, CURT is 'The First Name in Towing Products®.'
Experts available to answer your questions
Call 888-634-94941 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 - 2024 | Chevrolet Malibu | Sedan |
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The 16 - 24 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan Curt 1-1/4" Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 12185 (Part #5W-CHW-456) fits the following vehicles: 2016-2024 Chevrolet Malibu. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The 16 - 24 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan Curt 1-1/4" Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 12185 (Part #5W-CHW-456) fits 2016-2024 Chevrolet Malibu models. The 2024 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
Yes, the 16 - 24 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan Curt 1-1/4" Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 12185 (Part #5W-CHW-456) is designed to fit the 2016-2024 Chevrolet Malibu.
The 16 - 24 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan Curt 1-1/4" Class 2 Trailer Tow Hitch + 5-Flat Wiring Kit Tow Boat/Utility Trailer with Surge Brakes 12185 (Part #5W-CHW-456) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
CURT part 12185 is designed for 2016-present Buick Regal Sportback and Chevrolet Malibu Sedan models only. Verify your vehicle year and model match these applications before purchasing. The hitch is not compatible with other Buick or Chevrolet models.
The CURT 12185 has a gross load capacity of 3,500 lbs. trailer weight and 350 lbs. tongue weight when used as a weight carrying hitch. You must never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity, which may be lower than these ratings.
Required tools are: ratchet, 8 inch socket extension, 13mm socket, 15mm socket, 11/16 inch socket, torque wrench, aviation shears, masking tape, and safety glasses. Proper tools will greatly improve installation quality and reduce installation time.
No, drilling is not required. The CURT 12185 uses fishwire hardware to route bolts through existing access holes in the frame rails, eliminating the need for drilling.
On Chevrolet Malibu models, yes—temporary exhaust removal is required. You must remove the exhaust hanger, disconnect 4 M8 bolts from the exhaust brace and 2 M8 bolts from the exhaust flange, then slide the exhaust forward. On Buick Regal models, you only need to lower the exhaust by removing 2 rubber isolators; full removal is not necessary. The exhaust is reinstalled after the hitch is secured.
Yes, heat shield trimming is required on both Buick Regal and Chevrolet Malibu models. You must remove 10 speed clips (5 from each side) to access the heat shields, trim them using aviation shears, and reinstall them on the vehicle. On Regal models only, you also need to trim the lower rear fascia.
Two people may be required to ease installation. While one person may be able to complete the installation, having a second person will help, particularly when raising the hitch into position and managing the exhaust.
Torque all 7/16 inch hardware to 60 ft-lbs. Torque all M10 hardware to 45 ft-lbs. These torque values apply to both the frame attachments and the inside lower bumper bolts. Use a torque wrench to ensure proper fastener tension.
The kit includes: 4 bolts (7/16-14 UNC, 1-1/2 inch, Grade 8), 2 HHCS M10x1.5x70 bolts, 4 serrated flange nuts (7/16-14 UNC, Grade 8), 2 flange nuts (M10x1.5, Class 10), 4 square hole spacers (0.250 x 0.88 x 2.25 inch), and 4 pieces of 7/16 inch fishwire. All fasteners are zinc-plated.
1. On Malibu only: remove exhaust hanger and disconnect exhaust brace and flange bolts. 2. On Malibu only: slide exhaust forward and replace inside lower bumper bolts with supplied M10 bolts. 3. On Regal only: lower exhaust by removing rubber isolators. On both: remove speed clips and trim heat shields. 4. Fishwire the 7/16 inch bolts and spacers through access holes to frame rails. 5. Raise hitch into position, align rear attachment, and loosely install all flange nuts. 6. Torque all fasteners and reinstall exhaust.
Fishwire is a flexible wire included in the kit (4 pieces of 7/16 inch fishwire) used to route bolts through the frame rail access holes. In step 4, you fishwire 2 bolts and 2 spacers from the access hole to the mounting holes on each frame rail, keeping the fishwires attached until the hitch is raised into position in step 5. This eliminates the need for drilling.
Fasteners must be installed loosely first. In step 5, loosely install all 4 flange nuts on the frame attachments and the 2 M10 flange nuts on the inside lower bumper bolts. Only after the hitch is fully positioned and aligned should you torque all fasteners to their final specifications in step 6.
Safety glasses must be worn at all times during installation. If you are hesitant to undertake this task on your own, contact an authorized CURT installer for additional assistance. The installation is rated as moderate to challenging difficulty.
All non-trailer (wheel-less) loads applied to this hitch must be supported by CURT 18050 stabilizing straps. Failure to properly support non-trailer loads will void the product warranty. Refer to the CURT catalog or www.curtmfg.com for further information on stabilizing straps.
Periodically check the receiver hitch to ensure all fasteners are tight and all structural components are sound. This ongoing inspection helps maintain the integrity and safety of the installation.
CURT 12185 is designed for use with ball mount #45521. Optional ball head options include 45571 (1 7/8 inch ball) and 45572 (2 inch ball). Consult the CURT catalog or website for compatibility details and to select the appropriate ball mount for your towing needs.
The access hole on each side of the vehicle is used to route the fishwire and bolts through to the frame rail mounting holes. This eliminates the need for drilling and allows the bolts to be installed from inside the vehicle without removing the bumper completely.
The CM-SP2 spacers (0.250 x 0.88 x 2.25 inch square hole spacers) are used during installation to properly position the bolts when fishwiring them through the access holes to the frame rail mounting holes. Two spacers are used per side (4 total in the kit).
The manual notes that clearing away caulk may ease installation. This refers to any factory caulk or sealant around the access holes or frame rail area that might interfere with fishwiring the bolts and spacers through to the mounting holes. Removing this material can make the fishwiring process smoother.
Yes, CURT 12185 is designed specifically for 2016-present Buick Regal Sportback and Chevrolet Malibu Sedan models. It is not compatible with other vehicle models.
No, drilling is not required. The hitch uses fishwire hardware to route bolts through existing access holes in the frame rails.
You need: ratchet, 8 inch socket extension, 13mm, 15mm, and 11/16 inch sockets, torque wrench, aviation shears, masking tape, and safety glasses. Proper tools improve installation quality and reduce time.
Torque all 7/16 inch hardware to 60 ft-lbs and all M10 hardware to 45 ft-lbs. Use a torque wrench to ensure proper fastener tension.
All non-trailer loads must be supported by CURT 18050 stabilizing straps. Failure to properly support non-trailer loads voids the warranty.
Yes, heat shield trimming is required on both models. Remove 10 speed clips, trim the shields with aviation shears, and reinstall. On Regal models, also trim the lower rear fascia.
The Curt 56387 Custom Wiring Harness is designed for Chevrolet Malibu L, Malibu LS, Malibu LT, and Malibu Hybrid models. If your vehicle is one of these models, the harness is compatible. For other Malibu generations or trim levels not listed, contact the manufacturer or check the product fitment database.
The harness is rated for 7.5 amps per side for signal circuits and 7.5 amps total for tail and running circuits. The battery connection must be fuse-protected with a 10-amp maximum fuse. Do not exceed the product rating or the tow vehicle lamp load rating, whichever is lower, as exceeding the rating can cause loss of warranty, overheating and potential fire.
You will need: a panel trim removal tool, a cutting tool, a wire stripper, and a wire crimper. These tools are required to remove trim panels, prepare wires, and make electrical connections during installation.
The harness includes: the custom wiring harness with yellow and green wire ends, a black converter box, a white ground wire with ring terminal, a provided screw for grounding, double-sided tape for the converter box, a 4-flat connector, a 4-flat dust cover, and cable ties for securing loose wires.
Drilling may be required. You must locate a suitable grounding point near the taillight connector. If an existing screw with nut is not available in the vehicle frame, you will need to drill a 3/32" pilot hole for the provided grounding screw. Before drilling, check for miscellaneous items that may be hidden behind or under any surface to avoid damage and personal injury.
Drill a 3/32" pilot hole for the provided grounding screw. The grounding point should be located near the taillight connector on a flat spot inside the vehicle frame, and the area should be free of rust, dirt and paint before securing the white ground wire with the ring terminal.
Locate a flat spot inside the vehicle near the taillight and adhere the black converter box using the provided double-sided tape. The converter box should be positioned to allow the wiring harness to route properly from the taillight connectors.
When in use, route the 4-flat to the center of the vehicle and out of the trunk. When not in use, roll up and store in a convenient, out-of-the-way location inside the trunk. Secure any loose wires with the provided cable ties.
Start on the driver side: remove trunk floor coverings, remove the scuff panel, remove fasteners from the interior felt liner, locate the taillight wiring harness connectors, separate them, and insert the custom harness end with the yellow wire between the separated connectors. Secure the white ground wire to a suitable grounding point. Then route the harness end with the green wire to the passenger side and repeat steps 3–5 using the green wire end.
Separate the vehicle taillight wiring harness connectors from the taillight housing, taking care not to damage the locking tabs. Insert the custom wiring harness end (yellow wire for driver side, green wire for passenger side) between the separated connectors. Make sure the connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place. The custom harness connectors will be similar to the vehicle's original connectors.
Remove the scuff panel by pulling out on the bottom and then up. Take care not to damage the alignment tabs on the back of the panel, as damage may affect proper reinstallation.
All steps must be followed to ensure the wiring harness functions properly. Once installed, test for proper function by using a test light or connecting a properly wired trailer. This will verify that all connections are correct and the harness is operating as intended.
The battery connection must be fuse-protected with a 10-amp maximum fuse. Exceeding this rating can cause loss of warranty, overheating and potential fire. Do not exceed the product rating or the tow vehicle lamp load rating, whichever is lower.
Before drilling the 3/32" pilot hole for the grounding screw, check for miscellaneous items that may be hidden behind or under any surface to avoid damage and personal injury. Ensure the grounding area is free of rust, dirt and paint before securing the white ground wire.
Yes. Install the provided 4-flat dust cover to help prevent corrosion. This should be done during the final reinstallation step after all other components are in place.
The Curt 56387 fits Chevrolet Malibu L, Malibu LS, Malibu LT, and Malibu Hybrid models.
Signal circuits are rated 7.5 amps per side; tail/running circuits are 7.5 amps total. The battery connection must use a 10-amp maximum fuse. Do not exceed the product rating or tow vehicle lamp load rating.
Panel trim removal tool, cutting tool, wire stripper, and wire crimper.
Drilling may be required. If no existing screw with nut is available for grounding, drill a 3/32" pilot hole. Always check for hidden items before drilling.
Separate the vehicle taillight connectors, insert the custom harness end (yellow for driver side, green for passenger side) between them, and ensure connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place.
Test for proper function using a test light or by connecting a properly wired trailer. All installation steps must be followed to ensure proper operation.
10-amp maximum. Exceeding this rating can cause loss of warranty, overheating and potential fire.
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